I'm a Wiltshire Writer
I write what I see.
I live in Devizes, Wiltshire, with my husband, John, (the one taking the selfie) and our very aloof cat, Willow. We both have children from previous marriages and they have all grown and flown.
I recently retired after twenty years as an English teacher, both in the UK and overseas. During my time in the classroom, I gathered stories and met some interesting characters, some of whom appear in my stories.
Nowadays, I love writing, reading and gardening, just like any middle-aged woman! I am also a serial community volunteer, serving on numerous committees and in many local groups as well as being an elected, independent Town Councillor.
I sometimes dabble in poetry as well as prose. Below is one I wrote quite recently which deals with the fact that increasing age does not come alone!
Nobody Mentioned
Nobody mentioned wrinkles on your ears, or a nose that runs
Every time you eat, walk, bend over. In fact, all the time.
Nobody said that your chin would vanish as your skin pools around your neck,
Or that your lips would become invisible and that they’d stretch
Uncomfortably when you smile.
Nobody talked about your eyesight taking a nosedive, words now so teeny tiny,
You need longer arms just to see them.
And those arms, well nobody mentioned they’d become flabby.
Or that you’d lose your waist. Or your boobs would droop.
Or your thighs would become two sad, deflated ballons.
Where does the muscle actually go? Definitely nowhere on my body.
And worse. How many times did you go to the loo last night?
And piles. Don’t mention those.
And memory loss. Where are my words? What was I saying?
Nobody mentioned that.
Nobody mentioned leisurely mornings, no more commuting, no rat race.
Instead, you’ve joined the volunteer army and England needs you.
Sunday evenings Monty Don and Countryfile, a phone call from your offspring
if you’re lucky. Sorry can’t do that, I’m just so busy Mum.
They’re living the life you’ve left behind.
Nobody mentioned that sliding into the autumn of your life would be like this.
Nobody said you’d scrutinise the elderly deciding which sort you’re going to be.
Sprightly and yoga fit at eighty?
In a mobility scooter at seventy? Or dead.
I know what I’m aiming at.
And nobody mentioned that.
Contact Me
I'd love to discuss the themes in my books with you.
If you'd like me to speak at your local book group, or an event or a Literary festival, please get in contact today.
Check out my my socials to find out where you can meet me.