We British have one or two polite stock phrases readily to hand for those times when we want to say something, but don’t really have anything meaningful in mind at that moment. Apparently they are known as ‘phatic exchanges’. ‘Nice weather we’re having…’ is one, and ‘lovely day isn’t it?...’is another. Also ‘must do lunch... Continue Reading →
The older I get, the more of a shock is the arrival of Christmas. It seems that just as I manage to get the ‘thank you‘ letters finished after last year’s onslaught, I am swept up in the throes of the festivities for the oncoming year. This year, Christmas cards have been started just hours... Continue Reading →
I have, in the past, been guilty of buying presents for people with the sole intention of amusing them. I now realise that the laughter will only have lasted for a few moments, whereas the need for dusting, and ultimately the irritation, will have been ongoing. So, first of all, an apology. After writing this,... Continue Reading →
What to keep and what to let go.... This year, rather than make promises to myself as the chimes started at twelve o'clock on New Year's Eve, I prepared in advance. Nothing new, just part of my ongoing battle to get closer to God... I’m learning to let go, to give in to His plan,... Continue Reading →
Did I mention my son?... The story behind our song, Christmas Lady. Click here to listen to Christmas Lady: I'm a mother like many mothers, and it would probably be fair to say that I am disproportionately delighted with my child. You've probably met one like me at parties; we're tiresomely obsessed with our little darlings... Continue Reading →
The Blog of Penny Lyon 