Green Shoots

 

I am feeling a bit more positive than in my previous post though we are all still very sad.  It has helped that the sun has been shining and the garden is coming to life.  The bulbs I planted are poking through and the little tête-à-tête daffodils and mini iris are already in bloom.

As it is less unpleasant outside, I’ve been attempting a bit of running again using the Couch to 5k programme and taking it very slowly as last time my knees started to object by Week 4. I wouldn’t say I’m enjoying it but I feel pleased with myself afterwards.

I’m also filling my time doing more Zoom courses.  I signed up for an evening course with the University of Liverpool’s Continuing Education Department on the History of the Troubles in Northern Ireland from 1966-1974. It’s been very interesting and made me realise how little I know about what is, in fact, part of my own history.  The lecturer who is from Liverpool is a real expert but he doesn’t give us much discussion time and to be honest doesn’t seem that interested in our contributions.  A few of the others have had personal experiences of the Troubles, including one lady who was at Queen’s during the time of the Civil Rights marches. I’d love to get the chance to talk to her.  

A more enjoyable course is the WEA course I’m doing - Creative Genealogy tutored by a really enthusiastic genealogist and writer, Kevin Brown.  Course participants are invited to use a story from their family history as inspiration for a creative project. Some of the others on the course are producing interesting crafty items using fabric, decoupage and sewing; others like me are sticking to words and pictures.  I am continuing with the family saga I have been working on for a while, aiming to complete one section of the story during this course.  It’s been really interesting to talk to others and being able to share my plans has got me started on my project again.  I have also decided to share my writing on the blog so if you are interested click on the link to The House’s Tale for the first instalment.