Welcome

Welcome to my first ever blog. 2 years ago I spent my days in front of a computer juggling e-mails, phones and multiple tasks that all had to be fast and accurate. On top of that came re-organisation - a new computer system that didn't work, and many people who were trying to cram three or more full time jobs into one working day. Breakdowns were more common than tea breaks. My brain refused to go on - it dug its heels in and ceased to function. I couldn't make myself carry on or even stay in my office so I quit.

 It was terrifying - i had no job to go to and couldn't make myself go back to office work ever again. Desperate for money I brainstormed....

My first success was having a midweek lodger - free from tax under the UK government's rent a room scheme - we filled the room quickly, the lodger was lovely and unobtrusive and a small income came in regularly.

My second success was to activate a few small pensions a little early - every little helps - I'm nearly 60 by the way.

My second was a little gardening business "Caroline's Cottage Gardens". It followed my passion for cottage gardens and for my own garden and I now have several longstanding clients. I'm outside, the birds are singing, I can think clearly and have a much happier brain! I've been going for two years now. I particularly love doing garden makeovers and helping clients choose new plants. That is my logo at the top of this post. I'm always learning. I also now volunteer at Barnsdale Gardens which i love. I have a website too if you'd like to take a peek.

But why "quirky" in the title. Well its been a long journey but I finally found out I am on the Autistic Spectrum and quirky I definitely am. The upsides are I get very enthusiastic about things, like a big kid; I love learning, can go into huge details and feel at home with nature. The downsides are that being sociable is exhausting - I worry a lot and can be much too honest.

Apart from gardening I think I might blog about other things I love. Penny pinching, crafty things (e.g rag rugs, patchwork, zentangle), cheap wholesome vegetarian recipes, car packing in Scotland, or my lovely little springer Molly.

Why am I blogging - partly from enthusiasm and a desire to share things I love but if I can also help anyone along the way even just a little that would be great.

I'd love to hear from you if any of this strikes a chord with you.

Lots of love
Caroline
xxx