Healing mental health during COVID-19 times and beyond
Author: Julie
Iām healing from anxiety and depression and exploring my way through a whole new lovely world with an abundance of awareness and a new love for lifeā¦ and travelling the world!
I didnāt sleep that well last nightā¦. I tossed and turned on and off all night but we had Freya in with us, and sheās a lot more active through the night than Khaleesi.
She doesnāt look it here!!
Weād all had a lovely lazy evening too.
I was up and out for a run with Emma this morning at 7.30am. There was just the two of us.
It was a lovely morning!
We did a 4.3k but it seemed super hot so we ended up walking back. we decided to switch our trackers off at one point on the way home.
I came home and sat out and had coffee in the garden with Craig, before he went to work. No rest for the Scottish Dog Behaviourist.
When he went to get ready, I headed out with the 3 puppeteers.
They were really good this morning! Always weaving about from one side to the other.
I have to say that Iām really low energy again today. I feel good, my head is in a good place, but Iām really tired and I need to do absolutely nothing but rest.
The light was shining on this last night so I thought Iād take a photo. Craig bought this for me.
I am having the loveliest of days. The dogs and I had a sleep over lunchtime. Iāve read a book, chatted to the neighbours and sat out in the garden for a few minutes.
I do feel like Iām going through a rejuvenation of some sorts. I was so super excited at the start of the week that I feel like Iām resting to process everything Iāve taken on board. I feel calm and in control.
There is nothing wrongā¦ only a lack of oomph!
I have picked my crochet back up for the first time in a very long time and Iām sat watching Beverly Hills Cop!
Nice and bright and colourful!
So I hope youāre all having a great weekend. Thereās loads needing doing here but it wonāt be getting done today.
Iām sure we woke up with a new government too. Hey a change is as good as a rest they say.
I slept like a log. Again, yes I know if must be wearing for folks who cannot sleep but Iām so grateful for my sleep.
I do miss the Fitbit sleep trackerā¦ the Apple one is pretty basic in comparison.
Iāve been listening to the Diary of a CEO, a great episode about fasting, which also went on to explain so many other theories. I was thirsty for the knowledge, almost gulping it down. Towards the end Dr Mindy Pelz says we should think about a toolboxā¦ on certain days we need certain things. Some days we need vitamin D to supplement our food intake, some days we need cardio, some days resistance training, some days we need to feed our hormones, other days we need rest.
I need rest today and instead of panicking about a wasted day, Iām going to allow myself some rest.
She saysā¦. After having already done 12k steps in dog walks. š thatās me on a resting day?!?
So I dragged myself out of bed after 7.30, a nice wee lie in.
I had to drop Bertie Beetle at the garage this morning for a potential slow puncture and itās still creaking and groaning after having the passenger side spring replaced. So I took Calaidh with me and we had a lovely walk back up in the rain.
Itās honestly like November weather up here just now. Itās cold, wet and windy though the forecast shows this morning as the worst of the weather.
Everything is so green and overgrown just now. If you can brave the weather, itās really pretty.
This tree always makes me smileā¦. Thought funnily this morning I suddenly thought it could be two trees and just the angle Iām seeing it at.
Every time I drive passed this field the highland cows are near the fence and usually when I walk past they are nowhere to be seen. Today I changed tactā¦. Iām off to get a photo of the heilanā coosā¦. Determined!
Tah dah!
Now this is down to my 15x zoom on the iPhone 15 Pro so Iām taking it as a small victoryā¦. š
This one stared at me for a while.
The others were playing so seem quite young. Iād LOVE to see these guys up close if anyone nearby can help me arrange it?!?!
The colours are amazing. Even although itās such a dreich day.
So many lovely weeds along the way.
Did spot this colourful coo on the side of a trailer in JS Montgomery Tractorās yard.
This statue says Welcome to Beith. Itās carved of wood and I think sheās called Johannaā¦ sheās looking to the skies wondering when summer will come just like the rest of us. š
These nettles were massive!!!
Calaidh so happy off lead.
Geilsland Road just as we head in Spiers Old School Grounds. Iāve added some reels onto my instagram at The Rambling Sloth, today. Go take a look if youāre on Insta. It was beautiful in the woods.
In we go Cal!
SUNSHINE!!!!!!!!
QUAD VERUM TUTUM – safety in truth.
I walked into the Queenās Coronation garden for the first time in a while. This Dawn Redwood was planted from a seedling from Japan in 1953.
Itās a beautiful tree.
I love the old walls and gates.
The sun is hitting the brighter leaves in this photo.
Just walking alongā¦
My favourite gate looks really dark under all the trees.
Calaidh living her best life!
So back home and posted the insta reels then off up the hill with Bhruic and Freyaā¦. The rain came over so it was a soggy walk!
The inside of my glasses were as wet as the outside!
They had a good run about in the field before I realised that silage had been spread on themā¦. Thankfully they werenāt too smelly. š
So to be honest, I got home about 11 and Iāve allowed myself to rest.
Iāve done precious little, though I have listened to some Law of Attractions YouTube videos.
Andā¦. guess whatā¦ I had the longest napā¦. Craig came home from work and fell asleep so I did too. Just woke up when the garage rang to say the car is ready. Tried not to have a āyou just woke me upā voice. (Donāt think I said I woke two folk up on Wednesday morning first thing when I called them from workā¦ felt awful š«£š)
The car was only Ā£24 for the puncture.
So thatās been my self care day.
Iām still shattered but I needed a rest day from my toolbox today.
It feels good to have known that from the outset and not to have fought it.
This is what reminded me of our general election today.
Am I the only one who allows this to pass by?!
I donāt watch the news. I try to stay as far away from it as possible.
Some would say this is naive but I know what works for me.
I did get a postal vote a few weeks ago but other than that, Iāve heard nothing.
I do smile though, when someone mentions something in the news and I am surprised Iāve not heard about it!!! š«£š
I was in bed for 8.20pm, straight after crochet. (I actually did crochet last night, check me!!) mIt was so cold and wet that it seemed the right thing to do on a āwintry nightā.
I slept for 8 hours and 15 minutes.
I did get up twice and at 4.20am we had a power cut and the smoke detector was beeping. It lasted about half an hour.
I was fast asleep when the alarm went off!
It was torrential rain this morning. It was so dark, wet and very windy. It seemed much worse than the forecast suggested.
I have fleece leggings and a vest top on under my work gear!
You canāt even see the rain pouring down in this photo!
This does show how dark the village hall is, it must have been pouring all night and the stonework is soaking wet.
Itās been like four seasons in one day. Very typical of a Scottish Aprilā¦ and yet itās not April!
So where is my head at today?
Hmmm itās ok. The hmmmm says it all. It got dragged into irritability, which I really need to work on. I can tell when my ego kicks in and has a right good moan, I hear her and try to ignore the voice but itās still too easy to slip into.
Iām very glad itās my weekend and, as has been the case recently, I have no plans at all.
Iām going to do some of Mel Robbinās inspirational work, in amongst all the housework.
I made another āGro Coffeeā taco meal for dinner. It was really tastyā¦ I have to watch I donāt have this every night. š
Jeez thatās the rain on again. Itās definitely a coorie in night again. I may even get the crochet back out.
I thought I was losing it yesterday but Iām back. I feel motivated, fresh headed and calm again today.
I didnāt sleep quite as well as I had the night before. I woke while it was still dark and again at 4.30am. I was getting up at 5.30 to run with the girls and I guess thatās always on my mind through the night.
I felt rotten when I got up and could have just curled up in a ball and stayed in bed, but the girls were waiting.
I ran my best ever run again and got another PB.
I donāt think it was the longest distance but it was the fastest pace. I only walked once to blow my nose but I rejoiced the twice Claireās laces came undoneā¦. š
Here we are when we were finished, Claire, me and Lynsey.
Who needs a shower when you have a Khaleesi?!?!
I was sweating so much this morning, I jumped straight into a cool shower and thatās like the reward for the run! I love it!
Only had 30 minutes to get ready for work, but I managed and got in 10 minutes early.
I listened to the Diary of a CEO podcast on the way in. Its talks about the benefits of fasting. It was a really interesting pod.
I feel like a sponge at the moment, eager to soak up all positive, mental attitude stuff.
I do feel like this just now.
Iāve apologised to Craig for chirping like a budgie just now, I know I am doing it. š Itās nice to feel peace, happiness and so much gratitude.
I really aware of manifesting just now, too.
You are what you eat, think and speak.
I went to Tesco after work and instead of buying crisps and chocolate, I decided to try and recreate my lunch at Gro Coffee the other day.
Now this obviously cost a FRACTION of the price but I really enjoyed it and was so proud of myself for thinking to make it.
Iām off into meet the Crochet Hookers tonight and who knows, I may even hook for a change.
The weather is wildā¦ wet, cold and very windy just now. Everyone you speak to mentions how bad it is. I hope it will change soon but meanwhile itās letting me get things done indoors, things I would do if it was sunny outside.
My head hit the pillow at 10pm and I woke up with the alarm. Khaleesi canāt have moved either.
Iām still sleeping downstairs to look after her but sheās doing really well. We are both sleeping so well. I did think sheād keep me awake more than she does. Sheāll probably be ok on her own but we donāt want to leave her that long just yet.
Yes I know, I never thought Iād be that person to wrap up a dogā¦. š«£š«¶š¼
Iām still focussing on gratitude.
I had my shower and got ready for work and sat down to do my 15 minutes of inspired action.
I listened to some positive affirmations before I headed off to work.
Now thisā¦. Needs a lot more work.
There are so many things in my life that I think should be a certain way, or should go a certain way and I get irritated when they donāt. I canāt change them, they will keep happening so I need to make the best of it. Not everything in life can go YOUR way and the key to real happiness is seeing this and moving on from it.
I thought this explains it well.
I am full of gratitude, love and joy but my ego keeps nagging away at the back of my mind trying to get me to react. It keeps winning and I donāt want to be that person anymore.
Recognising it is half the battle. I feel like my manic sparkle has dulled a bit today but hey we canāt all be manic, sparkling and driven every dayā¦ I guess. š«£
So there is still hope. š
Iām off out for a run at 5.45am with. Some of the girls and Iām looking forward to it, but I will get an early night tonight.
I made a lovely halloumi salad for dinner.
I do feel a bit flatter tonight, there was a bit more anxiety in my day so Iāll be kind to myself and not try to change the world for the rest of the evening. š¤š
Happy July everyone as it pours with rain in Ayrshire.
It was torrential this morning, I feel weāve not seen rain like that for a few weeks.
Oh how I long for this version of July but as my friend Isy said, a sunny disposition inside and for once I was able to agree with her.
I donāt know whatās taken over me just now but I feel so driven.
I am determined to make a difference to my life and I am still buzzing with the drive and enthusiasm to kick it all off. Whether that be weeding, running, trying to eat healthily or investigating business prospects, I am on it.
Like how throw that in thereā¦ without any real idea of what it might be just now. (I should say that the book writing didnāt inspire me much. That surprises me as I wax lyrical on a daily basis but it just didnāt flowā¦ yetā¦ never say never).
So I got up 15 minutes early today to jot down some ideas I had.
Made a nice healthy salad with felafel for lunch.
Iāve had a really good day at work. Focused, determined, driven to get things done.
Itās ok I hear myself š«£š
I actually feel like Iām doing this just now.
And yet still the travel things come. I hear them and see them and know that I am working towards this.
Iāve made some rice pudding tonight with coconut and rice milk. It was really nice. We are waiting on a Morrisonās food delivery as they offered Ā£15 off this week. Thereās nothing much else in the house!
So Iām going to hang a washing up and put some washing away and then settle down to relax for a bit before bed.
Long may this continue.
Oh I forgot this pic of me that Craig took yesterday!!
I still canāt believe how bad the weeds were yet alone how much work I have done.
Iām almost too tired to typeā¦. Yet I never let that stop me š
Iām loving this new found determination and forward motion.
To appreciate everything that I have and stop thinking that life will be wonderful when Iām off travelling the world. To make sure itās wonderful now.
Before I got up, I spent some time this morning looking at business ideas. I decided not to go ahead with the thing I was looking at but it was interesting to research. My mind is focused. I am bursting with gratitude and Iām determined to make the best of every moment.
I didnāt stop for lunch until just after 2pm.
We had a lovely afternoon and evening at my in laws last yesterday. It was lovely to spend some time with them, and get such a lovely spread. We brought so much food home with us. š
Randomly I only have photos of dogs! They had a great time too.
We started off outside but had to move into their garden room, which is lovely, and it was soooooo cosy after the wind picked up. On several occasions, we said you would never believe there were 4 adults and 5 dogs in that one space. They were all so good. They slept most of the time we were inside.
I had no anxiety about taking the 4 dogs to their house as I would have had previously. I had no anxiety about driving Craigās monster truck home, which I would previously have had.
I was so aware of the calm.
So proud of the calm.
So yes, Iām feeling pretty good this weekend.
While thatās not unusual these days, it is unusual for me to feel so good having a weekend at home. I usually climb the walls when I have nothing planned.
With that wee course I did on Friday with Mel Robbins, I am determined to keep moving forward on the days that I think there is nothing to do. Keep that forward motion, that momentum for change.
Focused on my health and wealth, career and relationships. I feel very awake and yet, at the same time, ready for a nap. That will be the weeding! š
Iām going to sit in the sunroom for a while, with the wood burning stove on (because itās chilly out there!) and read my bookā¦. And if I napā¦ I nap.
I am buzzing on life today. Is that even English? I think notā¦.
Khaleesi and I had a good sleep, she woke a few times but my alarm went off at 6.30am and I went out running with Claire and Lynsey this morning.
I hit my PRā¦ which I can only assume is my personal best with an r? š
I did have to slow to a walk a few times to get my breathing back but my head felt really good. I wasnāt running thinking I canāt do this, I was running thinking, I can but I do need a breather! I think thereās a difference. I was talking kindly to myself today.
Iāve not been out since a week past Wednesday and we were fast so, I did need to catch my breath.
I sat and had a coffee with Craig and then took Bhru and Freya over into the field with the frisbee. š„
Itās a lazy dog walk but they get so much exercise. No photos just quality frisbee throwing. I was even pretty proud of that!
I then took Calaidh down to Beith. I had to go to the pharmacy as I have a sore ear. Calaidh was so good.
I got some ear drops.
We then went to the little gift shop, of course we did. I never got any photos as I was so busy picking cards and looking after Calaidh AND chatting. š multitasking at its best!
The thistles are back!!
I just love them so much.
Those wonāt be the last thistle pics this year!
When I got home, I sat in the garden with the dogs.
Khaleesi enjoying a wee sunbathe. I should say itās only about 13-14Ā°C so itās not hot but itās nice enough to sit out for a bit.
Here they are, all in a line, poor K is tied to the bench!
I decided to tackle some more weeding. I was on a mission.
This photo gives the best example of just how much I didā¦ the rest will have to wait as Iāve run out of places to put the weeds Iām pulling out.
It was hard going and Iām still fasting so think maybe I ran out of energy a bit! Itās still only 12.08pm when I head inside.
Time to do some Mel Robbins focusā¦ today I did a budget. The Bank of Scotland has a budget section in the app. It was really worthwhile doing as I can see the true picture.
Then I changed out of my sweaty gym clothes and had a shower!
Weāre off to Craigās mums this afternoon to see her so I thought Iād put this out early.
Craig says I look comfyā¦..
Iām not certain that was the look I was going for š«£ but hey, I am comfy so I guess thatās the main thing.
Not sure what going on but another word popped into my head today. Focus.
I wasnāt looking forward to this weekend, having nothing to do.
My first thought today was that most folk would love a whole day with nothing planned.
My second thought was of my constant flight mode, I say Iām happy with my lot, Iām living in the present moment and Iām grateful for all that I have, but I do still keep wishing my day to day life could be different and full of excitement (predictive text gave me excrement!!!!).
So this morning I decided to make the day count.
After walking Calaidh with Holly and Leo, next door, no pics, I took Bhruic and Freya into the field and played with them for a while.
They were knackered!!
In much need of a drink when we got home!
I then settled down to do the second of Mel Robbins, Make it Happen.
I put the fire on again as itās so cold up here.
(It was so miserable and dark last night, youād think we were heading into winter!)
I focused on what I would like to see in 6 months time. How would I like my life to be different and what needs to change?
She has a whole workbook that you work through as she talks.
So for 15 minutes every day for the next 6 months, I have to focus and take some action towards my goals.
I hope that I manage to stick to that. 15 minutes is not a lot to ask. Her theory is that if you make some forward motion to change your life then you will knock all of the dominoes over and everything will start to move.
Khaleesi slept next to me as I worked.
Yes I wrapped her in a blanket š«£š
I also had a call with my Bank of Scotland Relationship Managerā¦. Who knew I had one?!?
I was an hour and 15 minutes on the call and a lot of it was spent reiterating what I had already said. It would go a lot faster if business policy was not to repeat everything I have just said for clarity. It would be better if we could talk normally.
Still, I got some good information and we have another call scheduled in a few weeks.
Iāve opened two savings accounts, one will take the roundups from everything I purchase with the card and the other just a small amount every month that hope will add up to a holiday fund, without me noticing!!
It really is a sales tool but, if they are willing to take the time out to invest in me, I will listen to what they have to say.
I listening to my intuition. I know I need to make some changes. Iām on it.
We had a lovely treat today and went to Gro Coffee for lunch.
I had my favourite, Breakfast Taco, but I replaced the chicken with Tofu and the fried egg with Humous.
We had a coffee and cake (to share) I could hardly finish my half of the cake!!
Now I say it was a treat. That cost us Ā£49.10 !!! I couldnāt believe how much it was and was convinced they got it wrongā¦ but when you add up you can get close. It was never the cheapest place but I think all the prices have gone up since we were last there.
Iāve sat in the sunroom for the rest of the afternoon, opening bank accounts and writing this.
Iāve taken a few pics tooā¦ Iād changed the camera settings on my phone.
My new thing these last few days seems to be manifesting a wordā¦. Yesterdayās was kindness.
Todayās was happy.
I did wake up to this wee face. Like every dog sheās all waggy tails and smiles until you point the camera at her.
Weāve settled into a routine in the downstairs bedroom. She has her side of the bed and I have mine.
We slept really well again last night. Only woke when I heard Craig getting up and coming down the stairs. (The bed downstairs really hurts his back, itās been fine for me!)
So yeah, Iām working hard on changing my mindset just now and trying to focus on gratitude for what I have rather than wanting to fly around the world travelling. I saw āhappyā and āhappinessā in every post I saw today.
I wrote a little H on the side of my wrist, with a smiley face. If things irritated me through the day, I just remembered the H.
You cannot change things from a place of irritation or anger or wishing for change. I truly believe that you need to appreciate the day to day as it is and be grateful for what you already have.
I know all this but, for much of this year, Iāve been antsy about seeing the world or stressed about money or annoyed that things donāt go smoothly of a day. Thatās not the right attitude.
Iām going to try and do some self help again this weekend as I have nothing planned.
Yes to thisā¦
Iāve been really tired this week and have gone for early nights and havenāt been up early for running, in an attempt to recharge.
As I write this tonight, Iām sitting in front of the open fire, which is lovely. You would think it unnecessary for June, but it seems necessary today as we have some storm blowing over.
Time to batten down the hatches, be kind to myself and get another early night with a good book.
š¤ these working days really need a bit more sparkle in them, donāt they?!
So yeah, yesterday was the big 2,000 days without alcohol but, just like everything else, the days just keep on ticking by.
Iām sitting outside writing this just now and itās hot. Itās cloudy but itās hot. Itās a lovely temperature.
Iām playing with the dogs outside but poor Khaleesi is anxious to join in today, but she canāt. It must be so frustrating for her.
Itās no funā¦ she says.
She did get a shot!!
Not the same being on a lead.
Until Bhruic walked over to her and stole it off her!!! Cheeky pup! š
Then Leo came in from next door. Poor Khaleesi was DESPERATE to run around with them!
Now this photoā¦.. first glance. I thinkā¦ cute pic.
I just happened to zoom in on my EIGHTY YEAR OLD SKIN!!! Where did that come from!!?!? Freaking out but posting because it is what it is and I donāt hide these things.
The price I pay for being a sun worshipper when I was younger. š«£
Anyway, Iām enjoying sitting out here in the garden. (I am aware of the irony!) Itās a lovely space just now as Craig pressure washed the grass and slabs yesterday. It feels so clean. I still have loads of weeding to do thoughā¦. our main road is also closed for resurfacing so itās Covid times quiet out there.
So a funny story to endā¦
I get emails at work from a company called Bolt Base. A guy Iain puts out an email every week or two and they are always really funny, chatty emails about stories in his life, that end up with finding the right fixingā¦ bolt or screwā¦ Iām not up on the technical stuff. They make laugh so I enjoy reading them.
Today he emailed and asked us to ārate it or slate itā so I replied back. Iāve always thought it might just be a really cool sales pitch and he might not be a real person!
He is a real boy! (Pinocchio style!) The MD no less and Iām calling him a boy š
I told him I donāt need to buy anything but rest assured, if someone needed a bolt, I know where Iād send them AND he replied! I donāt know why I find that so funny but I do.
Itās nice to be nice. His emails make me smile on a working day. He deserves to know that. I have no idea why Iām even on the mailing list but Iām not coming off!!
Anyway everything Iāve read today is about being kind to others, so thatās been a theme through my day.
I had a lovely dinnerā¦ Iām back to eating vegan salads for lunch and dinner just now, Iām enjoying them.
Then Craig came home.
His girl is happy!!
Iām off to meet the Crochet Hookers in the pub next door for an alcohol free pink gin and slim!
If you knew me in my drinking years then I guess you are probably just as surprised by this, as I am. š
2000 days of my life without a drop of alcohol. Whoād a thunk it, as my Gran would say?!
I should say that Gran wouldnāt have had an opinion on my drinking at allā¦ itās just her saying ā¦ obviously šš
I loved a good glass of wine.
For birthdays, holidays, Christmas, Hogmanay, a day off, a christening, a baby shower, a night out, a sunny day a good dayā¦. And bad day, a worse day and to recover from the day before.
Any excuse.
I wasnāt much of a drinker until my mid 30ās.
I had always been a people pleaser. I did everything I could to make everyone else happy but inside I was a mess.
Trying to please a senior management team that were impossible to please.
Hiring a strong team who questioned (quite rightly) everything the senior management team said.
Being customer facing but putting the senior team before the customer.
None of that sat well with me and I tied myself in knots trying to be everything to everyone.
I loved nothing more than any excuse to have a drink. I would live for the time when it was socially acceptable to have a glass of wine. By then I was self medicating and really only drinking because I was bloody miserable in my working life.
It never occurred to me that I could just leave. I had such low self esteem that by then, I thought I was worthless.
I made everyone happy except for myselfā¦. Until I started crying and didnāt stop for ages.
After being off sick from work for 4 months, I decided to try Dry January 2019. I was trying everything I could to improve my mood long enough to cope with work again.
I went back to work in January 2019, a shadow of my former self.
I was persona non grata, I was no longer invited to the senior management conferences, I was missed out of meetings. I no longer existed in that world. I disappeared off the radar again in May of 2019 and not many people noticed.
I was terrified.
I had lived for my work.
But still I did not drink.
I consumed my body weight in Cadburys Chocolate Buttons instead and put on 4 stone.
But still I did not drink.
I couldnāt go back to the euphoria then hangover scenario.
I needed to be in control.
I needed to give myself a fair shot at recovery.
It was the hardest thing I have ever done but the biggest gift I have ever given myself.
I felt strange, I felt sad, I felt left out, I felt weird, I felt uncomfortable in my own skin.
People tried to encourage me to drink, told me I was boring and asked how long it would last for.
And still I did not drink.
I owed it to myself.
I did give in on two occasionsā¦ the night the pub next door was forced to close, on 20th March 2020, due to COVID-19 lockdown and again on reopening on 25th July 2020.
I have no idea why other than I just wanted to fit in and feel normal again.
Instead I felt like shit the next day and was soooooooooo disgusted with myself.
So back on the wagon since July 2020 and life is no longer controlled by alcohol.
I cannot tell you how amazing it feels to wake up every day without a hangover and to have control over my actions. I am living my life in the present moment rather than clouded by booze.
Even after all this time, I still feel a bit strange and a bit odd at social occasions but I have some wonderful friends around me who help make that easier for me.
Iāve learned that I have real social anxiety which I had no clue about but hey, I face it with a clear head.
Thereās no getting away from the tough things in life, no way of drowning it. I have to face it head on.
And still I do not drink.
Iām so proud of myself for sticking to this and giving myself the best chance in life.
I am so lucky to sleep so well but to be fair, I donāt drink alcohol, try to steer clear of caffeine, I fast for 16+ hours every day and havenāt eaten much meat in the last 3 months or soā¦. Youād think I deserve something good out of all that. š«£
I took Calaidh in with Khaleesi and I last nightā¦
I was telling her she was coming for a sleep over. š
I had decided that, when Khaleesi woke me around 5-5.30, Iād get up and Calaidh and I would head four for a bug run/walk before work.
The alarm went off at 6.10am and we were all still out for the count. I literally couldnāt believe it was the alarm. I must have been so tired that their movements didnāt bother me in the slightest. There is no way that they didnāt move all night!
I did read a fair bit before bed, rather than look at my phone, I know that helps too.
So yeah, Iāve just been at work today. We expected a scorcher as the forecast was 20Ā°C and wall to wall sun. We got the 20Ā°C but cloudy all day really, which was a shame.
Not complaining as Iām in a metal portacabin though!
I always feel the weekday blogs are a bitā¦. I slept well, got up, went to work and came homeā¦.. after the excitement of a weekend. Thatās a good thing though as it means Iām not battling some difficult mental health stuff. Iām actually living life as calmly as I can.
So I did some weeding tonight, just to shake things up a bit. š«£š
Before:
After:
Before:
After:
Before:
After:
Now my soul is slightly destroyed by the fact that if you came into the garden now, youād think there were loads of weedsā¦ but actually Iāve a whole wheelie bin to prove that I removed a lot.
So mum phoned and I allowed myself to stand down. Weeding on hold for another few months I reckon.
Weāre sitting outside in the muggy cloudiness. Sneezing lots as I stirred up a huge amount of pollen with my evening efforts, but other than that all is well.
Out for the count completely until Miss Khaleesi woke me with some licking at 4.30am and I have dozed on and off ever since. I was even too tired to make sure she wasnāt licking her scar, to be honest she doesnāt really anymore so I just mumbled a āKhaleesi, neh, nehā a few times, which is what sheās been trained for no. Come to think of it, it could be ānay, nayā. I have never thought of the spelling. š
No wonder I slept, really, itās been a very busy weekend but one that I have loved so far.
It was so good to catch up with Helen and Mike yesterday. They have a lovely lodge in Oban Bay Holiday Park for a whole week.
As you may know, Oban is just one of my places, I love it sooooo much. It was a real treat to be able to show them around. We didnāt do half of what I had planned. š
As I said yesterday, the drive up was great and only took me two hours. I was there just after 9.30am.
We sat and admired the view from their lodge, which is just so lovely, with a wonderful Scotland flag flying in full view, which always improves a view.
Weāve been coming up to this campsite for years. We even had Mum, Dad and Nana visit us once in 2018. Special memories as that was one of the last times we spent with my Nana before she died.
It was lovely to see what Hoseasons have down with it, since they took it over a year or so ago. I do fear that they are looking to build right up into the hill which might turn it into a massive holiday park, but I suppose life brings change. You donāt always have to like it.
Itās currently so quiet and peaceful.
Their lodge is really beautiful with a lounge and kitchen are and a bedroom with en-suiteā¦ and a hot tub with a view!
We set off for an explore round the campsite after 11am. The sun was out for the first part of our walk.
I do not remember this lookout point AT ALL!!
To be fair, this was always the most salubrious of pitches and I donāt think Iād ever have walked in front of someoneās caravan to go looking. Now there are lodges here, it doesnāt feel as invasive. I also feel like they cut back some huge undergrowth! I wouldnāt have missed this! Thereās a lovely view up here.
Also looking down towards the Kerrera ferry and the Puffin Dive School.
We took a walk to look for Highland Coos!
Found them but only one of them was close enough to be photogenic! They get fed at 4pm every day so expect Helen to accept the mission and get some fab photos through the week.
A wee bit too far away.
Such a beautiful location for a campsite. Itās a bit out of Oban but itās within walking distance if youāre a walker.
We went down to see the old pier opposite the campsite, itās looking a bit worse for wear.
Mike took our photo with the island of Kerrera in the background.
I went to take a pic of this yacht and thought the barbed wire added to the shot.
The colours here are just stunning. I am definitely a blue sky photographer!
We walked down the single track road to the Kerrera ferry.
Here it is!
Tell me youāre in Scotland without telling me youāre in Scotland š“ó §ó ¢ó ³ó £ó “ó æ .
Love a passing place sign.
I donāt know what it is but Iām so at peace in Oban and the highlands of Scotland. If we had the weather, I would never be anywhere else, yet it also would be horrifically overpopulated, as everyone else would want to live there too!
The clouds are starting to roll in.
Love this wee boat. Think I got it on the way back too.
Single track road.
Now at this point the weather clouded over and from a photo perspective, Oban bay doesnāt have the best light. Iāve run a few photos through my Lightroom app to get the best of them.
We popped into the Correyvreckan Wetherspoons on the quay for a quick lunch. Right next to CalMacās Isle of Lewis, which was loading for Barra.
Spotted the Loch Frisa and the Clansman. Friday leaving for Mull the Isle of Mull just back from there.
The mighty Clansman just coming in from Colonsay.
The little boat tour heading out backwards. McCaigs Folly up on the dark skyline.
The Hebridean Isles heading out the Sound of Kerrera.
Iāve had my eye on this house since I was a wee girl. I wish I could find a photo of the old house that used to be here. It was a kit built bungalow style house but itās so close to Oban that I always felt it had the best view in the world. (Yes a bit dramatic maybe, but as I kid, I was in awe of its location). Then one visit and this had appeared!!!
Itās on a tiny island called Rudh-A-Chruidh (who knew until I looked it up!) built in 2014 it had an asking price of Ā£950k.
One dayā¦. š
We sat on a bench near the war memorial and watched the Majestic Line head out to see one by one. There must have been about 6 of them least between 3.30 and 4pm. Two of the are like cute Captain Pugwash ships.
Arty shot before Helen the wrecking ball, knocked all 3 of us down!! We were all crouched down here in a row!
3 craws sat upon a bench! Dunollie Castle above the lighthouse.
We headed back along into town. The tide is in now but still no blue sky.
Loch Striven loading for Lismore.
Itās such a beautiful road through the trees.
Helen trying to wreck another photo opportunity šš
The Kerrera ferry slip now under the high tide. They are going over there todayā¦ could I be any more envious?!?! š
I left at 6pm after a lovely day with great friends.
Sadly there had been a bad accident on the Glencoe A82 which meant that all the traffic north was diverted to Oban on the A85. I met a huge queue at Connel Bridge but got these lovely shots from the car.
I then drove past 5 miles of traffic which was queuing to get up and over the bridge. I felt so sorry for them all but I had a straight run home and was back to Craigie and the puppers by 8.30pm.
We had walked 21k steps!!
So today we went to church to see our friend and neighbour, Holly, be ordained as an Elder of the local Beith Parish Church.
After the service we went straight for a food shopping, (as you do!) came home and let the dogs out and were invited to a celebration in the pub, next door, this afternoon.
We were there until 4pm when the sun finally came out. I think we have a few good days of weather coming.
Weāre sitting outside in the garden now. Khaleesi is in the shade under a tree and Iām enjoying some heat in the sunshine.
Itās been a really busy weekend. Iāll be back to work for a rest.
Iām so grateful I no longer have the Sunday afternoon dread of going to work. Those days are long gone. I do need to get planning my next adventure though.
Wide awake at 5.45am. I feel like Khaleesi has a good shake about that time every morning as thatās when I seem to wake up.
I left the house at 7.25am, Oban bound. I made such good time.
I arrived in two hours.
Itās 4pm and weāve had a lovely day with lunch AND hot chocolates! Sadly itās been cloudy for most of the day but I still have loads of photos to shareā¦. I might leave that until tomorrow. Is 16.42 and weāre still not wandering around Oban.
Hereās the view from their lodge in the Oban Bay Holiday park.
Still got a 2.5 hour drive to get home when I leave.
I woke up at 5.46am after a good nights sleepā¦. Still dreaming of that honeycomb cheesecake last night!
So all prepared for today to be the Summer Solstice, albeit a fairly cloudy one.
WHO KNEW SUMMER SOLSTICE WAS ACTUALLY YESTERDAY?!??!?
You learn something new everyday.
I always thought the longest day was 21st June but it would appear that, in 2024, much to my amazement, it was actually yesterday. š Whoād a thunk it?!?
How did I get to 51 years of age and not know that I was a moveable feast. Upon reflection, itās obvious.
Soā¦. These are for yesterday!
Puppy Leesi (as sheās affectionately known, had another good night without her cone on. Sheās doing so well, just not putting any weight on her leg yet, but Iām sure that will come.
We had a really lovely cuddle for a while this morning. Itās lovely to have the trust of a dog that they will cuddle into you like that. Then I captured a yawn, albeit fuzzyā¦. You get the fangs!!
At 8.45am, I jumped into Bertie Beetle (could I make that sound any more cheesy?!) and drove down to Cumnock in Ayrshire, to meet Mum and Dad at Dumfries House.
I got here with a half hour to spare so just writing this in the car parkā¦. Which is fairly empty.
We went for coffee first, as we do! Had a syrup scone with jam and clotted cream. We then had a wander round the grounds, while waiting on our house tour at 12pm.
The tree is amazing!!
Mum had a good hug!
Itās such a lovely space to be in.
We came all this way and spent the first half hour with trees š
I then did a 10 second delay to get this shot. Luckily there was a random beer keg perfectly placed to pop the phone on.
Now I know how to do that, there will be more of them.
We wandered around the front f the house and the lovely gardens.
There were men with a van cleaning out the fountain, in front of the house, so there are no photos of it. š we had a good chat to them as the swept water and mud around the base of the fountain. It will be stunning once itās been cleaned out.
Mum and dad are in there, honest!
Waiting for the 12pm tour. The white door will open at 11.55.
So once inside the house you canāt take any photos due to the value of some of the items inside. There are so many pieces of Chippendale furniture.
Iām sure the tour guide said that one of the cabinets in the living room would sell for Ā£20-Ā£25 million!!
Hereās the website if youāre interested in seeing some of what I saw today.
Itās really beautiful. Itās been so well preserved.
You will know by now that I am no historian and much of what I was told goes in one ear and out of the other, while I wish I could take a beautiful photoā¦.. but King Charles saved the House from auction and all the contents being sold off, in 2007, when he got a personal loan of Ā£20 million and then secured a further Ā£25 million from investors etc to purchase the house and save all its contents.
Itās been lovingly restored, is the second largest employer in East Ayrshire, second only to the Council, and now trains many local people in the old skills required to keep a house like this restored and preserved for the future.
In a hour we walked through 3 public rooms, the large entrance hallway and 4 private rooms. The tour was really informative despite my retention issues. š
We left the house at 1pm and headed out to the Walled Garden via this lovely bridge and pond.
I made them pose. How lovely is this.
This is exactly why I want to do these trips.
We have a lovely day and make some lovely memoriesā¦ Dad has to reacquaint himself with the fact I take so many photos, but once he does, he embraces it!
This water lily is on 15x zoom. I was really pleased with it!
There were tadpoles everywhere in this pond.
So back to the Walled Gardenā¦.
It costs Ā£3 each to get in and if you have a KA postcode, which I do, you get access for one whole year!!
Here are some of the gorgeous flowers.
Mum was in flower heaven in this greenhouse!
Here I am next to the fountain.
And the view from the fountain.
The gardens are very well looked after.
I overhead one of the guides saying that you should visit the walled garden at least 4 times throughout the year to see the full beauty of it.
Stunning colours and great to play with my new phone.
By this time we were ready for lunch. We were all surprised to see it was 3pm!
The old stables hold the lovely cafe. The food is good and the prices are reasonable.
We headed back to the car park at 3.45pm.
Our days always go so quickly but itās lovely to wander around and spend time with each other. I love that I get to visit castles and old houses and get to see them too.
Another special day full of memories. šš
Iām shattered now and have a busier day tomorrow. Iām driving to Oban in the morning, to spend the day with my friends Helen and Mike, who are on holiday from Devon.
I have a huge walk planned but I have to drive 2.5 hours to get there, have the huge walk and then drive back home. It will be a lovely but LOOOOOONG day.
The blog might be short and sweet with all the details on Sunday but weāll see.
I took some photos of our wee doggy gang, before I went to work.
Khaleesi slept without her cone, for the first night. She was really good and didnāt kick her paw at all. (She saysā¦. I probably would have slept through it!)
I love that I told Khaleesi to stay, while I went to feed the others, but they all jumped up on the bed.
Work passed by in a busy blur.
Ellison and I sat out at lunch but I had a big jacket on. We still have this really cold breeze.
So itās been a good day so far but Iām ravenous and ready for a lovely meal.
We went to Zizzi in Silverburn Shopping Centre and it was sooooo good. I really needed that.
We have a savings account between us that we are going to start using for our weekly trips out. We had half pizza and pasta.
Honeycombe cheesecake for dessert!
Iām in cheesecake heavenā¦. And lots of chat heaven!
I was not feeling it last night OR this morningā¦. I couldnāt get the idea of a run out of my head, I should cancel, Iām tired, I ate too late last night, didnāt drink enough water, shouldnāt runā¦. Iāll hold everyone backā¦
And yet I set the alarm for 5.30amā¦ Khaleesi woke me at 5.24am and I got out of bed and ready to meet the girls at 5.45am.
I settled into it and honestly can say I barely noticed my breathing at all.
I was out of breath but I was also just out for a chat with the girls, moving faster than we would if we were walking.
It was such a great feeling.
Here we all are after 48 minutes of non stop running.
I loved it this morning. There were no bad moments for me at all. Itās funny that I can feel so negative about it yet be so positive during it.
Iāll take that every time!!!
Work flew in today and it was nice enough for Ellison and I to sit outside at lunchtime.
Iām sitting outside writing this now but Iām coldā¦ Iām trying to stay here in the sunshine but I may have to give in. Itās just the coldest wind.
I literally stood up and walked straight indoors š.
Craig made a lovely veggie dinner.
So yeah, not much else to report, mid week and all that.
Itās been a busy day at work and we went up to our neighbourās house, straight after work, for Kennyās birthday!
Itās 7.21pm and Iāve drank an alcohol free Staropramen and a whole bottle of Nozeco and I feel ready to burst. š
Iām sat next to Khaleesi scoffing down some Mac nācheese that Holly gave us to bring home. She feeds us well. š
I love it when she leans against you like this.
.
Iām tired tonight and Iāve been a bit more judgemental today.
Iām aware of it.
Iām no longer in control of everything that goes on around me and not everything goes the way that I think it should. I need to let that stuff bounce off me.
So Iāll leave it there with a photo Craig took of Khaleesi and Calaidh todayā¦ bless.
Iām just back from the loveliest walk with Claire.
We took the 3 Borders out after work tonight.
Itās been a nice day today, itās not hot but itās been sunny and after the incessant rain of yesterday, itās been really lovely to see.
My mood has also been sunnyā¦ in carrying the rosy glow from my āhealth and wellnessā weekend. š
The house is still tidy and Iāve been out all day so that is a bonus.
I know Iāve gone through so many phases in my journey and this is another one of the sweetness and light moments butā¦. I LOVE It.
I feel such an overwhelming sense of calm, even although there are still some difficult things going on.
I slept like a log.
I heard Craig come in from the pub after catching the end of the English game, I heard the front door and then nothing until 5.30am. Out for the count all night.
His flight was delayed last night but I tracked him all the way.
A good progesterone induced sleep always helps.
All my clothes were washed, dried and ready, my lunch made.
Work was good, I was determined to appreciate the day rather than wish I was anywhere else, other than working.
I used to HATE my old job. Thatās a strong word but Iād start to feel low on a Sunday knowing I had to go back there. Itās lovely to not feel like that about this one so Iām very grateful for that.
I get an email everyday from āthe universeāā¦ how apt was todayās?!?
So Claire and I had a lovely walk and the dogs had a good run in the field.
I only took two photos, I was too busy enjoying the chat.
I sat out in the garden with an ice cream and a can of alcohol free pink āginā and lemonade. Itās my new favourite.
This pic is blurry but Khaleesi is licking her lips.
The Rambling Sloth š¦„ 