In a world which constantly tries to bring us down, media that reports only strife and conflict, it’s easy to lose sight of things that matter.
This is my attempt at remembering to count my blessings!
- 2025
- Instead of choosing clothes in advance, I choose to pick my outfit after waking up. Such serendipity struck me today when I picked a pink jacket, a black top with pearls on the collar and a long black leather skirt. From the random stranger who complimented me in the bathroom to acquaintances and friends… the final compliment of the day was “you look like a celebrity”. Not a bad day for a 42 year old. After a month of rain, we finally had some Madrid weather. The sun shone bright and warm and the joy of a sunny day spread through the people like a welcome virus. So many people walking, smiling, enjoying themselves. Hope we have a few more days of this in store for us. Came home to a pizza in the garden and two delighted dogs who couldn’t stop sunning themselves between plaguing us for snakies. The garden was filled with blooms and the grass was a lush carpet of green. Birds filled the day with their song. And our hearts filled with joy. All is well with the world.Instead of choosing clothes in advance, I choose to pick my outfit after waking up. Such serendipity struck me today when I picked a pink jacket, a black top with pearls on the collar and a long black leather skirt. From the random stranger who complimented me in the bathroom to acquaintances and friends… the final compliment of the day was “you look like a celebrity”. Not a bad day for a 42 year old. After a month of rain, we finally had some Madrid weather. The sun shone bright and warm and the joy of a sunny day spread through the people like a welcome virus. So many people walking, smiling, enjoying themselves. Hope we have a few more days of this in store for us. Came home to a pizza in the garden and two delighted dogs who couldn’t stop sunning themselves between plaguing us for snakies. The garden was filled with blooms and the grass was a lush carpet of green. Birds filled the day with their song. And our hearts filled with joy. All is well with the world.
- 2024
- Dressing up and taking time trying different styles out before settling on one. So glad for my new purchases. A warm, sunny day in December. Hopefully it’s the last of it’s kind, this weather is beginning to worry me. What better way to spend it than in great company at my local pub. Love that we got to try out a special menu. The food was exquisite! The company even more. A long walk later I settled in for some harp practice. It’s slow going, but I know that correct form is important. I’ll get there. My little Greek indulgence is on the way as well. Can’t wait to have it. Indulging in so many food memories… I am really so blessed. Food is their love language… and because it is not mine, I find it so hard to see this blessing.Dressing up and taking time trying different styles out before settling on one. So glad for my new purchases. A warm, sunny day in December. Hopefully it’s the last of it’s kind, this weather is beginning to worry me. What better way to spend it than in great company at my local pub. Love that we got to try out a special menu. The food was exquisite! The company even more. A long walk later I settled in for some harp practice. It’s slow going, but I know that correct form is important. I’ll get there. My little Greek indulgence is on the way as well. Can’t wait to have it. Indulging in so many food memories… I am really so blessed. Food is their love language… and because it is not mine, I find it so hard to see this blessing.
- Clearing my last debts. If death comes, I leave no one poorer for me. It’s finally turning cold. Time to turn on those Christmas lights and stock up on wood for the fire. This weather worries me. On the first of December I travelled to Madrid with the top down. We have fewer years than we reckoned. Playing the harp again. Loving the sound. Loving that I learned a new way of having a good time with it.Clearing my last debts. If death comes, I leave no one poorer for me. It’s finally turning cold. Time to turn on those Christmas lights and stock up on wood for the fire. This weather worries me. On the first of December I travelled to Madrid with the top down. We have fewer years than we reckoned. Playing the harp again. Loving the sound. Loving that I learned a new way of having a good time with it.
- I moved my harp to the living room a few days ago. It’s accessible now and I have spent time cleaning it, tuning it, and falling in love with it once more. I hope St Cecilia guides me each day. I would love to fill my life with mercy. Discovering Ancient instruments… the lyre, the bendir. There is so much to learn. So much to love in this world!I moved my harp to the living room a few days ago. It’s accessible now and I have spent time cleaning it, tuning it, and falling in love with it once more. I hope St Cecilia guides me each day. I would love to fill my life with mercy. Discovering Ancient instruments… the lyre, the bendir. There is so much to learn. So much to love in this world!
- Finally have our services catalogued. So glad about what we have built. Time to step it up though. I now have to deliver on data. Speaking with 2 students and deciding to give both of them a chance. A flavour like nothing I expected. Guinea fowl. Hmmm….Finally have our services catalogued. So glad about what we have built. Time to step it up though. I now have to deliver on data. Speaking with 2 students and deciding to give both of them a chance. A flavour like nothing I expected. Guinea fowl. Hmmm….
- The first Sunday of Advent. We are waiting for Jesus to come. Animal print and leather. Boots to match. Love that despite my size, I can still style my clothes. Setting up a photo booth for the anniversary. Loved the reaction. Loved the kids who wanted to learn more. An informal music session. The owner’s wife joined. Am so happy I remembered their story and their song. Singing after ages … and feeling I can actually do it. A photo waiting to happy. Sometimes everything just comes together.The first Sunday of Advent. We are waiting for Jesus to come. Animal print and leather. Boots to match. Love that despite my size, I can still style my clothes.Setting up a photo booth for the anniversary. Loved the reaction. Loved the kids who wanted to learn more. An informal music session. The owner’s wife joined. Am so happy I remembered their story and their song. Singing after ages … and feeling I can actually do it. A photo waiting to happy. Sometimes everything just comes together.
- Love how easy it is to make a leg of lamb. A bed of potatoes, a bed of onion, a little rosemary and olive oil… magic! Listening to some of the loveliest Christmas songs I’ve heard in a long time. A gentle evening with my bestie. Wine, Fire, Conversation.Love how easy it is to make a leg of lamb. A bed of potatoes, a bed of onion, a little rosemary and olive oil… magic! Listening to some of the loveliest Christmas songs I’ve heard in a long time. A gentle evening with my bestie. Wine, Fire, Conversation.
- A quiet day. Didn’t get the whole day off as I wanted, but I did manage to rest. Started my car to go to a jam and the battery was out. Thankfully I was able to charge it enough and get there. Supposed to be there at 9, reached at 10 and they hadn’t even started. D’s version of the blues. How I loved it. The whole room came to life.A quiet day. Didn’t get the whole day off as I wanted, but I did manage to rest. Started my car to go to a jam and the battery was out. Thankfully I was able to charge it enough and get there. Supposed to be there at 9, reached at 10 and they hadn’t even started. D’s version of the blues. How I loved it. The whole room came to life.
- Putting my foot down as I was completely tired of the Sky is falling syndrome. Remembering being told that “the same way a 1 day diet doesn’t work, a one day bender doesn’t do much harm.” I’m glad I heard that. Teaching about UTMs for videos. Learning about concentrating on the interesting instead of the pursuit of happiness or pleasure. An interesting perspective that needs more investigation. Today’s interesting topic was a Perry Rhodan: a German Science Fiction book that has been published since 1961. I happened to find out about it when remarking on the many books in Dirk’s room. It’s amazing how people surprise you once you show some curiosity. Curiosity, btw, that was yesterday’s lesson.Putting my foot down as I was completely tired of the Sky is falling syndrome. Remembering being told that “the same way a 1 day diet doesn’t work, a one day bender doesn’t do much harm.” I’m glad I heard that. Teaching about UTMs for videos.Learning about concentrating on the interesting instead of the pursuit of happiness or pleasure. An interesting perspective that needs more investigation. Today’s interesting topic was a Perry Rhodan: a German Science Fiction book that has been published since 1961. I happened to find out about it when remarking on the many books in Dirk’s room. It’s amazing how people surprise you once you show some curiosity. Curiosity, btw, that was yesterday’s lesson.
- A chance to do a whole lot more as some meetings got cancelled. Sated on fuet, cake and all the good things in life. It’s a hard life. Making the sensible decision to not buy any more coats. Life is about making good decisions and the chance to retire early and do things better. Finally got my tickets for my trip home. It’s no longer a promise. It is reality.A chance to do a whole lot more as some meetings got cancelled. Sated on fuet, cake and all the good things in life. It’s a hard life. Making the sensible decision to not buy any more coats. Life is about making good decisions and the chance to retire early and do things better. Finally got my tickets for my trip home. It’s no longer a promise. It is reality.
- Choosing self care over stressing myself out. Glad to be joined by a friend. A short trip to drop off some turkey turned into a jam session which involved a little photshoot too. Home, a fire in the fireplace and two sleepy little puppies keeping me company. Bliss.Choosing self care over stressing myself out. Glad to be joined by a friend. A short trip to drop off some turkey turned into a jam session which involved a little photshoot too. Home, a fire in the fireplace and two sleepy little puppies keeping me company. Bliss.
- Blessed to have so many good people to share time with. Love that they come all the way here just to add cheer to my Christmas celebrations. Loved going above and beyond… Food can’t just be served… it should be presented. I tried things I’ve never done before. And it brought me great joy. Hearing the singing and the laughter fill my house as my guests were enjoying themselves. The party just took off … and I loved every moment of it!Blessed to have so many good people to share time with. Love that they come all the way here just to add cheer to my Christmas celebrations. Loved going above and beyond… Food can’t just be served… it should be presented. I tried things I’ve never done before. And it brought me great joy. Hearing the singing and the laughter fill my house as my guests were enjoying themselves. The party just took off … and I loved every moment of it!
- Talking to S about Not impossible. Found myself so energised and passionate. It’s been a long time. It was good when he said he’d like to keep in touch even if the mentorship ended. I loved how he said that my vision is like trying to describe a Monet to a room of blind people. One outfit out of 15 fit like a charm. I will make the others work too, but it will take a few days to get there. Being very ambitious with my meal planning. I hope everything turns out well. Almost done with the preps. A few more things to go, but I’m sure I’ll have everything ready on time.Talking to S about Not impossible. Found myself so energised and passionate. It’s been a long time. It was good when he said he’d like to keep in touch even if the mentorship ended. I loved how he said that my vision is like trying to describe a Monet to a room of blind people. One outfit out of 15 fit like a charm. I will make the others work too, but it will take a few days to get there. Being very ambitious with my meal planning. I hope everything turns out well. Almost done with the preps. A few more things to go, but I’m sure I’ll have everything ready on time.
- Dressed up in my new scarf and gloves. So happy it turned out so well! A partner in crime for my elaborate Charcuterie board. So hoping it will work out well! A sky for the books. Such beauty!Dressed up in my new scarf and gloves. So happy it turned out so well! A partner in crime for my elaborate Charcuterie board. So hoping it will work out well! A sky for the books. Such beauty!
- Taking the dogs for a walk. Wasn’t on the plan, but it was fun to do. I was surprised at how obedient Sheldon was. Leonard on the other hand though… hee hee. Sunset is earlier each night. Loved the beautiful pink clouds and being surrounded by nature. Life is beautiful. A walk turned into a stop at the bar. A quiet chat and accepting that I’m trying to do much at the same time. Almost done with my scarf. Hours of knitting. I’m glad it is finally taking shape. Remembering our Tattoo anniversary. I am a small girl with a big God. Such a lovely way of acknowledging God’s grace.Taking the dogs for a walk. Wasn’t on the plan, but it was fun to do. I was surprised at how obedient Sheldon was. Leonard on the other hand though… hee hee. Sunset is earlier each night. Loved the beautiful pink clouds and being surrounded by nature. Life is beautiful. A walk turned into a stop at the bar. A quiet chat and accepting that I’m trying to do much at the same time. Almost done with my scarf. Hours of knitting. I’m glad it is finally taking shape. Remembering our Tattoo anniversary. I am a small girl with a big God. Such a lovely way of acknowledging God’s grace.
- A hug from father on receiving his birthday wishes. So genuine. So beautiful. TC was packed. Almost 35 people and not enough room. Looking forward to making it grow. 4 birthday cakes. Best of all, the new boyfriend was welcomed by the end of it.A hug from father on receiving his birthday wishes. So genuine. So beautiful. TC was packed. Almost 35 people and not enough room. Looking forward to making it grow. 4 birthday cakes. Best of all, the new boyfriend was welcomed by the end of it.
- Going from Halloween, straight into Christmas. Glad I got the crib up. The rest can wait. Lots of lights to decorate with. Decorating alone and realising that if I can do this alone, i can do everything alone.Going from Halloween, straight into Christmas. Glad I got the crib up. The rest can wait. Lots of lights to decorate with. Decorating alone and realising that if I can do this alone, i can do everything alone.
- A spontaneous, carefree chat with my boss after a long, long time. A carrot, hazelnut cake that tasted amazing both warm and cold. A walk and a drink. I think I push D too much, but I make it up by having a drink and a chat with him. It was good to see his guitar hanging on the wall. It made him so proud. He even played me a song. His life is such an uphill battle, I’m so happy he finds these pockets of joy. Sheldon’s happy wag on seeing me. So good to see him happy. The warmth of a fire on cold autumn evenings. I am blessed.A spontaneous, carefree chat with my boss after a long, long time. A carrot, hazelnut cake that tasted amazing both warm and cold. A walk and a drink. I think I push D too much, but I make it up by having a drink and a chat with him. It was good to see his guitar hanging on the wall. It made him so proud. He even played me a song. His life is such an uphill battle, I’m so happy he finds these pockets of joy. Sheldon’s happy wag on seeing me. So good to see him happy. The warmth of a fire on cold autumn evenings. I am blessed.
- Feeling better after 14 days on the wagon. An Irish-ish stew for dinner. We should introduce mustard to them creatives in Ireland. Was supposed to be a walk, but it turned out to be a quiet chat instead. I think we needed it.Feeling better after 14 days on the wagon. An Irish-ish stew for dinner. We should introduce mustard to them creatives in Ireland. Was supposed to be a walk, but it turned out to be a quiet chat instead. I think we needed it.
- Remembering his mom’s anniversary before Father did. He was so touched. Feeling lighter after clearing out my closet. So much I was holding on to. Focussed on solutions. Glad they are working out. Continuing with my scarf to match my gloves. Like how it’s coming along. Talking to Leena. Been so long since we connected. A warm fire on a cold, cold day.Remembering his mom’s anniversary before Father did. He was so touched. Feeling lighter after clearing out my closet. So much I was holding on to. Focussed on solutions. Glad they are working out. Continuing with my scarf to match my gloves. Like how it’s coming along. Talking to Leena. Been so long since we connected. A warm fire on a cold, cold day.
- Taking time to clean out the wardrobes that I’ve only been filling with stuff. Glad how it felt once I was done. Glad to say goodbye to so many things I held on for forever. Starting a new project. Glad I took the plunge. Loved this pattern from the moment I first saw it… https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/handschmeichler-hand-charmer A butternut curry. Didn’t know it was a thing. A book that arrived today. I won’t be the first reader. I know someone who needs it more than I do. Cuddle little dogs who also happen to be very obedient.Taking time to clean out the wardrobes that I’ve only been filling with stuff. Glad how it felt once I was done. Glad to say goodbye to so many things I held on for forever. Starting a new project. Glad I took the plunge. Loved this pattern from the moment I first saw it… https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/handschmeichler-hand-charmer A butternut curry. Didn’t know it was a thing. A book that arrived today. I won’t be the first reader. I know someone who needs it more than I do. Cuddle little dogs who also happen to be very obedient.
- Having company with friends. So good to have such wonderful people to call friends. Even if they do enjoy getting all up in my face at times. Cuddly little doggos. Good to see Sheldon back to being ok with strangers. Walking to the highest point in the community and seeing a gorgeous view of the sierra and pink tinged clouds. Getting 3 perfect rings 5 days in a row. Glad I made it. Going for simple and landing with Elegant. So happy with how The Unprecedented One has come along.Having company with friends. So good to have such wonderful people to call friends. Even if they do enjoy getting all up in my face at times. Cuddly little doggos. Good to see Sheldon back to being ok with strangers. Walking to the highest point in the community and seeing a gorgeous view of the sierra and pink tinged clouds. Getting 3 perfect rings 5 days in a row. Glad I made it. Going for simple and landing with Elegant. So happy with how The Unprecedented One has come along.
- Receiving gifts for Christmas. I love fairy lights. Taking a chance on working on things that aren’t just regular work. No drink and a walk to finish off the day. 8 days in and I feel I’m learning more about my body again. A glimpse of the moon from the little terrace. Nature has so many lessons to teach. A poem that I read out aloud and loved:
Poema de Gata Cattana:
“Ella es así. De esas.
Es como las veces
que el verso salta de sus abismos.
Se arroja.
Grita, baila, salta, llora.
Es de esas.
Es como la sensibilidad
espontánea de la poesía,
como ese papel en blanco
que calla,
pero te conoce y te guarda.
Apenas si reprocha,
Apenas si se deja oír.
No hay tiempo para nimiedades,
ya casi es de noche
y la sopa no está hecha.
Tampoco la conozco tanto.
Pero ellos me han hablado,
ellos me han hablado de la mujer torbellino,
de sus huracanes.
Y yo he visto sus ropas de colores,
la he visto escuchando tangos y bluses
y en un par de ocasiones tuve el
placer de compartir el té con ella.
Es una de esas que no se esconden,
imprevisible, de acantilados y cumbres,
natural de antemano,
como un carnaval, una fiesta pagana.
Como las Leyes incomprensibles de
Madre Gaia, que
nadie sabe cómo,
nadie sabe cómo,
pero aún resiste.
Ellos me han hablado,
me han contado anécdotas
de viejas glorias, de cuando
yo aún no había aparecido.
Me han hablado de la madre
y la esposa.
Ella no dice nada porque es transparente,
no hace falta.
Es como la poesía,
como os estaba diciendo.
Como la poesía cuando
El verso salta, salta de sus abismos.
La máxima expresión de los valores
femeninos e infantiles, de inquietudes y
dulzura, de dar sin medida, de darse.
De no caberle un solo sentimiento más
en el cuerpo.
Puede que me equivoque,
tampoco la conozco tanto.
Ellos me han hablado de la madre
y la esposa.
Pero yo les hablo de la mujer.
La mujer torbellino, con sus huracanes.
Una mujer de esas.
UNA MUJER.
De esas.”
Receiving gifts for Christmas. I love fairy lights.Taking a chance on working on things that aren’t just regular work. No drink and a walk to finish off the day. 8 days in and I feel I’m learning more about my body again. A glimpse of the moon from the little terrace. Nature has so many lessons to teach. A poem that I read out aloud and loved:Poema de Gata Cattana:
“Ella es así. De esas.
Es como las veces
que el verso salta de sus abismos.
Se arroja.
Grita, baila, salta, llora.
Es de esas.
Es como la sensibilidad
espontánea de la poesía,
como ese papel en blanco
que calla,
pero te conoce y te guarda.
Apenas si reprocha,
Apenas si se deja oír.
No hay tiempo para nimiedades,
ya casi es de noche
y la sopa no está hecha.
Tampoco la conozco tanto.
Pero ellos me han hablado,
ellos me han hablado de la mujer torbellino,
de sus huracanes.
Y yo he visto sus ropas de colores,
la he visto escuchando tangos y bluses
y en un par de ocasiones tuve el
placer de compartir el té con ella.
Es una de esas que no se esconden,
imprevisible, de acantilados y cumbres,
natural de antemano,
como un carnaval, una fiesta pagana.
Como las Leyes incomprensibles de
Madre Gaia, que
nadie sabe cómo,
nadie sabe cómo,
pero aún resiste.
Ellos me han hablado,
me han contado anécdotas
de viejas glorias, de cuando
yo aún no había aparecido.
Me han hablado de la madre
y la esposa.
Ella no dice nada porque es transparente,
no hace falta.
Es como la poesía,
como os estaba diciendo.
Como la poesía cuando
El verso salta, salta de sus abismos.
La máxima expresión de los valores
femeninos e infantiles, de inquietudes y
dulzura, de dar sin medida, de darse.
De no caberle un solo sentimiento más
en el cuerpo.
Puede que me equivoque,
tampoco la conozco tanto.
Ellos me han hablado de la madre
y la esposa.
Pero yo les hablo de la mujer.
La mujer torbellino, con sus huracanes.
Una mujer de esas.
UNA MUJER.
De esas.”
- Dressing differently. I’m still finding my way around the way my body is changing. I must remember to be kind to myself. Discovering several new platforms and tools. The future looks promising. A quick photoshoot before leaving. It was fun meeting the Neo4J team and hanging with them. A lift from the nearest train station all because I didn’t want to wait another 30 mins. So grateful for Alex.Dressing differently. I’m still finding my way around the way my body is changing. I must remember to be kind to myself.Discovering several new platforms and tools. The future looks promising.A quick photoshoot before leaving. It was fun meeting the Neo4J team and hanging with them.A lift from the nearest train station all because I didn’t want to wait another 30 mins. So grateful for Alex.
- Cheering from the first row. Glad I could be there for a colleague. Meeting a colleague I didn’t know before and finding that our goals are aligned. I think we can make this work. Finding counterparts with whom I was able to get along so well right from the get go. IATA and Airbus are lucky to have such passionate people. A quick stop to pick up what eventually turned out to be cowboy boots. A walk in Barcelona. There is something about this city that makes me smile.Cheering from the first row. Glad I could be there for a colleague. Meeting a colleague I didn’t know before and finding that our goals are aligned. I think we can make this work. Finding counterparts with whom I was able to get along so well right from the get go. IATA and Airbus are lucky to have such passionate people. A quick stop to pick up what eventually turned out to be cowboy boots. A walk in Barcelona. There is something about this city that makes me smile.
- Arnold surprised me. I didn’t expect wit. I should have. It’s amazing to see how he treated most people as mentors. That explains how he learned so much. Meeting a person who is living my dream. My who I want to be. It’s time for me to find my Daniel. Time for me to find me. Glad I could kept off the drink. Think I made a whiskey friend despite sticking to mocktails.Arnold surprised me. I didn’t expect wit. I should have. It’s amazing to see how he treated most people as mentors. That explains how he learned so much.Meeting a person who is living my dream. My who I want to be. It’s time for me to find my Daniel. Time for me to find me.Glad I could kept off the drink. Think I made a whiskey friend despite sticking to mocktails.
- A long, interrupted train journey, but I’m grateful I reached with nothing but a slight delay. Josef in his red shirt. Love that he imitates the look of his profile photo. Another summit. This one promises to be better because of the company. No one should have to do a summit alone. Surprised to see Gran Via all decked out for Christmas already. It made me smile.A long, interrupted train journey, but I’m grateful I reached with nothing but a slight delay.Josef in his red shirt. Love that he imitates the look of his profile photo. Another summit. This one promises to be better because of the company. No one should have to do a summit alone. Surprised to see Gran Via all decked out for Christmas already. It made me smile.
- Driving home with the top down. Not a regular October thing. Dahlias in the garden which made it to a bottle I kept for mum. Sheldon is back to his normal sleep and play habits. So good to see him getting better. Driving to and fro in record time. Glad I could enjoy the ride with risk only to me. A fantastic lunch of Arroz Negro with a dear friend. We are lucky to have genuine, warm, loving people in our circle. Day 3 of No-drink-vember. I was tempted. So glad I didn’t give in. Black and white today to mark All Souls. Love how my hair turned out.
- This Spanish pup who needs 5 siestas a day
- This adorable little adventurer
- Bed Buddies
- Dahlias
- Dahlias
- Arroz Negro
Driving home with the top down. Not a regular October thing.Dahlias in the garden which made it to a bottle I kept for mum. Sheldon is back to his normal sleep and play habits. So good to see him getting better. Driving to and fro in record time. Glad I could enjoy the ride with risk only to me.A fantastic lunch of Arroz Negro with a dear friend. We are lucky to have genuine, warm, loving people in our circle. Day 3 of No-drink-vember. I was tempted. So glad I didn’t give in. Black and white today to mark All Souls. Love how my hair turned out.-
- This Spanish pup who needs 5 siestas a day
-
- This adorable little adventurer
-
- Bed Buddies
-
- Dahlias
-
- Dahlias
-
- Arroz Negro
- Waking up earlier than I wanted to, but I woke up to a complete family. So glad Shelly is back A gorgeous hair colour and hairstyle. So glad for Vanesa. A gig for the 4th anniversary of the Venta Vieja. It was good to hear some old faves, some new numbers and the same old suspects. Nothing compares. Wild Rover. When you say nothing at all… Heard it twice in one night… how lucky am I. It is my favourite song. Getting to love myself without the coloured lenses. So many lessons coming my way in these first two years of my 40s.Waking up earlier than I wanted to, but I woke up to a complete family. So glad Shelly is back A gorgeous hair colour and hairstyle. So glad for Vanesa. A gig for the 4th anniversary of the Venta Vieja. It was good to hear some old faves, some new numbers and the same old suspects.Nothing compares. Wild Rover. When you say nothing at all… Heard it twice in one night… how lucky am I. It is my favourite song. Getting to love myself without the coloured lenses. So many lessons coming my way in these first two years of my 40s.
- Search party. 7 of us looking for Sheldon and trying to be as helpful as we can. So grateful to have such wonderful friends. Strangers collaborating to find a lost dog. Especially people who we don’t know. I thank God for the animal-lovers. For those who answer WhatsApp group messages and pass out tips on how to handle agitated animals. God bless them. Singing to a scared little dog and finally getting him to follow us home. God watched over us all the time…. even when I was so close to giving up. Only one person complained aloud. I hope the others read the situation. I couldn’t break his trust by forcing him to wear a collar. PS: I never want to hear the Macarena again.Search party. 7 of us looking for Sheldon and trying to be as helpful as we can. So grateful to have such wonderful friends.Strangers collaborating to find a lost dog. Especially people who we don’t know. I thank God for the animal-lovers. For those who answer WhatsApp group messages and pass out tips on how to handle agitated animals. God bless them.Singing to a scared little dog and finally getting him to follow us home. God watched over us all the time…. even when I was so close to giving up. Only one person complained aloud. I hope the others read the situation. I couldn’t break his trust by forcing him to wear a collar. PS: I never want to hear the Macarena again.
- Asked my team to come in costume. The externals didn’t. My entire internal team did… and what fab disguises too. Was soooo good to see my PM participate as well. In the middle of my call I got a message which read “Sheldon has run away”. Those four words changed all my work plans. I logged off and rushed in search of our lost puppy. I saw him, but then he wasn’t there and I didn’t know if it was my imagination. Amidst this chaos and then taking the other one to the vet and the world still revolving and work still going on, I realised work will always go on. But my little furry friends, my friends further along in the evolutionary cycle, my family… They deserve my time too. They deserve my energy too. More so than a corporate. Dressed as an angel for Halloween. Loved my wings and even when they weren’t spread, they looked amazing. It will be a hard costume to beat. Despite a great evening, my heart was not all there. Before reaching home I drove to the place little Shelly went missing … He didn’t come to me when I called…. I wasn’t even sure he heard. Reached around 3:20 and it was time to get some rest before the search started. The cops have been informed, so if he’s found we would be alerted. There is not much more we can do right now.
- A scared doggie on his way to the vet
- Spreading my wings
- Be very afraid
- Grim reaper
- Twinning
- graveyard scenes
- Love how the picture was turned
- Soup?
- More graveyard details
- Oooops
- The usual suspects
- My fave decoration.. the candle
- unsettling albeit perfect ambience
- unsettling albeit perfect ambience
- Angel and devil
- unsettling albeit perfect ambience
- unsettling albeit perfect ambience
- unsettling albeit perfect ambience
- The usual suspects
- relief… back from the vet
Asked my team to come in costume. The externals didn’t. My entire internal team did… and what fab disguises too. Was soooo good to see my PM participate as well. In the middle of my call I got a message which read “Sheldon has run away”. Those four words changed all my work plans. I logged off and rushed in search of our lost puppy. I saw him, but then he wasn’t there and I didn’t know if it was my imagination. Amidst this chaos and then taking the other one to the vet and the world still revolving and work still going on, I realised work will always go on. But my little furry friends, my friends further along in the evolutionary cycle, my family… They deserve my time too. They deserve my energy too. More so than a corporate. Dressed as an angel for Halloween. Loved my wings and even when they weren’t spread, they looked amazing. It will be a hard costume to beat. Despite a great evening, my heart was not all there.Before reaching home I drove to the place little Shelly went missing … He didn’t come to me when I called…. I wasn’t even sure he heard. Reached around 3:20 and it was time to get some rest before the search started. The cops have been informed, so if he’s found we would be alerted. There is not much more we can do right now.-
- A scared doggie on his way to the vet
-
- Spreading my wings
-
- Be very afraid
-
- Grim reaper
-
- Twinning
-
- graveyard scenes
-
- Love how the picture was turned
-
- Soup?
-
- More graveyard details
-
- Oooops
-
- The usual suspects
-
- My fave decoration.. the candle
-
- unsettling albeit perfect ambience
-
- unsettling albeit perfect ambience
-
- Angel and devil
-
- unsettling albeit perfect ambience
-
- unsettling albeit perfect ambience
-
- unsettling albeit perfect ambience
-
- The usual suspects
-
- relief... back from the vet
- Today was a good day. Mostly work-wise… there isn’t much more than work these days, anyway. 11 deployments with only a couple of small hiccoughs. 2 apps that have been driving us crazy are in prod with a tolerable margin of error. The biggest central IT service confirmed that they will be using our API. Handed over the DF API for testing and delegated the authorisation concept. I need to learn to give myself space and a margin. No one demands so much of me as I do of myself. It was a good day. Now I just need to play as hard as I work.Today was a good day. Mostly work-wise… there isn’t much more than work these days, anyway. 11 deployments with only a couple of small hiccoughs. 2 apps that have been driving us crazy are in prod with a tolerable margin of error. The biggest central IT service confirmed that they will be using our API. Handed over the DF API for testing and delegated the authorisation concept. I need to learn to give myself space and a margin. No one demands so much of me as I do of myself. It was a good day. Now I just need to play as hard as I work.
- Janet’s rendition of “How beautiful”. So different from the version sung for Patrick…. but still as beautiful. Ian started a new group for people experiencing any kind of loss. I was amazed at how many had no safe space to share their grief. I hope Ian continues to have success and healing. Lunch for Judy’s birthday with some great ideas for the anniversary. So excited for it. Glad I got her something she appreciates. The French version of Jumanji featuring medieval townsfolk, witches, werewolves and Da Vinci. Cuddly dogs who tried to get on to the sofa. tut tut.Janet’s rendition of “How beautiful”. So different from the version sung for Patrick…. but still as beautiful.Ian started a new group for people experiencing any kind of loss. I was amazed at how many had no safe space to share their grief. I hope Ian continues to have success and healing. Lunch for Judy’s birthday with some great ideas for the anniversary. So excited for it. Glad I got her something she appreciates. The French version of Jumanji featuring medieval townsfolk, witches, werewolves and Da Vinci. Cuddly dogs who tried to get on to the sofa. tut tut.
- A costume with lights that made my face light up with a smile…. love it… Singing after ages and feeling good about letting my voice ring out. The longest Rosary I’ve ever said… and I laughed, I cried, I was filled with despair, and hope, and love and sadness and joy. A Rosary like it should be said. With reverence, love and a sense of comfort. I am so grateful to D for the book. Memories of mum. In the music, in the food I prepared tonight. In memories of her and her sisters.A costume with lights that made my face light up with a smile…. love it…Singing after ages and feeling good about letting my voice ring out. The longest Rosary I’ve ever said… and I laughed, I cried, I was filled with despair, and hope, and love and sadness and joy. A Rosary like it should be said. With reverence, love and a sense of comfort. I am so grateful to D for the book. Memories of mum. In the music, in the food I prepared tonight. In memories of her and her sisters.
- Joining the session today and it was fantastic. It was such a long time since I managed to attend. The gift of Donal’s voice. Loved it. It’s great to him using his chest voice instead of his head voice. After the discussion on the Rosary, I was looking to find a book that helped me meditate. Today I was gifted one. How blessed am I?Joining the session today and it was fantastic. It was such a long time since I managed to attend. The gift of Donal’s voice. Loved it. It’s great to him using his chest voice instead of his head voice.After the discussion on the Rosary, I was looking to find a book that helped me meditate. Today I was gifted one. How blessed am I?
- Beautiful wispy clouds that turned pink as the sun set. A long walk with my BFF. Such joy. He’s such a good listener. A sigh of relief after a long, difficult day… Do I really enjoy this job…. Is this the pinnacle? I believe I was put on this earth to do more.Beautiful wispy clouds that turned pink as the sun set. A long walk with my BFF. Such joy. He’s such a good listener. A sigh of relief after a long, difficult day… Do I really enjoy this job…. Is this the pinnacle? I believe I was put on this earth to do more.
- I had a question for the church…. so glad they responded. Am glad the younger PC took the initiative to include more people when the unilateral decisions and inaction took over. OLM’s TC meeting was about the rosary and why we pray it … more importantly … how to pray it. One of the most wonderful meetings we’ve had in forever. The power that filled the room when the decade was said still fills me chills. I never knew what a powerful prayer we had at our disposal. Driving back with the top-down. Such good weather in October. We are blessed. An impromptu session at the bar since Donal donated his guitar which Nick decided to fix. Beautiful. I am so blessed to have such wonderful friends and such good talent around me. Sometimes God speaks in flowers (in this case music) and not only in words.I had a question for the church…. so glad they responded. Am glad the younger PC took the initiative to include more people when the unilateral decisions and inaction took over. OLM’s TC meeting was about the rosary and why we pray it … more importantly … how to pray it. One of the most wonderful meetings we’ve had in forever. The power that filled the room when the decade was said still fills me chills. I never knew what a powerful prayer we had at our disposal. Driving back with the top-down. Such good weather in October. We are blessed. An impromptu session at the bar since Donal donated his guitar which Nick decided to fix. Beautiful. I am so blessed to have such wonderful friends and such good talent around me. Sometimes God speaks in flowers (in this case music) and not only in words.
- Started off cloudy, but turned out to be a perfect day for the G&M wedding. So glad I could be part of it. I had clothes picked out for an evening wedding. Turned out to be an afternoon wedding. I returned from Munich on Friday 23:00 to this news. Morning comes and the dress battle begins. So glad my wardrobe still has stuff I can wear with all the weight I’ve put on. A red dress with gold and beige heels and clutch with gold jewellery. A red cape to go with it. Better styled than most of the She-in dressed crowd. Wish I had worn a tocado/pamela. A fabulous wedding. My first Spanish wedding too. Love that they were religious and that most of the people who attended paid respect. A couple of fabulous headpieces and great heels. Loved that they had a string quartet playing music from their favourite movies. Up, Lion King, Vivaldi and others made an appearance. Absolutely perfect. The bridal car was the Volkswagen wagen from Kill bill or Lost. The tables were named after movies they loved and had a little snow-globe to match. The gifts were a bottle shaped corkscrew that read :”thank you for being a part of our beginning” and a vial of coffee flavoured liqueur that was served up in a test tube as the girl works in a lab. From the name tags to the polaroid photos to the little details strewn around the church and venue… this wedding was a huge gesture of love and romance and everything that one sees in movies.Started off cloudy, but turned out to be a perfect day for the G&M wedding. So glad I could be part of it. I had clothes picked out for an evening wedding. Turned out to be an afternoon wedding. I returned from Munich on Friday 23:00 to this news. Morning comes and the dress battle begins. So glad my wardrobe still has stuff I can wear with all the weight I’ve put on. A red dress with gold and beige heels and clutch with gold jewellery. A red cape to go with it. Better styled than most of the She-in dressed crowd. Wish I had worn a tocado/pamela. A fabulous wedding. My first Spanish wedding too. Love that they were religious and that most of the people who attended paid respect. A couple of fabulous headpieces and great heels. Loved that they had a string quartet playing music from their favourite movies. Up, Lion King, Vivaldi and others made an appearance. Absolutely perfect. The bridal car was the Volkswagen wagen from Kill bill or Lost. The tables were named after movies they loved and had a little snow-globe to match. The gifts were a bottle shaped corkscrew that read :”thank you for being a part of our beginning” and a vial of coffee flavoured liqueur that was served up in a test tube as the girl works in a lab. From the name tags to the polaroid photos to the little details strewn around the church and venue… this wedding was a huge gesture of love and romance and everything that one sees in movies.
- Apologising for a mistake I made. Glad I could set things right. Helping out a parishioner. So good I could be useful. Happy dogs that couldn’t stop wagging their tails. Happy little bubs!Apologising for a mistake I made. Glad I could set things right. Helping out a parishioner. So good I could be useful. Happy dogs that couldn’t stop wagging their tails. Happy little bubs!
- After an absolutely horrid workshop, we ended up going out. Hours of chatting got me sobbing. I am so tired. So worn. Fantastic ribs for dinner. So glad I have colleagues who care. Right from the youngest AP, to FB and MM. I am amazed at how much they gave. So glad for FB’s news. Also glad that I can stop myself from drinking too much.After an absolutely horrid workshop, we ended up going out. Hours of chatting got me sobbing. I am so tired. So worn. Fantastic ribs for dinner. So glad I have colleagues who care. Right from the youngest AP, to FB and MM. I am amazed at how much they gave. So glad for FB’s news. Also glad that I can stop myself from drinking too much.
- The best part of being in Munich was autumn. I wish I would say I loved the meetings and the people… honestly… it’s not the project I expected it to be.The best part of being in Munich was autumn. I wish I would say I loved the meetings and the people… honestly… it’s not the project I expected it to be.
- Speaking about IT and teaching more than we should be. Love when I get IT to do what we want. Waited the whole day for an off-colour joke. It came in the form of a disguise for Halloween. Scenes in a Munich Metro. A fun dinner and a wonderful time with our providers – internal and external. The confusing, amazing lives of people who work with me. Their crazy expressions at being told that I’d rather a yacht instead of a car. To each their own.Speaking about IT and teaching more than we should be. Love when I get IT to do what we want. Waited the whole day for an off-colour joke. It came in the form of a disguise for Halloween. Scenes in a Munich Metro. A fun dinner and a wonderful time with our providers – internal and external. The confusing, amazing lives of people who work with me. Their crazy expressions at being told that I’d rather a yacht instead of a car. To each their own.
- Set my OOO this morning and ended up rejecting all MRs. The confusion that ensued… ha ha ha … I should have paid more attention. Travelling to Munich. It took me just above 8 hours door to door. What a waste. The silver lining was the gorgeous views from the plane. Deciding not to go out, but to stay in and workout. Gearing up for tomorrow and hopefully things will get better.
- Flying above the clouds
- The rain and clouds made everything so dramatic
Set my OOO this morning and ended up rejecting all MRs. The confusion that ensued… ha ha ha … I should have paid more attention. Travelling to Munich. It took me just above 8 hours door to door. What a waste. The silver lining was the gorgeous views from the plane. Deciding not to go out, but to stay in and workout. Gearing up for tomorrow and hopefully things will get better.-
- Flying above the clouds
-
- The rain and clouds made everything so dramatic
- A Photoshop Beta feature that I totally loved. Remove wires and people. The people filter allows editing. I’m just amazed at how well it works. Left at 4 to 10 and the roads were completely deserted. It took me 37 minutes to get there. I wish all days were so easy. Love that I managed to get a day to drive with the top down. A very, very successful potluck. Am so happy I was able to volunteer. I am so grateful to have such a wonderful community. Amazing Edna… she made food for everyone. And she made sure she brought extra for Judy, Fr Alex and me. How sweet is she? A conversation with D. Salve for my soul. I totally love it. Totally. It feels like home. Told Father and few others about my aunt’s passing. He asked for her name and promised to pray for her. I hope he does. I feel like I’m losing everyone I’ve ever known.A Photoshop Beta feature that I totally loved. Remove wires and people. The people filter allows editing. I’m just amazed at how well it works. Left at 4 to 10 and the roads were completely deserted. It took me 37 minutes to get there. I wish all days were so easy. Love that I managed to get a day to drive with the top down. A very, very successful potluck. Am so happy I was able to volunteer. I am so grateful to have such a wonderful community. Amazing Edna… she made food for everyone. And she made sure she brought extra for Judy, Fr Alex and me. How sweet is she? A conversation with D. Salve for my soul. I totally love it. Totally. It feels like home. Told Father and few others about my aunt’s passing. He asked for her name and promised to pray for her. I hope he does. I feel like I’m losing everyone I’ve ever known.
- Woke up late. Managed to get everything prepped. Just when I thought I’d need to rush, they confirmed they would be late. Time to do my hair and change 3 times … lucky me! Such wonderful guests… I love Susan .. and am so glad that her husband and Antonio started talking too. It was great to hear them talking so freely and sharing so much. The joy of having such gracious guests. My heart is full. I am so blessed.Woke up late. Managed to get everything prepped. Just when I thought I’d need to rush, they confirmed they would be late. Time to do my hair and change 3 times … lucky me! Such wonderful guests… I love Susan .. and am so glad that her husband and Antonio started talking too. It was great to hear them talking so freely and sharing so much. The joy of having such gracious guests. My heart is full. I am so blessed.
- In search of lamb, we were steered to a shop that ordered 4 times more than normal and sold lechal at an excellent price. So glad I ended up there and gladder that I was paying attention to the bill. They charged me twice 😀 Autumn colours. Haven’t had a chance to see them so far. So glad I got to enjoy them. 3 hours of shopping… hours more left tomorrow, but I’m well prepped for the party!In search of lamb, we were steered to a shop that ordered 4 times more than normal and sold lechal at an excellent price. So glad I ended up there and gladder that I was paying attention to the bill. They charged me twice 😀 Autumn colours. Haven’t had a chance to see them so far. So glad I got to enjoy them. 3 hours of shopping… hours more left tomorrow, but I’m well prepped for the party!
- Being Saint Lucille and turning up in place of Saint Cecilia. Being there matters. Being there when people most need you matters. I’ve had many reminders of it this week. Glad i got a chance to play muse again. And boy, what a beautiful muse I am! Hearing “How long will I love you” …. Totally loved the version. And when Johnny Cash came along… OMG! The joy of a fantastic concert! The adoration of the masses. The cheer. The good vibes. What a beautiful night! So glad I was there to cheer D on!Being Saint Lucille and turning up in place of Saint Cecilia. Being there matters. Being there when people most need you matters. I’ve had many reminders of it this week. Glad i got a chance to play muse again. And boy, what a beautiful muse I am! Hearing “How long will I love you” …. Totally loved the version. And when Johnny Cash came along… OMG! The joy of a fantastic concert! The adoration of the masses. The cheer. The good vibes. What a beautiful night! So glad I was there to cheer D on!
- Finishing on time and choosing a change of scenery. Wasn’t expecting the Christmas decorations in El Corte Ingles. Amazed by nature. Gorgeous clouds over Valle de Cuelgamuros. Beautiful layers tinged with colour. Staying strong. So glad I could resist that drink. My body is happy.Finishing on time and choosing a change of scenery. Wasn’t expecting the Christmas decorations in El Corte Ingles. Amazed by nature. Gorgeous clouds over Valle de Cuelgamuros. Beautiful layers tinged with colour. Staying strong. So glad I could resist that drink. My body is happy.
- Going out for a change of scenery and some air. Glad for the change of routine. Finding a trick to get my photo titles and captions right in Lightroom. No more complaining about my stories being forgotten. In the mood to workout and make my personal space conducive to it, I found https://nalamoves.shop/products/compact-bars-combo can’t wait to get it.Going out for a change of scenery and some air. Glad for the change of routine. Finding a trick to get my photo titles and captions right in Lightroom. No more complaining about my stories being forgotten.In the mood to workout and make my personal space conducive to it, I found https://nalamoves.shop/products/compact-bars-combo can’t wait to get it.
- Making progress with the products. Lots of shouting, but glad we got it cleared up. Hopefully the other issues will get unblocked as well. Choosing to workout instead of sitting down for the whole evening. Staying within my calorie budget. Now I just need 300 days more of it. 🙂 Finding such gorgeous pictures of myself. And that wasn’t so long ago either.Making progress with the products. Lots of shouting, but glad we got it cleared up. Hopefully the other issues will get unblocked as well. Choosing to workout instead of sitting down for the whole evening. Staying within my calorie budget. Now I just need 300 days more of it. 🙂 Finding such gorgeous pictures of myself. And that wasn’t so long ago either.
- Slept most of the day. These parties will be the death of me. Catching up on my travel posts. I can’t believe I didn’t write about these adventures. Such beautiful memories. Such gorgeous places. Those steps weren’t getting counted. A restart and wipe down was all it took. So glad it wasn’t anything else.Slept most of the day. These parties will be the death of me. Catching up on my travel posts. I can’t believe I didn’t write about these adventures. Such beautiful memories. Such gorgeous places. Those steps weren’t getting counted. A restart and wipe down was all it took. So glad it wasn’t anything else.
- Met P’s girl from Thailand. Glad to see that she is not an AI. Whooo hooo. Loads of gifts for me from Thailand. Colour me surprised. A pallela pan that got flipped over. Quick thinking and alternative arrangements to the rescue. Such a pity about the rice though.Met P’s girl from Thailand. Glad to see that she is not an AI. Whooo hooo. Loads of gifts for me from Thailand. Colour me surprised. A pallela pan that got flipped over. Quick thinking and alternative arrangements to the rescue. Such a pity about the rice though.
- A chance presentation and the ideas are flowing. Glad they got in touch. Hugs from a dog…. awwww… they are the sweetest. Glad these two bundles of fur are so cuddly. Reluctant models… terrible weather… but the photos are good. Even got them a little website going… https://skyeproductions.pixieset.com/ruthyalejandro/A chance presentation and the ideas are flowing. Glad they got in touch. Hugs from a dog…. awwww… they are the sweetest. Glad these two bundles of fur are so cuddly. Reluctant models… terrible weather… but the photos are good. Even got them a little website going… https://skyeproductions.pixieset.com/ruthyalejandro/
- A heads up that resulted in an apology. I am in a team of people who genuinely care. A fabulous Thank You card from Father Alex. Small gestures matter! Gratitude from the hostess for normal food photos. I’m glad I took the 5.5 seconds to take them. No one else had similar photos. A rally winner returns home…. whoo hoo hooA heads up that resulted in an apology. I am in a team of people who genuinely care.A fabulous Thank You card from Father Alex. Small gestures matter! Gratitude from the hostess for normal food photos. I’m glad I took the 5.5 seconds to take them. No one else had similar photos. A rally winner returns home…. whoo hoo hoo
- Sharing compliments while on the drive to mass. You read well. It’s always good to be complimented by parishioners. Compliments on my hair. So glad I’m still able to style it. A genuine hug for a grieving mother. I hope she knows she is loved. A hello to all around. Good to see all the usual suspects. Getting Gian’s dad to talk. He’s always been the silent kind, but not when I’m around… no sireee! A productive PC meeting. High tempers and all that, but still productive.Sharing compliments while on the drive to mass.You read well. It’s always good to be complimented by parishioners.Compliments on my hair. So glad I’m still able to style it.A genuine hug for a grieving mother. I hope she knows she is loved.A hello to all around. Good to see all the usual suspects. Getting Gian’s dad to talk. He’s always been the silent kind, but not when I’m around… no sireee!A productive PC meeting. High tempers and all that, but still productive.
- Sparkle. Wore my sparkly green skirt. Nothing in my closet fit, but I’m glad I found something to make the world go oooohhh… Fat but still stylish. Always love when a person who doesn’t always talk or share comes over to tell me how wonderful they think I look. “Vas a triunfar” … those were the exact words! Party time. Always love those terrace parties. This time they made it extra special with all that Filipino food. Tribe … they call it accidental friends.Sparkle. Wore my sparkly green skirt. Nothing in my closet fit, but I’m glad I found something to make the world go oooohhh… Fat but still stylish.Always love when a person who doesn’t always talk or share comes over to tell me how wonderful they think I look. “Vas a triunfar” … those were the exact words!Party time. Always love those terrace parties. This time they made it extra special with all that Filipino food.Tribe … they call it accidental friends.
- A falcon that swooped right in front of the car. A few fun photos with the team. Glad I have a fun gang to hang with. An apology for being overwhelmed and saying things that were not appropriate. Popping in to say hello. To laugh. To joke. To cry. To hand over sausages.A falcon that swooped right in front of the car.A few fun photos with the team. Glad I have a fun gang to hang with. An apology for being overwhelmed and saying things that were not appropriate.Popping in to say hello. To laugh. To joke. To cry. To hand over sausages.
- A chance to present with Saman. So grateful. So happy that we are working on projects that are part of the strategy. A joke that was so inappropriate, but so well timed! Gifts for the team. Well appreciated too. Glad I could get the team stuff.A chance to present with Saman. So grateful. So happy that we are working on projects that are part of the strategy.A joke that was so inappropriate, but so well timed! Gifts for the team. Well appreciated too. Glad I could get the team stuff.
- The song “Make me a servant” brought back memories of mum. I could almost hear her voice singing it out. The Theologians’ corner meeting. So many people. Such good conversation. Just 5 people having a drink. A much better chance at exchanging ideas … and the ideas didn’t stop coming. There is so much we can do! Talking with Heiko after ages.. Love that we can pick up like we never stopped talking. Repairing my coat. It shows wear, but it’s still gorgeous and I can’t wait to show it off.The song “Make me a servant” brought back memories of mum. I could almost hear her voice singing it out. The Theologians’ corner meeting. So many people. Such good conversation. Just 5 people having a drink. A much better chance at exchanging ideas … and the ideas didn’t stop coming. There is so much we can do! Talking with Heiko after ages.. Love that we can pick up like we never stopped talking. Repairing my coat. It shows wear, but it’s still gorgeous and I can’t wait to show it off.
- The best colour my hair has had in a long, long, long time. So glad I found Vanesa. The looks on the road while I was driving by said enough. She didn’t charge me a dime… her mum said it too. She said she couldn’t. I asked her or a colour which she couldn’t deliver the first time, so this was free. Do I love this lady? Or do I love this lady? A belt out of the car that caused my newest, prettiest coat to lose a belt. So glad I found it. So glad I can mend it. Learned my lessons about using coats while driving. So many good movies in one night. Uglies, Hitman and The princess bride.The best colour my hair has had in a long, long, long time. So glad I found Vanesa. The looks on the road while I was driving by said enough. She didn’t charge me a dime… her mum said it too. She said she couldn’t. I asked her or a colour which she couldn’t deliver the first time, so this was free. Do I love this lady? Or do I love this lady? A belt out of the car that caused my newest, prettiest coat to lose a belt. So glad I found it. So glad I can mend it. Learned my lessons about using coats while driving. So many good movies in one night. Uglies, Hitman and The princess bride.
- Being introduced as person who understands data and cybersecurity to a person with a Czech name that was created to troll the world. So happy to be recognised. Solving an issue with identifying assets. So long since I worked with SQL. A call from the bank saying that Passports and other important documents that were considered lost have now been found. Let joy abound. A pizza that looked like a Klimt painting. The little faces were inspired by an insta post. Glad I tried it before Halloween.Being introduced as person who understands data and cybersecurity to a person with a Czech name that was created to troll the world. So happy to be recognised. Solving an issue with identifying assets. So long since I worked with SQL. A call from the bank saying that Passports and other important documents that were considered lost have now been found. Let joy abound. A pizza that looked like a Klimt painting. The little faces were inspired by an insta post. Glad I tried it before Halloween.
- Made the quietest person in the team speak. So glad I did. Learned so much from him. Red-tape in Portugal, and a breed of cats called “Snowshoe”. They are adorable. A surprise sock and sausage drop-off. Am always happy when a gift is well received. He: Off to bed, only after a sausage. Me: As the actress said to the bishop. Tired, but I still have it. The lovely posts by Angelo and Uma. So glad they enjoyed the photowalk as well.Made the quietest person in the team speak. So glad I did. Learned so much from him. Red-tape in Portugal, and a breed of cats called “Snowshoe”. They are adorable. A surprise sock and sausage drop-off. Am always happy when a gift is well received. He: Off to bed, only after a sausage. Me: As the actress said to the bishop. Tired, but I still have it. The lovely posts by Angelo and Uma. So glad they enjoyed the photowalk as well.
- Rushing to get stuff done and burning loads of calories in the process. A spontaneous hug from a little boy. I will miss him so much. A hat with mirrors that made the airport ceiling sparkle. Little doggies who were super cuddly. I missed those little buggers.Rushing to get stuff done and burning loads of calories in the process. A spontaneous hug from a little boy. I will miss him so much. A hat with mirrors that made the airport ceiling sparkle. Little doggies who were super cuddly. I missed those little buggers.
- A private tour of the Churchill Museum. Such a fantastic setup. Wish I had more time. A 75% female panel. Their data stories were nothing short of inspirational. I might just feel the inclination to become a speaker too. Finishing at 10:00 and finding myself in front of the parliament building with a full moon. Perfect.A private tour of the Churchill Museum. Such a fantastic setup. Wish I had more time. A 75% female panel. Their data stories were nothing short of inspirational. I might just feel the inclination to become a speaker too. Finishing at 10:00 and finding myself in front of the parliament building with a full moon. Perfect.
- A look at our cool new applications…. such a gorgeous facelife. I am so hopeful! Ants in my Pants. Rocks in my Crocs. A song in the making. Hearing back from a friend. Glad we are making time to make things work.A look at our cool new applications…. such a gorgeous facelife. I am so hopeful! Ants in my Pants. Rocks in my Crocs. A song in the making. Hearing back from a friend. Glad we are making time to make things work.
- The sermon at mass. One that made me listen. One that asked if we carry the joy of Christ with us or a “cara de vinagre”. May my face always shine with God’s love. Easily the best Indian food I’ve eaten. Even compared to India. I heard about this place, but didn’t really believe the reviews. I must admit, I am pleasantly pleased. A photowalk with Angelo and Uma. A chance to learn, a chance to teach, a chance to hang with people who don’t get upset about staying in the same place for a few hours just shooting it from different angles. A new appreciation for London. I must admit, slowing down makes a huge difference. Company too. Meeting Fen after ages. He even got me a chocolate. I didn’t get him anything. So not fair on my part. The photowalk brought back memories of so many people and so many moments shared. I made an attempt to contact some of them. Hopefully we’ll be able to revive our shared love for photography once more.
- Jukebox
- Photowalk
- Walking around
- SOHO
- Reflected
- Photowalk companions
The sermon at mass. One that made me listen. One that asked if we carry the joy of Christ with us or a “cara de vinagre”. May my face always shine with God’s love. Easily the best Indian food I’ve eaten. Even compared to India. I heard about this place, but didn’t really believe the reviews. I must admit, I am pleasantly pleased. A photowalk with Angelo and Uma. A chance to learn, a chance to teach, a chance to hang with people who don’t get upset about staying in the same place for a few hours just shooting it from different angles. A new appreciation for London. I must admit, slowing down makes a huge difference. Company too. Meeting Fen after ages. He even got me a chocolate. I didn’t get him anything. So not fair on my part. The photowalk brought back memories of so many people and so many moments shared. I made an attempt to contact some of them. Hopefully we’ll be able to revive our shared love for photography once more.-
- Jukebox
-
- Photowalk
-
- Walking around
-
- SOHO
-
- Reflected
-
- Photowalk companions
- A quiet lie in. I am a big friend of being alone. Hard, manual labour that I would have outsourced under other circumstances. M’s artsy takes on all the different designs he chose to work on. Such a great job! Being called a sol for making simple changes that I enjoy doing for OLM. Fantastic Indian food – fried rice and ball curry. Happy tummy! A friend who always steps in to make my videos and photos look great. 2 fab videos that he made me today. Read today “Airport pick ups are the deepest form of love”. I am so blessed.A quiet lie in. I am a big friend of being alone. Hard, manual labour that I would have outsourced under other circumstances. M’s artsy takes on all the different designs he chose to work on. Such a great job! Being called a sol for making simple changes that I enjoy doing for OLM. Fantastic Indian food – fried rice and ball curry. Happy tummy! A friend who always steps in to make my videos and photos look great. 2 fab videos that he made me today. Read today “Airport pick ups are the deepest form of love”. I am so blessed.
- Manchester United stadium. History and a shocking reminder of how people will pay millions for a game that adds no value to anyone. Popping into the Manchester Cathedral only to be awed by the history and beauty around. A fabulous experience. My first live tennis match. Loved it! Learned so much more about the format and the whole energy to this game. The way the ref went “Thank you” and the whole place fell silent. I think I’ll be watching a few more matches live from now on. Stopped by people with compliments for my boots or long coat. not my favourite fit or cloth, but it looked good. The best team won. I’m glad they did. I was so upset that the Brits refused to stand for the Argentinian National Anthem. Such petty people. Spending the train journey contemplating the idea of going to the Rugby game between the world number 1 and the world champions. English Roses vs the New Zealand Ferns. It would have been great!Manchester United stadium. History and a shocking reminder of how people will pay millions for a game that adds no value to anyone. Popping into the Manchester Cathedral only to be awed by the history and beauty around. A fabulous experience. My first live tennis match. Loved it! Learned so much more about the format and the whole energy to this game. The way the ref went “Thank you” and the whole place fell silent. I think I’ll be watching a few more matches live from now on. Stopped by people with compliments for my boots or long coat. not my favourite fit or cloth, but it looked good. The best team won. I’m glad they did. I was so upset that the Brits refused to stand for the Argentinian National Anthem. Such petty people. Spending the train journey contemplating the idea of going to the Rugby game between the world number 1 and the world champions. English Roses vs the New Zealand Ferns. It would have been great!
- A train journey that we were perfectly in time for. Glad when things work out well. Two little were girls playing a kid’s sing song game on the platform. One of them accidentally kicked her shoe off onto the tracks. The first thing they did was run to get their cameras and shoot it. She was so embarrassed, but I think it’s a story for the books 😀 Reaching Manchester quite late. The lights were interesting, but it was when we hit the Quay that we found the real beauty! We were also so lucky to get dinner at such a late hour. Phew. Loved the cows of the Beefeater …. cool place!A train journey that we were perfectly in time for. Glad when things work out well. Two little were girls playing a kid’s sing song game on the platform. One of them accidentally kicked her shoe off onto the tracks. The first thing they did was run to get their cameras and shoot it. She was so embarrassed, but I think it’s a story for the books 😀 Reaching Manchester quite late. The lights were interesting, but it was when we hit the Quay that we found the real beauty! We were also so lucky to get dinner at such a late hour. Phew. Loved the cows of the Beefeater …. cool place!
- Checking off several tasks. Glad things are moving forward. Updating the website, my blog and pretty many things that have long been forgotten. Listening to a kid happily play the piano. I’d love to see him spend more time playing music and reading. Alas!Checking off several tasks. Glad things are moving forward. Updating the website, my blog and pretty many things that have long been forgotten. Listening to a kid happily play the piano. I’d love to see him spend more time playing music and reading. Alas!
- Bringing Dhano home. Glad we could beat the crazy summer pile up. A quiet, uneventful flight. Except for the mess with the trains, Heathrow has some of it’s craziness sorted out! Feeling gorgeous. Looking it too.Bringing Dhano home. Glad we could beat the crazy summer pile up.A quiet, uneventful flight. Except for the mess with the trains, Heathrow has some of it’s craziness sorted out! Feeling gorgeous. Looking it too.
- A day that had me conquering many mountains. Glad I got so much done. A short day. Like all of them in summer should have been. A jaunt to the shops to buy some gifts. Nothing new in store … ohhh noessss…A day that had me conquering many mountains. Glad I got so much done. A short day. Like all of them in summer should have been. A jaunt to the shops to buy some gifts. Nothing new in store … ohhh noessss…
- Took the train today because of the race in Madrid. The train was on time and gave us a chance to get there early. Glad it did too, as it our turn to read. We always prepare weeks ahead. So glad it got noticed. Such joy! Remembering to stop and talk to so many people. So glad I have people in place to handle my tasks next week. Also glad that there is so much happening at church each Sunday. OLM is such a delight. So many compliments and so much gratitude. Your hair looks great. You look amazing. Thank you for the wonderful time. I love being able to give to my lovely tribe. Coming home to clean up and finding the house spic and span. Am so blessed in my partner.Took the train today because of the race in Madrid. The train was on time and gave us a chance to get there early. Glad it did too, as it our turn to read. We always prepare weeks ahead. So glad it got noticed. Such joy! Remembering to stop and talk to so many people. So glad I have people in place to handle my tasks next week. Also glad that there is so much happening at church each Sunday. OLM is such a delight. So many compliments and so much gratitude. Your hair looks great. You look amazing. Thank you for the wonderful time. I love being able to give to my lovely tribe. Coming home to clean up and finding the house spic and span. Am so blessed in my partner.
- 2 huge bunches of roses and one of Alstroemeria. Love when I have flowers around. A gorgeous book and a lovely bottle of Italian wine. How lucky am I? Playing hostess to 2 priests and 6 friends. So happy to have Alex by my side. I wouldn’t be able to host these events without him and his work. He is kind. A successful party that everyone loved! So happy to be able to have my friends here and have them have a great time.2 huge bunches of roses and one of Alstroemeria. Love when I have flowers around. A gorgeous book and a lovely bottle of Italian wine. How lucky am I? Playing hostess to 2 priests and 6 friends. So happy to have Alex by my side. I wouldn’t be able to host these events without him and his work. He is kind. A successful party that everyone loved! So happy to be able to have my friends here and have them have a great time.
- What does Lucille want? My mentor asked me to get that answer ready by our next conversation. It’s been eating me up. Today while chatting with TH, I surrendered the role of SM to LP. It felt good. Operations is not for me. I’m here to set the world on fire. I’m here to herald a new way of doing things. I’m here to bring change. I’m the catalyst! So what do I really want. I’d love to discover it. Lucille and Lucia and both of us answering to each other’s names. I’ve been feeling too much of the same for a long time. Long hair with curtain bangs is what I chose this time. Love it. Was bowled over when Vanesa told me to come back cause the colour wasn’t as intense as she wanted it to be. You get me girl. It took a few tries, but I’ve found someone who gets my hair. You still are my favourite stylist, Karina! A strange peace settled upon my soul today. Accepting that middle age means I don’t get complimented for being young… but I can be complimented for my presence, power, and energy. Accepting it and opening my eyes and feeling taller. The goddess is back!What does Lucille want? My mentor asked me to get that answer ready by our next conversation. It’s been eating me up. Today while chatting with TH, I surrendered the role of SM to LP. It felt good. Operations is not for me. I’m here to set the world on fire. I’m here to herald a new way of doing things. I’m here to bring change. I’m the catalyst! So what do I really want. I’d love to discover it. Lucille and Lucia and both of us answering to each other’s names. I’ve been feeling too much of the same for a long time. Long hair with curtain bangs is what I chose this time. Love it. Was bowled over when Vanesa told me to come back cause the colour wasn’t as intense as she wanted it to be. You get me girl. It took a few tries, but I’ve found someone who gets my hair. You still are my favourite stylist, Karina! A strange peace settled upon my soul today. Accepting that middle age means I don’t get complimented for being young… but I can be complimented for my presence, power, and energy. Accepting it and opening my eyes and feeling taller. The goddess is back!
- Kindling the hunger to create something new in my colleague. So glad I can share my vision with them. The blue ribbon baking show and the glimpses of fairs made me mellow towards the Americans. Catching up on my blogging. Still need to streamline things, but it looks better than it did yesterday.Kindling the hunger to create something new in my colleague. So glad I can share my vision with them. The blue ribbon baking show and the glimpses of fairs made me mellow towards the Americans. Catching up on my blogging. Still need to streamline things, but it looks better than it did yesterday.
- I love how everything seems to flow. Call me crazy, but I know that we should be doing things differently. Gearing up for a party! I really enjoy having this bunch of people around. I hope to impress. I was the one surprised when the person I went to surprise wasn’t there. Drove my gorgeous orange car too. LOL … So much love and praise and joy at my success. I am so blessed.I love how everything seems to flow. Call me crazy, but I know that we should be doing things differently. Gearing up for a party! I really enjoy having this bunch of people around. I hope to impress. I was the one surprised when the person I went to surprise wasn’t there. Drove my gorgeous orange car too. LOL … So much love and praise and joy at my success. I am so blessed.
- 2017
- Berlin
Capital, I say! July 31 – August 09 2024
This trip has almost happened for several years. Generally it’s around Christmas time…. that’s a tough one.- 31st July 2024
- 1st August 2024
- 2nd August 2024
- 3rd August 2024
- 4th August 2024
- 5th August 2024
- 6th August 2024
- 7th August 2024
- 8th August 2024
- 9th August 2024
- 3 Things
- Balkan
- Berlin
- Bernie's Lessons
- Bright Side Of Life
- Bulgaria
- Cantabria
- Diaries
- Florals
- Galleries
- Iceland
- Lourdes
- Macro
- Morocco
- oddsends
- Portraits
- Projects
- She
- Tanzania
- Thoughts
- Travel
- TravelDay
- Uncategorised
- Wanderer
I kept my packing for the morning. Gor ready in record time to find that I had more than an hour to spare. Such joy!Being given a lift to the airport. Lucky me. I am so blessed. Winning the carousel bet at the airport. Not just that… we got back to the hotel in record time! My […]Meeting a wonderful 91 year old lady. She was so willing to model. Loved it.A walk through the neighbourhood and a history lesson. Olaf is so knowledgeable. Photographing a family.My train karma still holding strong. Offering my seat to a lady and her lovely baby. Her older daughter wanted some attention too. Getting to see […]Unpacking. Finally. Glad I got to stop living out of a suitcase.Off to see the parliament. And old stone facade and a modern marvel within. Loved the dome. Loved the views. Thinking of Adrian Francis and being grateful for all I learned. Realising that I’m finally in a city where history left such a deep […]A beautiful palace and palace grounds.Great photo opportunities, some of them mine. Finding a great travel buddy. Talking with the family. Glad they had a great time. Flowers for an old lady. Watching the German women’s football team win and an old lady keeping score with her pencil and paper. Tech-upgrade. Swipe not press. Glad […]Seeing the dark side of the Berlin. Glad I kept my cool and didn’t engage with the angry, shouty lady. A long walk in the beautiful Charlotten park. Such beautiful flowers, such symmetry. A snide 1 liner from a 91 year old on how the palace existed beause of a man who didn’t want his […]Work. Offloaded from the rest of the days. Time to get some more of Berlin! A possible bonus. Whooo hooo hoo. A very thoughtful gift accompanied with “This had your name on it” Awwwwww.Red as they come. A Picasso jumper and a red dress. What more does one need. Pity the little boys in the train were so awe struck!Doing what is not usually done. Hanging around museum island without really entering a single one. A dinner where the stars were German dishes. So happy to have tasted […]Convincing my team of the way ahead.Travel ban, but we might be able to make it. A rude bastard walk. So glad I made it. Walked for hours though sites I’d already seen, but the extra history and cussing was worth it. Used public transportation all by myself today. Such joy at being independent. Thunderstorm […]Remembering Nana on her birthday right from when the day startedPlan approved. Hope the team is happy. It will be good to see them together. A free trip to the zoo…. we got lucky! So many wonderful, weird animals to watch. Such good company and some interesting conversations that would never have happened otherwise. Getting a non-sports […]
Search for lunch took me to a TKMaxx and some cool stuff. Taking it easy instead of trying to cram more sightseeing into the day. A fabulous new experience of a classical concert in an Olympic stadium. The rain added a whole new dimension. Love how music made the sky clear up. Indira Gandhi…. not […] - 2024
- Decided to finally share my video on Linkedin. Braj found it and shared it to our college group. Their messages of encouragement weren’t what I expected and it has left me so warm and fuzzy inside. So glad I decided to share it. Against my deepest instinct, it has turned out well. Cleaning the house. A much needed deep clean. Delighted that the maid pitched in and was so useful. I should get her something nice. So grateful for my cousin for his kind, generous comments. D as always is being very kind and supportive. I think this is the salve my soul needed. It’s given me energy for a few more battles.Decided to finally share my video on Linkedin. Braj found it and shared it to our college group. Their messages of encouragement weren’t what I expected and it has left me so warm and fuzzy inside. So glad I decided to share it. Against my deepest instinct, it has turned out well. Cleaning the house. A much needed deep clean. Delighted that the maid pitched in and was so useful. I should get her something nice.So grateful for my cousin for his kind, generous comments. D as always is being very kind and supportive. I think this is the salve my soul needed. It’s given me energy for a few more battles.
- Using my new coasters and smiling each time. Almost convinced J of my budget Working out and abstaining. Not a bad first day of following my diet. A poster successfully edited.Using my new coasters and smiling each time.Almost convinced J of my budgetWorking out and abstaining. Not a bad first day of following my diet. A poster successfully edited.
- Gifts … tea and coasters Another gift… a bit poisoned, but I’ll make it work. Genuinely happy about seeing everyone back at church. A long sobremesa with the usual suspects. Took my mind off things for a bit.Gifts … tea and coastersAnother gift… a bit poisoned, but I’ll make it work. Genuinely happy about seeing everyone back at church. A long sobremesa with the usual suspects. Took my mind off things for a bit.
- Successful photoshoot. Much better than the previous one. How it rained!! Loved it. Editing photos and feeling like I nailed it. I think they will be happy with the result.Successful photoshoot. Much better than the previous one.How it rained!! Loved it. Editing photos and feeling like I nailed it. I think they will be happy with the result.
- A mentor turned Evangelist. Was so glad of all the compliments that he generously gave. A good conversation. Witty, fun and joy …. until it wasn’t. Don’t ask men to understand body issues women face. Wearing my new coat and loving it. So glad for thunderstorms 😀A mentor turned Evangelist. Was so glad of all the compliments that he generously gave. A good conversation. Witty, fun and joy …. until it wasn’t. Don’t ask men to understand body issues women face. Wearing my new coat and loving it. So glad for thunderstorms 😀
- Waking up to rain pelting the house like there was no tomorrow. South Europe is not used to this deluge. Glad the temperatures have let up. Coming up with a great idea to keep multiple sites updated. Feeling heard … especially on a day I needed to vent. Glad I have friends. A gorgeous pink sky before the thunderstorms. 2 smart dogs who knew it was going to rain too much and hid just in time. Finding some amazing images I captured years ago. So glad that my new setup let’s me work on so many images.Waking up to rain pelting the house like there was no tomorrow. South Europe is not used to this deluge. Glad the temperatures have let up. Coming up with a great idea to keep multiple sites updated. Feeling heard … especially on a day I needed to vent. Glad I have friends. A gorgeous pink sky before the thunderstorms. 2 smart dogs who knew it was going to rain too much and hid just in time. Finding some amazing images I captured years ago. So glad that my new setup let’s me work on so many images.
- Streamlining a lot of stuff at work. A perfect end to a crazy series. Glad they were able to do it with so much elan. E while it is! My favourite Harry Potter marathon. Such a pleasure. There is always so much to learn.Streamlining a lot of stuff at work. A perfect end to a crazy series. Glad they were able to do it with so much elan. E while it is! My favourite Harry Potter marathon. Such a pleasure. There is always so much to learn.
- Watching the OLM community come together to support M’s family. I am glad to be part of this beautiful, generous community. The fruits of my labour. Finally seeing a data product being created end to end. Such joy. Aloo gobi prep. I need to get quicker. Adding new sections and cleaning up the OLM site. I’m really proud of my work here.Watching the OLM community come together to support M’s family. I am glad to be part of this beautiful, generous community. The fruits of my labour. Finally seeing a data product being created end to end. Such joy. Aloo gobi prep. I need to get quicker. Adding new sections and cleaning up the OLM site. I’m really proud of my work here.
- A project and plan that’s back on track. Hearing about Marlon’s illness and his miraculous response to prayer. We will keep praying for him. Watering hte garden and imagining the one of my dreams. Why don’t I do it? Why don’t I get the fountain of my dreams.A project and plan that’s back on track. Hearing about Marlon’s illness and his miraculous response to prayer. We will keep praying for him. Watering hte garden and imagining the one of my dreams. Why don’t I do it? Why don’t I get the fountain of my dreams.
- Julie’s courage. She helped me get through my pain. I hope I can help her with hers. OLM has the cutest little kids. Big smiles and innocent faces. I’m so proud of my parish. So many compliments on my dress. I was even told that I will be prohibited from entering my favourite bar. Lol Spending more time with D. We really need to get our performance going. Making a new acquaintance. I don’t many Ukranians… especially ones who kiss my hand on meeting me. Old world charm always works on me. The gate is finally working. At the press of a button, the door slides open. I had a little surprise for me. The door opened and a curious little puppy peeked out at me.Julie’s courage. She helped me get through my pain. I hope I can help her with hers. OLM has the cutest little kids. Big smiles and innocent faces. I’m so proud of my parish. So many compliments on my dress. I was even told that I will be prohibited from entering my favourite bar. Lol Spending more time with D. We really need to get our performance going. Making a new acquaintance. I don’t many Ukranians… especially ones who kiss my hand on meeting me. Old world charm always works on me. The gate is finally working. At the press of a button, the door slides open. I had a little surprise for me. The door opened and a curious little puppy peeked out at me.
- A BBQ with the extended family. Playing the role of tech support again. Hope I did well. More gifts than I expected. I am really lucky. Blessed, actually.A BBQ with the extended family. Playing the role of tech support again. Hope I did well. More gifts than I expected. I am really lucky. Blessed, actually.
- Getting our tasklist for our hustles in place. Glad we are making progress. A quiet dinner. Quietish. People still didn’t mind butting in when the spirit moved them. What the soul needed. A little bit of TLC.Getting our tasklist for our hustles in place. Glad we are making progress. A quiet dinner. Quietish. People still didn’t mind butting in when the spirit moved them. What the soul needed. A little bit of TLC.
- Finishing early. Well, as early as I’m supposed to. Taking the dogs for a long, difficult walk. They do give me a workout. Adopting a night time routine to keep me from drinking too much. Time to make it a habit. Understanding my dad better. Transferring to a cheaper domain provider. Not just cents. I think it’s worth it.Finishing early. Well, as early as I’m supposed to. Taking the dogs for a long, difficult walk. They do give me a workout. Adopting a night time routine to keep me from drinking too much. Time to make it a habit. Understanding my dad better.Transferring to a cheaper domain provider. Not just cents. I think it’s worth it.
- A very productive day. Glad I was able to get so many tasks done. On a high after working out. I need to hold on to that feeling. Joining D for a music session and wishing I could join in. Time for me to get those classes. Skipping that second glass of wine and choosing healthier habits to add to my routine. Feeling my skin look amazing again. A good skincare routine really works.A very productive day. Glad I was able to get so many tasks done. On a high after working out. I need to hold on to that feeling. Joining D for a music session and wishing I could join in. Time for me to get those classes. Skipping that second glass of wine and choosing healthier habits to add to my routine. Feeling my skin look amazing again. A good skincare routine really works.
- Taking care of myself. Especially when I couldn’t contribute much. A short break from work. Helped me get better ideas. Choosing an experience over sitting at home and watching TV. The tiger is a dream.Taking care of myself. Especially when I couldn’t contribute much. A short break from work. Helped me get better ideas.Choosing an experience over sitting at home and watching TV. The tiger is a dream.
- Waking up and letting go of chains that have held me back for ages. Listening to my music on the way to work and feeling my lips curve into a smile. I can still enjoy the little things… gotta give myself the chance. A fantastic day with my new devops. So glad it is so easy to share ideas and explain plans to him. Shaking a box of biscuits at the dogs. Works better than a bell. Able to identify cause and effect. The sleep causes the alcoholism.Waking up and letting go of chains that have held me back for ages. Listening to my music on the way to work and feeling my lips curve into a smile. I can still enjoy the little things… gotta give myself the chance. A fantastic day with my new devops. So glad it is so easy to share ideas and explain plans to him. Shaking a box of biscuits at the dogs. Works better than a bell. Able to identify cause and effect. The sleep causes the alcoholism.
- Realising that the previous day was too much for me. I hope I learn a lesson. Watching a movie after a long, long time. A poem and prayer shared by Fr J. So good.
Nothing is more practical than
finding God, than
falling in love
in a quite absolute, final way.
What you are in love with,
what seizes your imagination, will affect everything.
It will decide
what will get you out of bed in the morning,
what you do with your evenings,
how you spend your weekends,
what you read, whom you know,
what breaks your heart,
and what amazes you with joy and gratitude.
Fall in love, stay in love,
and it will decide everything.
—Attributed to Pedro Arrupe, SJ
Realising that the previous day was too much for me. I hope I learn a lesson. Watching a movie after a long, long time. A poem and prayer shared by Fr J. So good.Nothing is more practical than
finding God, than
falling in love
in a quite absolute, final way.
What you are in love with,
what seizes your imagination, will affect everything.
It will decide
what will get you out of bed in the morning,
what you do with your evenings,
how you spend your weekends,
what you read, whom you know,
what breaks your heart,
and what amazes you with joy and gratitude.
Fall in love, stay in love,
and it will decide everything.
—Attributed to Pedro Arrupe, SJ
- Cleaning the patio. Love watching that muck come off. It feels good for the soul. Uprooting and replanting. Love how the garden looks. A conversation that I didn’t want, but needed. My soul needed to face the fact that I am unhappy. With truth comes hope. With truth comes the chance of making a change.Cleaning the patio. Love watching that muck come off. It feels good for the soul. Uprooting and replanting. Love how the garden looks. A conversation that I didn’t want, but needed. My soul needed to face the fact that I am unhappy. With truth comes hope. With truth comes the chance of making a change.
- Finishing so much work because so many people are off. Some of my best days. Catching up with my architect and realising we are on the same path. A side hustle needs to be worked on. Taking little baby steps in that direction.Finishing so much work because so many people are off. Some of my best days. Catching up with my architect and realising we are on the same path. A side hustle needs to be worked on. Taking little baby steps in that direction.
- Father’s surprise at seeing me. His kind comments and sharing my summer with him. He’s a good priest. Jane’s solo in church. The whole place stood still. She is wonderful. I hope she comes back to see how lovely the OLM choir is. Lunch and drinks with D. An invitation that he accepted. It was lovely to hang with him and just relax. Seeing people use photos I took as their profile pictures. Such Joy! My first pie. Was supposed to be upside down, but that didn’t happen. Must admit, I learned a lot about pies and herbs with this one experiment.Father’s surprise at seeing me. His kind comments and sharing my summer with him. He’s a good priest. Jane’s solo in church. The whole place stood still. She is wonderful. I hope she comes back to see how lovely the OLM choir is. Lunch and drinks with D. An invitation that he accepted. It was lovely to hang with him and just relax. Seeing people use photos I took as their profile pictures. Such Joy!My first pie. Was supposed to be upside down, but that didn’t happen. Must admit, I learned a lot about pies and herbs with this one experiment.
- Talking about data. Not the easiest conversation, but I think we made an evangelist of her. An anniversary of not losing a mate. So grateful for the few people in my inner circle. Going to the music session to surprise D. Mission accomplished. I hope he learns that he can take the mask off. He is loved. Encouraging someone to attend mass tomorrow. I really hope they make it tomorrow. A free drink in exchange of cumberland sausages. It’s a promise.Talking about data. Not the easiest conversation, but I think we made an evangelist of her. An anniversary of not losing a mate. So grateful for the few people in my inner circle. Going to the music session to surprise D. Mission accomplished. I hope he learns that he can take the mask off. He is loved. Encouraging someone to attend mass tomorrow. I really hope they make it tomorrow. A free drink in exchange of cumberland sausages. It’s a promise.
- A successful day at work. Finally feeling that we have things under control and are working in the right direction. Was so happy that I even Ok’d my video. A break from the hot, hot, hot temperatures that have been haunting us. A short nap that revived my spirits like nothing else.A successful day at work. Finally feeling that we have things under control and are working in the right direction. Was so happy that I even Ok’d my video.A break from the hot, hot, hot temperatures that have been haunting us. A short nap that revived my spirits like nothing else.
- A successful work day. Loads of plans made. Making plans and finding the urge to improve my financial skills. Watering the garden as the temperatures dropped. Delivering photos that I forgot to send in before. https://skyeproductions.pixieset.com/ruthyalejandro/A successful work day. Loads of plans made. Making plans and finding the urge to improve my financial skills.Watering the garden as the temperatures dropped.Delivering photos that I forgot to send in before. https://skyeproductions.pixieset.com/ruthyalejandro/
- Getting all my ducks in a row. Picture wise. A long luxurious shower and a chance to use products that my body craved for. Scavenger hunt photos done. A perfect burrata salad.Getting all my ducks in a row. Picture wise. A long luxurious shower and a chance to use products that my body craved for. Scavenger hunt photos done. A perfect burrata salad.
- Eventless journey. Long but God watched over it. A whelp of joy from a child on the plane. I was surprised I smiled. But who wouldn’t. Happy puppy hugs. Absolute best therapy!Eventless journey. Long but God watched over it. A whelp of joy from a child on the plane. I was surprised I smiled. But who wouldn’t.Happy puppy hugs. Absolute best therapy!
- Search for lunch took me to a TKMaxx and some cool stuff. Taking it easy instead of trying to cram more sightseeing into the day. A fabulous new experience of a classical concert in an Olympic stadium. The rain added a whole new dimension. Love how music made the sky clear up. Indira Gandhi…. not the perfect pick up line, but points for knowing Finding a lovely little restaurant that served great Halloumi and Falafel.Search for lunch took me to a TKMaxx and some cool stuff. Taking it easy instead of trying to cram more sightseeing into the day. A fabulous new experience of a classical concert in an Olympic stadium. The rain added a whole new dimension. Love how music made the sky clear up. Indira Gandhi…. not the perfect pick up line, but points for knowingFinding a lovely little restaurant that served great Halloumi and Falafel.
- Remembering Nana on her birthday right from when the day started Plan approved. Hope the team is happy. It will be good to see them together. A free trip to the zoo…. we got lucky! So many wonderful, weird animals to watch. Such good company and some interesting conversations that would never have happened otherwise. Getting a non-sports person interested in the game. The Olympics can have that effect.Remembering Nana on her birthday right from when the day startedPlan approved. Hope the team is happy. It will be good to see them together. A free trip to the zoo…. we got lucky! So many wonderful, weird animals to watch. Such good company and some interesting conversations that would never have happened otherwise. Getting a non-sports person interested in the game. The Olympics can have that effect.
- Convincing my team of the way ahead. Travel ban, but we might be able to make it. A rude bastard walk. So glad I made it. Walked for hours though sites I’d already seen, but the extra history and cussing was worth it. Used public transportation all by myself today. Such joy at being independent. Thunderstorm and lightning. Very, very frightening and also disorienting. A thunderstorm that disoriented me right as I left the metro… but Google and good sense got me back to safety. Delighted at the response to my photo theme. It’s fun to let people get creative.Convincing my team of the way ahead.Travel ban, but we might be able to make it. A rude bastard walk. So glad I made it. Walked for hours though sites I’d already seen, but the extra history and cussing was worth it. Used public transportation all by myself today. Such joy at being independent. Thunderstorm and lightning. Very, very frightening and also disorienting. A thunderstorm that disoriented me right as I left the metro… but Google and good sense got me back to safety. Delighted at the response to my photo theme. It’s fun to let people get creative.
- Red as they come. A Picasso jumper and a red dress. What more does one need. Pity the little boys in the train were so awe struck! Doing what is not usually done. Hanging around museum island without really entering a single one. A dinner where the stars were German dishes. So happy to have tasted such good food. A long conversation with a young man. I hope he works things out.Red as they come. A Picasso jumper and a red dress. What more does one need. Pity the little boys in the train were so awe struck!Doing what is not usually done. Hanging around museum island without really entering a single one. A dinner where the stars were German dishes. So happy to have tasted such good food. A long conversation with a young man. I hope he works things out.
- Work. Offloaded from the rest of the days. Time to get some more of Berlin! A possible bonus. Whooo hooo hoo. A very thoughtful gift accompanied with “This had your name on it” Awwwwww.Work. Offloaded from the rest of the days. Time to get some more of Berlin! A possible bonus. Whooo hooo hoo. A very thoughtful gift accompanied with “This had your name on it” Awwwwww.
- Seeing the dark side of the Berlin. Glad I kept my cool and didn’t engage with the angry, shouty lady. A long walk in the beautiful Charlotten park. Such beautiful flowers, such symmetry. A snide 1 liner from a 91 year old on how the palace existed beause of a man who didn’t want his wife around. I get that feeling. Watching the Olympics and loving it. A signature dish made for me. So delighted to be shown so much love and acceptance. Cocktails and therapy. A rather confused waiter coming over to tell us that our drinks will be paid by another patron. No thank you.Seeing the dark side of the Berlin. Glad I kept my cool and didn’t engage with the angry, shouty lady. A long walk in the beautiful Charlotten park. Such beautiful flowers, such symmetry. A snide 1 liner from a 91 year old on how the palace existed beause of a man who didn’t want his wife around. I get that feeling. Watching the Olympics and loving it. A signature dish made for me. So delighted to be shown so much love and acceptance. Cocktails and therapy. A rather confused waiter coming over to tell us that our drinks will be paid by another patron. No thank you.
- A beautiful palace and palace grounds. Great photo opportunities, some of them mine. Finding a great travel buddy. Talking with the family. Glad they had a great time. Flowers for an old lady. Watching the German women’s football team win and an old lady keeping score with her pencil and paper. Tech-upgrade. Swipe not press. Glad a 91 year old used it intuitively. Made the next generation catch up.A beautiful palace and palace grounds.Great photo opportunities, some of them mine. Finding a great travel buddy. Talking with the family. Glad they had a great time. Flowers for an old lady. Watching the German women’s football team win and an old lady keeping score with her pencil and paper. Tech-upgrade. Swipe not press. Glad a 91 year old used it intuitively. Made the next generation catch up.
- Unpacking. Finally. Glad I got to stop living out of a suitcase. Off to see the parliament. And old stone facade and a modern marvel within. Loved the dome. Loved the views. Thinking of Adrian Francis and being grateful for all I learned. Realising that I’m finally in a city where history left such a deep gash. The wall, the energy, the memorials. Glad they haven’t forgotten. A sundae after a long time. Need to shed those kilos quickly though. A wonderful basketball match to end the day. Didn’t know I would get so involved. The Olympics really have me hooked.Unpacking. Finally. Glad I got to stop living out of a suitcase.Off to see the parliament. And old stone facade and a modern marvel within. Loved the dome. Loved the views. Thinking of Adrian Francis and being grateful for all I learned. Realising that I’m finally in a city where history left such a deep gash. The wall, the energy, the memorials. Glad they haven’t forgotten. A sundae after a long time. Need to shed those kilos quickly though. A wonderful basketball match to end the day. Didn’t know I would get so involved. The Olympics really have me hooked.
- Meeting a wonderful 91 year old lady. She was so willing to model. Loved it. A walk through the neighbourhood and a history lesson. Olaf is so knowledgeable. Photographing a family. My train karma still holding strong. Offering my seat to a lady and her lovely baby. Her older daughter wanted some attention too. Getting to see Trevor Noah live… what an experience. It was supposed to start at 20:00. At 20:20 tons of Berliners were still queued out of the Uber Arena for Trevor’s show. We were taking in the views when two guards came out and the lady went.. Oh Scheisse!!! I couldn’t stop laughing and she couldn’t have been more embarrassed. Watching E play with the fountains outside the arena. She was just a happy child. Such a pleasure to see my friends embrace their inner child while they are with me. 2 for 1 cocktails at 00:00 hours. Life is good to us. Celebrating E’s b’day from start to finish 🙂Meeting a wonderful 91 year old lady. She was so willing to model. Loved it.A walk through the neighbourhood and a history lesson. Olaf is so knowledgeable. Photographing a family.My train karma still holding strong. Offering my seat to a lady and her lovely baby. Her older daughter wanted some attention too. Getting to see Trevor Noah live… what an experience. It was supposed to start at 20:00. At 20:20 tons of Berliners were still queued out of the Uber Arena for Trevor’s show. We were taking in the views when two guards came out and the lady went.. Oh Scheisse!!! I couldn’t stop laughing and she couldn’t have been more embarrassed. Watching E play with the fountains outside the arena. She was just a happy child. Such a pleasure to see my friends embrace their inner child while they are with me. 2 for 1 cocktails at 00:00 hours. Life is good to us. Celebrating E’s b’day from start to finish 🙂
- I kept my packing for the morning. Gor ready in record time to find that I had more than an hour to spare. Such joy! Being given a lift to the airport. Lucky me. I am so blessed. Winning the carousel bet at the airport. Not just that… we got back to the hotel in record time! My first taste of Berlin with a very excited hostess. So glad I got a chance to wish her at 12:00 midnight.I kept my packing for the morning. Gor ready in record time to find that I had more than an hour to spare. Such joy!Being given a lift to the airport. Lucky me. I am so blessed. Winning the carousel bet at the airport. Not just that… we got back to the hotel in record time! My first taste of Berlin with a very excited hostess. So glad I got a chance to wish her at 12:00 midnight.
- Not having to do it again. So glad to have someone who gets the concepts. Blueprint material. That is the best compliment an Architect can hope for. That is the compliment I received from IT. So chuffed! Shortbread surprise. A box of shortbread that was shared and much appreciated.Not having to do it again. So glad to have someone who gets the concepts. Blueprint material. That is the best compliment an Architect can hope for. That is the compliment I received from IT. So chuffed! Shortbread surprise. A box of shortbread that was shared and much appreciated.
- Control of the day and the situation. Didn’t take me long to get back into the seat. Yoga after ages. Love how it makes my body feel. No drink. Yes. that’s a choice. May there be many more such days. D edited the video of our family. It turned out amazing….. I dare you to say different.Control of the day and the situation. Didn’t take me long to get back into the seat. Yoga after ages. Love how it makes my body feel. No drink. Yes. that’s a choice. May there be many more such days. D edited the video of our family. It turned out amazing….. I dare you to say different.
- A sober lunch with an unexpected guest. A drunk evening. So much for celebrating being back in Spain. A friend who survived a scary accident. So blessed that we still have him despite his car being totalled.A sober lunch with an unexpected guest. A drunk evening. So much for celebrating being back in Spain. A friend who survived a scary accident. So blessed that we still have him despite his car being totalled.
- A Guinness at 4:00. An uneventful flight. A broken car windshield. A nap. And then, Noche en blanco. Watching a soul heal while he sang Danny Boy. Grief is love in disguise. Good cheer. Decent company. Oscar got a free drink even after calling us the bar-closers. All is good with the world.A Guinness at 4:00. An uneventful flight. A broken car windshield. A nap. And then, Noche en blanco.Watching a soul heal while he sang Danny Boy. Grief is love in disguise.Good cheer. Decent company. Oscar got a free drink even after calling us the bar-closers. All is good with the world.
- A gift to say thank you very much. Much appreciated I might add. She posted all about it and told everyone how appreciated she felt. So glad I indulged. Ice cream before a goodybye. The guy was so tickled, he took lesser from us. Stopping at the Tiger Workshop. Such a pity that it was after hours. Those guys would have been thrilled to know that one of the six has found a loving home. A half moon that looked like it was a coin peeking out of a pocket. So gorgeous. A long, difficult drive back to the north. Must admit… it’s a beautiful drive!A gift to say thank you very much. Much appreciated I might add. She posted all about it and told everyone how appreciated she felt. So glad I indulged. Ice cream before a goodybye. The guy was so tickled, he took lesser from us. Stopping at the Tiger Workshop. Such a pity that it was after hours. Those guys would have been thrilled to know that one of the six has found a loving home. A half moon that looked like it was a coin peeking out of a pocket. So gorgeous. A long, difficult drive back to the north. Must admit… it’s a beautiful drive!
- Shopping for a photoshoot that we had been planning for a long time. A photoshoot to commemorate one we did 10 years ago. Missed mum so much. A friend who sat across three of us and said that we were totally different. It’s amazing how one family could branch out in so many ways! 3 girls… 3 styles … Bored kids who kept slipping away and jumping on the tarp.Shopping for a photoshoot that we had been planning for a long time.A photoshoot to commemorate one we did 10 years ago. Missed mum so much. A friend who sat across three of us and said that we were totally different. It’s amazing how one family could branch out in so many ways! 3 girls… 3 styles …Bored kids who kept slipping away and jumping on the tarp.
- “I want Bajan” responded to with “I want wine, too”. I’ll never get why we are ashamed to say that we will enjoy a glass. Choosing to stay back and take care of ourselves instead of tiring ourselves out again. Night at the museum marathon. So amazed that not everyone had seen the movie. It was fun sharing it with the family.“I want Bajan” responded to with “I want wine, too”. I’ll never get why we are ashamed to say that we will enjoy a glass. Choosing to stay back and take care of ourselves instead of tiring ourselves out again.Night at the museum marathon. So amazed that not everyone had seen the movie. It was fun sharing it with the family.
- Scavenger hunt. An Alice in Wonderland themed scavenger hunt through London! It started in a pub and took us through parts of London even the locals did not know. I must admit, the clues were world class! Such a fun activity! While on the hunt, we paused for a very long time. The walk took the wind out of some. While sitting on a pub-boat, looking out at the water, I realised what solace could be found in this bustling city. So glad I got to share that lovely moment with Dad. Finding the cat and exploring so much of London while doing it! What a fantastic experience this has been! Can’t wait to do the Sherlock Holmes hunt.Scavenger hunt. An Alice in Wonderland themed scavenger hunt through London! It started in a pub and took us through parts of London even the locals did not know. I must admit, the clues were world class! Such a fun activity! While on the hunt, we paused for a very long time. The walk took the wind out of some. While sitting on a pub-boat, looking out at the water, I realised what solace could be found in this bustling city. So glad I got to share that lovely moment with Dad.Finding the cat and exploring so much of London while doing it! What a fantastic experience this has been! Can’t wait to do the Sherlock Holmes hunt.
- Compliments on my dressing. Love that it’s something I learned and own. A and A leading the way. The walk was longer than expected. Such a good evening. Laughing, dancing and eating with the family. So glad that A & A were there and met the whole family.Compliments on my dressing. Love that it’s something I learned and own. A and A leading the way. The walk was longer than expected.Such a good evening. Laughing, dancing and eating with the family. So glad that A & A were there and met the whole family.
- Sunday mass. Felt good to have the whole family around. Meeting M and V. So glad I finally met them. Never knew we’d click so well. Cheeky comments at a surprise party that turned out fantastic. The mafia video I always wanted to take. It turned out well enough.
Mafia Fam
Sunday mass. Felt good to have the whole family around. Meeting M and V. So glad I finally met them. Never knew we’d click so well. Cheeky comments at a surprise party that turned out fantastic. The mafia video I always wanted to take. It turned out well enough.Mafia Fam
- A long drive from north to south. Some interesting food along the way… Scots love to fry things… Green and blue all the way from Scotland to Edinbrugh. Beautiful little kids with blond curls and blue eyes. Dad’s joy at spying us from the window. Seeing the kids all grown and beautiful.A long drive from north to south. Some interesting food along the way… Scots love to fry things… Green and blue all the way from Scotland to Edinbrugh. Beautiful little kids with blond curls and blue eyes. Dad’s joy at spying us from the window. Seeing the kids all grown and beautiful.
- Struck by Crowdstrike, but delayed by just an hour. It was hilarious to see all the blue screens. An uneventful flight to a beautiful country. Even the border guards are much more polite. Gorgeous mansion that reminded me of an Agatha Christies book. It used to be a place where Shetland ponies were raised. It later turned into a house for women and in the 70s it became a hotel. A room that’s worth having. So much pretty going on.Struck by Crowdstrike, but delayed by just an hour. It was hilarious to see all the blue screens. An uneventful flight to a beautiful country. Even the border guards are much more polite.Gorgeous mansion that reminded me of an Agatha Christies book. It used to be a place where Shetland ponies were raised. It later turned into a house for women and in the 70s it became a hotel. A room that’s worth having. So much pretty going on.
- Closing on a high. Colouring my hair again. I miss my old hairstylist. She was willing to experiment. Packing perfectly and just enough too.Closing on a high.Colouring my hair again. I miss my old hairstylist. She was willing to experiment. Packing perfectly and just enough too.
- Another day of the workshop. Tempers flaring, but work getting done too. The joy of using my convertible. Love the mountain roads.Another day of the workshop. Tempers flaring, but work getting done too. The joy of using my convertible. Love the mountain roads.
- Workshop time. A funny sign that got everyone shooting it. Sharing corporate stories with the team. Staying at Elke’s. Shuo was kind, and funny.Workshop time.A funny sign that got everyone shooting it. Sharing corporate stories with the team. Staying at Elke’s. Shuo was kind, and funny.
- Wearing my scarf differently. Loving it. Wimbledon and ND sent packing by Alcaraz. Glad I got a VPN on the right day. It came home… to Spain. Such joy.Wearing my scarf differently. Loving it.Wimbledon and ND sent packing by Alcaraz. Glad I got a VPN on the right day.It came home… to Spain. Such joy.
- A surprise call that made me smile. An amazon article that made me happy. Time to test-drive it. Garden plans. While watering the yard. I came up with some cool new ideas.A surprise call that made me smile. An amazon article that made me happy. Time to test-drive it. Garden plans. While watering the yard. I came up with some cool new ideas.
- One of the best medical experiences I’ve had in forever. An invitation to Germany… but I had to pass. A long, energising chat with my bestie. We are so good for each other. A simple question “I’ve bought something that will make you happy” and the lists it generated.One of the best medical experiences I’ve had in forever. An invitation to Germany… but I had to pass. A long, energising chat with my bestie. We are so good for each other. A simple question “I’ve bought something that will make you happy” and the lists it generated.
- A better presentation than I expected considering I was only given last minute notice. Chores that kept me on my feet. Happy little dogs that responded to my every beck and call. A church performance to remember. Such a wonderful idea. Hope E can pull it off for her son’s wedding!A better presentation than I expected considering I was only given last minute notice. Chores that kept me on my feet. Happy little dogs that responded to my every beck and call. A church performance to remember. Such a wonderful idea. Hope E can pull it off for her son’s wedding!
- Talking things through and changing our way of working. Hope it helps us get results. “I hope you dance” has always been one of my favourites. I was invited to a party today, but I hadn’t the energy to do so. I finally got ready and got out and I’m happy I did. It was a lovely evening at J’s place. Only marred by the win of the English team. All the way to Madrid the only song playing in my head was !I hope you dance!” Glad I lived my motto. Glad to spend time with my tribe.Talking things through and changing our way of working. Hope it helps us get results.“I hope you dance” has always been one of my favourites. I was invited to a party today, but I hadn’t the energy to do so. I finally got ready and got out and I’m happy I did. It was a lovely evening at J’s place. Only marred by the win of the English team. All the way to Madrid the only song playing in my head was !I hope you dance!” Glad I lived my motto.Glad to spend time with my tribe.
- Listening to my body and taking time off. Peace glorious peace. A win. A win that made me happy. May we win even more. A birthday wish that turned out to be a long, long call.Listening to my body and taking time off. Peace glorious peace.A win. A win that made me happy. May we win even more.A birthday wish that turned out to be a long, long call.
- A long walk in the not so un-hot sun. Restarting the A2Z photography group. Realising I have some gorgeous photos.A long walk in the not so un-hot sun. Restarting the A2Z photography group. Realising I have some gorgeous photos.
- Familiar faces at mass A pre-boda photoshoot. Pity the sun was not a friend to us. A wedding invitation. Plans are afoot.Familiar faces at mass A pre-boda photoshoot. Pity the sun was not a friend to us. A wedding invitation. Plans are afoot.
- Driving a porsche. Decided not to buy it… but I’m glad I got the feel of that engine. Terrace Party at Jalex. Always so much fun. Sunset to die for. So glad that my friends have such a wonderful view. Great music and being cheeky enough to sing … off key too.Driving a porsche. Decided not to buy it… but I’m glad I got the feel of that engine. Terrace Party at Jalex. Always so much fun. Sunset to die for. So glad that my friends have such a wonderful view. Great music and being cheeky enough to sing … off key too.
- Office to meet the big boss face to face. Also a day I had to present what we were doing. So glad both went very well. Looking gorgeous in pink. Love my new Goby heels. Hair like a piece of art. That’s what a colleague described me as. A colleague who could become a friend. So glad to finally find an English speaker at work.Office to meet the big boss face to face. Also a day I had to present what we were doing. So glad both went very well. Looking gorgeous in pink. Love my new Goby heels. Hair like a piece of art. That’s what a colleague described me as. A colleague who could become a friend. So glad to finally find an English speaker at work.
- Vision, strategy and implementation. Getting it all under control. The awe of my not so easily impressed developer. I think we found the right person. A lovely walk with my bestie. The pub owner calling out for us to stop when we didn’t show any sign of slowing down.Vision, strategy and implementation. Getting it all under control. The awe of my not so easily impressed developer. I think we found the right person. A lovely walk with my bestie. The pub owner calling out for us to stop when we didn’t show any sign of slowing down.
- Scouting for places to shoot in and accompanied by the best of people. I really do enjoy time with D.Scouting for places to shoot in and accompanied by the best of people. I really do enjoy time with D.
- A mass to remember. Gospel. White clapping. Abide with me. Tears. Oh Happy day! Selling calorie free doughnuts. At least that’s what I call the doughnuts we sell at mass. A dragon glove that I have obsessed over. So glad to have it gifted to me for my birthday. A Mac that works like new. Irish breakfast and Guinness. What more can the world ask for. Stories of a waitress. Wow. Live and learn. Being likened to Angelina Jolie… that doesn’t happen often enough.A mass to remember. Gospel. White clapping. Abide with me. Tears. Oh Happy day! Selling calorie free doughnuts. At least that’s what I call the doughnuts we sell at mass. A dragon glove that I have obsessed over. So glad to have it gifted to me for my birthday. A Mac that works like new. Irish breakfast and Guinness. What more can the world ask for. Stories of a waitress. Wow. Live and learn. Being likened to Angelina Jolie… that doesn’t happen often enough.
- Me-time. Finally. So good to not be on the clock for a day. So good to be in a quiet place. Ideas for a photoshoot Rain and happy flowers. This is such a strange summer. Peeper-fry. Not exactly, but not as bad. Finding music that I enjoy. Looking for things I might like doing.Me-time. Finally. So good to not be on the clock for a day. So good to be in a quiet place. Ideas for a photoshoot Rain and happy flowers. This is such a strange summer. Peeper-fry. Not exactly, but not as bad. Finding music that I enjoy. Looking for things I might like doing.
- A green for the virtualiser. A pioneer of the Architects council. A budget that could work without extra work. Catching up on diagrams and documentation. So glad I know what it is we are focussing on selling next year. Makes life less complicated. I was so afraid of receiving a mail from Apple telling me that I need to pay. When I saw a mail from them, for a second, my heart stopped beating, but it was just a confirmation for the pickup of the device. It was fixed under warranty. Oh Happy Day! So happy to be out. I have a lovely garden, but being out makes me take notice of everything. There is such beauty around us. Sitting around and chatting. Glad I have someone to discuss stuff with. Glad I can give them homemade chicken tikka masala. Auri’s gorgeous hair. Love it!A green for the virtualiser. A pioneer of the Architects council. A budget that could work without extra work. Catching up on diagrams and documentation. So glad I know what it is we are focussing on selling next year. Makes life less complicated. I was so afraid of receiving a mail from Apple telling me that I need to pay. When I saw a mail from them, for a second, my heart stopped beating, but it was just a confirmation for the pickup of the device. It was fixed under warranty. Oh Happy Day! So happy to be out. I have a lovely garden, but being out makes me take notice of everything. There is such beauty around us. Sitting around and chatting. Glad I have someone to discuss stuff with. Glad I can give them homemade chicken tikka masala.Auri’s gorgeous hair. Love it!
- Surprise, surprise… you need to present. Last day of another colleague, so his job became mine. A deck that made no head nor tail. But challenge accepted.Surprise, surprise… you need to present. Last day of another colleague, so his job became mine.A deck that made no head nor tail. But challenge accepted.
- Rainsisters deliver everything they promised. Can’t wait to wear my beautiful raincoat. Shooting flowers after a thunderstorm. Water just adds to their beauty. Georgia making no 7 cry. There are some teams I can’t like. Mostly because of the arrogant individuals they choose to represent them.Rainsisters deliver everything they promised. Can’t wait to wear my beautiful raincoat. Shooting flowers after a thunderstorm. Water just adds to their beauty.Georgia making no 7 cry. There are some teams I can’t like. Mostly because of the arrogant individuals they choose to represent them.
- Warranty. Giving it in and praying that it would be covered under warranty. The cost was humungous. And it being brand new too. Redoing it. Gift of presence gifted with crimson hued skies. Went to meet D to console him. Met with a sky that was worth a picture. Tired but still bitchy. That’s when you know your true esssence.Warranty. Giving it in and praying that it would be covered under warranty. The cost was humungous. And it being brand new too. Redoing it. Gift of presence gifted with crimson hued skies. Went to meet D to console him. Met with a sky that was worth a picture. Tired but still bitchy. That’s when you know your true esssence.
- Don’t normally like my pics. Loved these. Dad staying up to help me with documents. So blessed. A poem that reminded me of mum.Don’t normally like my pics. Loved these. Dad staying up to help me with documents. So blessed. A poem that reminded me of mum.
- Mass like it should be. Lost another pair of shoes. Getting the energy going in my photography group. Learning about Indian sites and VPNs. Sheesh. Asking for help. A screen that no longer worked.Mass like it should be.Lost another pair of shoes. Getting the energy going in my photography group. Learning about Indian sites and VPNs. Sheesh. Asking for help. A screen that no longer worked.
- Dressing gorgeous. Looking it too. 3 little birds. Birthday gifts. A setup that took my breath away. So many people who remembered me. Feels good to be exotic. Getting the party started and having a partner to do it with. Didn’t think a lady I can barely communicate with will be such fun.Dressing gorgeous. Looking it too. 3 little birds.Birthday gifts. A setup that took my breath away. So many people who remembered me. Feels good to be exotic. Getting the party started and having a partner to do it with.Didn’t think a lady I can barely communicate with will be such fun.
- Kicking arse at Star Wars deck building. Talking more Spanish than I did in a long time.Kicking arse at Star Wars deck building.Talking more Spanish than I did in a long time.
- Second day of the workshop and we have been so successful in defining and creating our products. Being there for a friend while he assimilated a great loss. Wish I could have spent more time. A win for Spain in one of the best matches so far. Each team gave it their all. Football and acting!Second day of the workshop and we have been so successful in defining and creating our products. Being there for a friend while he assimilated a great loss. Wish I could have spent more time. A win for Spain in one of the best matches so far. Each team gave it their all. Football and acting!
- Father smiling out a “you’ve been naughty” accusation. Catching up with the helpers of OLM and being able to help out a bit too. D made it to mass… was so happy to see him again. Seeing a family I haven’t seen in a long time. A warm, genuine hug. A little old lady complimenting me only to be called my role model … loved her style. The story of Aunt Rose… and the surprising “sobrino”. Encouraging the ministries to talk to each other. A birthday present. I almost forgot that I just had mine. Talking to dad and knowing that his cataract surgery went well. A genuine I love you 😀 Stephen West books. They are a joy to own. Working on my ikigai.Father smiling out a “you’ve been naughty” accusation. Catching up with the helpers of OLM and being able to help out a bit too. D made it to mass… was so happy to see him again. Seeing a family I haven’t seen in a long time. A warm, genuine hug. A little old lady complimenting me only to be called my role model … loved her style. The story of Aunt Rose… and the surprising “sobrino”. Encouraging the ministries to talk to each other. A birthday present. I almost forgot that I just had mine. Talking to dad and knowing that his cataract surgery went well. A genuine I love you 😀 Stephen West books. They are a joy to own. Working on my ikigai.
- Feeling gorgeous for a lunch at Chimenea. High heels have that effect on me. Not giving up on my friends. Making it to Madrid and not having to pay for parking. Small talk while helping I with suspenders. That has become a joke for the book. “How was Croatia” Helping with makeup…. we did a good job of it. Strutting down the streets of Madrid and the reactions… from horror to applause. A strange experience that has left me confused… Rocky Horror …. Door to door in a 5+ service … Thanks Jalex. A long catch up with E. We haven’t talked in years. It felt good catching up on all the action.Feeling gorgeous for a lunch at Chimenea. High heels have that effect on me. Not giving up on my friends. Making it to Madrid and not having to pay for parking. Small talk while helping I with suspenders. That has become a joke for the book. “How was Croatia” Helping with makeup…. we did a good job of it. Strutting down the streets of Madrid and the reactions… from horror to applause. A strange experience that has left me confused… Rocky Horror …. Door to door in a 5+ service … Thanks Jalex. A long catch up with E. We haven’t talked in years. It felt good catching up on all the action.
- 2017
Balkan Adventure
Exploring a third of the Balkans May 31 – June 14 2024
Verdant landscapes and turquoise water. This part of the world surprised me. It screamed resilience. It screamed freedom. It screamed identity. Croatia-Montenegro-Bosnia & Herzgovina-Slovenia. Chequered flags, chequered histories. More culture than one can shake a stick at! The green, unsullied surrounding surprised me … that’s what happens when there aren’t many humans around. May it always remain so. May nature survive and blossom! I wish it remained as unsullied on all fronts. Tourism from our richer northern cousins ensured that prices are way too high. They know the tourists will come, so they didn’t really care…. at least not truly… and hey not all brown people are trying to immigrate. Calm down. If ever you visit remember that the rocky beaches call for water shoes. And don’t skint on that sunscreen. Too many cars, too few spots. And we only visited in June. Most of these places are cash only. Especially Montenegro and B&H. Most places close really early and you won’t find them going the extra mile. One day we were in a room that was 190 sq mts. The next day we are in a Sovietesque hotel which didn’t have soap or even a holder for toilet paper. Something like life. One day you have it all, the next you are left bereft. But that doesn’t change who you are. There still is much to love. Much to gawk at. Much to learn. I know I’ll be going back there…- 31st May 2024
- 1st June 2024
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An almost lackadaisical attempt to get ready and leave. Love days when I don’t need to rush off. My watch better be telling me that I ain’t stressed at all. Flying into Zagreb, we broke through clouds to the greenest green. And in the distance, sun through the clouds made the whole landscape seem so magical. […]
Finding my bag with my id and cards… right where I left it. On the chair in the restaurant. Losing my documents wouldn’t have been the best way to start my holiday. So glad I didn’t have to go through that. While waiting for the restaurant to open we had time for a drive through […]
Beautiful landscape. That’s an understatement. Plovdik lakes are a sight for sore eyes. there is so much beauty in this part of the world. Pristine landscapes and turquoise water. Even the air tasted different. Loved walking around exploring the lovely scenery. Pity it started raining, but that was magical in a different way.Becoming the photographer […]
Stopped by the cops on an alternate route. A long stop. because the roads are used by immigrants.Mountain roads during a thunderstorm. Gorgeous mountain views.Black risotto…. better than the Spanish counterpart.Chatty tour guide at Zadar. Ice for ice cream and cocktails of course.Lovely local dishes. Fisherman’s stew and truffle pizza. The food here is spectacular. A drink, […]- 2024
- Stopped by the cops on an alternate route. A long stop. because the roads are used by immigrants. Mountain roads during a thunderstorm. Gorgeous mountain views. Black risotto…. better than the Spanish counterpart. Chatty tour guide at Zadar. Ice for ice cream and cocktails of course. Lovely local dishes. Fisherman’s stew and truffle pizza. The food here is spectacular. A drink, because of the name… deja brew. Sunset at the pier. A night walk to take in the sea-organ and sun-salutation. Worth all our time!Stopped by the cops on an alternate route. A long stop. because the roads are used by immigrants.Mountain roads during a thunderstorm. Gorgeous mountain views.Black risotto…. better than the Spanish counterpart.Chatty tour guide at Zadar. Ice for ice cream and cocktails of course.Lovely local dishes. Fisherman’s stew and truffle pizza. The food here is spectacular. A drink, because of the name… deja brew.Sunset at the pier. A night walk to take in the sea-organ and sun-salutation. Worth all our time!
- Beautiful landscape. That’s an understatement. Plovdik lakes are a sight for sore eyes. there is so much beauty in this part of the world. Pristine landscapes and turquoise water. Even the air tasted different. Loved walking around exploring the lovely scenery. Pity it started raining, but that was magical in a different way. Becoming the photographer for Fatima and friend in the green dress. So glad they liked the pics, they kept calling me back to take more. Undertanding the Croats, but disliking them a bit. They sure do come across as rude. Dinner. Mine was better and the girl was amazing. She even made the cheesecake! Realising that what I want to do is wander through beautiful places and take pictures, hopefully amazing ones.Beautiful landscape. That’s an understatement. Plovdik lakes are a sight for sore eyes. there is so much beauty in this part of the world. Pristine landscapes and turquoise water. Even the air tasted different. Loved walking around exploring the lovely scenery. Pity it started raining, but that was magical in a different way.Becoming the photographer for Fatima and friend in the green dress. So glad they liked the pics, they kept calling me back to take more. Undertanding the Croats, but disliking them a bit. They sure do come across as rude. Dinner. Mine was better and the girl was amazing. She even made the cheesecake!Realising that what I want to do is wander through beautiful places and take pictures, hopefully amazing ones.
- Finding my bag with my id and cards… right where I left it. On the chair in the restaurant. Losing my documents wouldn’t have been the best way to start my holiday. So glad I didn’t have to go through that. While waiting for the restaurant to open we had time for a drive through a crazy mountainous route. The first view of Zagreb was a foggy, wet glimpse of a city surrounded by green. Can’t wait to get more. A chance to explore Zagreb. Tour. Witty, fun, interesting. The cannon and the story of it too… OMG Quite a stretch to believe that a chicken was shot out of it to make the opponents believe that they had more than enough food. They still commemorate that story. It does make for a great tale. Coat. One I fell in love with, returned to find the shop closed. Look out for DORA in Zagreb if ever you are there. Another tour. Dissed the English as is wont. Understood more about Yugoslavia and other political upheavals that are part of this place. Match time. Not a fan of RM, but it was the only Spanish option available.Finding my bag with my id and cards… right where I left it. On the chair in the restaurant. Losing my documents wouldn’t have been the best way to start my holiday. So glad I didn’t have to go through that. While waiting for the restaurant to open we had time for a drive through a crazy mountainous route. The first view of Zagreb was a foggy, wet glimpse of a city surrounded by green. Can’t wait to get more. A chance to explore Zagreb. Tour. Witty, fun, interesting. The cannon and the story of it too… OMG Quite a stretch to believe that a chicken was shot out of it to make the opponents believe that they had more than enough food. They still commemorate that story. It does make for a great tale. Coat. One I fell in love with, returned to find the shop closed. Look out for DORA in Zagreb if ever you are there. Another tour. Dissed the English as is wont. Understood more about Yugoslavia and other political upheavals that are part of this place. Match time. Not a fan of RM, but it was the only Spanish option available.
- An almost lackadaisical attempt to get ready and leave. Love days when I don’t need to rush off. My watch better be telling me that I ain’t stressed at all. Flying into Zagreb, we broke through clouds to the greenest green. And in the distance, sun through the clouds made the whole landscape seem so magical. I have seen many a beautiful view from the sky, but this one is a winner! The thunderstorm that quelled just before we arrived left a beautiful rainbow in the sky. What a welcome. The accent sounded harsh, rude even. It took me a while to realise that they weren’t being rude. Quite the contrary. And then I remembered when I heard it. Ragnarok. Strange how our mother tongue influences every language we learn and maybe even alters the perceptions of others listening to it. Glad I didn’t judge too quickly. Nature is. While knitting on the plane I suddenly realised that we often give nature such weird adjectives. But none of them are really true. Cruel, beautiful, weird…. Nature is all of that and none of that. Nature just is. Gone with the wind. Maybe I’m in love with an idea, with potential, not really a person.An almost lackadaisical attempt to get ready and leave. Love days when I don’t need to rush off. My watch better be telling me that I ain’t stressed at all. Flying into Zagreb, we broke through clouds to the greenest green. And in the distance, sun through the clouds made the whole landscape seem so magical. I have seen many a beautiful view from the sky, but this one is a winner! The thunderstorm that quelled just before we arrived left a beautiful rainbow in the sky. What a welcome.The accent sounded harsh, rude even. It took me a while to realise that they weren’t being rude. Quite the contrary. And then I remembered when I heard it. Ragnarok. Strange how our mother tongue influences every language we learn and maybe even alters the perceptions of others listening to it. Glad I didn’t judge too quickly. Nature is. While knitting on the plane I suddenly realised that we often give nature such weird adjectives. But none of them are really true. Cruel, beautiful, weird…. Nature is all of that and none of that. Nature just is. Gone with the wind. Maybe I’m in love with an idea, with potential, not really a person.
- A quiet last day. Quiet only because it was a holiday elsewhere. Glad I could go into details and delegate everything. The dog-guardian is here. The dogs sense there is something going to happen. But he is good to them. Got my hair done. Mostly violet. Might have to get a few more pinks, but the compliments still came my way. Not happy with one goodbye, I went back for Trivia and helped through the evening. So glad I could spend time with D.A quiet last day. Quiet only because it was a holiday elsewhere. Glad I could go into details and delegate everything. The dog-guardian is here. The dogs sense there is something going to happen. But he is good to them. Got my hair done. Mostly violet. Might have to get a few more pinks, but the compliments still came my way. Not happy with one goodbye, I went back for Trivia and helped through the evening. So glad I could spend time with D.
- Handing over all assignments and making sure everyone is working while I’m out. Glad it was taken in the right spirit. An interesting demo, but they aren’t what we are looking for. A strange comment from a colleague explaining the absence of a key stakeholder. Joining D for a session because I knew how hard it was. Glad we got to crack some PJs. Glad my presence was met with gratitude. Sometimes showing up is all someone else needs.Handing over all assignments and making sure everyone is working while I’m out. Glad it was taken in the right spirit. An interesting demo, but they aren’t what we are looking for. A strange comment from a colleague explaining the absence of a key stakeholder. Joining D for a session because I knew how hard it was. Glad we got to crack some PJs. Glad my presence was met with gratitude. Sometimes showing up is all someone else needs.
- Remembering to delegate instead of trying to do it all meself. It works. Finding 15 dresses for my trip. I really should be reusing clothes. I am so blessed to have so much! Heeramandi… not what I thought I’d enjoy, but the “shuddh hindi” the cinematography and the simple. beautiful ending. Loved it! A genuine Thank You from Father and Judy. So glad I can give my gifts for the glory of God.Remembering to delegate instead of trying to do it all meself. It works. Finding 15 dresses for my trip. I really should be reusing clothes. I am so blessed to have so much! Heeramandi… not what I thought I’d enjoy, but the “shuddh hindi” the cinematography and the simple. beautiful ending. Loved it! A genuine Thank You from Father and Judy. So glad I can give my gifts for the glory of God.
- Making slow but steady progress with my paperwork. A little bird that was dazed and dehydrated. Glad we were able to rescue it and take it to a sanctuary. Arranging a few flowers for mum. So happy to remember her and her warm memories. Playing the best and worst wavelength games in one evening.Making slow but steady progress with my paperwork. A little bird that was dazed and dehydrated. Glad we were able to rescue it and take it to a sanctuary. Arranging a few flowers for mum. So happy to remember her and her warm memories. Playing the best and worst wavelength games in one evening.
- After mass, a lovely lady from Singapore stopped me to tell me that in all her years as a Catholic, in all the different countries she has attended mass in, she found my reading to be the most beautiful. My heart burst with joy. Especially considering Donal didn’t just read, he proclaimed! I’m so grateful to people for their generous compliments. Being a reader is such a gift. Being told I look amazing, as always. I am so happy to have such a wonderful tribe. The gratitude of 3 deacons who knew that I prayed for them especially when I was in Lourdes. I pray that Mother Mary keeps their vocation alive. The faith and tradition of the Samoan Rugby Team. So delighted to have them at OLM. Such lovely kids. I wish them well. P’s little boy. So happy he is going to be part of OLM. We got a great idea for the 50th anniversary. Stories of old and new parishioners. Being told that I should follow the sermon. Getting a chance to remind the preacher that he should follow his own words. It’s great to have such a lovely relationship with a to-be priest. A friend who needed prayers. Gave her a little medal from Lourdes. And a little pep talk. Didn’t know that E thought my prayers are so powerful. I fell like I’m following in mum’s footsteps. Such a pleasure. Rooting for Leeds. Only for John. Didn’t happen, but his last memory is of his team winning. Convertible days. Admiring gazes. Love this season!After mass, a lovely lady from Singapore stopped me to tell me that in all her years as a Catholic, in all the different countries she has attended mass in, she found my reading to be the most beautiful. My heart burst with joy. Especially considering Donal didn’t just read, he proclaimed! I’m so grateful to people for their generous compliments. Being a reader is such a gift. Being told I look amazing, as always. I am so happy to have such a wonderful tribe. The gratitude of 3 deacons who knew that I prayed for them especially when I was in Lourdes. I pray that Mother Mary keeps their vocation alive. The faith and tradition of the Samoan Rugby Team. So delighted to have them at OLM. Such lovely kids. I wish them well. P’s little boy. So happy he is going to be part of OLM. We got a great idea for the 50th anniversary. Stories of old and new parishioners. Being told that I should follow the sermon. Getting a chance to remind the preacher that he should follow his own words. It’s great to have such a lovely relationship with a to-be priest. A friend who needed prayers. Gave her a little medal from Lourdes. And a little pep talk. Didn’t know that E thought my prayers are so powerful. I fell like I’m following in mum’s footsteps. Such a pleasure. Rooting for Leeds. Only for John. Didn’t happen, but his last memory is of his team winning. Convertible days. Admiring gazes. Love this season!
- Poppies, daisies and all the lovely wildflowers anyone could ask for. While knitting on the train I delivered a gift. Didn’t expect it to be so gleefully accepted. The volunteer gratitude party. Such joy. So good to see so many people coming together to make OLM and San Damaso such a wonderful place to be. Rocked the evening with a simple skirt and Mum’s gorgeous green silk shirt. I felt hugged by her. Tried a perfume I was gifted months ago. It is amazing. Am surprised I haven’t tried it before.Poppies, daisies and all the lovely wildflowers anyone could ask for. While knitting on the train I delivered a gift. Didn’t expect it to be so gleefully accepted. The volunteer gratitude party. Such joy. So good to see so many people coming together to make OLM and San Damaso such a wonderful place to be. Rocked the evening with a simple skirt and Mum’s gorgeous green silk shirt. I felt hugged by her. Tried a perfume I was gifted months ago. It is amazing. Am surprised I haven’t tried it before.
- Interviews to remember. A session to bring everyone on board. I think we made it. A red balloon waving in the wind. Biscuit from one of the best biscuiteers in London. Such a joy. Being there, although I wasn’t at the top of my game.Interviews to remember. A session to bring everyone on board. I think we made it. A red balloon waving in the wind. Biscuit from one of the best biscuiteers in London. Such a joy. Being there, although I wasn’t at the top of my game.
- One of the best sprints we have ever had. Love what we have created. The luxury of lunch because I had to feed two little critters. But homemade pizza in the hot, hot sun. What a lovely day! Sharing an evening and a few laughs with a friend. He was so close to breaking down and me with him. Lunch on Sunday will be epic.One of the best sprints we have ever had. Love what we have created. The luxury of lunch because I had to feed two little critters. But homemade pizza in the hot, hot sun. What a lovely day!Sharing an evening and a few laughs with a friend. He was so close to breaking down and me with him. Lunch on Sunday will be epic.
- Helping a Boomer get back online. So glad he’s blogging again! Another yoga lesson. Been ages, but glad to be back at it. A little boy who might becomes a genius thanks to a little tutoring by me.Helping a Boomer get back online. So glad he’s blogging again! Another yoga lesson. Been ages, but glad to be back at it. A little boy who might becomes a genius thanks to a little tutoring by me.
- Back at work. Tired in half hour, but loving what I am creating. A drink with the bereaved. So much unsaid. So much understood.Back at work. Tired in half hour, but loving what I am creating. A drink with the bereaved. So much unsaid. So much understood.
“I will miss you” a spontaneous outburst from my little M on knowing he won’t see me when he gets back from school.
Gratitude on me making myself available.
Cool gifts. Can’t wait to use them.
An eventless check-in. An eventless journey. So glad I got picked up. I’m really so blessed.
“I will miss you” a spontaneous outburst from my little M on knowing he won’t see me when he gets back from school.
Gratitude on me making myself available.
Cool gifts. Can’t wait to use them.
An eventless check-in. An eventless journey. So glad I got picked up. I’m really so blessed.
Sounds of an airport while in bed.
A chaiiwala picnic breakfast.
Games with the girls. 28/36 on the first attempt ain’t all that bad.
A sleepy goodbye.
A walk, a talk and a whole lot of love. Such a wonderful trip.
4 hour door to door. A perfect trip.
Kindness is a bottle of whiskey and a steak. RIP John. D’s brother.
J’s kind words about mum and how touched he was at the way she welcomed him.
Sounds of an airport while in bed.
A chaiiwala picnic breakfast.
Games with the girls. 28/36 on the first attempt ain’t all that bad.
A sleepy goodbye.
A walk, a talk and a whole lot of love. Such a wonderful trip.
4 hour door to door. A perfect trip.
Kindness is a bottle of whiskey and a steak. RIP John. D’s brother.
J’s kind words about mum and how touched he was at the way she welcomed him.
Brunch at a place that was instagrammable.
Bubble tea.
In search of the perfect pair. Just wasn’t the day though.
A taste of the weekend and good weather in Birmingham. We bumped into every soul that lives there. So glad we could find a little place to sit and chat.
Slowing down and listening to our bodies.
A secret so heavy. A heart left much lighter.
A game that took us a bit to get good at, but we nailed it.
Brunch at a place that was instagrammable.
Bubble tea.
In search of the perfect pair. Just wasn’t the day though.
A taste of the weekend and good weather in Birmingham. We bumped into every soul that lives there. So glad we could find a little place to sit and chat.
Slowing down and listening to our bodies.
A secret so heavy. A heart left much lighter.
A game that took us a bit to get good at, but we nailed it.
A quiet day by the canals.
Tons of compliments coming my way. Those shoes. But maybe more than just the shoes.
The library and secret garden… I’m in love.
An unobstructed view of the centre of town.
A chance to shoot a lovely, young couple. Pan chops made just for me.
Live music. Dancing with no interference. Stepping it up to a club and dancing our hearts out.
A bit of a shocker at the end of the night. Flattering to know that being fully dressed gets more attention than letting it all hang out.
A cigarette after almost 11 years. Glad to know I still hate them.
A quiet day by the canals.
Tons of compliments coming my way. Those shoes. But maybe more than just the shoes.
The library and secret garden… I’m in love.
An unobstructed view of the centre of town.
A chance to shoot a lovely, young couple.Pan chops made just for me.
Live music. Dancing with no interference. Stepping it up to a club and dancing our hearts out.
A bit of a shocker at the end of the night. Flattering to know that being fully dressed gets more attention than letting it all hang out.
A cigarette after almost 11 years. Glad to know I still hate them.
Scenes of a rainy, English countryside, dotted with horses and sheep.
Conversations on trains. Always delighted to hear from the younger generation
Spotting A at the train station. My heart leapt for joy.
A quiet afternoon and a walk by the canals. Such a pretty way to spend an evening.
Dresses that brough joy. To the wearer and the watchers.
The Croods… such a good movie.
Falling asleep while chatting.
Scenes of a rainy, English countryside, dotted with horses and sheep.
Conversations on trains. Always delighted to hear from the younger generation
Spotting A at the train station. My heart leapt for joy.
A quiet afternoon and a walk by the canals. Such a pretty way to spend an evening.
Dresses that brough joy. To the wearer and the watchers.
The Croods… such a good movie.
Falling asleep while chatting.
Validation of my processes by an amazing Head of RnD that made me proud to be where I am.
Validation of my technology choices. Oh the joy!
Elan all the way… someone had to bring it.
A 24 year old loving my energy and wondering why I didn’t join them earlier.
Connecting with N. Oh what a joy!
Validation of my processes by an amazing Head of RnD that made me proud to be where I am.
Validation of my technology choices. Oh the joy!
Elan all the way… someone had to bring it.
A 24 year old loving my energy and wondering why I didn’t join them earlier.
Connecting with N. Oh what a joy!
A debate on mesh vs fabric and seeing my idea come out on top.
A Minority report-esque demo that had my heart.
A job offer.
Love what you are wearing. Sounds great when it’s a 6 foot muchacho who tells you that.
D.W stopping me to compliment my hari and dress and shoes.
A debate on mesh vs fabric and seeing my idea come out on top.
A Minority report-esque demo that had my heart.
A job offer.
Love what you are wearing. Sounds great when it’s a 6 foot muchacho who tells you that.
D.W stopping me to compliment my hari and dress and shoes.
Weeks ago I was asked to change from Fabric to Mesh. Today I hear the Mesh has been written off. I am joyous.
Reaching in 6.5 minutes. In heels. Never keep a child waiting.
A Guinness while waiting for a music lesson to finish. A chance to talk about Cybersecurity and to raise awareness.
Weeks ago I was asked to change from Fabric to Mesh. Today I hear the Mesh has been written off. I am joyous.
Reaching in 6.5 minutes. In heels. Never keep a child waiting.
A Guinness while waiting for a music lesson to finish. A chance to talk about Cybersecurity and to raise awareness.
A serene mass.
Holding out for the perfect coat and a 5 pound dress that I didn’t realise I’d be using so soon.
A chat that went on giving the kids time to play. A comment on how my hair smelled despite me spending half the evening cleaning dishes. Ham had me telling stories I had long forgotten. Nostalgia… you do mean so much.
A serene mass.
Holding out for the perfect coat and a 5 pound dress that I didn’t realise I’d be using so soon.
A chat that went on giving the kids time to play. A comment on how my hair smelled despite me spending half the evening cleaning dishes. Ham had me telling stories I had long forgotten. Nostalgia… you do mean so much.
Lunch with the lovely Wades.
Great food. Better conversations. Definitely an experience to remember.
Shooting the Wades and thinking… life goals. They still look at each other with so much love. I wish them many more amazing adventures.
Lunch with the lovely Wades.
Great food. Better conversations. Definitely an experience to remember.
Shooting the Wades and thinking… life goals. They still look at each other with so much love. I wish them many more amazing adventures.
A walk, a browse and a menu we enjoyed.
Meeting a friend and feeling all those old-feels come back. Such a pleasure to see them doing well.
A fab evening even though I was not prepared for it.
A wonderful, well behaved boy who made my heart swell with pride.
A friend who got her PhD. A friend who aced a meeting. Glad the universe is giving back to the deserving.
A walk, a browse and a menu we enjoyed.
Meeting a friend and feeling all those old-feels come back. Such a pleasure to see them doing well.
A fab evening even though I was not prepared for it.
A wonderful, well behaved boy who made my heart swell with pride.
A friend who got her PhD. A friend who aced a meeting. Glad the universe is giving back to the deserving.
Flowers in the garden.
A happy lego-assembling kid.
Discovering more that I thought possible about a product I had almost written off.
Flowers in the garden.
A happy lego-assembling kid.
Discovering more that I thought possible about a product I had almost written off.
- Getting dropped off at the airport… beats the train trip 🙂 Being the most colourful person in town. What a pity this lovely city is so dowdy. Good thing is that it helps anyone with a spark stand out. A sleepy but kind family that stayed up to stay hello and chat a bit.Getting dropped off at the airport… beats the train trip 🙂 Being the most colourful person in town. What a pity this lovely city is so dowdy. Good thing is that it helps anyone with a spark stand out. A sleepy but kind family that stayed up to stay hello and chat a bit.
- Told that I should be cloned. And another voice chimed in with “we can barely take one of her”. So glad I have the answers. Chatting with a friend and wishing we could talk forever. I miss heartfelt conversations. Sometimes, some things need to be said. And once they are said, it feels good. Even if it’s not something you want to hear. Getting to know the news from home. A certification. A doctor’s appointment. A house sale.Told that I should be cloned. And another voice chimed in with “we can barely take one of her”. So glad I have the answers. Chatting with a friend and wishing we could talk forever. I miss heartfelt conversations. Sometimes, some things need to be said. And once they are said, it feels good. Even if it’s not something you want to hear. Getting to know the news from home. A certification. A doctor’s appointment. A house sale.
- The Indian VFS office is much better than expected. So good to find them competent and kind. Putting together our documentation and finding that we are way ahead of everyone. Again. A burrito too much. But it was so yumm, yumm, yumm.The Indian VFS office is much better than expected. So good to find them competent and kind. Putting together our documentation and finding that we are way ahead of everyone. Again. A burrito too much. But it was so yumm, yumm, yumm.
Tired but undeterred.
A coffee that woke us up just enough.
Crosswords all the way back.
Tired but undeterred.
A coffee that woke us up just enough.
Crosswords all the way back.
- 2017
Lourdes
A pilgrimage for the soul May 01 – May 05 2024
We embarked on a pilgrimage to Lourdes, France, a significant Catholic site where the Virgin Mary appeared to Bernadette Soubirous in 1858. Our journey took nearly 24 hours, traveling by train and bus through Madrid, Barcelona, and Toulouse, which added to the feeling that this was a pilgrimage rather than just a holiday.
Upon arriving, we stayed at a simple hotel close to the Massabielle Grotto, where Mary first appeared. Entering the Domain as the sun came out, we were moved by the sight of so many pilgrims, feeling a deep connection to the generations who had visited before us. We touched the rock in the Grotto and let the spring water drip onto our rosaries. We also lit candles in the Chapels of Light, offering prayers for our personal intentions.
The highlight of our trip was the torchlit Marian Procession, where thousands gathered to pray and sing. Hearing the Latin Creed stirred emotions, reminding us of simpler times with our families.
Before leaving, we purchased a gold ring as a symbol of this pilgrimage, a reminder of the spiritual connection we felt in Lourdes. We left with those memories and carry Lourdes with us still. -Donal Thompson
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Adventure time… A trip to Lourdes, but a slow, lowkey one. And how better to start it than with crosswords! Teaching photo hacks and seeing them work in the now! Wow …. just a little angle can make such a huge difference. Scenes of Barcelona. Gorgeous weather, full tummies and a seller who spoke to […]
Rolling French hills, a bit of mist to give them mystery and fresh, pure spring air. The perfect setting for our pilgrimage! Excited steps leading us downhill to the hotel. The thought of going uphill on the last day wasn’t going to dampen the mood. The sanctuary and the joy our approaching steps brought.The sun showing up […]
Italian mass at the Basillica. It’s amazing how Faith is not bound by language. A view of the relics of Bernadette and a small prayer.Blessing our trinkets with trickles from the grotto.Candles as love offerings. I’ll never understand how gestures like this can soothe ones soul, but I can guarantee you that they work. Srilankan Lunch. A […]
English mass. Finally.Gemmail – enamel gems in the church below ground.A final goodbye. To the people, the place and the peace.Comfortable bus. Compared to the nightmare buses we had before. This was amazing. Fabulous views of the French countryside. Lourdes is spiritual. Lourdes is beautiful!Great joint for dinner and yes… what a lovely dinner it was. […]
Tired but undeterred.A coffee that woke us up just enough.Crosswords all the way back.- 2024
English mass. Finally.
Gemmail – enamel gems in the church below ground.
A final goodbye. To the people, the place and the peace.
Comfortable bus. Compared to the nightmare buses we had before. This was amazing.
Fabulous views of the French countryside. Lourdes is spiritual. Lourdes is beautiful!
Great joint for dinner and yes… what a lovely dinner it was. The cocktails were specialties of the place and were so worth it!
English mass. Finally.
Gemmail – enamel gems in the church below ground.
A final goodbye. To the people, the place and the peace.
Comfortable bus. Compared to the nightmare buses we had before. This was amazing.
Fabulous views of the French countryside. Lourdes is spiritual. Lourdes is beautiful!
Great joint for dinner and yes… what a lovely dinner it was. The cocktails were specialties of the place and were so worth it!
Italian mass at the Basillica. It’s amazing how Faith is not bound by language.
A view of the relics of Bernadette and a small prayer.
Blessing our trinkets with trickles from the grotto.
Candles as love offerings. I’ll never understand how gestures like this can soothe ones soul, but I can guarantee you that they work.
Srilankan Lunch. A masala dosa for me, please.
Ardent Adoration in the underground sanctuary. It took me a little while to find and then I was surprised at how many entrances I had overlooked.
While trying to get a video the Ave Maria before the chiming of the bells, I was approached to take a photo which I hurriedly took. I immediately switched to videographer mode, but was approached by my really grateful subject and gifted a little pendant shaped like an angel. I had always wanted a pin of an angel. I was delighted to earn one.
Right before the bells toll, an Ave Maria chimes at Lourdes. In all my time there, I tried to get at least one video of it.
Moving night rosary. Love the Marian procession and the way everyone spontaneously raised their candles at the Ave. Thousands of faithful thronged together and recited the rosary. If ever you need your faith renewed, go to Lourdes!
A group of hearing impaired believers led in the Rosary by their passionate, signing guides. I couldn’t stop watching them or admiring them.
A spectacular day… weather wise and every other wise too.
Italian mass at the Basillica. It’s amazing how Faith is not bound by language.
A view of the relics of Bernadette and a small prayer.
Blessing our trinkets with trickles from the grotto.
Candles as love offerings. I’ll never understand how gestures like this can soothe ones soul, but I can guarantee you that they work.
Srilankan Lunch. A masala dosa for me, please.
Ardent Adoration in the underground sanctuary. It took me a little while to find and then I was surprised at how many entrances I had overlooked.
While trying to get a video the Ave Maria before the chiming of the bells, I was approached to take a photo which I hurriedly took. I immediately switched to videographer mode, but was approached by my really grateful subject and gifted a little pendant shaped like an angel. I had always wanted a pin of an angel. I was delighted to earn one.
Right before the bells toll, an Ave Maria chimes at Lourdes. In all my time there, I tried to get at least one video of it.
Moving night rosary. Love the Marian procession and the way everyone spontaneously raised their candles at the Ave. Thousands of faithful thronged together and recited the rosary. If ever you need your faith renewed, go to Lourdes!
A group of hearing impaired believers led in the Rosary by their passionate, signing guides. I couldn’t stop watching them or admiring them.
A spectacular day… weather wise and every other wise too.
Rolling French hills, a bit of mist to give them mystery and fresh, pure spring air. The perfect setting for our pilgrimage!
Excited steps leading us downhill to the hotel. The thought of going uphill on the last day wasn’t going to dampen the mood.
The sanctuary and the joy our approaching steps brought.
The sun showing up as we walked the grotto of Lourdes.
A first session at the grotto. Quiet. Stirring. Loving.
Feeling my photo mojo coming back
Remembering mum every step of the way and wishing she was there. Somewhere along the walk, the wish turned to a feeling of having her beside me.
Great Guinness, better conversation.
A rosary like mums. Just hope to use it as often.
Rolling French hills, a bit of mist to give them mystery and fresh, pure spring air. The perfect setting for our pilgrimage!
Excited steps leading us downhill to the hotel. The thought of going uphill on the last day wasn’t going to dampen the mood.
The sanctuary and the joy our approaching steps brought.
The sun showing up as we walked the grotto of Lourdes.
A first session at the grotto. Quiet. Stirring. Loving.
Feeling my photo mojo coming back
Remembering mum every step of the way and wishing she was there. Somewhere along the walk, the wish turned to a feeling of having her beside me.
Great Guinness, better conversation.
A rosary like mums. Just hope to use it as often.
Adventure time… A trip to Lourdes, but a slow, lowkey one. And how better to start it than with crosswords!
Teaching photo hacks and seeing them work in the now! Wow …. just a little angle can make such a huge difference.
Scenes of Barcelona. Gorgeous weather, full tummies and a seller who spoke to me in Hindi and then forced fresh coconut on me. He made me put it back when I told him I don’t have cash… but there’s a street vendor for you 🙂 I loved how someone looked at the huge beers we had in front of us and requested for the same. Made me laugh out loud.
Off on an adventure… pilgrimages can be fun! I will admit to being very concerned about arguing and the day getting bleak. Fingers crossed. So far, really good!
Adventure time… A trip to Lourdes, but a slow, lowkey one. And how better to start it than with crosswords!
Teaching photo hacks and seeing them work in the now! Wow …. just a little angle can make such a huge difference.
Scenes of Barcelona. Gorgeous weather, full tummies and a seller who spoke to me in Hindi and then forced fresh coconut on me. He made me put it back when I told him I don’t have cash… but there’s a street vendor for you 🙂 I loved how someone looked at the huge beers we had in front of us and requested for the same. Made me laugh out loud.
Off on an adventure… pilgrimages can be fun! I will admit to being very concerned about arguing and the day getting bleak. Fingers crossed. So far, really good!
- The new hairstylist skipped her lunch just to make me look more presentable. So delighted with how my hair looks and with the fab job she does colouring it. The facts that she’s close by and super maja are just bonuses I didn’t see coming. A copilot license that I tried for and managed to get one of the eleven that were assigned to us. Kicking off a project that was scheduled to start last summer. Glad we are finally doing it.The new hairstylist skipped her lunch just to make me look more presentable. So delighted with how my hair looks and with the fab job she does colouring it. The facts that she’s close by and super maja are just bonuses I didn’t see coming.A copilot license that I tried for and managed to get one of the eleven that were assigned to us. Kicking off a project that was scheduled to start last summer. Glad we are finally doing it.
- A Picassoesque shirt on a red tunic. Loved how the outfit turned out. Loved the generous compliments of everyone. I always love convertible weather. Today was a red overload, the car, the clothes, the lipstick, the shades. A very successful Theologians’ Corner. So glad people were willing to discuss everything openly. A PC meeting that was a bit too shouty than I liked. Glad we did it though. Driving home and being grateful for the beautiful views we have. I’m so blessed.A Picassoesque shirt on a red tunic. Loved how the outfit turned out. Loved the generous compliments of everyone. I always love convertible weather. Today was a red overload, the car, the clothes, the lipstick, the shades. A very successful Theologians’ Corner. So glad people were willing to discuss everything openly. A PC meeting that was a bit too shouty than I liked. Glad we did it though. Driving home and being grateful for the beautiful views we have. I’m so blessed.
- A surprise birthday drink with D. Such a joy. Giving a gift that I bought months ago. So happy to see the joy it brought. Bad weather that got good and stayed good. Glad it accompanied the games we played.A surprise birthday drink with D. Such a joy. Giving a gift that I bought months ago. So happy to see the joy it brought. Bad weather that got good and stayed good. Glad it accompanied the games we played.
- Getting all the right content for a budget call. I’m surprised we had to do it so many times. Imitation is the best form of flattery. Seeing my reference architecture copied by IT upset me, but also made me happy. Pizzas that looked as good as they tasted. Yum yum yum.Getting all the right content for a budget call. I’m surprised we had to do it so many times. Imitation is the best form of flattery. Seeing my reference architecture copied by IT upset me, but also made me happy. Pizzas that looked as good as they tasted. Yum yum yum.
- An alternate way to avoid expensive Madrid parking charges. Worked once. Let’s see if it works again. A healthy dinner instead of regular calorie overload. Chatting away. Pity I talked more, but it was good to know that conversation is still a possibility.An alternate way to avoid expensive Madrid parking charges. Worked once. Let’s see if it works again. A healthy dinner instead of regular calorie overload. Chatting away. Pity I talked more, but it was good to know that conversation is still a possibility.
- A very scenic drive to office. Glad I wore my sun glasses. Being informed that I was given a raise. Another raise in less than 6 months. Looks like I am really appreciated. A very full day. Tiring, however I’m glad I could get things done. Thinking the drive back could be difficult, dangerous even. Then there was greenery, birds, roads that were a purple ribbon across a green moor. Loved it! A surprise visit and drop-off at the pub. A good, good, good day!A very scenic drive to office. Glad I wore my sun glasses. Being informed that I was given a raise. Another raise in less than 6 months. Looks like I am really appreciated. A very full day. Tiring, however I’m glad I could get things done. Thinking the drive back could be difficult, dangerous even. Then there was greenery, birds, roads that were a purple ribbon across a green moor. Loved it! A surprise visit and drop-off at the pub. A good, good, good day!
Architecting like no one else could.
Saying thank you to someone who needed to hear that he made a difference and wasn’t forgotten. Little things.
A surprisingly warm day. Love soaking in the heat. Love feeling that warmth on my skin.
Finishing my tasks …. take the bull by the horns. Both personally and professionally.
A lovely prayer group meeting.
Architecting like no one else could.
Saying thank you to someone who needed to hear that he made a difference and wasn’t forgotten. Little things.
A surprisingly warm day. Love soaking in the heat. Love feeling that warmth on my skin.
Finishing my tasks …. take the bull by the horns. Both personally and professionally.
A lovely prayer group meeting.
Wisteria. Gorgeous and omg… so beautiful.
Cancelling. Not always good, but when it gives me a chance to catch up on everything… perfect.
Back into my groove. Yoga again. Didn’t know I had some of these muscles. Investing in a proper yoga mat to keep this lifestyle going.
Wisteria. Gorgeous and omg… so beautiful.
Cancelling. Not always good, but when it gives me a chance to catch up on everything… perfect.
Back into my groove. Yoga again. Didn’t know I had some of these muscles. Investing in a proper yoga mat to keep this lifestyle going.
So many compliments. You look like a model. You read well. You look gorgeous.
Stopping to ask people if I could help them with information. Felt so glad to be the epitome of OLM community.
I went to see Janet. And she was amazing. And then I had an extra fab performance that took my breath away. Mia… my gosh!
I’ve never seen you look ordinary. That’s a legacy I can live with 🙂
So many compliments. You look like a model. You read well. You look gorgeous.
Stopping to ask people if I could help them with information. Felt so glad to be the epitome of OLM community.
I went to see Janet. And she was amazing. And then I had an extra fab performance that took my breath away. Mia… my gosh!
I’ve never seen you look ordinary. That’s a legacy I can live with 🙂
Party. And what a perfect day for it! This has been so long in the making, I’m glad to finally enjoy it.
Happy socks. Easily the cutest gift of the day!
Happy peeps. Happy when people enjoy themselves and the host does too. Great food helps as well!
Party. And what a perfect day for it! This has been so long in the making, I’m glad to finally enjoy it.
Happy socks. Easily the cutest gift of the day!
Happy peeps. Happy when people enjoy themselves and the host does too. Great food helps as well!
