It Takes A Village
Even without drinking!
Four weeks ago I managed to throw myself down some shopping centre stairs and break a couple of bones in my foot! And no I was not drunk. Why is this first question everyone has asked me ? (I need to think about that another day - just after this glass of cremant!). If you must know, I was on my phone trying to extend my car parking. Which I did seconds before the epic fall - so thankfully no parking fine, although now I reflect on whether that would have been the easier option. My kids won’t stop saying “you always tell us not to walk around on your phone” blah blah - so much so, that I now realise just how annoying I sound to them! But it’s one hell of a I told you so, and I think they have got the message, finally.
This whole experience has been painful, exhausting, frustrating and yet enlightening. The worst bit is not being able to drive. I realise just how much my life relies on driving. The drive to work, food shop, kids to their activities, half term holiday plans, nights out to dance to Pete Tong etc- all need me and the car!
I have missed out on a few things which were just too much. A full day street dance competition and a trip to Wales - I’ll leave you to ponder on which one was more of a loss than the other. But actually, I haven’t missed out on many things as I have realised how lucky I am to have such incredible family and friends around me. They have basically ferried me and my kids here, there and everywhere. I have had to endure a lot of banter thrown at me about faking it and using it as an excuse to get out of the crappier things. First not true, second is questionable! But, I wouldn’t expect anything less and overall these people - who I hope know who they are - are just amazing humans. I have a growing list of I owe yous!
My fashion advisor is not so sure about the addition of the boot.
I realise how lucky I am to have this group around me, kind and generous enough to give up their petrol, time and energy for me and my kids, but laugh with/at me at the same time.
I don’t think I appreciated them enough before and was extremely ungrateful until now. It really takes a village.
So hopefully just 2 more weeks and I will be back on the road and my designated driver duties commence - bookings open now, just give me a call…
This is just one small example where my COMMUNITY worked to support me during a tough time, but just think what we can all do together at Breaker to find solutions, support and solace with and from the people around us.
Also check out this article about the power of women supporting women. At Breaker, we’re all for it. You can always sit with us. Join our crew!