BUBBLE & SQUEAK

It is very early on the last day of 2023, and I have crept out of bed and into the lounge that houses my office. The smaller of my Christmas trees, bedecked in red and gold, provides a gentle and benevolent light for me to reflect on a challenging year. And of course, to wonder what is in store in the New Year that is fast approaching.

Last night I woke up at 1:15 am and struggled to get back to sleep. I was feeling frustrated and irritable and then I remembered; it was exactly a year ago that I experienced a visitation of angels – my near-death experience, after spending Christmas in hospital.

(If you haven’t read it – here is the link to the blog: https://www.whatpennydidnext.co.uk/visited-by-angels )

All through this festive week I have felt as though I have achieved some miraculous goal. I survived for a full year! Woohoo! It felt truly significant. Something to be celebrated.

In reality, I feel more like I have scraped through. Dragged myself through the mud and the muck and emerged somewhat older and wiser but bruised and a little dishevelled!

The past year has been a strange mix of wonder and disappointment. Leaving me feeling that there is strong possibility that the sum-up at the bottom of my report card states unequivocally “Must try harder.”

I am imagining my lovely friend Becka reading this and loudly admonishing me for being too hard on myself! Without doubt, Becka is one of my wins for 2023. Our friendship is joyous, uplifting and a celebration of everything life has to offer when we are open to it.

Don’t worry Becka – positivity is on the way!

Whilst I did not remove myself from social media over the last week, I have kept my distance. Repelled by the constant New Year New You posts. The constant selling of this and that at bargain prices which most of us probably cannot afford. I myself have a “special offer” which I am ready to launch but have not done so, such is my distaste for selling! (It is a bargain though…watch this space).

Those of you who have followed me for a while will know that I am not truly goal orientated, and do not believe in the obsequious pressure of New Years Resolutions. But I do believe that anything that causes us to pause, draw a line, and set fresh intentions is a good thing. A shiny brand-new year provides that opportunity.

OK Becka – here goes…

One of my favourite things about Christmas dinner is the leftovers. In fact, I actively cook enough extra food so that we can enjoy Bubble and Squeak with cold turkey and a perfect friend egg perched on top. To be enjoyed on your lap watching some rubbish on the TV accompanied by a delicious cup of tea.

It is a glorious concoction of mashed potato fried up with leftover vegetables until crispy. In our house this consists of sprouts, peas, and swede. Lots of salt and pepper and some cranberry sauce on the side.

For the moment, let’s set aside the effect of this on your arteries and blood sugar and simply revel in how something so delicious can be created from bits and pieces left in your fridge. Bits that can go overlooked and unnoticed. I wonder how many cold sprouts were decanted into the bin!

My point?

I am looking back at the leftovers of 2023 and assembling them into my own personal bubble and squeak. I am going to relish every mouthful and take the contentment and satisfaction of it all into 2024.

I hope you can do the same.

Today I will set my intentions and share them with you tomorrow. I would love to know what yours are.

With love x