Lene Marlin, Simulation Games, Engagements and Baby News :)

Quite some time ago while listening to Pandora I listened for the first time to Lene Marlin. Simply said - I've become a big fan. Head to her site - not only can you listen to her songs and get a taste of her music and sound, but you can also play a very funky little game where you save a little girl's balloons from some horrid monsters!

Actually, speaking of on-line games, we've been testing a few lately. Thanks to Adam for sending this one our way... as Richard can testify my lunch times got a little crazy with wanting to make as many shoes as possible... I think the most I lasted was 5 days until I needed to put an end to the start of an addiction... some powerful awareness happening through those simple simulation games though.

Congrats to Joy and Flash who announced their engagement recently :) hugely stoked for you both and looking forward to meeting you Joy when you come by our way early next year.

While I could bore anyone who does read this blog (I probably do already!) by more pictures of new born foals, I'd much prefer to end with telling the world how very excited I was yesterday to hear the news that the Curtis family is expecting a sibling for Abby Grace. Will & Ness, you guys are amazing parents and while unfortunately I wasn't able to speak for long, I thought I'd remedy that by telling the world how much confidence I have in you both as you continue to nurture and cherish your growing family. Sorry I can't be there to be a propper "aunty beth" or "aunt lizzie" to your little ones. Thank you for your support and continued friendship though the distance is not small. My thoughts are very much with you!!!

Pulling a Mr Kightley

“Were she prosperous or a woman equal to your age and situation I would not quarrel about any liberties of manner. But she is poor. Even moreso than when she was born. And should she live to be an old lady she will sink further still. Her situation being in everyway below you should secure your compassion. Badly done, Emma! Badly done. She has watched you grow from a time when her notice of you was an honour; to this, humbling her and laughing at her in front of people who would be guided by your treatment of her. Oh... it is not pleasant for me to say these things, but I must tell you the truth while I can... Proving myself your friend by the most faithful counsel, trusting that some time you will do my faith in you greater justice than you do it now.”

For a long time this quote from Emma (Jane Austin) has been my ideal in friendship and honesty. Inspiring me to tell the truth, or ask a question even when it might hurt the other person. It is not often that my ideals are met – and this week this particular one was.

To have people care enough to be honest and upfront is a noble thing and one that marks true integrity and character. I know I don’t always do this, actually, I do it much less than I would like to think, and when I do, don't always have the tact I should – but goodness me – how thankful I am when others “pull a Mr Kightley” in their relationship with me. Ask a question, define a relationship or just speak out the truth even when they don’t know how I’ll react.