We have just spent a few amazing days in London – something I have wished to do for a while – and as we had three significant birthdays to celebrate between us this year – that certainly warranted something special.

It’s many years since I was there – and the plan was – that we would make the most the time – by combining a theatre visit – river trips – meals out etc – with lots of walking – in order to soak in the atmosphere.

I admit that I was slightly concerned before we went – as recently my knee had been causing much pain – making walking difficult.

However – I took hold of the saying – “Believe you can – and you’re halfway there” – and went with a determined attitude – to get as much as I could from the trip.

I was not disappointed – and – looking back – I feel quite proud – we walked for miles each day – and although I had to go at a steady pace – and take many small rests along the way – I did it!

I am reminded of a poem by Edgar Albert Guest – “Somebody said that it couldn’t be done – But with a chuckle he replied – That maybe it couldn’t – but he would be one – Who wouldn’t say no till he tried – So he buckled right in – with the trace of a grin – On his face – if he worried – he hid it – He started to sing – as he tackled the thing – That couldn’t be done – and he did it”

I can say that I have found many times in my life – that my attitude to things – makes such a difference. Being determined to overcome obstacles in life is so important – for life holds many challenges .

Another of Edgar’s poems inspires me – this one carries on with the theme – of not giving in.

” When things go wrong – as they sometimes will – When the road you’re trudging seems uphill – When the funds are low – and the debts are high – And you want to smile – but you have to sigh – When care is pressing you down a bit – Rest if you must – but don’t you quit – Life is strange – with it’s twists and turns – As every one of us must learn – And many a failure comes about – When he might have won – had he stuck it out – Don’t give up – though the pace seems slow – You may succeed with another blow -Success is failure turned inside out – The silver tint of the clouds of doubt – And you can never tell – just how close you are – It may be near – though it seems so far – So stick to the fight when you’re hardest hit – It’s when things seem worse that you mustn’t quit.”

I’m so glad – that I didn’t give in – and was able to enjoy those full days – making new memories with family.

And I’m also reminded of the importance of my attitude – to whatever life throws at me. A determination – to never give in – and a belief in myself too – that – ‘I can do it’.

Blessings – Lois