Reluctant Readers

Since watching Gareth Malone’s recent series featuring reluctant readers, I’ve been thinking about children’s literature and writing for boys in particular.  My understanding of small boys and poor reading habits is limited as Nerea is a voracious reader and after the age of 7, male children didn’t really feature as part of her social circle, but I know enough to appreciate that many boys do not read.  Gareth’s programme touched on various factors behind this but access to quality, interesting reading material was certainly an issue.  As an enthusiastic story telIer myself, I feel the need to do more research

When you know you can't dance

I had an idea yesterday that there’s a gap in the TV reality market for a programme “So you know you can’t dance”. The delectable Brian Fortuna would be the show’s mainstay, with a plethora of FFs (everyone welcome, including those with limited mobility) dressed in “firm foundation” and sequins, boogying on down to Beyonce. It’d be far more entertaining and sincere than watching some celebrities on Strictly pretending that they really, really love the other contestants and that they and their partner are there merely for the “journey” and not because they actually want their hands on that glitterball.

Cake Bake

I need to get the mixing bowls out again this evening as we have a home hockey match tomorrow and I usually make cake to sustain the teams after the game.  My usual recipe is chocolate cake with chocolate chips  but perhaps I should make carrot cake instead; at least I can pretend that it’ll count towards “five a day”!  I find baking a very therapeutic and satisfying experience after a busy week at work so usually have something homemade in the cupboard for Andy and Nerea to munch on.  If only eating the results wasn’t so detrimental for me.

Happy Childhood

Reading the quotation "It's never too late to have a happy childhood" on my calendar set me thinking, which is always a dangerous occupation. My own childhood was overshadowed by caring responsibilities for my sick mother.  It wasn't unhappy; it just lacked a spontaneity that made me determined to ensure my daughter's upbringing was carefree and contented. Thankfully, Andy and I were able to provide such an environment for Nerea and in doing so, I shared in many joyful, childlike experiences I'd missed during my own childhood.  So I definitely believe it's worth embracing your inner child at any age

Strictly Come Criticising

Strictly Come Dancing?. Well, accepting that there's a huge Brian Fortuna sized hole (that man had such an impact during his all too short tenure), I didn't completely dislike it.  I'm hoping it's like wearing new slippers; they're not as comfy ad the old ones but over time, you settle into them.
I liked the new set and some of the celebs seemed worth following (Ann Widecombe was a hoot).  But the props must go and soon, thankyou. And the costumes? Kristina's stripey number - Err....A dominatrix and Rupert Bear?? Oh purlease.  Wardrobe; please note.  Must do better

Taylorgill Force

Glis and Molly

Caroline

Taylorgill, Seathwaite

Thursday had been forecast to be the best day of the week, weather-wise, so my geocaching friend and I decided to have a day walking in the hills. We decided to trek upto Styhead Tarn where several geocaches were waiting to be found, through Taylorgill, which involves a bit of a scramble.  Caroline is new to fell walking so was understandably nervous at the start of the Gill but once at the top , was totally exhilarated at her achievement. It was then easy going to the tarn for celebratory chocolate and the successful hunting of the illusive butty boxes

Please don't sue me

I had something of a shock when on dipping into Brian and Ali's thread on Digital Spy after a lengthy absence, I saw my name mentioned in connection with these Drabbles. I hastily scrolled back and eventually found a post which indicated that the poster had received a Google Alert, presumably because I'd made past references to Strictly et al.  I'd no idea that my Google Blogger musings could be discovered via Google (yes, I am that dumb) but thankfully, a hasty mental replay through my posts reassured me that I hadn't libelled anyone (yet). Discretion when scribbling certainly pays