My partner and I had always planned to get a dog, but as with many big decisions it never seemed like quite the right time. But a few years ago, the sudden and unexpected loss of a good friend reminded us life really could be too short and it was time to take the plunge. I insisted he go to the rescue centre and choose one, as I would be more inclined towards the hapless, incontinent, 3-legged variety rather than something a little more suited to our busy lives. And so, one day, I came home to be greeted by Ollie, a beautiful little fox terrier – skinny as a rake but as happy as Larry! He was full of so much energy and love it soon became hard to imagine life without him, and the joy he brought on a daily basis. I made the mistake of continuing to follow the rescue centre on social media and my heart broke at the images of homeless pooches destined to spend their lives in cages. So naturally, we figured one more wouldn’t hurt and we got Millie.
For me, there really is nothing better than starting your day being met by two enthusiastically wagging tails, and they greet every meal, walk and belly rub as though it is quite simply the most amazing thing ever! The excitement at breakfast and dinner time is really something, they can barely contain themselves and you wouldn’t imagine they go through this routine twice a day, it does make me wonder if they are suffering from some kind of short-term memory loss… But their appreciation for these things never fails to remind me it’s a good idea to be more a be a bit more dog and enjoy the simple pleasures. Their love for life is contagious, and I’m grateful to be along for the ride.
I recently had the pleasure of holidaying in Faro and Albufeira, two gems of the Algarve in Portugal, and it was nothing short of amazing. A trip to the Algarve wouldn’t be complete without venturing out onto the water. One morning, we joined a boat tour that weaved through hidden sea caves and secluded beaches. […]
Just got back from Dubai, where the sun doesn’t just shine, it performs. Think 35°C, UV 11, sea-salty hair, and enough Vitamin D to qualify as solar-powered. I spent most of the days hopping between sea swims and sun loungers, while staying on the beach til’ the sun went down. Tried wake surfing for the […]
On 6th April 2025, we had the pleasure of christening my son at the St Mary the Virgin Church in Kelvedon surrounded by close friends and family. Finding the entire morning rather entertaining, my son thankfully took this morning as it was intended, cheerfully taking in the attention, prayers, hymns and even the baptism with […]