I’m sorry, but I have to say it. Suzuki Swifts are the scourge of our nation’s roads. Perhaps put-putting around the suburbs where cars are stopped more than started in the chaotic city traffic they may have a place. But on the highways, they are like road kill and should be swept to one side. Now some of you will drive Suzuki Swifts and I am already your enemy. And why not? They are cute little cars, peppy, and very economical, especially around town. I’ve considered buying one myself. But really, the clue should be in the name. Swift? I’ve come to doubt this.

Continue reading “What’s in a name?” →

For a little over 28 years I’ve been a mum. I suppose you could say it is what defined me for most of these years. That’s not to say I’ve not had a life outside of being a mum. I think I’ve used the years well, firstly doing a BA when the children were very young, and then doing a Masters degree in Library Studies when they were a wee bit older. In fact, No. 1 Son was born in the middle of my university exams, and sat with me through a couple of them as a tiny baby. Continue reading “Mum’s the word” →

Sometimes major life changes can feel kind of like a bereavement, and it can take quite some time to get over these changes. Almost two years ago I left a job I loved. Change was in the air, and the organisation was heading in a direction that was not aligned to my own way of thinking. I had thought I could be in this or a similar role until I retired, but the choice to go was my own, and even in hindsight, it was the right choice.

Continue reading “My year of moving on” →

I recently wrote that in France you are never far from a good meal. I have since had cause to stop and re-think those words, because on this trip, I have to say, the food was decidedly underwhelming, with some exceptions.

Continue reading “Bon appetit” →