On our way to Upton Park in the mid eighties Trevor is offering a bag of sweets around the car. As he does so he tells the story of the time, during his days as a detective, when the driver of the vehicle they were travelling in asked if there were any more sweets. “Nothing left” came the reply. … [Read more...] about Why We Grieve For Ourselves At A Funeral
Gratitude
Why Outcome Isn’t The Only Thing That Matters
I’m training Daisy to recall at the whistle. It’s a rewarding if lengthy process. In the house or garden she’s solid, but out in the wild, when there are other dogs to play with and disgusting things to eat in the undergrowth, it’s sometimes a different story. I persevere because it’s important and, … [Read more...] about Why Outcome Isn’t The Only Thing That Matters
Why You Don’t Want A Perfect Christmas
A few days ago I was imagining that I might spend Christmas ill in bed having been struck down by another bout of seasonal sickness. In what seemed like an unfairly swift follow up strike from my last bout in late November I was listless, nauseous and completely bereft of all energy. But there was … [Read more...] about Why You Don’t Want A Perfect Christmas
Dogs, Traffic Jams And How To Be Patient.
I nearly didn’t get around to writing a post this week. For the first time in over 200 weeks I thought I might not fit everything in. Then I got stuck in a traffic jam, and I changed my mind. Everyone who has had a puppy looks at me with a knowing smile when I tell them how Daisy has engulfed all … [Read more...] about Dogs, Traffic Jams And How To Be Patient.
How You’re Wasting Time Without Realising
It’s so hot that my gelato is melting almost before the serious looking lady hands it to me. The "Zuppa Inglese" is teetering on top of the "Pina Colada" flavour and, as I hurry to the hopelessly inadequate shade of the trees, I am licking furiously to stop the whole mound toppling onto the … [Read more...] about How You’re Wasting Time Without Realising