Somewhere in the mid 16th century, an informal little club was formed. The members of this club were all male, all men of the world and of high status – and none of them really wanted to be a member, all of them hoping to have reaped success where the others had failed. Prominent members […]
At times, I regard my children and wonder how on earth they can be mine. Sometimes this is said with a little sigh as I pick up yet another piece of discarded clothing or wipe the counter tops free of crumbs and marmalade stains. Mostly it is said with an element of pride and genuine
I am now the proud mama – oops, AUTHOR – of four published books. As of today, my latest book, A Newfound Land is available “everywhere where good books are sold”. (I rather like that. It also makes me wonder where the bad books are sold. More to the point, it makes me consider what
In 1496, Princess Juana of Castilla, daughter of their most Catholic majesties Fernando and Isabel, married Philip the Beautiful, son of Maximilan I, Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, scion of the Hapsburg dynasty. At the time of her marriage, Juana was not expected to inherit the combined kingdoms of Aragón and Castilla. She had
Of inbreeding, royal marriages and their ultimate consequence Read More »
Referring back to a post I wrote some weeks ago (Following your heart – of parents and children), today’s text is about my mother-in-law – certainly no blood relation of mine, but most definitely a constant presence in my heart! The first time we met I was very nervous. I was seriously in love with
When I’m in one of my nostalgic moods – which doesn’t happen all that often as I don’t have TIME for that – I will play my way through my extensive ABBA collection. I know most of the songs by heart, so an added bonus is that I can holler along and pretend I am
Today I was at the dentist. I hate going to the dentist. No, wait; that doesn’t quite cover it. For days before a planned visit I have a constant stomach ache, and on the day itself my palms are sweaty, my knees are wobbly and all I want to do is flee. Don’t get me
Having children is a good way of expanding your knowledge – sometimes into areas you never thought you were interested in. I guess most parents have suffered Dinosauritis in one degree or other, and even if giant reptiles are not my cup of tea, it is difficult not to be swept along when an enthusiastic
“When I was just a little girl…” I desperately wanted to be a boy. Most of my friends were boys, my favourite pursuits were football and rugnby, and I just hated it when I had to do needlework at school. Or deportment classes. I don’t know if any of you, dear readers, have been subjected
Given the title, this post is mainly going to be about food. (I think. My posts tend to live a life of their own at times… ) I am a food person. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a whole lot of other things person as well (mainly books & tea ) but food is definitely
To paraphrase Descartes: “I eat, therefore I am” Read More »