I'm a mother of sons, you can't scare me

Gardiner children April 2022 II

“I’m a mother of sons, you can’t scare me”

My world is full of some pretty incredible males; my partner, our three sons, my best friend, my father and father-in-law, my brother and 8/9 staff in my team at the Council.  Most of the time I like it that way.  I thrive on adventures in the wild, all things natural and being active, much of the time with the lads.  To the disappointment of my mother I was never a girly girl, dreaming of a white wedding, wearing pink and employed in a job dominated by women.  However I do miss the company of girls on occasion; chatter about people we know, what we are watching on Netflix, our treats from shopping and generally enjoying the break from testosterone laden air.  I am fortunate the girls drag me out on occasion, I am also fortunate Sam found Caitlyn for a partner.  Caitlyn is bright, caring, hard working and tolerant (as a sister to two brothers).  She adds a breath of fresh air to our family.  She genuinely cares for Sam, who carries the effects of what has happened to Rory and our family buried deep inside.  Today is Caitlyn’s 23rd birthday.  She and Sam called in after breakfast so we could share hugs, give her our gifts and share their news.  Happy Birthday Caitlyn, we hope you have a lovely day. xox

The main news of the week was Rory receiving his fourth tattoo, an image of Yoda from Star Wars, on his left upper arm.  It was done by Chris at Tuhi Ink.  Rory has been looking forward to it for ages as part of his birthday present.  He has been busy with his usual activities this week and on Thursday he brought home a lovely wooden waste basket he and Peter made at the New Plymouth Mens Shed.  This afternoon he is at the second session of Archery with Parafed Taranaki, supported by Sean.