IN FLANDERS FIELDS

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

Written by: Major John McCrae
May 3, 1915

Remembrance Day is always a big deal for me. I have close connections with people both currently serving in the forces and with people who have lost their lives while serving, from WW1 to the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

It means a lot to me to mark the day and to think about them, although I don't need a particular day to remember. I also encourage Matty to have an awareness and understanding of what it all means and how important it is to show respect on such a day. The poem I've added has always been a favourite of mine. The words are so poignant to me.

 

So, this week I've really progressed with the counselling and I'm feeling much more settled there now to share stuff and work through it. It's all positive at the moment.
I was quite upset last night about a few different issues and it was actually my Dad who helped me out. He talked to me a lot and we spent the day together today, shopping in Newcastle. It was a really relaxed day. I loved spending time with him and was glad we both made the effort to go and do something together.. even if it did include a rather unhealthy but delicious lunch!!

I managed to get a few more presents in so I just really need to get stocking fillers now. I'm a lot more organised about it this year but i have had a lot more time on my hands to be able to be organised!! Having said that, the days I'm not working seem to be busier than the ones when I do!

I'm also enjoying working on my clarinet playing. I've been given a solo to play in the gig we're doing in Decemeber and rather than shying away from it, I'm actually looking forward to doing it. It's another thing to focus on and I've missed how good it makes me feel to play. I'm getting that back now, which is all good.