“There’s nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find the ways in which you yourself have altered.”
~Nelson Mandela~
Well, hello, my dear, dear Peeps! And, thank you, Spidey, for coming back with a great quote to start this post. 🙂
Thank you to those who have kept in touch over the last year despite my not being so active on here. I have visited blogs here and there and posted book reviews and book tour posts, but other than that, I have been a bit caught up in a whole load of other things, personally.
So, what’s been happening in the life of Ritu?
I left you guys dangling a bit when I went ‘on a break’ at the end of September, 2023, after finding myself at the point of breakdown.
Lil Princess suffered a lot these last few years, with still to be diagnosed ASD, as well as some severe Mental Health problems. And I was her chosen person, so I had to ride the increasingly dark lows as well as the manic highs with her. It took a toll on me and my own health, as she wouldn’t communicate with anyone apart from me and one of her teachers at school.
I ended up off work for six weeks before Christmas to support her lowest period.
I won’t go into the details, but suffice to say, I would never wish the situations we encountered upon any family. It was extremely tough. The hardest time of my life, to be honest.
It was even tougher as she wasn’t up to sharing anything with the rest of the family which impacted her dad, Hubby Dearest, as well as her brother, Lil (Big) Man. Feelings of helplessness were big…
But, over the last nine months, things have changed, and with a lot of support she is in a much better place.
Such a good place that, despite missing around 30% of her learning time and education, she still managed to pass ALL her GCSEs, as well as gaining an A in her Literature and B in English Language! She’s off to Sixth form this week, to start A-Levels – a day I wasn’t sure we would see, at some times.
Lil (Big) Man has completed his first year of his apprenticeship, and apparently, he is one of the top-performing apprentices in the company, which is a global firm. Fantastic news!
I’m still driving him around though, so we are working on getting that license, when I will be able to hang up mum taxi duties, for him at least. Keep your fingers crossed!
I’ve not been able to spend as much time with Pops and Mum as I would have hoped, because of being needed to ferry Lil(Big) Man around, but they spent time with us at Christmas, and a few days in. the summer too. Pops was in hospital, too, at one point, and it has just highlighted how fragile life is. He’s 78 now, and Mum is shouldering a lot. I am always there, as well as my Brother, emotionally, but not being able to be there physically, all the time, is a different drain on our hearts.
Sonu Singh is now ten years old, and still as wonderfully grumpy as always. I do love him!
Then, in April, Lil Princess got a new kitten, Minnie Kaur. She is a little minx! But, so, so cute. These two are still working on being friends, but they are getting there! Here’s Minnie!
School was tough in its own way, as we had our first full academic year as a part of a new academy. So many changes, and expectations that weighed heavily upon a much-reduced staff, with inconsistent leadership as our head left, and we had an interim head, (our original deputy) who moved on to pastures new. I had several members of my team who had long periods of time off, due to health, which impacted everyone, including the children. An unintentional injury sustained after trying to look after an SEN child has left me with a scarred arm and a dodgy knee. All this, plus I had that six-week stint where I was out, too, meant it was pretty rocky, most of the year.
However our new head joined in April, and things are beginning to ease into a more consistent routine.
I’ve spent the last couple of years spilt between two classrooms, as the EYFS Phase Leader. This academic year, though my management role is the same, I am now going to be in my own classroom for the whole week (bar my management time). I have a class name, too, Hedgehog Class, and have spent a lot of time in school over the holidays, shifting things around, cutting and laminating, and creating a new environment for my first batch of Hoglets!
Here’s hoping this academic year is more stable with a solid leadership team, and, fingers crossed, my own personal circumstances more settled, too.
Writing-wise, I have news, too.
It took a long while for my writing mojo to come back after a year or so of not being able to focus, given what was happening at home. However, in April, with everything on a relatively even keel, I wrote LOADS! And then, during the May half term, I wrote THE END on book three in the Rishtay Series, In God’s Hands.
The story has a heavy dose of infertility, which was quite emotional to write about, given my own fertility issues when trying to start a family, but I hope my own emotions helped to mold the story.
It’s with the publisher and editor now, and we are scheduled for a November 5th release.
Feedback from my three alpha-readers has been positive, and that is without edits. I’ve made a grown man cry several times, and been told it was real women’s fiction, gripping, and they felt compelled to read more.
So far, from my dear publisher, I got this: “Absolutely loving book three, think it’s your best yet. So proud of you!”
Lil Princess wants me to add a book to the series, highlighting Mental Health, too, so maybe that will be an addition in the future. I’m too close to that situation right now to write it.
Right now, I am planning another project, which, when underway I will reveal more about.
Healthwise – perimenopause is playing merry havoc with my system, right now. We thought we had the HRT prescription down, but things are not quite right so I am waiting for another set of appointments. The probable Fybromyalgia is still there, raising its head once in a while, and now there is a chance I may be lactose intolerant! So, I’m doing a bit of a lifestyle overhaul, but nothing too over ambitious. No dairy, and short daily Pilates session, along with a couple of supplements to help with hormone balance and gut health. Wish me luck!
As I did mention in a review post last month, I went on holiday for the first time in 20 years. Like a proper break, to Gran Canaria with Lil Princess. It was much needed, and we had an amazing time.
I also attended my first Romantic Novelist’s Association conference. A whole weekend, and two nights away, with no-one but romance writers, and plenty to learn. I met people I have conversed with, virtually, for years, and that was one of the most magical things about the conference. It was in the hallowed Royal Holloway University, and I think I 100% want to sign up for the next one in 2026!
Don’t worry, I shan’t be disappearing any time soon. I think my priorities have changed, and as that happens, so do we, as individuals, evolve.
I’ll still be reading, reviewing and blog touring, as well as popping in more regularly with updates and, who knows, I might have the energy for a few writing prompts, but no promises!
Also, I turn 49 in a couple of days, so this is the last year of my 40s… Eeeek!
Good to hear from you Ritu. I can understand what you’re going through as my younger brother faced similar situation with his son. I hope you and your family can get through this difficult time together with Grace. Hugs. Take care
Well, that was a roller coaster for you – and I’m guessing the hope is that the ups and downs won’t be as severe going forward. I know from my own experience that it never completely levels out. Glad it’s moving in the right direction, though, Ritu.
Dropping in to get a link of your latest post to connect with your guest quote and what do I find? Since I am not on WP on weekends, I would have missed this one otherwise.
I am so sorry to hear what happened and what you ALL had to go through. When one of my kids is suffering from life a big part of me is always suffering with them because I can feel their pain. So, I can only imaginge what you went through supporting your daughter being more or less the only person she was talking to. A heavy load but one a loving mother always takes. I am so glad, of course, that Lil Princess is doing so much better meanwhile and you could recover too from the heaviness that accompanied you. Everything looks good now. But you know, if there is anything I can do for you, and if it is only listening, then I am there! Wishing all of you the best. Much love to you, Sis💖
Talk about trials and tribulations! I’m happy to hear Lil Princess is in a better state of being and that you have weathered the storm. I hope all things continue on the upswing for you and the fam. 🙏🏽💛🙏🏽💛🙏🏽
Ritu! I can’t tell you how good it is to catch up. Thank you and thank Spidey for this wonderful post. There is a quote that says “Sometimes things have to get worse before they get better.” Hear, hear. Your journey this past year has been a tough one. You are a role model for parents! I wish I could jump across the pond and be there. You know I’m here in spirit, cheering you along the way. 💕
Thank you so much h Jennie.
You know, as a parent, all you want is for your children to be happy, first and foremost. I think we are nearly there, now xx
Hi Ritu, it is lovely to see a catch up post from you and I’m glad things have improved sufficiently for you to a write this post. I am neurodiverse so I can relate to thinking and socializing differently from the average person. My oldest son has PTSD and OCD so I’ve also had my time in this mental health treadmill. I hope your daughter will be fine now and complete her A levels in a good emotional space. Congratulations on your new book.
Thank you Robbie.
We are definitely on the right path with her, ow she is more aware of herself, and had been getting the help she needs, to that is a huge relief.
It’s her first day at 6th form today, so 🤞🏼🤞🏼🤞🏼🍀 for her! 🍀
Thanks for the update. It certainly has been a tough year for you. I wish you all the best and think you deserve a parent of the year award!! It is hard to watch our children suffer but as moms we do what ever we can. (But it’s never easy.) So pleased you finished book 3 of your series! Hugs.
I can’t tell you what a delight it is to have you back Ritu. Renewed, refreshed and ready for whatever life throws at you as usual. I do understand that family must come first and that you’re expected to be a tower of strength for them all. I’mglad to hear the Princess is now on an even keel and doing so well. Your son must be a source of much pride too.
Since I last saw your blog I have started writing again.It’s been more than 11 years since my wife passed and the writing urge packed it’s bags and left but I founda hidden store of humour and think she’d want me to use it. I will however hve toi find someone to format it for me if it ever reaches a book since I lost my editor when she accused me of being anti semitic following a conversation about the actions of the IDF. Lucky for me my BoAM (Brother of Another Mother) is Jewish and knows it isn’t true Mind you, as a character in the new writings he may be less forgiving in future.A Lothario revealed.
Hello David! How wonderful to hear from you. Thank you for your good wishes. It is great to hear that you have started writing, again. Sometimes you have to ride it out and your mojo will find you. Sorry you had trouble with your then editor, but I hope, when the time comes you will find someone right for you.
It is a hard time to have any opinions, nowadays, I find…
Take care and hugs right back at you!
so good to see you back in action, and you are clearly a powerhouse who supports everyone as needed, and glad you are able to reclaim your time for self care. best to you and your family and many good days ahead ❤
I appreciate your words, Beth.
It was a tough time, but I think I’ve come out of it stronger and more able to support myself and those around me without losing my own essence 🥰
But I Smile Anyway... 
Sep 20, 2024 @ 16:22:02
I think it is good to look at what we are doing and where we want to go. Priorities change. We pivot. It is all part of the journey.
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Sep 20, 2024 @ 16:46:30
Truth!
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Sep 09, 2024 @ 01:25:09
Good to hear from you Ritu. I can understand what you’re going through as my younger brother faced similar situation with his son. I hope you and your family can get through this difficult time together with Grace. Hugs. Take care
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sep 09, 2024 @ 05:48:46
Thank you Sajde. 🙏🏼💛
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Sep 09, 2024 @ 06:04:29
You’re welcome ☺️
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Sep 07, 2024 @ 17:59:37
Well, that was a roller coaster for you – and I’m guessing the hope is that the ups and downs won’t be as severe going forward. I know from my own experience that it never completely levels out. Glad it’s moving in the right direction, though, Ritu.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sep 07, 2024 @ 22:17:26
Thanks, Graeme. Things were very rough.
You’re right, it’s never going to be smooth, but hopefully it won’t be as bumpy 🤞🏼
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Sep 04, 2024 @ 15:54:18
Dropping in to get a link of your latest post to connect with your guest quote and what do I find? Since I am not on WP on weekends, I would have missed this one otherwise.
I am so sorry to hear what happened and what you ALL had to go through. When one of my kids is suffering from life a big part of me is always suffering with them because I can feel their pain. So, I can only imaginge what you went through supporting your daughter being more or less the only person she was talking to. A heavy load but one a loving mother always takes. I am so glad, of course, that Lil Princess is doing so much better meanwhile and you could recover too from the heaviness that accompanied you. Everything looks good now. But you know, if there is anything I can do for you, and if it is only listening, then I am there! Wishing all of you the best. Much love to you, Sis💖
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sep 04, 2024 @ 17:48:57
Thank you Sis. I know you are always there xxx
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Sep 04, 2024 @ 19:09:06
You can count on it, Sis 💖
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Sep 04, 2024 @ 19:43:39
💓💓💓
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Sep 03, 2024 @ 16:03:58
Talk about trials and tribulations! I’m happy to hear Lil Princess is in a better state of being and that you have weathered the storm. I hope all things continue on the upswing for you and the fam. 🙏🏽💛🙏🏽💛🙏🏽
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sep 03, 2024 @ 16:53:48
Thank you, Brother. Appreciated! 💛
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Sep 04, 2024 @ 05:34:45
You’re always welcome, Sister!! 💛
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sep 03, 2024 @ 01:56:42
Ritu! I can’t tell you how good it is to catch up. Thank you and thank Spidey for this wonderful post. There is a quote that says “Sometimes things have to get worse before they get better.” Hear, hear. Your journey this past year has been a tough one. You are a role model for parents! I wish I could jump across the pond and be there. You know I’m here in spirit, cheering you along the way. 💕
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sep 03, 2024 @ 06:01:25
Thank you so much h Jennie.
You know, as a parent, all you want is for your children to be happy, first and foremost. I think we are nearly there, now xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sep 03, 2024 @ 23:38:09
I do know, Ritu. I am SO glad to know you both are nearly there. 😍
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Sep 04, 2024 @ 05:52:07
🤗🤗
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Sep 04, 2024 @ 12:42:19
💕
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Sep 02, 2024 @ 19:16:04
Hi Ritu, it is lovely to see a catch up post from you and I’m glad things have improved sufficiently for you to a write this post. I am neurodiverse so I can relate to thinking and socializing differently from the average person. My oldest son has PTSD and OCD so I’ve also had my time in this mental health treadmill. I hope your daughter will be fine now and complete her A levels in a good emotional space. Congratulations on your new book.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sep 03, 2024 @ 05:58:58
Thank you Robbie.
We are definitely on the right path with her, ow she is more aware of herself, and had been getting the help she needs, to that is a huge relief.
It’s her first day at 6th form today, so 🤞🏼🤞🏼🤞🏼🍀 for her! 🍀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sep 03, 2024 @ 07:16:11
All the very best with her transition
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sep 03, 2024 @ 08:10:49
Thank you x
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Sep 01, 2024 @ 18:28:39
Thanks for the update. It certainly has been a tough year for you. I wish you all the best and think you deserve a parent of the year award!! It is hard to watch our children suffer but as moms we do what ever we can. (But it’s never easy.) So pleased you finished book 3 of your series! Hugs.
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Sep 01, 2024 @ 18:33:45
Thank you so Darlene. We just do what we can, don’t we? X
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Sep 01, 2024 @ 14:52:33
I have all those t/shirts so you have my sympathy, Ritu but it sounds like life is back on a more even keel now…:)
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Sep 01, 2024 @ 16:18:28
It is, Carol, finally. Well, it feels like it is. so, fingers crossed, things stay that way! ❤
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Sep 01, 2024 @ 13:01:25
Love to have you around, the neighborhood! I have a cuppa and biscuits ready, so dive in, Sis! ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sep 01, 2024 @ 16:18:00
Thanks Sis! It’s good to be back!
❤
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Sep 01, 2024 @ 11:19:41
I can’t tell you what a delight it is to have you back Ritu. Renewed, refreshed and ready for whatever life throws at you as usual. I do understand that family must come first and that you’re expected to be a tower of strength for them all. I’mglad to hear the Princess is now on an even keel and doing so well. Your son must be a source of much pride too.
Since I last saw your blog I have started writing again.It’s been more than 11 years since my wife passed and the writing urge packed it’s bags and left but I founda hidden store of humour and think she’d want me to use it. I will however hve toi find someone to format it for me if it ever reaches a book since I lost my editor when she accused me of being anti semitic following a conversation about the actions of the IDF. Lucky for me my BoAM (Brother of Another Mother) is Jewish and knows it isn’t true Mind you, as a character in the new writings he may be less forgiving in future.A Lothario revealed.
Anyway, Welcome Home. Huge Hugs as always
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sep 01, 2024 @ 16:17:25
Hello David! How wonderful to hear from you. Thank you for your good wishes. It is great to hear that you have started writing, again. Sometimes you have to ride it out and your mojo will find you. Sorry you had trouble with your then editor, but I hope, when the time comes you will find someone right for you.
It is a hard time to have any opinions, nowadays, I find…
Take care and hugs right back at you!
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Sep 01, 2024 @ 09:03:23
so good to see you back in action, and you are clearly a powerhouse who supports everyone as needed, and glad you are able to reclaim your time for self care. best to you and your family and many good days ahead ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sep 01, 2024 @ 09:14:56
I appreciate your words, Beth.
It was a tough time, but I think I’ve come out of it stronger and more able to support myself and those around me without losing my own essence 🥰
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sep 01, 2024 @ 06:33:24
Its so wonderful to have you back Sis, you’ve been through the mill this year…and you’re still standing, like a true survivor!
So lovely to read your words again 💜💜💜
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Sep 01, 2024 @ 07:19:51
Aw thank you, Sis.
You’ve been amazing, over this last year, and I can’t explain how much I appreciate you xxx
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Sep 01, 2024 @ 07:45:11
You are a good support too Sis. You know I am always around if you need to be a sounding board or a dart board 💜💜💜😁😁😁
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Sep 01, 2024 @ 07:47:23
I know! 🥰💛🤗
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