As I look out at the magnolia tree just outside our front door, I can see the pinkish petals of its fragrant blooms just beginning to peek out of their fuzzy bud cocoon. Each degree of increasing warmth, every burst of spring sunshine slowly coaxes these gorgeous flowers from their safe shelters. We’re all looking forward to seeing and smelling the tree in full bloom but like many things in life, nature takes its course. And we have to be patient and remain optimistic, especi

I love talking; anyone who knows me can verify that for sure. I thought I listened well, and certainly my journey of self-awareness over the years and my whole coaching training and practise has gone a long way to enhancing those listening skills. But still, I could always listen better. My husband likes to remind me of this on frequent occasions. Research suggests that we remember between 25 percent and 50 percent of what we hear. So just think, when you’re talking to your p

Yesterday, my hubby and I came back from a lovely weekend away with our son and another couple, and their daughter Lola who has Down’s syndrome. The excuse for this weekend came as it was her 10th birthday and her mum, a very good friend of mine, wanted to celebrate this milestone with a nice break. She suggested the Center Parcs in Wiltshire, as it had lots of great activities, the setting was in the forest and we could share some lovely accommodation at a pretty reasonable