Happy Friday everyone. I hope as you are sitting down to read this you are doing so with a cup of tea or coffee, because I'm guessing your week has been just as hectic as mine. It seems like life just gets faster and faster, and when I look around I am reminded of hamsters on a wheel. Everyone is in a rush, get here, go there, do this, do that. How many of us actually take time to BREATHE. I am trying to do that right now.

After yesterday's move, which went without any hitches, every bone in my body is protesting, vigorously. I am happy to say that when Hubby and I left Poppets house last night at 8, the girls were in and pretty much settled. Bedrooms made up and unpacked. Kitchen ditto. Lounge and dining room packed out With just the 'fiddly' things to unpack and arrange. Somehow during all that chaos (before the moving van arrived) we took a half an hour and went and had some 'play therapy' with the kittens. We each chose which one we are taking, oh my gosh it is so hard, I want to take them all and love them. But, even I know that wouldn't work as I am sure there would be queue out the front door all holding suitcases - Gemma being the first in line haha. I digress. Just that half hour carried me through the rest of the day. I have chosen our kitten and am looking forward to bringing it home in a week which will mean lots of cuddle time and laughs.

My wish for each and every one of you this weekend is that you take time to recharge your batteries, strengthen your family bonds, spend quality time with your children and spouse/partner. Have good food and fellowship with friends and those close to you and appreciate the little things.

A new week - am I ready?

And just like that the long Easter weekend is almost over and a new week awaits us. Am I ready for it .... Nope I don't think so haha. This week is going to be one of those crazy, busy, can't get my breath weeks. Apart from all the 'normal' stuff that needs to be done 'Poppet' is moving on Thursday. So, seeing as everyone will be at work this is going to be a 'girl' deal. Mind you, seeing as I have moved more times than I can actually remember (about 36 last count) it should be a breeze except for the fact that I'm not as young as I once was. So, Thursday it will be sleeves rolled up, back flexed, sturdy shoes and a healthy dose of energy.

As if I am not a sucker for punishment we have decided to 'add' to our family. We heard of a litter of kittens that were rescued and being fostered and have decided to adopt one. Now, that being said, we have a 6 yr old, extremely opinionated, spoilt cat who thinks that the house revolves around her 24/7. So I am expecting to be launched into a mini war zone by the end of the week. I am going to be using every bit of advice I've read to make this a trouble free zone, but on the inside I have my doubts. No doubt I will be haughtily ignored for a few days and highly unpopular to say the very least, but optimist that I am, it should all smooth out in time.

Speaking about optimism, that, my faith in God and a keen sense of humour is what has carried me this far on my winding road. I received a Facebook 'memory' reminder yesterday that I shared 5 years ago. We were travelling home after me spending the week with 'Poppet' who had undergone a 7 hour surgery after being diagnosed with Breast Cancer. This was her second cancer (the first being Thryoid - completely gone). She had very aggressive surgery and during that week, hubby was home due to work, I felt like I was on a roller coaster, never mind winding road. The emotions, fear, prayers, faith, tears, looking after Princess (grand daughter). It was a TOUGH week. When I look back and then look to the now I can only stand in awe of how far along the road we as a family have come. Poppet kicked cancer's butt and is now an even more beautiful, confident, successful woman with a gorgeous daughter.

It doesn't matter how dark the day is, or how far down the tunnel you feel you are, keep on believing for that miracle, trusting God, looking for the full glass, and find time to laugh even if it is through the tears. It is these craters and twists in the road that make us who we are - stronger, wiser, more compassionate, and richer in every way.

N.B. For future reference and to protect my family - Eldest son is 'Big Guy' Eldest Daughter is "Poppet" Second son is "Big Bear" Second daughter is ' Jelly Bean' Grand daughter is 'Princess'. Step daughter is 'Miss Muffett'. Daughter in law is 'Baby Bear'