Life Matters and more
Stories and perspectives from life coaches, writers and our readers — covering everything from personal growth to real-life moments and community voices.
freedom in later life
A personal reflection on ageing, retirement and unexpected financial freedom — discovering confidence, independence and boldness in later life.
Buddha’s teachings on suffering
Discover how the Buddha’s teachings, explained by Thich Nhat Hanh, show us ways to transform suffering into peace and joy through mindfulness and the middle way.
Levertons Funeral Plan
Planning a funeral is one of the most meaningful and emotional responsibilities a person can undertake. During a period of grief, it can be difficult to think clearly and make decisions. Our website can take you through our step-by-step process of what you will need...
One man’s luck…!
One man’s luck...! Two men strolling along a towpath. They tripped over something and both fell into the canal. One swam to the side and was pulled out unscathed by two passing bystanders, the other one drowned. “Wow, that was lucky,” cried another bystander. “Not...
Ghent, a haven for free spirit
Ghent, a haven for free spirit I arrived by car, greeted by a city bathed in soft, golden light and wrapped in an air of quiet mystery. The streets, though calm, whispered stories of centuries past. Eager to unravel its charm, I set off on foot to explore this hidden...
12 things I never knew before I had a dog
12 things I never knew before I had a dog Nearly three years ago, we got our first ever dog – a cockapoo called Teddy. We had always been cat people but the kids were keen and, as we were working at home more too, it seemed like a good idea. We found ourselves in a...
Kids’ Cooking Corner
Kids’ Cooking Corner Mini Pizza Faces Ingredients: - 4 plain English muffins or mini bagels, halved - 200g pizza sauce - 200g shredded mozzarella cheese - Toppings for faces (use any you like): - Sliced bell peppers (for mouths) - Cherry tomatoes or olives (for eyes)...
What’s the going rate for a milk tooth these days?
What’s the going rate for a milk tooth these days? February 28 is Tooth Fairy Day, which gives me an excuse to dig out the letters my children exchanged with their fairies up to a few years ago. We used to type up messages in a tiny flowery italic font,...
Mallorca, the perfect summer destination.
Mallorca, the perfect summer destination. What a pleasant feeling, stepping off the plane and being hit by that stream of heat right in your face. Yes, the Mediterranean island of Mallorca is welcoming you. Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands, which are...
Brain Tumour Research Needs Your Help
Brain Tumour Research Needs Your Help The festive season always brings back painful memories for local couple, David and Kathleen Taylor. In 2010, instead of enjoying a joyous family Christmas with their daughter, Sue and her children, they were at her bedside as she...
Hobbies That Spark Creativity: Ideas for Teens
Hobbies That Spark Creativity: Ideas for Teens Feeling stuck in a routine or looking for a new way to express yourself? Trying out a creative hobby is more than just a way to pass the time. They help you develop new skills, reduce stress, and connect with others who...
The joy of getting older
The joy of getting older By Dave Robson I had a client for life coaching recently who complained of having a “mid-life crisis.” I pointed out that mid-life change is not necessarily a crisis, usually it’s a metamorphose or series of metamorphoses and something to be...