Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to new beginnings, illustrating my bullet journal and chatting with friends.

Happy New Year!

Today I was grateful to have survived this often bonkers year!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to leaving 2021 behind…

Today I was grateful for cake for breakfast and Bellinis at lunch!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to catching up with a couple of Christmas films.

Today I was grateful to eat fresh lettuce, tomatoes and cucumber in a delicious salad. Yep, I have had enough of Christmas food!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to chatting with my friend in Austria via a video call!

Today I was grateful for the change from rich Christmas food to healthier meals!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the last Patreon quiz in 2021.

Today I was grateful for Marks & Spencer’s very simple returns policy. No issues regarding exchanging my mum’s gift for a different size.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to going out for the first time in DAYS!

Today I was grateful for fun size chocolates!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to more yummy Christmas food!

Today I was grateful for a relaxed Christmas Day.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to maintaining my equilibrium.

Today I was grateful (again) to my mum, who found a work around that helped my wellbeing.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a hopefully low key start to the holidays.

Today I was grateful for my mum’s patience, as my anxiety about festive entertaining during the pandemic increases by the day.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a quiet day.

Today I was grateful to Faith the phlebotomist!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a couple of pampering sessions!

Today I was grateful for an early start and a successful shopping trip. Phew! It’s with a sense of relief that I now have gifts for my parents.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to picking up my new glasses!

Today I was grateful to have done the last load of laundry… until after Christmas.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to crossing a few items off my To Do list.

Today I was grateful to spend a few hours in Clare, Lucy and Ruby’s sparkling company!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to seeing my friends - with masks, socially distanced and other COVID safety protocols!

Today I was grateful for my friends, who have been super supportive about my COVID concerns.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a bit of a rest…

Today I was grateful to see my best friend in her hometown of Sheffield!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to my day trip to Sheffield!

Today I was grateful for a delicious coffee and cinnamon bun treat!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a supermarket dash.

Today I was grateful for my back up plan: my work laptop refused to cooperate when I wanted to log on for an engagement session, so I participated via my work mobile.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to getting up at a reasonable time.

Today I was grateful for Eleanor’s Christmas quiz (I got 8/10).

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to speaking with Natalie.

Today I was grateful for Michael - he was a good participant and an excellent chair - during my back to back recruitment meetings.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to my penultimate day at the salt mines for this calendar year!

Today I was grateful for frivolous things to distract me.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to resting before the madness begins.

Today I was grateful for patience.

Two unvaccinated family members have got COVID…

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to wrapping some Christmas presents!

Today I was grateful for some clarity from my GP; for hummus at lunchtime and for my second eye test in two days.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a telephone consultation and to posting some Christmas presents.

Today I was grateful for my comprehensive eye test! I’m looking forward to getting my new glasses soon.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to my eye test, and hopefully choosing some new glasses.

Today I was grateful to Zaynah, who graciously rearranged a meeting so that I did not have to be online on my day off.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a half day only at the virtual salt mines.

Today I was grateful for a helpful meeting with Michael about work objectives.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to quiz night!

Today I was grateful to my mum, for making lunch.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to chatting with Andrea. It’s been a while!

Today I was grateful to have had my first mince pie of the season!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to being productive!

Today I was grateful for a Nottingham Forest FC home win!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to taking it easy.

Today I was grateful for compassionate leadership from Michael.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to focusing on cracking the Brazil form..!

Today I was grateful for an informative final reverse mentoring session with Jenny.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to my final reverse mentoring meeting with Jenny.

Today I was grateful not to be at the virtual salt mines!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to spending quality time with my mum.

Today I was grateful for a nice evening with friends.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to dinner with Ellie, Janet and Rachel!

Today I was grateful for the National Health Service - my dad had the first of his cataracts operations.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to my return to the virtual salt mines.

Today I was grateful for the time and space to write my Christmas cards!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the start of Advent!

Today I was grateful that my dad’s pre op appointment for his cataracts surgery went well.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to Arsenal v Newcastle!

Today I was grateful that my mum and I completed our shopping trip efficiently and quickly!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to spending time with my mum, mostly at a shopping centre…

Today I was grateful to be working with Phil again; we previously worked together in Brasilia.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to seeing pics of Thanksgiving food all over social media!

Today I was grateful to my colleagues for being firm but fair with the Political Director in his intro session with us.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to posting Advent calendars to my godchildren!

Today I was grateful for confirmation that the performance pay award would be included in our November salaries!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the GBBO Final!

Today I was grateful for Hilary and Michael’s good humour during the sift panel.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to booking some annual leave.

Today I was grateful for text messages from some of my fabulous friends.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to updating my bullet journal with pics!

Today I was grateful for so many cocktails!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to going to Birmingham on the train!

Today I was grateful to finally meet up with a couple of friends in person!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to seeing Samad and Michelle.

Today I was grateful to the NHS - I received my booster jab! I really hope that vaccines are available and affordable for all.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to my booster shot!

Today I was grateful for the presentation on “Islam in Britain: Past and Present” and for the workshop on compassionate leadership.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a session on compassionate leadership.

Today I was grateful for a check-in with Michael H.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to quiz night - it’s been a couple of weeks without exercising the brain cells due to the quiz master being ill.

Today I was grateful that I managed to submit my online job application 24 hours before tomorrow’s deadline, despite the internet connection dropping out.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to completing a few things…

Today I was grateful for moments of solitude.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to relaxing at Diva HQ.

Today I was grateful that our plans changed and I could therefore stay in to watch Strictly!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to beer and a curry with Adrian!

Today I was grateful for Tom’s email about joining a panel to discuss social mobility.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the end of this work week..!

Today I was grateful to Simon D, for taking the time to chat about the vacancy in his team.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward an early morning social event with Andrea.

Today I was grateful to be in the audience, listening to Harriet speak about social mobility.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to making progress with my application.

Today I was grateful for Dina Asher Smith’s insightful comments.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to Quiz Night!

Today I was grateful that my first day back at the virtual salt mines wasn’t too stressful!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to chatting with friends at the virtual salt mines.

Today I was grateful for a message from Christina about an upcoming film, starring two of our favourite actors!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to brunch.

Today I was grateful for Pete’s company in Birmingham.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to downing several caipirinhas!

Today I was grateful for funny text messages from friends about my former manager…

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to completing my list of domestic chores and admin for the week.

Today I was grateful for a couple of deliveries, including some quiz team merch.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to staying in.

Today I was grateful to Neil, for looking after my thin locks.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to catching up on some sleep.

Today I was grateful for convivial company at a delicious dinner!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to seeing Jen and Tunrayo.

Today I was grateful for a nice time with Kathy and Rose in Orpington.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to lunch with Kathy and Rose.

Today I was grateful to have an extra hour in bed and to be indoors, as the weather has been dreadful.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the extra hour in bed.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to resting.

Today I was grateful for flowers from friends!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to eating several slices of cake!

Today I was grateful for a relaxing and stress-free day at Diva HQ.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a relaxing day, as I have no plans!

Today I was grateful for the sunny weather and my time in Crofton Park.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to getting some clarity.

Today I was grateful for a lovely lunch with Jane. We chatted and laughed for about four hours without pausing for breath!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to seeing Jane! I’ll be travelling by train down to Portsmouth.

Today I was grateful to receive a parcel from my friend Himiko.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to not being at the virtual salt mines!

Today I was grateful to see another goal fest in the United v Liverpool game!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to cooking pasta for dinner and watching Manchester United v Liverpool from the comfort of my home!

Today I was grateful to have seen some great goals when Chelsea put seven past Norwich City.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to watching football and chilling out at Diva HQ!

Today I was grateful that it was my last day at the virtual salt mines FOR TWO WHOLE WEEKS!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to my last day at the virtual salt mines for two whole weeks!

Today I was grateful for the opportunity to hear senior colleagues in conversation about Black History Month.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to attending the Race & Ethnicity quarterly meeting.

Today I was grateful for a quiet-ish day at the virtual salt mines; for fish fingers sandwiches and for the sound of rain.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to going out!

Today I was grateful for bacon and egg sandwiches at lunch!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to completing one application and checking out new internal job ads.

Today I was grateful for some clarity on our task.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to finessing my latest job application.

Today I was grateful for time spent with friends, both in person and online!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to brunch with Marrianne and Deano.

Today I was grateful for my BT Sport subscription so that I could watch Mo Salah’s wonder goal as it happened!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to getting a few extra hours of sleep.

Today I was grateful for a productive Diversity & Inclusion meeting!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to making some progress on a new set of applications.

Today I was grateful for a delicious dinner in Deptford with Adrian.

Tomorrow I am looking forward to seeing The Mango King, AKA Adrian!

Today I was grateful for a big bowl of pasta for dinner!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to going out to Crofton Park!

Today I was grateful to hear good news from Michelle: one step closer to her dream!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to checking out more job adverts. Fingers crossed that I am eligible to apply…

Today I was grateful to hear a powerful presentation by David Olusoga.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to writing and sending cards to family and friends.

Today I was grateful for a lovely lunch with friends who are like family.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to spending some time in Greenwich.

Today I was grateful for my very comfy bed.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to taking things easy!

Today I was grateful for calls with David, Jen, Angela and Michael. They were all helpful and friendly.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to chatting with David B about one of the new Directorates.

Today I was grateful for dinner and drinks with some friends! An in person event - YAY!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to chatting with colleagues about new opportunities.

Today I was grateful for Neil’s company and skills.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to seeing Neil, Roan and Joy.

Today I was grateful for some quick training and the weekly quiz!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to getting to grips with the new role.

Today I was grateful for the NHS: help and assistance from the nurse practitioner at the surgery and then the pharmacist.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to my new temporary gig.

Today I was grateful for peace and quiet.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to bullet journaling, reading and cocktails!

Today I was grateful for the sparkling company of online friends!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to sorting things out, including my October bullet journal.

Today I was grateful for the supportive drop in meeting on returning to the office.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to my last day with my current team.

Today I was grateful for a juicy steak for lunch!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to PAY DAY!

Today I was grateful to see Roan up and about, seven weeks after his hip replacement surgery.

Tomorrow Inshallah I am looking forward to our first all staff meeting with the new Secretary.

Today I was grateful for a fun quiz!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to an early morning catch up with Natalie and then, later on, Patreon quiz night with the usual suspects.

Today I was grateful for my mentor going above and beyond!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to tying up loose ends and finishing my line management duties with this unit.

Today I was grateful for George’s help, as I edited my application.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to catching up with friends and catching up on TV programmes I missed this week.

Today I was grateful for the chance to refine my draft, based on George’s helpful steer.

Tomorrow Inshallah I am looking forward to football, refining my application and a steak dinner!

Today I was grateful to kick off the weekend with caipirinhas!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to getting some feedback from George.

Today I was grateful for the time and space to work on my draft application.

Tomorrow InshAllah, I am looking forward to focusing on my priorities.

Today I was grateful to see Autumn leaves on my way to Crofton Park!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to working from home again…

Today I was grateful for supportive statements from a couple of colleagues.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to meeting some of my colleagues in person for the first time (we’ve been working online together since January!)

Today I was grateful for a nice email from my friend, Andrea!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to starting my job applications.

Today I was grateful for Sarah, the very professional and friendly customer services officer who was a great help.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to not being at work (last week was TOUGH)

Today I was grateful for the fun and laughter at the Greenwich Comedy Festival!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to going to the Greenwich comedy festival!

Today I was grateful to log off and start my weekend!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to celebrating with my mum.

Today I was grateful for the time and space to focus on updating my CV.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to more (political) shenanigans!

Today I was grateful for the opportunity to speak to someone who used to work in the UK Space Agency.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to talking to a colleague about a new role.

Today I was grateful for the teamwork that got our latest assignment over the line!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to receiving my new muddler! Hoping to make caipirinhas at home this weekend…

Today I was grateful because one of my six meetings got cancelled!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to concluding our briefing assignment.

Today I was grateful that I didn’t see the Nottingham Forest home defeat.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to more football!

Today I was grateful to reminisce about my cousin’s wedding, on this date five years ago.

I also paused and reflected on the events on this date twenty years ago.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to having a lie in, watching football and eating yummy snacks!

Today I was grateful for some constructive feedback in my mid year review.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to going back into my office building for the first time in 18 months!

Today I was grateful for the support of my line manager, after some implied criticism from a colleague.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to catching up with Andrea after her holiday in Spain!

Today I was grateful for BACON at lunchtime!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a range of meetings which will helpfully make things clearer on returning to our office building.

Today I was grateful for Marrianne’s willingness to get stuck in!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the Big Quiz Night In!

Today I was grateful to start the four week handover with my successor, Marianne.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to starting Marrianne’s handover.

Today I was grateful for time to start a new season on one of my streaming services and to listen to an episode on one of my fave podcasts!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to updating my bullet journal.

Today I was grateful for friendships, Brazilian BBQ and Caipirinhas!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to seeing Marrianne, my partner in crime!

Today I was grateful that my blood test went ahead, despite the shortage of vials in the UK.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to trying again to complete my blood tests.

Today I was grateful to buy an e-book from one of my favourite authors for 0.99!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to downloading to my line manager.

Today I was grateful to see an old friend at the salon. Her stories about uni life made me smile!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to being productive at the salt mines, getting out to Crofton Park and eating delicious food!!

Today I am grateful for getting together with online friends for our regular quiz!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to having an informal call with my successor.

Today I was grateful for a Bank Holiday Monday.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to not logging on at the virtual salt mines!

Today I was grateful to be on my own, to do my own thing!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to time on my own.

Today I was grateful to see two good EPL games: Manchester City v Arsenal and Liverpool v Chelsea. The contrast in how the two away teams coped with red cards was striking!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to prioritising my wellbeing.

Today I was grateful for my patience, as I chatted to a colleague who never wants to embrace change…

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to completing the first draft of my handover notes.

Today I was grateful that there wasn’t a fire in the kitchen, when mum left the grill on…

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to looking ahead to my unit’s Autumn assignments.

Today I was grateful for positive emails from my successor, regarding the transition and our handover.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to going to the salon!

Today I was grateful to colleagues for engaging positively in our weekly meeting.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to chatting with Deirdre; she recently moved to Vienna!

Today I was grateful that my work day went by quite quickly!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the challenge of leading my unit, when things are currently uncertain and unclear.

Today I was grateful to have the luxury of time and space to slow down, relax and create my bullet journal spreads for September!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to setting up my bullet journal spreads for September! I’m going with an Autumn leaves theme.

Today I was grateful for a cracking match between Liverpool and Burnley!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to recharging my batteries, watching Liverpool v Burnley and having something yummy for dinner!

Today I was grateful to finally watch “Luca” on Disney Plus. I loved it!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a delayed chat with Andrea.

Today I was grateful for an early start at the virtual salt mines, which allowed me to take some time out to do some domestic chores by mid-morning.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to gaining some time, as my first meeting of the day has been cancelled!

Today I was grateful to listen to elected officials debating Afghanistan from the comfort of my home. Some truly heartfelt statements.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to having some more Brazilian food!

Today I was grateful for a colleague from another team (Will) sharing an important piece of news with us.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to setting out our game plan.

Today I was grateful for keeping my temper in check when a colleague tried to bounce my colleagues and I into going beyond our remit.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the “pre-season” period for our annual UN briefing assignment.

Today I was grateful for the time and space to be lazy, to go at my own pace and to dip back into listening to funny and silly podcasts.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to making my wellbeing a priority!

RASPBERRIES

Today I was grateful for some juicy raspberries at breakfast.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to more EPL games!

Today I was grateful for my it’s the weekend o’clock sangria!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to engaging with a wider group of colleagues.

Today I was grateful for a good early chat with Andrea; bacon at lunch and a productive allocations meeting.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to finalising the allocations element of our upcoming assignment.

Today I was grateful for Neil; he gave me a very good head massage.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the well-being piece, where I get a head massage and a couple of hours away from the virtual salt mines.

Today I was grateful for the new look online pub quiz!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to making a start on my internal move within the salt mines.

Today I was grateful for friendships that have lasted for 35 years!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to lunch with Kathy and Rose.

Today I was grateful for a calm and quiet day on my own.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the closing ceremony of Tokyo 2020.

Today I was grateful to Marrianne and Dean, we had a super Saturday in Sheffield!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to going to Sheffield by train.

Today I was grateful for my chat with Chris. As he always brings a unique perspective to our conversations.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to crossing more items off my To Do list.

Today I was grateful for support from friends; hot dogs for lunch and my Kindle.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a meeting-free day!

Today I was grateful to have finished a task that I had been putting off for a week.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the meeting on High Level week.

Today I was grateful for my virtual coffee with Natalie, as we reminisced about the salt mines of twenty years ago…

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the next seminar in the series on colonial legacies.

Today I was grateful to have an introductory meeting with our intern on his first day at the virtual salt mines.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to being productive at the virtual salt mines.

Today I was grateful for a short chat with one of my dearest friends, Rachel.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to watching more of the TV coverage of the Tokyo Olympics.

Today I was grateful for a delicious pain aux raisins + black coffee combo at breakfast!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to writing cards to my friends.

Today I was grateful for a virtual coffee with the delightful Zaynah!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a big glass of Chablis as soon as it is weekend o’clock!

Today I was grateful for clarity on several work issues, including our biggest assignment and on the managed move decision.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to chatting with Nadia; it’s been a while since we’ve connected!

Today I was grateful for an early finish at the virtual salt mines, so that I could prioritise my wellbeing and practice self care.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a relaxing scalp massage.

Today I was grateful for interesting insights in the presentations about colonial legacies (Europe).

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the Patreon quiz night!

Today I was grateful to hear that my successor is due to join the unit next month!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to handing the reins back to my manager when they return to the virtual salt mines after a week away.

Today I was grateful for the spectacular thunder and lightning! There’s hardly any humidity now which is wonderful.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to watching some of the Olympics coverage.

Today I was grateful for my long lie in til noon!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to progressing with our book club selected text (“Queenie”).

Today I was grateful for my colleagues’ efforts in making the forced fun event bearable!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to THE END of our Summer Social Event (it’s forced fun - no one wants to do it - but the senior management is keen…)

Today I was grateful for help and advice from colleagues on applying for internal jobs.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to further discussions regarding our intern, who is due to join us on 2 August.

Today I was grateful to be in the audience for a fascinating presentation on colonial legacy.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to an all staff meeting with the most senior official at the virtual salt mines.

Today I was grateful for an additional fan in my designated working from home space!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to hearing more about our biggest assignment of the year so far.

Today I was grateful to my colleagues who came together to share their views on racism in sport.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to cooler temperatures and less humidity!

(I can but dream..!)

Today I was grateful for all the tributes for Mandela Day!

Mandela Day is a global call to action that celebrates the individual’s power to make an impact and transform the world.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to some online retail therapy!

Today I was grateful for some delicious prawns and gyozas from Wagamama!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to staying inside, avoiding the heat and humidity!

Today I was grateful for my session with Chris, an immediate reply from a colleague in New York and honey BBQ ribs for dinner.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a mentoring session with Chris.

Today I was grateful for some Time Off In Lieu, which meant I finished working at the virtual salt mines at 14:00 BST.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to going to the salon, during my half day’s leave.

Today I was grateful to have the time to complete my application for a temporary duty assignment.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a Directorate-wide all staff meeting with our new Director.

Today I was grateful to see the list of internal job opportunities; I have a better idea of my next steps.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to seeing the new overseas jobs list!

Early morning rain…

Today I was grateful that I avoided the early morning rain, as I headed to the pharmacy.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to reading about internal job vacancies!

Today I was grateful for a lovely, lazy day. Here’s hoping that the Euro 2020 final is an exciting and fitting end to a great tournament!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the Euro 2020 final!

Today I was grateful for time spent in Marrianne’s company in Birmingham.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to seeing my best friend in Birmingham!

Today I was grateful for time and space to review and edit a key document.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to focusing on prospective applications.

Today I was grateful for the morning off. As brunch with Jane and Tony was cancelled, I indulged in a bit of retail therapy instead.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a bit of time off.

Today I was grateful for Ellie, who did an excellent job putting the raw material into a slick Power Point presentation!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the second semi final in the Euros!

Today I was grateful for this cracking game between Italy and Spain!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the first Euro 2020 semi final!

Today I was grateful for Rose and Kathy’s company at lunch!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to seeing Kathy and Rosie for lunch!

Today I was grateful for Adrian! An awesome afternoon at the cinema followed by drinks in the bar.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to my first trip to the cinema in 18 months!

Today I was grateful for a relaxing time at Diva HQ.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to England v Ukraine, in the Euro 2020 quarter finals!

Today I was grateful for my friends and colleagues, as we discussed how to raise awareness of menopause issues in the workplace.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the start of the quarter finals in Euro 2020!

Today I was grateful for the interview prep session.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to booking my tickets for a best friend session in Birmingham!

Today I was grateful for ME! I called out annoying behaviour, despite the power dynamic not being to my advantage!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to saying a fond farewell to a dear colleague, he’s off to get married AND to go on his first diplomatic posting overseas.

Today I was grateful for my colleagues’ positive engagement on a lessons learned exercise. Also, England’s win in the Euro 2020 tournament!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to an extensive lessons learned exercise.

Today I was grateful for asparagus as a side dish.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the opportunity to assist with an estimates debate.

Today I was grateful for Bellinis and sangria!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to having a lie in, drinking sangria and watching more Euro 2020 matches!

ST PANCRAS STATION

Today I was grateful to see my BFF in person! My train journey to Sheffield started at St Pancras station, one of my favourite London train stations.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to seeing my best friend in person, for the first time since October 2020!

Today I was grateful for Prosecco to welcome in the weekend!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to my virtual coffee with Amanda!

Today I was grateful for Ray’s suggestions regarding audio.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to helping a colleague with their wellbeing.

Today I was grateful for my dinner being delivered when I was delayed in Crofton Park.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to not being angry with people who should know better.

Today I was grateful for Windrush Day, when we celebrate the contribution people of Caribbean heritage have made to the UK!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to our weekly quiz; the final Group D matches in Euro 2020 and the chance to improve wellbeing in our unit.

Today I was grateful for my friends, who took me out to dinner at a local restaurant. It was lovely to see Jane and Tony, who are paying a visit from Saudi Arabia.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to putting last week behind me; and going out to dinner for the first time since October!

Today I was grateful for my dad, happy to celebrate Father’s Day with him!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to having the house to myself for a few hours.

Today I was grateful for some cracking games at Euro 2020!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to recharging my energy levels!

Today I was grateful that I didn’t lose my temper with my manager and my colleagues…

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to binning this work week.

Today I was grateful for ideas and proposals on wellbeing in our unit.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to being more productive!

Today I was grateful for the late evening rain, which will hopefully mean it won’t be so humid tonight.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to hearing from the Permanent Under Secretary, in an all staff meeting.

Today I was grateful for colleagues practising self care and prioritising their well-being: two of them are going to try counselling, which is wonderful!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to doing even better for my colleagues.

Today I was grateful that I didn’t lose my temper with my manager.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to Scotland starting their campaign in Euro 2020!

Today I was grateful to see England men’s football team make a winning start to Euro 2020 (first time they have won their opening game)!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to accumulating more points in my Fantasy Euro League!

Today I was grateful to hear that Christian Eriksen is stabilised after collapsing on the pitch during the Denmark v Finland match in Euro 2020.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to watching some Euro 2020 games!

POPPIES

Today I was grateful for the chance to chat with colleagues and to see some poppies swaying in the summer breeze.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to chatting with friends, where we will pretend to be in online meetings, networking - just in case our managers start asking questions..!

Today I was grateful for our small garden. It is nice to have that personal outdoor space in the middle of London!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a meeting with Matt, our apprentice, who will soon be taking on his first line management role.

Today I was grateful for my multitasking skills: while listening to my Director and Deputy Director on a Teams Audio meeting, I sent Instant Messages to my friend Natalie and I gave myself a manicure (clear nail polish though!)

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to an appointment which will help me to maintain my wellbeing!

Today I was grateful for colleagues working collaboratively on an assignment.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to chatting with Natalie.

BEE

Today I was grateful for my early walk in the park, bees and an update about the recruitment timetable.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to seeing what the future may hold!

Today I was grateful that I stayed away from toxicity and that I managed my mental health well.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to maintaining my well-being.

Today I was grateful for the longest lie in (13 hours!)

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to drawing some doodles in my bullet journal, having a glass or two of wine and reading stuff on my Kindle.

Today I was grateful for a whole work day WITH NO MEETINGS!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a meeting-free day!

Today I was grateful to Andrea, who as always was supportive and ready to offer her help and assistance.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to chatting with Andrea, she usually has an interesting take on what is happening at the virtual salt mines…

Today I was grateful that my appraisal had been submitted ahead of the deadline (just!)

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to an online meeting with my mentor, Jenny.

DAISIES

Today I was grateful for my little desk fan (25C in SE London), some pretty daisies on my walk and a crisp NZ Sauvignon Blanc with my dinner!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to another day away from the virtual salt mines!

Today I was grateful that no one had to do any cooking and that there was minimal kitchen clean up.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to not going to the virtual salt mines. I LOVE Bank Holiday weekends!

STRAWBERRIES

Today I was grateful for some delicious strawberries. ‘Tis the season!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to brunch with my parents.

Today I was grateful for a sparkling first 45 minutes in the Champion’s Final!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the Champions’ League final!

Today I was grateful for all my social meetings, with Chris, Amanda, George and Samad!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to seeing my mentor, George, online.

Today I was grateful to my colleagues for another excellent presentation, this time on internal comms.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to meeting colleagues in the Policy Unit.

Today I was grateful for an early finish.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to ticking some more things off my To Do list.

Today I was grateful when it was 5pm. Too. Many. MEETINGS!!!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a briefing Master Class with Neil; and an au revoir meeting with Ric.

Today I was grateful for short meetings (I’d like more short meetings, fewer long, tedious ones please)!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to completing all necessary actions around my annual appraisal.

Today I was grateful for a rather delicious Chablis with our roast chicken dinner.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to listening to some podcasts.

Today I was grateful for the spectacle that is Eurovision!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to resting and relaxing!

Today I was grateful that this awful week had finally come to an end!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to fewer meetings…

Today I was grateful for the stamina needed to survive SEVEN meetings.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to SEVEN meetings in the space of seven hours…

Today I was grateful to Maggie, for sharing some important news with us.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to starting our next assignment!

Today I was grateful for a photo book of lovely pics of my gorgeous godson Ben, which arrived in the post at lunchtime.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to completing my own appraisal.

Today I was grateful that my drafts were saved despite an extensive IT “incident” at the virtual salt mines.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to complete a draft letter, finish an appraisal and upload some tips for my colleagues.

Today I was grateful for the energy to complete long overdue tasks, including an taking pics for a friend who had sent me a lovely gift.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to sorting things out.

Today I was grateful for an exciting second half in the FA Cup Final!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the FA Cup Final!

Today I was grateful for bacon at lunchtime!

Tomorrow Inshallah I am looking forward to getting a few more things crossed off my work To Do list.

Today I was grateful for the opportunity to engage with two excellent speakers, taking about their experiences in the world of diplomacy.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to completing the last batch of appraisals.

Today I was grateful to have finished earlier than usual this afternoon, after two very long meetings where both of them overran…

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a lessons learned meeting with one of our key partners.

Today I was grateful for my parents helping me out with a package (dad) and pizza (mum)!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to completing a lessons learned exercise on our now postponed project.

Today I was grateful to hear that a difficult project has been postponed!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the opportunity to support colleagues through their first major assignment.

Today I was grateful for the advice from the nurse at the health centre: taking a couple of paracetamol after the vaccine seems to have done the trick!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to finishing “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier”! I’ve enjoyed the first three episodes.

Today I was grateful to everyone involved in getting effective and safe vaccines tried, tested and available.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to my second dose of the COVID vaccine!

Today I was grateful for some feedback from my manager.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to our discussions on the transition from working remotely to working in our office buildings.

VOTE

Today I was grateful to all of those who had fought for universal suffrage.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to several meetings. Some more than others…

Today I was grateful to Rob, my new podiatrist. He was interesting, funny and gave me some good advice.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to my podiatrist appointment.

RASPBERRIES

Today I was grateful for some delicious raspberries for dessert.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to making my case.

Today I was grateful for the opportunity to do some journaling; it’s nice not to be online at the virtual salt mines. We love long weekends!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the May Day bank holiday!

Today I was grateful for my online Domestika course - very helpful on the basics of bullet journaling.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to brunch!

Today I was grateful for patience and understanding from my housemates.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to being less grumpy.

Today I was grateful for my parents’ patience; money in my account (it’s PAY DAY!) and a take away delivered by friendly Jorge.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to shopping with my mum.

Today I was grateful for Carol’s friendliness and customer service in the laundrette.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to relaxing, with one or two domestic chores thrown in.

Today I was grateful to have my first trip to the hairdressers for several months. Begone grey streaks!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to not being online at the virtual salt mines!

Today I was grateful for some excellent presentations from friends and colleagues on the Book/Film Club, mental health and anti-BHD.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to wearing my new Quiz Night t shirt at the Patreon only quiz!

Today I was grateful for the opportunity to IM a lovely friend who is just settling in to his new life in Ottawa!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to amending a timeline for our project and hopefully making things a bit easier for our editors.

Today I was grateful for the time and space to finish three books on my Kindle Unlimited list.

Delicious!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a nice sirloin steak and a glass or two of a Côtes du Rhône!

Today I was grateful for assistance when trying to process an online order. Graham was helpful, professional and kind.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to selecting yummy things in our online grocery delivery; watching football via one of my streaming services and reading.

Today I was grateful to hear from two former colleagues, who are both going from strength to strength in these challenging times.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to mentoring two former colleagues.

Today I was grateful for support and sensitivity from my colleagues.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to observing National Stephen Lawrence Day with my colleagues.

Today I was grateful for a colleague’s understanding in the face of more upheaval and changes.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to talking things through with colleagues from another unit.

Today I was grateful for an apology, from someone who doesn’t usually do apologies…

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to quiz night!

BACON ROLL

Today I was grateful for my lunchtime bacon roll

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to engaging with colleagues on our new line management structure and prepping for our summer diversity intern.

Today I was grateful for a delicious dessert of bread and butter pudding plus custard!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to more R & R!

Today I was grateful for a day of leisure!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the FA Cup semi final, Chelsea v Manchester City

BLOSSOM

Today I was grateful for blossom, looks like Spring has finally arrived!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to laying some groundwork, as I need to have several important conversations next week…

Today I was grateful for a lively debate at the virtual salt mines: writer Sathnam Sanghera took part in a meeting on British foreign policy and its colonial legacy. Fascinating!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to an online seminar which will examine the legacy of the British Empire.

Today I was grateful for a delicious Indian take away dinner, delivered to our door!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to crossing more things off my To Do list; reading for pleasure; and an Indian take away for dinner!

Today I was grateful for an excellent collaboration with my colleagues on engaging our new Director.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to lockdown restrictions easing: non-essential shops, hairdressers and beauty salons will re-open!

Today I was grateful for coffee, bacon and a fruit trifle! Not all at the same time though…

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to more Kindle self care, with trashy books!

Today I was grateful for online retail therapy: found some replacements for my very old Havaianas which finally fell apart this morning.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to getting over this full on work week.

Today I was grateful for support from my colleagues as I powered through my To Do list.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to more lively discussions and helpful insights from friends, allies and colleagues in our organisation’s menopause group.

Today I was grateful for an update from friends in Brazil. Although they are doing OK, COVID is taking a massive toll there.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to discussing next steps with my colleagues, on BLM.

Today I was grateful for a couple of meetings that were cancelled!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to meetings with new colleagues, as well as reconnecting with a former line manager.

Today I was grateful for my colleagues, who were chilled and relaxed after the long Easter weekend.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to making a start on my work To Do list.

Today I was grateful that I was not working online; that I could listen to my favourite songs on repeat and that I could enjoy reading my books.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to more rest, relaxation and ribs!

Strawberries

Today I was grateful for chocolate (of course!) and strawberries from Spain!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to eating copious amounts of chocolate!

Today I was grateful for a COVID safe bus ride to get some medication from the pharmacy. It was reassuring that even though some restrictions were now lifted, people were still being careful.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to easing myself back into my regular routine, as I no longer have to shield!

Today I was grateful to have the day off!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a quiet Good Friday.

Today I was grateful that it was the last work day of the week!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to having a virtual coffee with my former manager.

Today I was grateful to everyone in my unit for a really fun wellbeing social event!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to doing some serious damage to my credit card BECAUSE IT IS PAY DAY!

Today I was grateful for reconnecting with Will: he gave an excellent presentation to our editors and he handled the Q&A session like a boss!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to re-connecting with Will, a former colleague, who has agreed to come along to do a presentation for new editors.

Blossom

Today I was grateful to have a brief trip outside in the Spring sunshine! It was nice to see the cherry blossom trees…

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to venturing out for a bit, for the first time in weeks.

Today I was grateful for time and space to listen to a podcast recommendation, to finish reading one of many books that I started this month and to rest my still sore wrist.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to making some progress with my TBR list…

Today I was grateful that there were no English Football League games today, giving me a welcome break from the anxious wait for Nottingham Forest’s result…

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to sleeping in, a lazy brunch and then finishing a few books on my Kindle.

Today I was grateful to virtually meet up with Lisa, and catch up on over two years of news!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to catching up with Lisa, virtually of course!

Today I was grateful for my ability to stay calm and patient with people who annoy me.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to our regular anti racism working group meeting.

Today I was grateful that there was pizza for dinner!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to helping colleagues who are working on a big event. Whether they will follow our advice is a different matter…

Today I was grateful for some positivity from colleagues about a proposal regarding summer interns.

Some snail mail replies to #LetterMo are starting to arrive! @dustdaughter

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to our regular online quiz, having missed last week due to tiredness.

Today I was grateful for my new working from home set up, which includes wrist support!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to my new working from home set up, to protect my wrist.

Today I was grateful for time on my own, to get over a terrible headache.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to more rest, more football and more reading!

Today I was grateful for momos, samosas and dahl, dinner delivered from my favourite local Indian restaurant.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to curry night!

Today I was grateful that it was the last working day of the week!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to discussing new assignments.

Today I was grateful for advice from friends and colleagues on purchasing new office equipment.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to doing Patrick’s end of year review.

Today I was grateful for our wellbeing afternoon tea event.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to fewer meetings…

Today I was grateful to Natalie, for making me laugh a lot in our 08:30 meeting.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to my meeting with Natalie, to hear about past adventures in Las Vegas!

Today I was grateful to finish my working day at 16:00 GMT; my wrist was getting sore after a lot of typing.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to going back to work at the virtual salt mines.

Today I was grateful to be able to celebrate Mother’s Day with my parents!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to Mother’s Day brunch with my parents.

Today I was grateful that Nottingham Forest didn’t lose at home…

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to kicking off the Mother’s Day celebrations!

Today I was grateful for an informative and amusing podcast about romance novels!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to meeting with George, my leadership mentor.

Daffodils in our garden

Today I was grateful for the daffodils in our garden; they cheered me up.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the meds kicking in and reduced swelling in my wrist.

Today I was grateful for a telephone consultation with my GP. I’ve now got a prescription to help with my painful wrist and I’ve been signed off work for three days.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to chatting with a colleague from the class of 2020, hopefully helping him to adapt to the new reality…

Today I was grateful for ibuprofen, as I had to take a couple of capsules to ease the pain and swelling in my wrist.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to Champions’ League football and our weekly quiz!

Today I was grateful for assistance with opening jars, cans and doors because of my sore arm!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to re-watching at least one film, because I had more than one micro naps during Crazy Rich Asians on Friday…

Today I was grateful for the opportunity to watch so much football! Commiserations to Liverpool and Manchester City; congrats and well done to Fulham and Manchester United!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to more reading, more football and perhaps more films.

Today I was grateful for my long lie in! Waking up at 12:30pm was disorientating but I clearly needed those extra hours of sleep.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to being lazy!

Today I was grateful for a productive meeting with a former partner Directorate.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to discussing our forward look of assignments.

Today I was grateful for a productive day, where my suggestions were discussed and agreed!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a virtual coffee with Andrea, following her week off last week.

Today I was grateful for a possible neat solution to a work force planning and staffing issue.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to being on a sift panel with a couple of my colleagues!

Today I was grateful for a fun online quiz with friends (even though I did really badly this week..!)

Today, I was grateful for my Kindle! I’ve now added several more books to read at my leisure - YAY!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to sorting out my inbox.

Today I was grateful to Marrianne and Morris for two fab video calls!

📷 February Photo Challenge - Day 28: Up #mbfeb

The final day of #LetterMo and I have enjoyed it immensely! Last but not least, I sent a card to my closest friend, Marrianne. She has been my partner in crime since 1993.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to chatting with Morris via Skype.

Today I was grateful for my luxurious lie in - I could easily get used to waking up after 11:00…

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day 27 - Pompasetting #mbfeb

Penultimate day of #LetterMo! I sent a card to Jane, a friend from secondary school. She lives on the south coast of England, she is an excellent crafter and she’s made me several face masks during the pandemic.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to doing things I enjoy: journaling - watching football - eating yummy food!

Today I was grateful that I could log off at 17:00 because almost everything was so annoying.

Today, I sent Kathy a card - I’ve known her since the summer of 1986! We worked together for over a year; the last time we met up was 12 months ago. #LetterMo

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day 26 - favourite #mbfeb

I worked with Rosie in one of my first proper jobs, in between school and university (1986). She was the 25th recipient of my #LetterMo challenge.

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day 25 - Code #mbfeb

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to pay day!

Today I was grateful for a stellar presentation from my colleagues.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to listening to several presentations from several business units.

Today I was grateful for my forbearance and for not shouting at family and colleagues when they make batshit crazy decisions.

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day 24 - Baby #mbfeb

I’ve known Amanda since we were 11years old. We were in the same class at secondary school. She is the 24th recipient of one of my cards for #LetterMo.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to feedback on my one of my draft documents.

I sent a card to Bill for the 23rd day of #LetterMo. He lives in Oregon and supports young students with special needs in schools.

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day 23 - Bananas #mbfeb

Today I was grateful for replies from friends!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to being on a sift panel with two of my colleagues.

Today I was grateful for fewer interruptions at work!

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day 22 - Spell #mbfeb

I sent my 22nd piece of correspondence to my friend, Simon. He’s a Brit-Canadian dual national, working in a care home in Perthshire. #LetterMo

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day 21 - Colours. #mbfeb

Jessica is the 21st recipient of my #LetterMo efforts! She is a teacher who lives in Minnesota. We’re always swapping notes about UK and US politics.

Tomorrow Inshallah I am looking forward to prepping for my eventual successor, by revising my job description.

Today I was grateful for a quiet, stress-free day.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to not setting my alarm clock!

Twenty days of #LetterMo, with only eight days left for my challenge! I sent a card to Nelle today - she is back in the US, after a stint teaching in Poland.

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day 20 - Wearher #mbfeb

YAY!

Today I was grateful for the National Health Service; for receiving the COVID-19 vaccine and for the yummy pork ribs we had for dinner!

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day 19 - Alive #mbfeb

On this, the 19th day of #LetterMo, I sent a card to my friend Victoria who is a nurse in California. She has been working very hard, looking after COVID patients.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to having the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine!

Today I was grateful to have bumped into my neighbour, Bella, at the bus stop. We were both masked and we had a socially distant conversation, which was nice.

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day 18 - At Home #mbfeb

It is the 18th day of #LetterMo, and I sent a card to my friend Nicole who lives in Pittsburg. She always makes me smile!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a virtual stroll in the park with my friend, Deirdre!

Today I was grateful for the NHS when I went to collect my prescription at the pharmacy.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to my 08:30 GMT meeting with Andrea, a former colleague who is now a great friend.

Today I was grateful to Pablo, my perfect podiatrist!

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day 17 - Still. #mbfeb

Yes, I still love chocolate.

It is Day 17 of #LetterMo and I sent a card to Frances, a dear friend. She is a doctor, working in a hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She has just celebrated the Lunar New Year.

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day 16 - Erudite. #mbfeb

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to my podiatry appointment.

Today I was grateful for clear communications, pancake recipes and fond memories of being in Brazil for Carnival!

OK - here we go, Day 16 of #LetterMo! Today’s card was sent to Julia, a friend who lives in Bromley. She is a pharmacist and she is heavily involved in the mass immunisation programme against COVID.

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day 15 - Reflection. #mbfeb

I am now cruising into the second half of #LetterMo. Jenny from Ohio is the recipient today! She loves flowers and baking; it is her birthday in a couple of days.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a couple of meetings and an online quiz in the evening.

Today I was grateful for confirmation of a couple of appointments this week!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to engaging with my friends at the virtual salt mines again!

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day 14 - Compassion. #mbfeb

This is a statue of Mary Seacole, which stands in the grounds of St Thomas’ Hospital. Seacole (1805 - 1881) was a Jamaican-British nurse who set up the “British Hotel” behind the lines during the Crimean War.

STAMPED!

We are now halfway through #LetterMo! I sent a card to my friend Jacques who lives in Switzerland. He is helping me with my written and spoken French.

Today I was grateful for the delicious Madeleines that we had at brunch!

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day 13 - Make.

Really not sure this teapot would make a good cup of tea TBH…

On the thirteenth day of #LetterMo, I sent a card to Angela, my friend who lives in California, who is lots of fun! She absolutely LOVES Disneyland Park in Anaheim.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a relaxing day, mostly doing nothing!

Today I was grateful for fresh air, buying fresh fruit and vegetables, and watching EPL games.

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day Twelve - Sporg! (Although it is a made up word, it might also be the word for squirrel in an unknown language..?) #mbfeb

On day twelve of #LetterMo, I have sent a card to the lovely Jana, who lives in Northern California. She is an expert in putting together delicious cheese and charcuterie boards!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to my weekly escape from these four walls - getting out and buying fresh fruit and vegetables.

Today I was grateful for online chats with my dearest friends from university!

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day 11 - Machine #mbfeb

STAMPS!

Aditi is the recipient of card number eleven, in my #LetterMo challenge. Aditi and I love watching cricket and football.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a quieter day.

Today I was grateful for some volunteers who will draft and deliver a presentation in a fortnight or so.

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day ten - Energy #mbfeb

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to chairing our weekly corporate meeting.

Today I was grateful for my colleagues’ enthusiastic engagement at our book and film club!

STICKERS AND STAMPS

Tenth day of #LetterMo! I sent a card to my friend Susan, who lives in Colorado with her husband Marty and their pets.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to watching more football!

Today I was grateful that my former Line Manager got in touch with me to find out how things were going “with the new regime.”

IN THE POST..!

It is Day nine of #LetterMo and I posted a card to Lucy, one of my oldest friends, we met when we were 11 years old at school.

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day 9 - Muddy #mbfeb

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to our induction event.

Today I was grateful for online conversations about Kingpin (with Tim) and the cold weather comparison with Ottawa (with Karen).

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day Eight - Hope #mbfeb

This pic was taken on 16 February 2018, during a trip to New Zealand.

POSTED!

Today’s #LetterMo (Day 8) recipient is Kayla, a classic movies buff who lives in South Carolina! I love talking with her about the Golden Age of cinema.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to sharing video messages with friends in Sheffield, Texas and Portland.

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day seven - craving #mbfeb

It’s not so much the delicious pastries, I just crave going to my local coffee shop on a whim. I can’t do that in lockdown 3.0

STAMPS!

Day seven of #LetterMo and today’s card is for my friend Jenny C who lives in South Carolina! She is also a big fan of snail mail and stationery, and she often sends me lovely cards.

Today I was grateful for live radio football commentary of the Liverpool v Manchester City game!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to more EPL, some journaling and perhaps a film.

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day six - Spory #mbfeb

POSTED!

Today’s #LetterMo (Day six) recipient was Brandi, a friend of mine who lives in Virginia. She is a diehard K Pop fan and I love it when she makes playlists for me.

Today I was grateful for my BT Sport subscription, so that I could watch not one but TWO English Premier League games! Newcastle v Southampton was great for us neutrals.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to some EPL games, online retail therapy and watching a film or two.

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day Five - Pets #mbfeb

RECEIVED!

Today’s #LetterMo (Day 5) recipient is my friend Christina who lives in Texas. She’s a lot of fun, she always organises Secret Santa for all of us.

Today I was grateful that it was the end of the working week!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to getting some online shopping deliveries!

Posted!

#LetterMo Day 4 - a letter of thanks to my friend Soléna who lives in Nantes, France. She had sent me some delightful Christmas gifts.

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day Four - Layers #mbfeb

Today I was grateful for a kind and thoughtful text from my friend, Collette!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to assisting with strategic discussions and meetings.

Posted!

Today’s recipient of #LetterMo Day three was my friend Jen, who is homeschooling her 13 year old sister as well as her daughter who is six.

📷 February Photo Challenge - Day three: Comfort #mbfeb

Today I was grateful for hard work on data and metrics from three of my colleagues.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to an EPL game via one of my many streaming services!

Posted!

#LetterMo Day 2 - to my goddaughter, Ruby, to check how she’s getting on during lockdown.

📷 February Photo Challenge - Day Two: Morning Beverage #mbfeb

Today I was grateful for honest conversations with my new manager: we agree that there is room for improvement within the unit, and that we will work together on this.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to some English Premier League football AND our weekly quiz!

Posted!

#LetterMo

Day 1 - To my godson, Ben, about his much delayed Christmas present.

📷 February Photo Challenge: Day 1 - Close Up #mbfeb

(Tulip)

Today I was grateful for perfectly cooked vegetables at dinner!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the start of LetterMo! I am hoping to post a card, postcard or letter to family and friends every day in February.

My mum’s proud badge

Today I was grateful for the NHS and the Covid vaccine programme!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to my 76 year old parents receiving their first doses of the COVID vaccine.

Today I was grateful for the time and space to just be by myself. After a gruelling week at work, helping to induct my new manager as well as look after new recruits, I was desperate for “me time”.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to replenishing my snacks.

Today I was grateful for an hour long chat with a friend in Malta!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to meeting Michelle and discussing tactics!

Today I was grateful for fewer telephone calls from my new colleague…

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to an early morning catch up with Andrea, before my work day begins in earnest.

Today I was grateful for a substantive reply from the DG (even though I don’t feel like he has fully answered our questions…)

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a brainstorming session with my colleagues and new manager.

Today I was grateful for a holding reply from the DG. We are now on tenterhooks to receive the substantive response!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to fewer meetings, taste testing some new crackers and our monthly quiz for Patreon members!

Today, I was grateful for my stamina in getting through countless meetings - UGH!

Yesterday, I was looking forward to challenging the Director General on his talent scheme proposals.

Yesterday, I was grateful for a thrilling FA Cup fourth round game between Manchester United and Liverpool!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a lie in, brunch and the FA Cup tie between Liverpool and Manchester United!

Today I was grateful for a brief foray into the outside world!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the FA Cup fourth round matches.

Today I was grateful for colleagues who didn’t mind attending last minute meetings at the end of the working week.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to being productive and getting things done!

Today I was grateful for a positive End of Year review.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to an introductory chat with a new colleague.

Today I was grateful for conversations with my new manager, boiled egg sandwiches for lunch and the maxing poet, Amanda Gorman, at the inauguration!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I look forward to seeing my reverse mentoring partner, so that we can discuss developments and a talent management scheme.

Today I was grateful for the laughter and the limericks as we said farewell to one manager and welcomed the next one!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to receiving feedback at my End of Year Review.

Today I was grateful for a smooth induction for my new manager, senior managers agreeing with my views on KPIs for a new talent scheme and Scottish shortbread snacks!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to meeting my new line manager online.

Today I was grateful for a delicious roast chicken, cooked to perfection by my mum!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the Liverpool v Manchester United game!

Today I was grateful for a Nottingham Forest home win!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to listening to more of “Girl, Woman, Other”; watching some EPL matches and staying inside.

Today I was grateful for help from Scott and Brendan!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to fewer meetings, discussing Matt’s development and listening to a few more chapters of “Girl, Woman, Other”

Today I was grateful for helpful advice at the hearing clinic.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to my consultation with an audiologist.

Today I was grateful for an insightful and fun Book Club meeting.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to going over the annual People Survey results. Our unit has some very good scores.

Today I was grateful to finally get a date and time for an appointment with an audiologist!

January

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a brainstorming session; eating amaretti biscuits and our weekly quiz!

Today I was grateful to my colleagues, they are willing to learn and happy to share the load.

Tomorrow Inshallah, Zi am looking forward to chatting with new colleagues.

Today I was grateful to listen to the audio book version of our book club’s selection.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to listening to an audio book; binge watching more FA Cup third round matches and bread & butter pudding for dessert!

Today I was grateful for help and advice at the pharmacy.

Tomorrow Inshallah I am looking forward to a trip the local pharmacy - definitely an essential journey!

Today I was grateful for sharp eyed colleagues who spotted a glaring error in an important email.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to the start of the FA Cup third round! Two matches will be on, including Liverpool v Aston Villa.

Today I was grateful for my new, pillar box red lipstick! It cheered me up immensely.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to our unit’s social event - afternoon tea!

Today I was grateful for colleagues’ focus on wellbeing; our planning for a leaving party and some positive feedback for the team.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to Twelfth Night - even though it is the end of the festive season - it means that 2021 can finallly get going.

Today I was grateful for colleagues being positive, my mum cooking a nice meal for us and a short but pleasant email response from the deputy director.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to meeting our new colleague, Ellie.

Today I was grateful for my colleagues who continue to be positive in the face of volatility, uncertainty, change and ambiguity.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to being online again with friends and colleagues.

Today I was grateful for a chilled out day, because it is back to the grindstone tomorrow!

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to a lie in, brunch and then catching up with what’s been happening at the virtual salt mines.

Today I was grateful for a calm and relaxing day. Good prep for my return to work on Monday.

Tomorrow Inshallah, I am looking forward to more football, nice food and online chats with friends!

Today I was grateful for Happy New Year messages from family and friends around the world.