Sunday 20 July 2014

Sunday Social (111)

Social Sunday 

Linking up with Ashley and Neely

1. What is the most difficult thing you have been through?
We all have difficult things; at the time they seem insurmountable - but after time, looking back, worse things happen. For me there are two difficult things that stand out; I'll deal with them chronologically.

The first was, in 2002, discovering that I had MS. On one level it was a relief; strange things had been happening with my health for over 4 years and to have a name to put against it (and finish the endless tests) was good. MS, is however, an incurable disease. It is a life sentence that leads a lot of people (not all) to some sort of disability whether it is visual, physical or mental.  You can read about some of my experiences here.

The second, back in 2010, was the death of my beloved father. Although during my teenage years we had a stormy relationship, once I left home and grew older we would speak several times a week on the phone (often on my bus journey home from the tube). I can't say more than I have in the post just after he died; or remembering him; sometimes with photos; or even poems. If it is hard for me, it hurts more to think of my adored mother... half of one of the most perfect marriages I have known.

Sketch - on their wedding day, Mum & Dad

2. What was your best birthday?
Hard to say. Husband makes my birthday special for me every year; gifts ranging from just what I wanted to I love it and didn't know it was out there! Cake for breakfast... lots of fun and love.

Memorable birthdays (not quite the same thing) are obviously the big number ones: 16, 18 and 21... there was also a party that I shared with one of my best friends whose birthday is exactly two months before me.

Sweet 16
Keys to the door
All grown up
3. What has been your favorite thing you’ve done in your own city?
Oh the choices! I love London, and know (parts of) it intimately. Last year Husband and I spent our two weeks honeymoon being tourists in London; we're doing the same again for our first anniversary this year. I think my number one (at the moment) is 'The View from The Shard'. London (and the UK's) tallest building; finally with a viewing platform (take that One Canada Square!). You get to see the whole city from a new perspective. We went on opening day last February and again yesterday. I have a feeling it won't be our last visit either! For other amazing spots in London there are a good few here.

4. What is your idea of the perfect date night?
I like to stay at home; maybe get a take-out rather than cooking; some beer (for Husband) and wine (for me) and some excellent movie fodder (a Marvel comics based film perhaps?). Sat together on the Sofa of Sloth, preferably with the cat on the chair!

5. Have you ever been to a blogging conference? If so which one(s)? If not do you want to?
I haven't. They aren't very big in the UK. I don't think I'd like it much unless someone I knew was definitely going to be there. I've had to go to networking events for work in the past; and I found the painful and not very useful. If there was the right event in the right place the I might go along...!