Last night, skyping my mum, and chatting about the latest episode of Broadchurch (British small town murder mystery epic series). There’s so much to talk about in a show like this – Who Did It? being the most likely discussion point. Mum’s major beef with the show is that the detective, the main character, is…

There are fewer and fewer  moments where my chest fills up like it did hearing this speech. Watching my prime minister silence the rowdy parliament and slice up her opposition with such authority was a brilliant moment.  Her response to Abbot’s sexism and hypocrisy was beyond reproach. But really it was the underlying sentiment that …

1. Wear a terrible, amazing dress out for a posh drink, ideally with other ladies, also in terrible, amazing dresses. Big overcoat may be necessary.If funds are a bit tight, just wear it out to your backyard shed for a bit). 2. Play Battleship 3. Go to a pub and eat nothing more than a…

I will answer your email re wise women and what we have taught and learned by including, where I can, the sources of my thoughts which shaped my inner self over the years. To my 15 year old self I could no better that give her a copy of Desiderata and sit beside her and…

MUSINGS ON THE JOURNEY SO FAR? WOW!! Well looking back 41 years to when I was 15!!! Not considering anything else about that era – such as – dominated by men, the church’s hold on society in Ireland etc  –  just looking at myself I would say to 15yr old Dora:- You are a dreamy…

Dear fifteen year old self, I have written a few things down from the future and am sending them to you via the internet (dont worry – you will understand what that is all in good time) Keep them safe and know that these things are given to you with hard won wisdoms and that…

What I would tell my 15 year old self Care for others, but care for yourself Work hard, but make time for play Learn responsibility, but don’t be too responsible you are too young at 15 Have lots of friends but don’t lose yourself trying to please them all Sing, dance, keep music in your…

Dear joey, You’ll always be hard on yourself. Fight the good fight and resist the urge for self-criticism. You are good enough. You’re also critical of others. Go easy on other people too.  It does nothing for you to scrutinize so severely. Try to see the positive in things first – glass half full and…

Letters to My Littler Self – Jen 10 year old me, 15 year old me, you can’t see it now but if you want a model for courage: it’s your mother. If you want a model for integrity; it’s your mother. If you want a model of compassion & love; it’s your mother. If you…

What  would you tell your 15 year old self? Never do anything you’re uncomfortable with, just because you are trying to please someone else. Always stick to your guns. Hold out for the special guy, don’t settle for just anyone. You’re special and so deserve to be treated as such. You’re family will always be…