tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1300957754845183172024-03-14T06:01:21.165+00:00Mich's Space!A blog from a working mum about the strange goings on in my head and the world around me! I love to write about everything from work to children to health issues.TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.comBlogger86125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-28332070262620522282016-03-17T11:13:00.000+00:002016-03-17T11:13:44.923+00:00PromAs my daughter heads into her final months at secondary school, the panic of GCSE revision has an up side which should be viewed as an exciting evening for them all to share - Prom night. How lovely. Hang on, when did proms even make it to the UK???<br />
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Don't get me wrong she is very excited and I am drawn into this new world where the etiquette is not known and parents follow the childrens lead (dangerous). I am lucky that she has her head screwed on a little and laughed when friends announced costs of dresses ranging from £150 upwards. I never remember having a prom at school - Ball's at university (good times) but never at school! This custom seems to have crept into our lives over the past 8 years or so with more and more schools taking up this option as a way of allowing the children to say 'good bye' to friends.<br />
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The idea is a nice one but it is the cost attached that is the worry. Tickets alone to hers cost £40 before transport, clothes and hair (apparently doing it yourself is not allowed!?!) and my fear is many will be excluded from the night due to cost. What is the answer? Schools should organise and keep it in-house to reduce costs but still giving all the children that final night together. Not sure how this would go down with teachers and students probably do enjoy the excitement of going somewhere but when doing research, try and keep all the children in mind not just the ones with money.<br />
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After all the years they have had together and being highly emotional teenagers, letting off steam at an event is a great idea. I just hope that no child is excluded just due to cost.TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-34124999915814650972016-02-04T14:57:00.000+00:002016-02-03T14:57:25.802+00:00Cooking showsI started watching quite a few cooking programmes lately. Not for any other reason besides I want to learn. What astounded me is all the differences between their kitchens and mine! Now, I am not talking about the overall size or anything like that but its the smaller things. Plus there are quite a few differences between the English and American programmes.<br />
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First of all, the main differences:<br />
The cleanliness of their kitchens. I know they are probably steamed cleaned to within an inch of their lives before filming starts but at the same time, the odd bit of 'normality' would be nice. What family with young children has gloss cupboards? We all know that one touch, and they need a clean! They do not stay clean and tidy for long. <br />
Before they start, everything is laid out, all ready weighed/chopped etc. Maybe it is just me but I don't have this done before I start.<br />
Their clothes are spotless from start to finish. I don't know about you, but I at least look a little dishevelled like I have been cooking whether it be a little flushed or covered in a light coating of flour, whatever it is, I know I have been cooking!<br />
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I have seen some differences between American and British cooking programmes. The Brits have a lovely full fridge more often than not. Whereas, our American counterparts seem to only have what they need for that recipe. When I am watching a programme, even though I know they do not live on set, it would be nice to build an illusion that they live there. Or does that mean there is less money in the UK and they do actually use their own homes?!<br />
Talking of fridges, they are always clean; sparkling clean! I do like a clean fridge so I don't mind this one too much, it just reminds me to go clean mine.<br />
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The American programmes top my favourites to watch as there are so many formats while the English chef's all have similar formats which can get tedious. Plus the Americans love a bit of sweet naughtiness in the creations!</div>
TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-81247744104720779782016-02-03T14:53:00.002+00:002016-02-03T14:53:49.306+00:00Children and gadgets<div>
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Do children have too many gadgets or is it just 'moving with the times'? I question this with myself on a regular basis. My youngest is now 8 years old and she is desperate for an iPad but so far I (and my husband) have refused. This is not based on punishment or spite, quite the opposite; we feel she is too young.<br />
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When I was growing up, I remember playing games with my brothers in the garden. We made berry pies, built a fort and just messed around. We did not have the internet until I was older as it was not even invented on a residential scale at that time. I liked my childhood. I could not sit here and say I missed out on anything. As an adult, I feel I am a well-rounded individual (some may beg to differ) and I did not have the gadgets growing up.<br />
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My fear is - and don't take this the wrong way because I don't tarnish everyone with this brush - but some parents are getting lazy. Giving a child a tablet or computer game just to keep them quiet or out of your hair is not the answer! They could play with lego, duplo, dolls, cards and many other toys which are not only cheaper but can hold their attention for longer. I am not taking into account children with special needs because that is a totally different article.<br />
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My eldest is 16 and she got an iPad last year for the first time and I think that is about right age wise. She hasn't been deprived or missed out on anything in her life and she is still a well-rounded individual. When I see/visit some children where gadgets are their only or main entertainment, the children are rude, some arrogant and not great when they can drag themselves away from the gadget to play with my children.<br />
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Children do need to be aware of these things and how to use them because that is the way the World is going. So just so I can be clear, children can have gadgets, but don't use them as a babysitting service. Used responsibly including other outlets in their life, will enable your child to grow up as a well-rounded individual.</div>
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<br />TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-31479456634032636502015-04-16T20:48:00.001+01:002015-04-16T20:48:38.697+01:00Schools in the UKAnother year, another bundle of parents not getting first place primary schools. The media love the stories. There is another group of parents of which I was a part of a few years ago - the parents who do not get any of their choices, nada, nienta, nothing. How about them??<div><br><div>Every parent want the best for their children which starts with their education. Parents take the time to visit schools and select ones they feel suit them and their child. They submit their application and hope for the best. The day arrives, the email comes and parents excitedly read it only to discover they have not been given any of their school choices and are given a school not even on their radar! </div><div>Parental worry starts here. What to do? Who to turn to? Unfortunately the answer is there is no-one to turn to. So what are your options?</div><div><br></div><div>You can appeal to your council. The problem here is that you need a really valid reason to appeal. We personally appealed to a few schools and got rejected still. Appeals only work if there is a valid reason - saying you do not like an area is not seen as valid - you really need to think outside the box. Is the school too far away and you do not have transport? Does your have an undisclosed medical condition meaning you need them to attend a certain school? Really think about your appeal and back it up with evidence. </div><div><br></div><div>If the appeal process sounds too daunting then sit on the waiting lists. We ended up sitting on waiting lists and did eventually get a space at one of our preferred schools. You need to be proactive with the lists. Call the council on a regular basis and keep asking where your child is on the list; this keeps you in their minds. Don't ever be rude to the staff there, they are just doing their job and really do not deserve abuse. Remember at the end of the current academic year - so in the summer - the lists get wiped and taken over by the schools themselves so you have to call each school and place your child on their list. </div><div><br></div><div>The issue does come down to the fact that not all schools are the same. This is something the UK as a whole need to change. If they want children to attend their local schools, they really need to make those schools good enough! </div><div><br></div><div>It is a time for limbo in this circumstance but you need to take control and keep on top of what is happening. Stay on as many lists as you want. Stay calm and collected so you can make the best decisions. It is not the end of the World and it will hopefully all work itself out. </div><div>Good luck guys!</div></div>TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-56231904336582745682014-06-16T11:00:00.000+01:002014-06-16T11:00:00.633+01:00PerceptionEveryone is different in looks, feeling and thoughts. We accept that to be part of everyday life now. People argue a lot mainly about subjects where 2 sides disagree about an issue. These arguments can escalate and turn nasty if they are not dealt with early on. If it does get out of control, take a step back and ask yourself, 'what are you actually arguing about?'.<br />
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You will, more often than not, come up with the notion that both sides have a different take or 'perception' on said issue. Does this mean you should argue? Does it mean one side is right and the other wrong? I do not think so.<br />
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Everyone perceives things in a different way. Whether it be because one side has decided they are right and actually they do not like you or whether you have decided that this person annoys you on certain issues, these are all tantermount to your perception before the conversation starts.<br />
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We all have our own thoughts. Its what makes us unique. To accept and move on from someone's perception, knowing it is different can and will cause issues unles you just accept them for what they are - an opinion. How do you rectify I hear you ask! It is simple. You have to find a middle ground. From there you can work on the issues. TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-36100630743596262552014-06-14T11:00:00.000+01:002014-06-14T11:00:00.821+01:00Kids grow so fast!My my, kiddies grow so fast! My eldest is 14 going on 21 and this brings with it an array of tantrums, stale mates and general 'growing up too fast' conversations. She does have normal issues with her peers but luckily has an outlet which is her tennis; thank goodness. <br />
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My youngest is 6 and a totally different character to her sister which, on the whole, is a good thing I think. I look at them both sometimes and wonder if I am doing a good job though. This is mainly with the eldest as she is where I think about the who's what's when's and why's. We had her, in my opinion, at a young age, this meant we were quite immature at the time, so while we tried to educate and shape her into the gorgeous young lady she is now, we were still trying to grow ourselves. <br />
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The differences I see between the 2 of them, especially as there is a an 8 year gap, are the technologies available to them then and now along with their own expectations. The youngest is already going to 'make-up' parties and at 6 I feel that is too young. I do not want her to feel left out so I allow her to go and say yes to only lip gloss - I think eye shadow and blusher is a set too far. Make-up is there though, a big part of many girls lives. My eldest comes home with stories of girls who have caked on too much foundation and they look orange by the time they get to school! She finds it vastly amusing. She does wear make up but not as much as some. At the age of 14, I think it is down to her to decide and start to make her own choices. As yet, we have not experienced the orange affect!<br />
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The more and more that ages are lowered for when children are allowed certain milestones, the faster children grow up. The expectation of events are lowered to satisfy either a child's 'want' or a parents need to make sure they, the child, is not missing out. I like the children to be children. There is a happy medium and I wouldn't want my children to be singled out for not having something but at the same time, I wouldn't buy them something merely because everyone else had it. I know they are stronger mentally and know we don't say 'no' to things lightly.<br />
TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-37450704421838134272014-06-13T14:33:00.000+01:002014-06-13T14:33:12.295+01:00When did google get so controlling?!I have been away for a while, trying to set up a new business etc etc, blah blah blah. I log in today and come across google asking me to access 'everything in one place' So it is no longer going to blogger.com so log in, but google itself. I know they are trying to take over the world but this is a bit much! Or is it......<br />
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It does mean I only need to log in once and float around doing everything in once place......It also means they are keeping tracks of everything now! Then again, there is no real surprise there is there? It is nice that they are been more obvious about it but deep down, we all knew the secret ;)TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-29176869854717787292014-02-24T14:53:00.001+00:002014-02-24T14:53:01.949+00:00TimeTime can take over your life. You don't realise that it ebbs away until the day you look back and take stock of recent events. For me, life goes up and down in speed. I can have a busy few months then it all slows a little. I like it like this. I like to be able to take stock every now and then. It is important to remember the good things and know you cannot change the bad just learn from them. <div><br></div><div>I have had good days and bad ones but today and it's 50/50. I am sat at a bus stop waiting to get the school run underway while my car is having its cam belt replaced. If you had read previous posts of mine, you will know that for a long time I had a fear of public transport. Well I am sat here and even though I am a little apprehensive, I am doing it! My youngest will be over the moon to be getting the bus home and that is a good enough a reason to get on with it than any other.</div><div><br></div><div>If you suffer from anxiety issues, challenge yourself on a regular basis and break the cycle. It won't be easy and it won't be quick but find the strength to stick with it. <br><div><br></div><div><br></div></div>TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-82552001227315009462013-10-04T12:41:00.000+01:002013-10-04T12:41:23.202+01:00Its near my birthday and I get reflectiveI suppose you could say I was determined, others would call it something else but I hate not being able to complete a task if I have set my mind on doing it. I am not talking about building houses although I would love to give brick work a go at some point but things I need to do for work. <br />
This has been an underlying issue for many years resulting in me learning bits and pieces of different skills along the way so that I can complete tasks without having to pay someone else to do it. I like to think I am quite handy with things and do enjoy developing my skills. <br />
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Then I hit 30.<br />
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I think your perception changes about life as you get older and for me, it started to unravel after my 30th birthday. This being a few years ago now, I can see what has happened and the stages it threw at me. I wanted to know if anyone else could relate to what happened with me.<br />
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In my early 20's, I had my first child. She grounded me in many ways, enabling me to complete my degree as I had something/someone to put first. Emotions were still high at that time and I also started to lose people I considered as friends. Anyhow, I continued on what I can only describe as the steam train of life as I battled life, emotions and generally trying to work out what I wanted to do with my life. Life was fast paced and I went from emotional situation to emotional situation, personally and professionally. Trying to figure something out but not sure what it was.<br />
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In my late 20's I had a great Marketing position in a College and life was good - ish. Emotionally I was not great and anxiety was still a big part of my daily life. I had another child and she again grounded me. I did have huge emotion issues with her including post natal depression, anxiety and panic attacks but do you know what, I decided that I did not, could not live like that anymore. 10 years it had taken over my life, that is too long. My only option was to get proper help this time or fall into the spiral again. <br />
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I did sort myself out - not saying I am perfect - and as I approach my 35th birthday, I have been reflecting on me and my life. I had always wanted to work in Film, Writing or Marketing. I would happily go back to marketing and will continue to develop those skills. Film is something that I realise now I have totally missed the boat on, therefore it will stay as a dream. I am writing on here along with 2 novels which I cannot finish until I get a netbook or something similar to enable me to sit privately and work. I am half happy that I am doing some of those original ideas. <br />
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What I have also realised is that I cannot take on the World. It would be great to know everything and be able to solve all work/personal issues that come my way but that just is not how it is. In the work place I have learnt that I am not always the best to complete a task and it is al right to outsource - my new motto is 'If I can't do it, I know someone who can' - so I still will not ever turn work away. Clients get a better service and I get a slightly easier life. <br />
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From a personal perspective, I realised that family will always be close to my heart. Friends are not always the ones you see the most they can be the people you know if you call them, they will help you. I have a few of them. I hope they know who they are and know that if they asked me for help, I too would help them. As the saying goes 'The old ones are usually the best ones'.<br />
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<br />TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-79659884436648669262013-07-16T13:36:00.000+01:002013-07-16T13:36:04.389+01:00Generated OpinionsHave you ever wondered what others think of you? Or do you not worry? I do. Not because I wonder how I come across but I wonder if I am ever misinterpreted.<br />
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Why should I worry or care? If I am happy with me, myself and I, then why should others opinions bother me? Mainly because people get it wrong. Someone's opinion of you as a person, I have decided, is not only based on how you act but also that persons insecurities. If they have barriers up and misconceptions about themselves then how they interpret your reactions will differ. You know this if you think about it. There are some friends you can tell anything to and know they will not take offence or judge you. Others, you know you have to tread on egg shells to ensure you don't say anything which they could deem 'offensive'.<br />
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Perception is a funny thing. How I perceive an incident to have happened
compared to someone else, witnessing the same, can differ widely. I
have sat trying to work this out for years. Only with maturity (age!)
have I started to see it clearer. Everyone harbours their own opinions -
rightly or wrongly - of people and how those people act. Some people
are unable to see everything neutrally each time. They build up
apprehension and tension so even the tiniest comment can make them over
exaggerate comments. <br />
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It is a tricky situation. I do tread on egg shells especially with some people. Always with new acquaintances until I know how they are as a person. It has happened where loved ones have been misinterpreted but it isn't for me to comment on those situations. I do comment a little during those situations but then you also have to ask yourself, is there any point having 'that' conversation especially when you are aware of the other sides misguided opinions?<br />
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<br />TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-19714320591549832492013-07-16T13:31:00.000+01:002013-07-16T13:31:15.045+01:00Gone too soonThe hardest thing in many people's lives is loosing loved ones before what we deem is 'their time'. My eldest is getting to an age where she is becoming interested in celebrities and all the circus that surrounds them and their lives. This means we are inevitably going to have some rough conversations. <br />
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She has enjoyed watching 'Glee' for a while now and when the news broke that Cory Monteith has passed away she was searching the web for the stories behind the tragedy. That is what situations like this are - a tragedy. A young man, taken from this world before 'his time', tearing family and loved ones apart. Stories like these bring up conversations that I feel are right and healthy to have with my daughter. We discussed the stories online, she came up with a few ideas of why. As she looked deeper into the story she discovered that Cory had been in rehab. I explained that that does not mean that his past is related in anyway to what caused his death but here started a conversation about drugs and alcohol.<br />
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My daughter asked a lot of questions which I deem as healthy. I am of the opinion that the more children know the less likely they are to try and find out for themselves. I am not saying 5 year olds need to know about the birds and the bees but if the question is asked, you should never lie to your child; you just put it into appropriate context and language for them. Back to the subject in hand, alcohol and drugs. My daughter wanted to know how this affects the body after you have gotten 'clean'. What an interesting question! This allowed me to tell her about bodies not always responding they way they use to, how bodies are no longer resilient to the same level of alcohol and drug abuse and that is how she came to understand. No matter how famous, rich or clever you are, everyone starts out with the same basic body. What you chose to do with it is your decision. If you abuse it, it takes time to heal. Even after the healing process, some bodies just are not the same. She saw the full circle of what drug and alcohol abuse can do to you even after you think you are 'clean'.TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-72828827986484105252013-06-04T10:34:00.000+01:002013-06-04T10:34:26.133+01:00Tape Copy<a href="http://www.tapecopy.co.uk/" target="_blank">Tape Copy</a> is my new company. A lot of people has asked me over the years, due to my background, can I copy this tape or put those pictures onto a CD for them or their relative etc. I finally decided that actually I should set it up as a company. Luckily, a close friend was also having the same idea. We have gone into partnership together to offer these services to anyone who needs them.<br />
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The whole ethos of <a href="http://www.tapecopy.co.uk/" target="_blank">Tape Copy</a> is to help everyone and anyone, get back old memories stuck on a tape somewhere in the loft or storage. It may be their child's Baptism or a Wedding or even their parents 50th Wedding Anniversary, whatever it is, people should be able to watch those events again. Over the years, as we all know, media has changed. Those tapes people recorded onto are no longer supported by our DVD players so the memories are left in a box. <br />
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Can you imagine your Mum/Dad/Grandparents face if you were to get those tapes copied so they could watch them again? We had a recent client who did just that so her elderly Mother could watch the tapes in the Nursing Home for comfort. What a lovely gesture?!<br />
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<a href="http://www.tapecopy.co.uk/" target="_blank">Tape Copy</a> can transfer just about everything and the list I give you here is not exhaustive! If you cannot see your tape listed, just email us at <a href="mailto:bookings@tapecopy.co.uk">bookings@tapecopy.co.uk</a> and we will happily let you know if we can transfer the footage. <br />
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Tape Copy can transfer, VHS, VHS-C, SVHS HI-8, Digital 8, DVD, BetaMax, Mini Dv and other camcorder tapes. Plus, USB sticks, memory cards and other formats where you may have stored your pictures.<br />
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If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact us at <a href="http://www.tapecopy.co.uk/">www.tapecopy.co.uk</a> or email <a href="mailto:bookings@tapecopy.co.uk">bookings@tapecopy.co.uk</a> or even telephone 0777 45 45 029.TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-27885230434073487782013-05-17T21:28:00.001+01:002013-05-17T21:28:57.695+01:00Changing fearsAs your children grow and you let them develop themselves, your fears and worries change. When they are little it is all about making sure they don't fall when learning to walk or they don't try and eat all the cakes! Then they start school and your worry turns to if they will make friends or if they enjoy school. From here, I thought it would be a little bit more plain sailing. Until my eldest started secondary school. <div><br></div><div>Secondary school is a new playground entirely! My girl is a lovely, polite child - yes I am bias but I have been told she is polite so I will take that. She is currently learning to deal with many many different types of girls. The arguments that happen, the way they are towards each other can only be summed up in one word - vile. My daughter gets upset so often after incidents at school but I know I cannot interfere and this is all character building so I support her, allow her to have a safe environment at home to discuss it and the space to work it through herself. I wish I could do more but I know it is something she has to learn. </div><div><br></div><div>I do have one huge fear and it is if the arguments ever got physical. I really don't want that to happen. That can mess a person up for a very long time. </div><div><br></div><div>I need to keep keeping an eye I think and take it one step at a time.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div>TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-52788029506309521822013-05-09T13:57:00.001+01:002013-05-09T13:57:00.379+01:00Problems with changes in childcareThe concept is great. The fundamentals are floored. All parents would love to think there is a cheaper but just as reliable childcare option, but I don't think this would be the case across the board. <div><br></div><div>Private nurseries are run like a business and as such, the owners just want to make money. If they could be allowed to take in more children without needing to increase staff then they will. This would lead to children receiving worse care. Not intentionally by staff but from the pressures they would be under to care for more children. Any issues such as accidents would be the fault of the staff. It would be them that would be held accountable. The question would have to be, would the issues have arisen if there had been less children to supervise?</div><div><br></div><div>The idea is great but I do not think it has been thought through. Many OFSTED reports say that staff are under qualified, meaning the owners are using cheap staff. These savings are not passed onto the parents now so what makes the government think the savings would be passed on with changes in the staff to child ratio??!</div>TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-12889235258869766952013-04-22T14:54:00.000+01:002013-05-22T14:51:49.771+01:00What's happened to football?!I was sat watching the News last night to be shocked when they showed a clip of a grown man biting, yes biting, another grown man. For a split second I thought I was watching some prank videos but apparently not. It was a footballer. What is wrong with people?<br>
Football is not high on my attention list as it is but when you see highly paid players, who act as role models to young children, act in such a childlike way and bite another person then you have to stop and ask yourself, 'What has happened to football?'<br>
These men are paid to play a game that seems to breed violence and a lot of the time it is off the pitch but for it now to reach the pitch, this is a worry. <br>
The terraces have always been a dubious place. Don't get me wrong, some supporters are fine. They go along, support their club and go home. It doesn't take over their life and they don't take their annoyance at loosing, home with them. There are a few fans who can't seem to do this. The take aggression from the terraces and we see it on the news when fights have broken out in pubs between rival teams. This is the sad part of football. What happened to the days when families could go to watch a match together and not worry about what their children would witness? <br>
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The industry has to take some responsibility and tighten the reign on 'super' clubs that seem to have more money than sense. They also need to cap the money they pay a player. As in most industries, there is a pay ceiling for a position, so why is football any different? Fans should not have to pay more for their tickets because some jumped up 'man' has decided he is worth millions of pounds to play for a team! TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-53487287923925620202013-04-19T11:43:00.001+01:002013-04-19T11:43:22.452+01:00Teenagers are from Saturn!If men are from Mars and women from Venus, where are teenagers from? Simple answer, Saturn!<br />
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Many reasons but mainly its the rings that did it for me. Saturn's rings could be mistaken for the way teenagers go on and on, round and round until they get the answer they want. Usually they don't get the answer they want, so they continue to run which is how they will spend most of their teenage years. The ring is infinite just like some of their worries and fears!!<br />
<br />Teenagers are a funny breed. Mainly because they do not understand their feelings and in turn we cannot always understand. They think they are maturer than they actually are. If you were to challenge their thinking or thoughts, then you are wrong! There is no pleasing them sometimes but you have to show you care.<br />
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My eldest is now a teenager. Emotions for girls are erratic - or so I am told as I don't have a boy and thus no comparisons. She gets wound up and stressed very easily; not realising sometimes that she is actually annoyed. If pointed out, she can get even more upset. If it is about something simple I find, while she is running the rings of Saturn, to try and break up the running - throwing in differing topics of conversations or even just giving her a hug. A mummy's hug can take away so many stresses with that one simple gesture. <br />
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We cannot think we will ever fully understand the teenage years. I look back on mine and shudder at some of the things I did or said. Those years shape you to be the person you are today. The events you encountered meant you could learn from your mistakes and develop as a person. <br />
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Trouble is, I don't think I stopped learning until my late 20's! It was just more space out. Everyone needs their teenage years to understand themselves, make mistakes and grow to be a well rounded adult. Then they can either jump onto Mars or Venus!TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-31375812183264275532013-04-19T11:33:00.000+01:002013-04-19T11:33:19.760+01:00Pensive.....Pensive is the mood for today, in fact it is the mood for the week. I go through a number of emotions on a regular basis and sometimes, like today, I like to stop and take stock. I don't start the day thinking 'I am going to think today' it just seems to happen. <br />
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Pensive days are good and bad. I seem to exercise more on a pensive day which is fab but then I cannot concentrate on new work as much. On the flip side, I seem to be able to finish ongoing tasks easier. Maybe it is my minds way of slowing me down, finishing jobs and then allowing me to move on, all fresh and without baggage? Who knows.<br />
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I am deep in thought today and to be fair have not got much work done. I decided to blog instead which I wish was my work!<br />
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Mood changes are an odd thing and coming from someone who has suffered from depression, anxiety and panic attacks, I know that my mind is exercising its right to have a day off. Over the past few months I have settled mentally. Sure I still have bad days but I am in control more and I know the only way is forward.<br />
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Reading back this post, I doubt it will make sense to many! If it does ring true for you, good luck with your journey.TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-71571570665439040262013-03-14T10:16:00.000+00:002013-03-14T10:16:24.894+00:00Changes to childcareRamblings from a while back, but still relevant I think..... <br />
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<i>The government have decided the best way to decrease the cost of childcare is to increase the child to carer ratio. This is suppose to mean, nurseries, child minders etc, can take on more children and pass on the reductions to parents. Who in their right mind actually thinks this is going to work??</i><br />
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<i>Nurseries run as a business. It is not always about the children. Lets be honest, it's the owners who are usually quite comfortable when it comes to money. Their staff, on the other hand, are poorly paid. Some of them are there because they knew they wanted to work with children and it is that sense of vocation which brings in new staff. Increase the ratios and it is the staff who suffer. The owners get paid more and I doubt many of them will pass this increase on to staff let alone parents. </i><br />
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<i>I applaud the government for trying to address the subject but this is not the way. Taking away child benefit was not a great idea as people used that money for things like nursery fees. The child benefit is a totally different post that I really need to write. </i>TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-78695413893173200142013-03-14T10:12:00.000+00:002013-03-14T10:12:35.295+00:00Oh michs space, how I have missed thee!!It has been quite a while since I last blogged. I have had quite a few things going on including starting another company - I will tell you about that in a minute! Realising last night I am just too tired to do much come the evening, I decided I will have to blog in the mornings while on my work breaks!<br />
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As hinted to above, I have started a new company. It is called <a href="http://www.tapecopy.co.uk/" target="_blank">Tape Copy</a>. Quite a simple concept, I take your old tapes, audio or visual, along with any other discs, memory cards etc you may have and put all the information onto a digital format that you can use. It seems to be mainly people wanting their VHS tapes converted onto DVD but there have been a few requests for photos from camera memory cards to be placed onto a CD. It may not be that people are unable to do the job themselves, it can just be that it is something they have put off time and time again and it is easier to send it off, letting someone else take the hassle away. If this sounds like you, go and check out the <a href="http://www.tapecopy.co.uk/" target="_blank">Tape Copy site.</a><br />
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This has been my main focus at the moment hence the delay in writing my blog. I have a lot knocking around my skull, so I may just bombard Michs Space with a few posts over the next few days!<br />
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Till next time.....!TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-20416612950315056292013-01-24T19:41:00.001+00:002013-01-31T19:23:09.963+00:00What takes you back??I was sat in my front room and turned over to 4music as a distraction while I did some writing. I was totally distracted but in the wrong way, finding myself watching what they are calling 'old skool' tunes. I loved all the songs so does that mean I am now old?? <br />
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Most of the tunes conjured up memories for me - good and bad. Neither memories made me regret things or wonder 'where are they now' about old friends, they just filled me with memories. <br />
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Times gone by, I would have started thinking about how to contact someone or check they are alright. Now, I think I am content in the knowledge that everyone changes. The times and experiences you have had, carve you out as the person you are today. Never regret your past. You cannot change it. If you need to make amends, do, but do not allow it to cloud who you are today. <br />
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It got me thinking. What brings back memories for you? How do they make you feel? I am happy that I can now look back and be content with the memories and not get upset or regretful. I think I have turned a corner with my mental health and this is proving it to me, myself and I.....TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-76075618534629020382013-01-14T10:16:00.000+00:002013-01-14T10:16:14.886+00:00Serious stuff....Every time I go to find a pen, I can't seem to locate one anywhere. Then, while tidying, I find in excess of 15 every time. I try to get back to work and the pens seem to disappear again. There has to be some sort of pen monster in my house who takes enjoyment out of following me around, and moving the pens.<br />
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Currently using a pencil to edit some web content for a clients site after spending 20 minutes trying to find one of the five pens I found under the sofa yesterday. This is not how I pictured today starting. <br />
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Serious stuff for a Monday morning........ !! TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-12847133235580940112013-01-08T14:08:00.001+00:002013-01-08T14:08:56.363+00:00Front door sagaI still have not found a front door! That is a stretch of a lie because I have in fact found several. My issue has been the sizes. Our door measures 34 inches wide and 82 inches high. You can tell it is a slightly larger than average door but I thought that would not be too much of an issue. Apparently it is. <br />
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I have resolved to go out this weekend and check out doors properly. Make sure we like what we see and then find the best deal. <br />
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Prices seem to vary all over for the exact same door. So here are some tips I have learnt recently:<br />
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1) always google the exact title of the door you like - numerous place may supply. <br />
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2) check delivery prices - we thought we had found one cheaper but it turned out delivery was £35! So in fact it was cheaper elsewhere. <br />
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3) always ask the company for advice and whether or not they can better the offer. If they say no, at least you tried and you can walk away safe in the knowledge you can still get said door elsewhere!<br />
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Shop smart is my motto for 2013!TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-15705827600541923042013-01-08T13:59:00.001+00:002013-01-08T13:59:21.394+00:00Post Christmas bluesThe Christmas tree came down and I looked at the space it left. I didn't think 'oh great, I have the dining room back' I actually thought 'wow, it looks so empty now'. I usually get into Christmas for my children. They enjoy it so much and I love to see their faces come Christmas morning when they open their gifts. <br />
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Normally that is it for me though, I don't get excited with the build up or anything else but this year was different. This year I was excited and looked forward to it. <br />
There are a few reasons why, presents were bought early so the stress levels diminished. Our house is fully functional and we got carpets laid in the bedrooms. Most of all, I think it is because I in myself am more relaxed so I allowed myself to enjoy things. <br />
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Christmas was great. I wouldn't want it more than once a year though but I am looking forward to the next one. TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-60297568389934729632012-11-22T14:12:00.001+00:002012-11-22T14:12:50.914+00:00I only want a front door!!This post is as simple as the title. I only want a front door!!! As I have written about before, we bought a 1950's property that needed work about a year ago. In that time we have transformed the inside and it is nearly a proper home. Today I gave a deposit for the flooring and we hope to have some laid by Christmas. We are rushing a little bit now because it is getting colder. Without the floors covered, warm air is leaving the house faster than the radiators can pump it in. The front door is another fly in the ointment. It is old and lets in a lot of cold air too. I thought I would refurbish it and see if it helped. I was sanding it back and on reaching the bottom panel, I discovered that it was rotten all the way through; so in-repairable. This is a shame on 2 levels, one, because it is a lovely door and two, I now need to find the money for something else!<br />
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This task of door hunting is proving very difficult for a couple of reasons. Our door is an odd size - or so I am told by the carpenter - it is a large door. I do not want to reduce the door as that means messing with the frame and costing more. I have looked on ebay, googled it and checked many other places and it seems that I need to spend a large amount, just on the door. Plus those doors are unglazed and so glazing would be on top. I have found some beautiful doors but they do not seem to come in the size I need.<br />
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After paying out for the flooring we do not have the funds at the moment to get a new door. Plus some of the flooring cannot be laid until the door is done so it is a catch 22 situation.<br />
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Who would have thought that looking for a solid wood door with some glazing panels would be so difficult?<br />
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My plan is simple, I need to try harder to fix this. If there are any door people out there who supply wood doors, please contact me. On the same note, if anyone needs some odd jobs done that I can complete from home, let me know! One way or the other, I want to try and get the front door sorted.<br />
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Thank you in advance.TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-130095775484518317.post-79544186686327728602012-11-14T10:35:00.001+00:002013-03-14T10:17:51.668+00:00Toys going too far?.....I was pottering away on the computer the other day, had a look at facebook where someone I knew I had written about their disgust of a new toy. At this stage I should tell you about the toy so that you are aware from the start. There is a new doll on the market which comes with a breastfeeding bra to enable the child to put on the bra and feed her doll. Think about this before you read on....<br />
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On the face of it, the toy could be seen as just that, a toy. I feel, however, maybe it goes a tad too far but not for the same reasons as others. My friend was worried that this is why we have a problem with teenage pregnancies. I disagree. I cannot see that a doll could increase or decrease teenage pregnancies. Many children try to mimic their mothers while she feeds siblings does this mean we are all to blame? What I fear is that giving the child an actual feeding bra has taken the concept too far. Children are happy with fake bottles and the make believe that that conjures up for them. They do not need to know or re-enact anything more than that.<br />
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The issue of teenage pregnancies is a complex one. I really disagree that dolls can affect this as I said above. What I fear is that people/parents are passing the blame too much. As a parent it is your responsibility along with schools, (and I mean along with) to educate your child. Learning things from an early age with take away the mystical world of intimate relationships making the child less likely to start too early. If your child does fall pregnant as a teen you need to deal with it. It should not be seen as failure on anybody's part. You as the parent are there to support and educate your child through whatever life throws at them. Don't judge them and don't try and find reason to blame someone. <br />
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Back to toys in general, there are many toys on the market that 'go too far' but our children have grown up faster than we did. Who would have known that children as young as 5 would use computers?! We need to move forward with the next generation. We also need to make sure that our children get to be children even if that is with a computer or games consoles. Different generations, different attitudes. Just don't let yourself get carried away with advertising. If you do not like the look of a toy, don't buy it. Simple.TBAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15087341451515418833noreply@blogger.com3