A few years ago I was invited to write an article for Who do you think you are?, the companion magazine for the BBC’s family history series. The piece told the story, indeed the tragic story, of my great, great, great grandparents, Sophia and Richard (Frost) who lost four of Read more…
Under pressure? Want somebody to love? Or just to ride your bicycle? Recently, I went to see Queen with Adam Lambert. A presence in the music industry for over five decades, most of Queen’s songs are over 30 years old – and yes, I knew every single one of them. Read more…
Six years ago I bought a FitBit. A little one that clips on to a pocket. I was finally emerging from a second episode of M.E./Chronic Fatigue. Strangely, that period had been longer (7 years) but less serious than the first time some 20 years previously when it was worse Read more…
For many people, the only way they know they’re doing a good job is when they’re not being criticised. We Brits aren’t that good at giving praise are we? But having had a recent rejection, I have been very touched by the many congratulatory comments received in the last few Read more…
‘Your writing is clearly very strong, and I thought it was a compelling novella…I hope you persevere, because I could see this doing well for someone!’ As far as rejections go, that was a very acceptable one. Two manuscripts have been doing the rounds of publishers over the last year. Read more…
Malvern. Nestling in the foot of the hills that bear its name, the town has been a place of holiday and sanctuary on many occasions. And this time was no different. As we drove up the M5, the Malvern Hills waved at us from between the passing trees, giving greetings Read more…
“I want you to hit the ground running,” spouts the manager to their shiny new recruit. “Of course, that’s absolutely fine,” comes the ‘I’ve got to impress’ reply. Many people have been in such situations. Where the expectation outweighs the reality… on both sides. But hitting the ground running can Read more…