I had good intentions this past week, but my daughter was ill so all I managed to achieve was a continual washing cycle and scrubbing the place down with disinfectant.

The house still has a vague whiff of hospital pine about it now.

When she stopped feeling poorly, we went out into the garden and made an eco wigwam that I’ll also use to grow runner beans around. It was fun making use of garden debris.

One of the great advantages of having children is that you get to think like a child again.

Play kids games. Have a second childhood. OK so your hair will be silver prematurely and your stomach will look like there’s a bottom on both sides of your body, but it’s worth it.

Coming up, I have more training, a couple of job applications to make, and a few meetings, plus the office hours next Friday and again I am doubled booked on Thursday. I hope the Big Drop In was a success. I hope some of you managed to head down to the Memorial Hall for any advice you need.

I found staying home was unexpectedly calming. I realised I do quite a lot and I am often utterly worn out!

Next I’m learning how to create a website for the Community Network in Rudheath and Witton so we can share ideas, information and gain crucial input from the community about how they want money to be spent regenerating the area.

I hope people take advantage of this opportunity to make something more of their neighbourhood.

We’re all thinking about the upcoming Rudheath and Witton Fun Day, which will be held this year on May 1st at Rudheath High School.

If anyone has any ideas, want to make a donation or have a stall for their community group or charity, please call the Neighbourhood Working Team on 01606 353536.

My unexpected break from volunteering just goes to show, it’s really important to take time for yourself and your family when you’re a volunteer.

All too often people go into burn out these days. I know many carers and ‘unofficial’ volunteers who are on the verge of collapse.

So whether it’s a long hot bath or fishing or a cream cake or a tickle fight with your children, make sure you nurture yourself too.

I think it’s really important to learn to ‘live for today’.

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