WOAPA perform at ABC 'Witney in Pink' event 2013

Pushing your boundaries.

'To have an extra-ordinary life you have to push yourself out of your comfort zone. Only ever regret what you wish you had done, but didn't.' unknown.

This was posted on my Open University Creative Writing Facebook group by one of my fellow students. It had a profound effect on me as this is how I'm trying to live my life at the moment; it's not always easy. But it's one of life's lovely quirks that sometimes things happen or come to your attention just when you need them to.

 I recently watched the Last night of the Proms on BBC television. I'll be honest here, it's not usually my thing. All that bobbing up and down and waving flags to the same songs that were sung last year and countless years before! I'm sure that it's one of those situations where being there makes all the difference. So why did I watch it? Out of curiosity, is the short answer. Earlier in the day I'd heard that the orchestra was to be conducted by a woman for the first time in the 118 year history of the Proms, and this intrigued me.She told the Today programme that she is "very, very proud, but also pretty surprised to be the first".

At the tender age of 9, Marin Alsop expressed a desire to learn to be a conductor, but her violin teacher told her that; 'girls don't do that!' But undeterred her parents went out and bought her a box of batons and told her that with practice there was nothing that she couldn't do. How wonderful to have such supportive parents. It took a while, but not only did Marin conduct the BBC orchestra at the proms, but she also has her own orchestra, the Säo Paulo Symphony orchestra and she's also the Director of the Baltimore Symphony orchestra. Not bad for a girl! 

 Coincidentally, Marin happens to be the same age as me, although I'm a few months older!  In an interview the day after her performance she said; 'Follow your passion, never give up.' So how can I fail to be inspired and challenged by this incredible woman.

Well that suits me! For the past couple of years I've been doing just that. Now the thing about doing this is, sometimes it works and, sometimes it doesn't. But if you're doing something that you're passionate about, it doesn't really matter if it goes wrong. We all know, we can learn from our mistakes, sometimes even more so than when things work out. I know that I seem to remember the things that have gone wrong more vividly than the ones that have worked out alright!

I'm also very fortunate in being surrounded by people who are very encouraging. Although I'm sure that my children must roll their eyes sometimes, wondering what mum's going to get up to next! But the way I see it, we only get one life. I've taken risks in the past simply because I didn't want to look back in the future and think, 'if only'. I wouldn't have my youngest son if I hadn't taken a risk.

So today's challenge to anyone who'd like to accept it is; take a risk; push your boundaries. If there's something that your passionate about but haven't pursued yet; go ahead and try. What's the worst thing that can happen? As I've already said, if it goes wrong you'll at least be able to learn from it and perhaps try again with the knowledge that you've acquired from your first attempt. 

Don't let anyone tell you that you can't. Surround yourself with the people who will support and love you, no matter what. I can promise you one thing, it won't be boring.

Now what new challenge can I attempt today? 

photo courtesy of  http://inspirational-images.tumblr.com/image/56716548392

Part 4 in 'My Invisible Dragon Adventure' series.

Here at last is the the next part in My Invisible Dragon Adventure series.

In the last part Isabel and Lancelot decided to return to their own realities. Lancelot toYe Olde Camelot and Isabel to Witney in 2013. but first Isabel had to figure out how to summon the Invisible Dragon. Has she succeeded? Will Lancelot return to claim Guinevere? Find out what happens next!

A new day dawned and as ever the sun shone brightly as Isabel and Lancelot went about their daily rituals of swimming, sun bathing and generally just having a relaxing time. But this particular morning Isabel had for the first time in ages woken up with a headache. This was down to her spending most of the night tossing and turning as she tried to figure out how to get Lancelot back to Camelot and his true love, Guinevere. All her attempts over the past few weeks to summon the Invisible Dragon back had been unsuccessful and she was running out of ideas. As for herself, she wouldn't mind staying in Shangri La. Being in such a beautiful and quiet place had begun a process of healing, both in a physical and spiritual sense, and she was in no hurry to return to the circumstances that had led to here being in need of this healing.

It had really just been a bit of fun trying to cast the spell which had brought them to this time and place. At least that's what she'd told herself. But the reality was that she'd been finding life very difficult for a very long time and had longed for an escape from reality. Well, that's certainly what she'd got! Here she was, in Shangri La, with Lancelot.

A peal of laughter from Lancelot jolted Isabel out of her reverie. She found herself smiling as she watched Lancelot playing a game of' tossing the coconut' with a school of dolphins. They were teasing him, passing it between themselves, never giving him the chance to catch it. He looked so happy. In fact he seemed to have lost that wistful look that had made her realise that perhaps he would rather not be here but instead wanted to return to Guinevere. Or maybe that was just wishful thinking on her part. She must stop thinking these thoughts. Lancelot and Guinevere had been lovers long before she even existed and who was she to change history.

Lancelot flopped down beside her, splashing her as he shook his head.

'Oh Lady Isabel! Who knew that life could be so wondrous! I had never even heard of such creatures before joining you on this adventure. I feel a lightness in my heart such as I have never known before'

'I know what you mean. I was just thinking the same thing. But we can't stay here forever. '

'Why not? Would it be such a bad thing? I find myself thinking of my days in Camelot and they seem but a distant memory. A pleasant one, but not one that I wish to return too.'

'What about Guinevere? Don't you want to return to her?'

'Ah my Lady Guinevere. She is indeed beautiful and part of my heart will always belong to her. But being with her never brought me the peace and joy that I've found here, in this Shangri La, with you. Besides she belongs to another. My lord King Arthur. She could only be mine if he were to die and he is my friend as well as my lord, so how can I desire such a thing?'

'Ha! Make your mind up! Don't tell me I've come all this way for nothing?'

Lancelot and Isabel jumped looking around for the source of this voice.

'I don't know why you're so surprised you've been trying for weeks to get me back here so you must have been expecting me.'

'You startled us dragon. We can't see you if you remember. At least Lancelot isn't trying to fight you this time. '

'I'd like to see him try. He won't do me much harm with that coconut, even if he did know where to throw it.'

'I'll try my hardest if you have come to take us away from this place.' Lancelot said jumping to his feet.

Isabel stared at Lancelot.

'Do you really mean that? she said a huge grin on her face.

'With all my heart! It is yours now anyway' he replied clasping her right hand to his chest.

Pulling her towards him he gently kissed the top of her head.

'Very touching I must say!' said the dragon. 'But before you get too cosy I must tell you why I've come here and it's not because of your attempts to summon me. There's been a development in Camelot. Arthur's in trouble and he needs the help of all his best Knights. He's even sworn to forgive you for your indiscretion with the Queen.'

Lancelot stepped away from Isabel. His face a kaliedescope of emotions.

Isabel smiled, a tear trickling down her face.

'It's alright. I understand. It's been a wonderful adventure while it lasted and we'll always have our memories.'

'What will you do Lady Isabel?'

'That's up to the dragon. I'd like to stay on here for a while if he'd be happy to return for me later'

'Oh I will! Your adventure is not over yet Isabel, there's more to come. But first you must say your farewells to Lancelot.'

'Will he be coming back?'

'I can't tell you. It's never a good idea to know about the future. Come Lancelot. Climb on my back, there's no time to waste.

'I would if I knew where you were?

All three of them laughed, the dragon, setting fire to a bush as a flame inadvertently escaped from his mouth as he laughed. Isabel ran to get some water to put out the fire and when she returned the only sign that Lancelot had ever been there was the coconut on the ground. Isabel looked towards the horizon, a wistful smile on her face as she wondered what was going to happen next on her Invisible Dragon adventure............

Dolphin photo Isabel Johnstone 2013 ©

Shangri-La picture courtesy of Peter Maxian, available at;

http://www.thedragonadventures.com/2013/04/a-new-dimension-of-time-and-space.html

I'm moving!

Just over a year ago it was suggested to me that I should start writing a blog to help me find my 'writer's voice'. Little did I know the path that it would lead me on.

My first few attempts were ramblings about all the different adventures I'd been on since deciding to get off my sofa and start living life before it was too late. I even adopted the moniker, 'Flashmob Granny' as taking part in a flashmob, something I'd never even heard about, was one of these adventures.

But gradually the topics I chose to write about began to change. Yes, there were still the odd adventures and funny moments, (see 'My embarrassing situation' blog), but more and more I was writing more serious, inspirational, life lessons type blogs. eventually I dropped the 'Flashmob Granny' as a couple of people commented that it didn't seem appropriate anymore and as the number of people who read my blogs grew I began to think that perhaps I could write after all. I would really like to thank everyone who has read any of my blogs as you've helped me grow in confidence over the past year.

In the past year I've had a poem published in my local newspaper, a short story included in someone else's book and even had the courage to enter a writing competition! Not bad for a a recent ex-couch potato with little confidence.

I've found that the more risks I take, the more good things happen. Like having my own 'Invisible dragon adventure' stories written for me by someone one I've never met who lives on the other side of the world.(Thank you Peter Maxian, I will be continuing that adventure). All this in one year! If I can do it anyone can.

'What we truly and earnestly aspire to be, that in some sense we are. The mere aspiration, by changing the frame of mind, for the moment realises itself' Anna Jameson.

But now I'm taking the biggest, most adventurous step to date as I've had my very own website created to share my blogs in a way that will hopefully make it easier for people to find, follow and read them. Plus, hopefully one day in the not too distant future it will be a way for me to advertise my book. Who knows if that will happen? One things for sure it won't if I don't at least try!

My logo is a rainbow with 'Sunshine after the rain' as I'm writing from a place of having been through a lot and not only survived but been made stronger by it all.

'Everything that you will ever need to accomplish any goal that you will ever set is sitting & waiting patiently inside of you' Unknown.

This quote really spoke to me and as I set out on my next adventure I just wanted to share it with you. It makes our excuses for not at least attempting things seem a bit lame I think.

So I would like to officially invite you to have a look at my new website and would really value your comments, both on the website itself or any of my blogs. Come with me on my adventure and help me to grow and improve by taking on board your comments. Come with me 'Over the Rainbow' at www.isabeljohnstone.co.uk 

Bit of fun!

Ode From a mature student's son.

 

My mum has lost her marbles!

How so? I hear you say.

She’s started acting crazy

In many different ways. 

Now, don’t you get me wrong here,

She always been a loon

Dancing round the kitchen

While singing out of tune. 

The other night for instance,

Now this will make you laugh,

She asked me for a pad and pen

When she was in the bath! 

The image now imprinted

Inside my teenage head

Will haunt my dreams forever

As I lay in my bed. 

Please tell me there’s an ending

Before she gets much worse.

I hope it’s all been worth it

This open uni course! 

© 2013

 

 

New writing prompt-Mr Humphry's goat.

In a few weeks time I'll finally begin the creative writing course that I originally set out to do 3 years ago now. Little did I know the journey that I was beginning and the different experiences and friends that I would make along the way. I never dreamt that I would join a choir, appear on television or sing a solo in front of an audience. All I can say is that I'm really enjoying the ride!  

 

Here is the latest in the series of short stories I've written in response to writing prompts by my fellow open university students. It's based on a true story in her local newspaper but with my own twist on it. Enjoy!

 

Mr Humphrey’s goat.

Mr Humphrey hauled his rheumatoid racked body from his warm and cosy bed. Padding into the kitchen he made himself a pot of his special herbal tea from the herbs he grew in his allotment. Gradually his joints started to loosen and his gnarled fingers uncurled slightly. Now it was time for him to start his day. Normally of a surly, morose nature, today he almost had a smile playing around his lips. Quite out of character for him he’d decided to buy a goat to keep on his allotment. He’d never had a pet before. As a child he’d always preferred the creepy, crawly creatures to the fluffy ones. But a few days ago at the agricultural show, this goat had stared back at him with the same sour expression, almost as if he was looking in the mirror. Before he knew it he had handed over an exorbitant amount of money and arranged for him to be delivered today.

Hobbling as fast as his arthritic knees would let him, he arrived at his allotment and did an inspection of the fence and shelter he’d spent the past couple of days erecting and satisfied that they would be sufficient, he passed the time by hoeing the weeds that had sprung up around his plants. Finally at midday a land rover pulling a horsebox appeared. All the other allotment owners stopped what they were doing and gaped in astonishment as a white goat with black patches was dragged from the horsebox, his little legs rigid as he desperately tried to resist being extricated from the box. Next minute the farmer was bowled over as the goat changed his mind and charged at him head first. Startled by the sudden roars of laughter, the goat crashed through the lovingly erected fence and careened into one of the posts holding up the new shelter which then collapsed onto the startled goat. Momentarily stunned, Mr Humphrey managed to grab the goat’s lead and tied it to the stake he’d installed earlier. Normally ignored by the other allotment holders because of his morose and surly nature, Mr Humphrey temporarily became the centre of attention as they crowded round laughing and chattering, wanting to know all about the goat. He even had many offers to assist in repairing the fence, with one man declaring that he would build a ‘proper little stable’ for the goat to shelter in over winter.

Jonathan, as Mr Humphrey named him, soon became a local attraction. Children would stop by with little titbits on their way to school and would often save a bit of their packed lunches to sneak to him on their way home. Even the crusty old allotment holders would find themselves with the odd carrot or bit of broccoli, his favourite, in their pockets.

At first Mr Humphrey’s goat would spend his days quietly grazing and occasionally nibbling at Mr Humphrey’s crops. Surprisingly he didn’t seem to mind this and often picked some especially for him, smiling as the goat greedily munched away. He was tethered to the stake by a long rope giving him quite a bit of freedom to wander and was often to be seen being fussed over by kids of all ages.

Then, one morning the allotment owners arrived to a scene of complete and utter devastation. Somehow during the night Jonathan had managed to pull the stake out of the ground and had gone on a rampage. Carrots were crushed, cabbages tossed but worst of all the prize marrow that old Mr Rodgers had been carefully nurturing to enter into this year’s county show was reduced to a pulp, what was left of it anyway. Jonathan stood in the middle of the middle of it all nonchalantly nibbling, oblivious to the glares of the angry allotment holders. Pulling down his cap to hide his smirk, Mr Humphrey promised to make sure this didn’t happen again and grudgingly offered to pay compensation.

But over the days and weeks Jonathan’s behaviour became more and more erratic. He started running round in circles and despite being anchored, firstly to a larger stake with a strong chain, then a concrete post and finally even an oil drum filled with bricks, somehow he still managed to break free and regularly terrorised the locals forcing them to at times seek the safety of their sheds. Even the children now stayed away. Finally, the allotment holders had enough and complained to the local council. By this time even Mr Humphrey had had enough and readily agreed that it was time for Jonathan to move on.

As Jonathan was being dragged into the horse box he stared at Mr Humphrey, who could swear that he saw a twinkle in his eye. Puzzled, he made his way to his shed and made himself a cup of his special tea. Pondering on what could possibly have turned the goat from a stubborn but gentle creature into this force of destruction, he sighed as the brew once more relieved his aching limbs. Thank goodness for Marijuana he thought.

 

My 'Invisible Dragon Adventure' part 3.

 

A few weeks ago I was fortunate to have an adventure story of my very own created by another blogger, my 'Invisible Dragon Adventure'. This can be found on my blog titled, 'Have you a childhood dream'. In this adventure I cast a spell as a result of which an invisible dragon appeared and whisked me of to Camelot to meet Lancelot. The dragon then transported Lancelot and me to Shangri-La, where the real adventure was to begin. This same blogger has now thrown down the challenge for me to continue the adventure. How could I resist! But I believe that it would be a mistake to try to emulate his writing style so I'll be putting my own spin on it. Here goes.

 

 

Isabel's first spell part 3. (In her own words).

 

At first everything went wonderfully well. Isabel and Lancelot spent their days exploring the lush vegetation, befriending the many and varied animals that they encountered and swimming in the crystal clear waters of the lakes. Isabel was even able to fulfil another childhood dream and swim with the Dolphins who inhabited the caves along the shore of the golden beaches. At night they would lie under the stars and share stories of their differing lives back home. It was all very romantic. As a Knight of the Round Table Lancelot was very chivalrous and insisted on courting Isabel in a manner befitting a great lady of the court. At first she was very shy and coming from the 21st century tried hard not to laugh at some of the romantic gestures and flowery phrases he used to compliment her. But soon she grew to love being compared to the flowers and stars and having her hand kissed and couldn't imagine life any other way.

 

 One day they were strolling hand in hand through an avenue of Cypress trees, revelling in the coolness of the shade the trees provided. It had been another hot and sunny day. even their daily dip hadn't been able to completely cool them down as the water itself was as warm as a bath from the constant sunshine.

 

'Lady Isabel, can I ask you a question?'

 

Startled by the seriousness of his tone Isabel dropped the flowers she'd gathered earlier.

 

'Forgive me my Lady, I did not mean to startle you!'

 

Lancelot fell on his knees and tried to pick them up, but they were too delicate and crumbled in his large hands, calloused from his years of jousting.

 

'Don't worry Lancelot. Look around you there are plenty more flowers for me to pick. I'm more concerned with what it is you want to ask me.'

 

'Please do not trouble yourself my Lady. I merely wished to inquire if you were truly happy.'

 

'Why would you ask me such a thing Lancelot? Is it because you're not, truly happy?'

 

Standing Lancelot enfolded Isabel in his arms and gently kissed her head.

 

'Oh my Lady I have had a most wondrous time. who could not fail to fall in love with this Shangri-La! Spending time with you, I have grown to love you but....'

 

Gently pushing him away Isabel placed her forefinger on his lips.

 

'It's ok Lancelot. You don't have to say it. I know that your heart belongs to someone else. I've felt her presence with us at times and, well, actually you talk in your sleep.'

 

Lancelot felt his face grow crimson. He opened his mouth but Isabel place her palm over it.

 

'Shush. It's ok. This has been the most amazing time of my life. but it's been a dream. I know that now. Perhaps it's time to wake up?'

 

'Lady Isabel you are wise beyond your years. I have tried to forget her, Guinevere, my love, but I find that I cannot. even though she is wed to another, I cannot stop loving her and therefore cannot give my heart fully to you. I wish it could be otherwise!'

 

Isabel smiled a wistful smile.

 

'I know. This is all the result of a magic spell, but I think there is a magic spell that is far greater than any spells that I can weave. I think that love is the most powerful magic around.'

 

'Yet it seems such a waste! Why can I not be set free from this spell to find love where it is returned? Am I destined to live life longing for one who can never be mine!'

 

 Isabel bowed her head to hide a smile as she thought of all the tales of the Round Table that she'd read. If only he knew? But it wouldn't be right to tell him.

'Well I guess that all that remains is for me to try to figure out how to get us out of here. Where is that Invisible Dragon when you need him?' 

 

Lancelot grinned.

 

'Ah lady Isabel if anyone can weave a spell, it is you.'

 

To be continued........ © 2013.

Lancelot and Guinevere picture available at;

  http//www.medievalwalltapestry.com/lancelot-and-guenevere-picture.html

 

Shangri-La picture courtesy of Peter Maxian, available at;

 

http://www.thedragonadventures.com/2013/04/a-new-dimension-of-time-and-space.html

Rainbow tree photo -Isabel Johnstone © 2013.