Lucky Me.

I thought that today, on my 50th birthday, I'd do a bit of stocktaking. This has to be the best part of my life...I am surrounded by friends and family, our son is about to marry a lovely girl, and I am living my dreams with a wonderful, supportive, loving husband in a beautiful house in the Norfolk countryside. It sounds idyllic, doesn't it? I agree, and it is.

It wasn't an auspicious start... I was the 'wrong' sex; my mother wanted a boy, hoping that her married partner would divorce his wife and marry her, rather than just living with her, if she gave him the much wanted son... It didn't work, of course. My birth wasn't registered; it's not the kind of welcome you hope for. And those of you who know me know that I have spent a significant amount of time unravelling the emotional damage of a difficult relationship with my mother, an alcoholic. Finally, though, over the past couple of years, that has all been put behind me, as much as it can be, and I live a joyful, creative life. I am indeed, very lucky.

I wanted to say thank you to everyone who has sent me birthday wishes on facebook or elsewhere, and hug all my lovely friends who add joy and laughter to my life. I hope everyone has a happy, happy day! And remember... above all, change is possible. Or, as someone smarter than me once said, 'It's not what is done to you that is important, it's what you do with what was done to you'. I have changed my life for the better...and if I can, what's stopping you?

Froggy Went A-Courtin'...

and, judging by the amount of frog spawn in the pond, he did so with considerable effect. Well, they, really...four that we've seen, and probably more lurking in the depths of the pond. It's amazing the difference a week has made, turning the pond from frozen stillness to a hive of activity (possibly an unfortunate mixed metaphor, there, but...). A couple of ladybirds were paddling on the surface of the pond today, and we noticed several water beetles as well as the frogs. Doubtless there'll be newts there, too, but we haven't seen them yet. The daffodils are coming out, snowdrops and crocuses still flourish, and all's well with the spring garden. Hurrah!

I hadn't realized how fast the time was passing, haven't written here for over a year. Must Try Harder... but it's unlikely to be in the next couple of weeks, as I'm off to the North for a week shortly, to visit friends and relations and have A Good Time!