To be honest, I've struggled to find the 'happy' things because there has been a lot going on at work that has been stressing me out and I don't use the 'S' word lightly as I have recognised the impact that work has been having on things like sleep, concentration, mood. So I booked a weeks leave - no plans, no set agenda, just a week away from the work place.
The weather this week has been fabulous during the daytime (the thunder storms and rain of a night don't count as it's NIGHT) and I have just enjoyed pottering about. So, in no particular order...
Although Mum finds the heat very tiring we went into Chelmsford for a mooch around the shops on Thursday - a couple of covered shopping malls and lots of air-conditioned stores meant that she was able to have a good wander round without too much trouble. She thought this fellow was rather fun...
Wednesday was a very sad day as it was the funeral of a colleague but the weather played her part and was glorious. Many colleagues, past & present, attended which was a lovely reflection of the high regard that everyone had for Chris. Suzie (Weasel) had worked very closely with Chris for a number of years and she had taken the phone call that had brought the sad news of his passing so she was understandably very upset. The service was beautiful and the wake after was cool and calm away from the heat of the outside - folk were happy to share fond memories of someone that will be sorely missed. I then 'kidnapped' Suzie (her words) for a visit to Barleylands...
Crafters will know that there are always "Christmas in July" events every year - these give a boost to those who are very organised and craft through the year for the Holiday season and a gentle nudge to those of us who always have good intentions but still end up frantically crafting until the wee-small hours the night before the last mailing opportunity (I hold my hand up and admit to being guilty as charged LOL). This year the folk at Bugaboo Stamps were celebrating their 3rd year of having a CIJ event by having a blog-hop and a whole week of challenges with loads of prizes up for grabs...
Friday was the start of 'Member's Weekend' and I placed my order for the new Distress Markers that are coming out (matching the limited edition seasonal colours ink pads that came out originally in sets of 3). A few other goodies managed to find my way into my basket - don't they always - and then I had a lovely coffee and chat with Hilary, a lady I met through crafting and if we are unable to catch-up at workshops we always take time to do so during members weekend.
This has been a lovely 'slow-down' week. I haven't managed to do much in-doors and I haven't crafted much this week but it has been super to just 'chill' (okay - probably not the best choice of words in this heat LOL). It's back to work on Monday and things will be back to their normal hectic ways but it has been super just doing 'nothing' so to speak and not having to rush anywhere or chase deadlines. I wonder how the boss would feel about me booking another week off?...........................
7 comments:
Too much of a good thing with the sunshine eh? Glad you found a way for your Mum to be able to get out and about in some cool shops. Bet your week off whizzed by so fast... hope you had some time to just sit and play! Annette
It is always good to make some space in your life for 'me time'. It sounds as though you made the most of your week off. It is a shame you had to attend a funeral during it, but I guess that is another fact of life that we all have to face sometimes. I l can see why your mum loved the giraffe and the flowers are beautiful. I hope going back to work isn't too stressful. Kate x
I bet work certainly missed you more than you missed it :-) Does not only you good but work as well when you step away for a bit, shows them how much you do ;)
Hope your week back isn't to hectic x
A slowdown week is a really good idea sometimes isn't it?
Sorry to hear about the passing of your colleague but so glad you were able to de-stress a little and take stock :)
Its lovely just to have some time out with no particular plan. Oving that giraffe. So sad about your colleague but sounds like a lovely send off and wekk done on winning the prize
Another one I missed I've no idea how, definitely worth taking that break away from work, sounds like you had a great week (with the exception of the funeral). Time with your Mum, I loved the giraffe photo, glad you managed to catch up with friends and glad that despite the sadness of the occasion at the funeral you were able to share good memories!
Hope you are OK
Much love
Post a Comment