Thoughtfulness

On our recent visit across I lost my little wallet! We had stopped off in Knutsford Services for a cuppa, comfort break and a short walk,
around the perimeter for Wizzy to investigate the smells. Juggling paper cups, car keys and dog, I put the wallet on the roof of the car.

Two hours later, in the Cotswolds, I realised what I'd done - phoned the police and services - and then cancelled the cards.

On our return I found a padded envelope which included the wallet and this note:

Hello,
Found your wallet in the carpark of a service station on the M6 but unfortunately I couldn't find you or an Isle of Man car.
I realise that you have probably cancelled them but here they are and you can at least be sure that they are safe and unused.
Kind regards,
Paul

Am so delighted to have it back, and to be on the receiving end of the kindness of 'Paul' - He did not address his note so am unable to contact him. Nevertheless - Thank you Paul.

Worth remembering that there as some truly thoughtful people around.

Love the Cool Colour

It's been a fine, sunny December day. Great day for a walk, although there was a chilly north wind. Wizzy loves lifting her nose to the wind, and her little ears were flapping in the wind today! It's a good direction for Coral Cottage as it's not howling straight into our living room through the large front windows, one of which doesn't keep out very much at all.

We were out this afternoon at the Mills getting one or two things, including a delicious Manx Christmas Pud. At Tynwald Mills, in St John's there is a Cafe ... The Cat That ... it's full of welcoming comfy chairs and I just love the decor. Tea is good too. Inspired by a couple of sites I've found I decided to take my camera and much to hubby's embarrassment took these photos.

If you like turquoise too have a look at these websites: http://www.houseofturquoise.com/
http://www.everythingturquoise.com/

Weekend Achievements I

While the boys were growing up I always wanted a car with 7 seats. Today we have one!

Having six adults to ferry around this weekend it was extremely useful. We all managed to pile into the car and do a bit of sightseeing. Here are Susan and Ruth looking quite happy - though they did comment they could only see where we had been. Friday the weather was sunny so Terry and Susan had a quick nip up to St John's and then we had a lovely tea in Harbour Lights in Peel. There really is nothing like a good cuppa! Ruth and Mally arrived on the last Gatwick flight and we had late supper.

Saturday saw the Bride and Groom going to the Jewellers to size up for their wedding rings. Meanwhile the oldies had a look at Laxey Wheel in torrential rain before abandoning the island tour. We then all piled back into the car and took a trip to the Calf instead. The storm ensured the sea was choppy and only a few souls braved the inclement weather, amidst the spume and flying seaweed, to view the local seals. We discovered we had severe 'window measles' on our return.

Wizzy took our visitors out for many walks. They are seen discussing the geography of the Island in relation to the the mainland. It really is good to spend time with our extending family.

Night Noises

The eerie silence ended with driving rain late yesterday evening.

Sometime during the night, I was awoken by pounding on the roof. The flat roof acts as a skin of a drum, and we live inside. The wheely bins outside were being blown around adding to the noise. Wizzy was restlessly moving about trying to find a place of safety. When the lightning flashed hailing the electric storm, she was instantly on the bed nosing her way under covers. There she stayed, trembling.

It's curious that, if we are awake in the utter darkness of night, with our eyes tightly shut, the flash of lightning penetrates all.

There are times in our lives when we experience fear. In those moments we seek comfort and assurance. Like children, like all of us, our pets need reassurance.

The Evening Collect:

Lighten our darkness,
Lord, we pray,
and in your great mercy
defend us from all perils
and dangers of this night;
for the love of you only Son,
Our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen

These words resonate, not just at night but, especially in fearful times. Take courage and rest assured that darkness is pierced by the Light.

Hotair

A couple of researchers into household carbon footprints have concluded that keeping a medium sized dog will leave a carbon footprint equal to a gas guzzling vehicle. Their recommend you kill your dog, eat it and then keep a fish or budgie instead.

It seems a curious conclusion considering just how much pleasure and companionship they offer. Owning a dog, we are told, reduces stress, which is a brilliant reason to have one. Wizzy makes a huge difference to our home and family. When we came here we knew very few people. Thanks to Wiz this is not the case.

Let's keep perspective and remember we are all part of something immeasurable.

Here she is on her favourite bed looking through the scaffolding.