Author Archives: Linda Barnes

Ha ha, how kids can bring you down to earth! I’ve just walked Hettie up the village to the woods. The dense shade literally singing with the sound of insects escaping the harsh sun. I’m coming home when I see a boy about six peering down from a turret on one of those solid woodenContinue reading “Put down”

The final days of year six, and for my Grandson many ‘last times’. He goes to the local Catholic school, we’re not Catholic but a percentage of the children who attend aren’t either. It has an inclusive ethos, based on kindness and respect, and that is what shone through this afternoon. His last Mass inContinue reading “Mass”

Sunday was the annual bring your own picnic on the village green. The family turned out in force to support me, it was a very pleasant informal gathering and noticeably more children attended, my swing-ball table tennis and outside games came into good use. Probably the first time in a while that I didn’t feelContinue reading “Monday thoughts”

This afternoon delivered my second session of dementia training to the staff of the local charity I’m working with. Feedback was all positive and as always the practical elements were well received. When you put yourself in someone else’s shoes it is always a learning experience. This group already knew a lot in practical termsContinue reading “End of the week”

I’ve a friend in my situation, She can’t get past the ‘why’ It’s hard to see her trying to keep her head above water, I wish I could help her float. In her eyes l’m doing better, Actually I’m just doing different, Coping my way. Questioning is a stage of grief for some, The ‘ifContinue reading “It doesn’t make sense”

Keeping busy is my nature and Monday’s are generally devoted to Youth Club. Some youngsters simply don’t fit into mainstream schools and learning life skills is more of a priority. One of the regular groups is 15/16 year old girls who attend sessions during school hours and have practical lessons such as planning meals, shoppingContinue reading “Playing fair”

I’d heard a lot about ‘Bike Ability’ from my Grandson. Rather like the cycling proficiency test of my days. Almost ready to leave primary school it seems to be the right of passage for 11year olds and also means missing normal lessons. I think his expectations were set a little too high, we’ve been onContinue reading “Bike ability”

I’m really pleased with my new water feature. Something I have had in mind for a long time but never quite seen the right thing. What I didn’t expect was the enormous delivery lorry, or the heavy wooden pallet it came on. ‘Can’t you take it back?’ I ask. ‘Sorry love we have to leaveContinue reading “Wood and water”

Don’t pay back, Pay forward, Kindness doesn’t cost, But is worth a fortune. Give time, Share what you have, Love is nothing If you only bank it. The small things, The thoughtful words, That make a difference, Pass kindness on Whenever you can. I’ve been on the receiving end of such consideration of late –Continue reading “Kindness”

A few days in and I’m finding the heat exhausting . The thunder and lightning that woke me did little to clear the air. I’m like a plant planted in the wrong place, wilting, dreaming of air -conditioning. But there have been some major highlights this week, I’ve had some lovely visits from friends andContinue reading “Proud Mum”