Sometimes the little things really are the big things

Firstly I need to apologise that there was not a blog yesterday. Unfortunately my husband received some bad news yesterday and that took over our lives. And suddenly you realise the little things, your family, your friends really are the most important things in life.

Whilst we can all enjoy a meal in an expensive restaurant, a holiday overseas, things that money can buy, no amount of money in the world can buy health. Apparently my grandfather used to talk about when it is and when it isn’t someone’s time. I don’t remember him, he died when I was six months old. He was older than any of my husband’s grandparents and fought in World War 1. Whilst in the trenches he was hit by a bullet which was travelling directly towards his heart. Thankfully his metal hip flask was in his breast pocket and took the bullet. He said afterwards it wasn’t his time.

My father-in-law has had bladder cancer since 1990, yes 31 years. However it has now broken out of the bladder and the prognosis is not good. He has been in my life for 24 years. I am not going to suggest that it has all been plain sailing, it hasn’t. He was quite a formidable man. However I think that I can say now that I love him and that he has probably had more of a positive impact on my life over the last two decades than my own father, which is a whole other story. I don’t know whether I will get to go and see him. At the moment I will be staying here and running our business. When people say that life is precious and that we should try to live every moment its true. Its often hard to do so however we do need to try to be kind to one another.

Being kind to me is one of the reasons for coming to France. I wanted a slower pace of life and a less stressful work regime. Whilst I do work hard now it is not the same as when I worked full-time in the UK. I ensure that I find time to do things that help me to feel well. Today I have engaged in Shinrin Yoku or Forest bathing. And yes it does include tree hugging! It wouldn’t be for everyone however it was wonderful. We are small, select group who work with our teacher and our sessions give all of strength and a sense of well-being, something that I really needed today. I am feeling a sense of calm now but also looking forward to our next session.

This weekend will be busy. I have guests in the gite and I will be helping my husband and one of my sons pack to go back to the UK. I hope that you all have a good weekend and that you are able to spend some time with those that are important to you.