Wednesday 11th February 2009

We've had a good couple of days, although I feel I can relax a bit more now following working quite hard on my audit skills and portfolio planning and research questions. Supervision was today and my work was thoroughly criticised- which I'm pleased about. I can either feel that I'm not able to carry on or can try harder to continue. I'm still looking for the 'small and beautiful' idea to pursue, but haven't found it yet. The changing demographics of the world are the catalyst- more elderly people needing caring for but perhaps less family, particularly less daughters due to decreasing fertility rate. There's also the decrease of extended family living locally. How do these individuals cope in the sandwich generation and may even be grandparents? I need to be specific. I know that 'I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me'- Philippians 4:13. I will pray more about this and wait to see what happens.

So looking forward to next week and spending quality family time. My brother and family are staying in the same village so will be good to catch up with him too.

Lulu is going to a cattery now- pet hotel! I'm hoping she'll be ok there. Today was the first day that she was out all day. She has mastered the cat flap now which is great as she now comes home independently.

The children are all happy and well- not so sure they want to go away now as they will miss so much fun. Charlie is missing a party and sleepover at church plus cinema outing with friends. Harry is also missing a party and Rosie two parties. There will be more parties and they will have a good time. Charlie is hoping there will be some nice girls for him and his cousin ( also 15 ) to meet!

So looking forward to the peace and quiet of being in the mountains, and hearing and feeling the snow underfoot. I know I dislike the cold, but somehow it is different. The sun is usually shining and I can't wait to feel the warmth of the sun's rays on my face even though there is snow. The views and scenery are also spectacular and it is where I feel closest to God as I love to wonder in the awe and majesty of His creation.