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at the heart of the matter...

01

eco - friendly way of being

Taking care of our beautiful planet is a cause which many people feel they are at the heart of - whether giving up plastic bags or participating in the 'new coat' scheme, where you simply choose a coat and can donate too. We all have a role to play no matter how small.

02

true to the heart of midlothian

This brilliant part of the U.K. has plenty of things going on where we can participate and find our own niche. What does the typical Midlothian lady seek out? Many services; to nail salons to a quiet walk or somewhere reasonably priced. A good coffee at the local bakers will do for me but sometimes a wee afternoon tea might be a good idea...

03

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With a host of different backgrounds, experiences and outlooks, it is interesting to hear the array of languages spoken. Midlothian feels like a wee melting pot highlighting the uniqueness of us all.

04

Technology social media

Living through this technological 'revolution' sometimes I feel left behind and struggling with 'technophobia' now and again...but everything has advanced so quickly with almost everything at the touch of a button these days which is wonderful but lets not lose our face to face interactions.

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Getting through it....

P. Smith
Dec 22, 2024
2 min read

There are ‘those songs’ on the radio, you know the ones; once a year we are subjected to them, like it or not. Everywhere we go, there are decorations, many over the top and for me the dreaded ‘inflatable Santa’. In this wind we are having on and off, they just might get blown away. Whatever your highlights, if any, or pet hates, there are expectations such as card sending, gifts to the family and wearing a festive jumper perhaps.

When it all becomes a chore

Almost in robotic fashion, we do what we need to do, buy gifts online, make lists and send a few Christmas cards. But what if you’re not feeling the joy? If it just feels like a day like any other, or you just want it out of the way…. Whatever you are feeling is legitimate, and our feelings toward Christmas time may change and evolve as we ourselves develop.

It’s just a sad reminder

A sense of loss may overwhelm us at this time of the year, whether missing a loved one or family being with other relatives, where it may be difficult to face the festivities. Try to recall the little things that all added up to the kind of Christmas you enjoyed - we cannot bring back a loved one of course but pay attention to your favourite snacks, music perhaps or a rerun of a comedy show which once made you laugh.

It feels like a commercial exercise!

With extortionate prices and many financial challenges happening just now, you may have to choose - pay the heating or get that ‘special’ present for someone. Never go short yourself, no one would want you sitting on Christmas day wrapped in blankets while the recipient of your gift goes to town with this special present. Weigh it all up and we know people spend billions at this time of year - are you simply going through the motions? You would not be alone.

Christmas has lost it’s magic

These days, with many incidences of conflict in our world, it can be hard to switch off. Christmas can be a day of indulgence for many but with an increasing awareness of issues such as sustainability and the influence of charities, people opt to place their money elsewhere and even sponsor, support or foster with organisations close to their heart.

Making it unique

Whether the real Christmas tree with pine scenting your house, a visit planned over the season, or a new recipe you are going to brave, no-one else is having the same day as you. You are unique and so is the way you plan the holiday season.

Wishing you every happiness,

Over the holiday season and for the coming year!

Paula Smith

Hello.