A week in the life of…Veronica

This week has been full-on; a mix of hands-on work, family milestones, and some thoughtful moments that made me pause and take it all in.

My mornings have been grounding. I start each day with some movement, minor chores, and time to listen to something stretching my thinking. Lately, I’ve been into The Trading Game by Gary Stephenson. It’s not my usual book, but it’s been surprisingly eye-opening, touching on how money, privilege, and power shape our world. It’s got me thinking more deeply about inequality and how those big-picture issues appear in everyday life.

It’s been a week of variety at the Recovery College, from supporting group sessions to working on learning plans and getting involved with local community projects. Visiting a local playgroup was a real highlight. There’s something special about being in those informal spaces where families just come as they are. It reminded me how much pressure parents can be under and how important it is that support feels accessible and human, not clinical or intimidating.

I’ve also been part of efforts to promote what we do at the College and to help people feel more confident about engaging with us. One of the things I keep noticing is how much small gestures matter, such as a friendly chat, a bit of encouragement, and just showing up with warmth and no judgment. It’s the connection that helps people open up and take steps forward at their own pace.

But honestly, the most significant part of my week has been outside work, helping my eldest son move into his first home. It’s been a real labour of love. I spent hours painting walls, sanding skirting boards, and generally turning the place into something that feels like his. It was exhausting at times but also really emotional, one of those moments where pride and nostalgia hit you all at once. Watching him settle into his own space made it all worth it.

And just when I thought the week couldn’t be more family-focused, I’ve also been getting ready to meet my newborn grandchild. The excitement is starting to kick in now, and it’s made me reflect on how much family, in all its forms, shapes who we are and what we value.

Somehow, in between all of this, I’ve managed to stay on top of my coursework (just about!) and squeeze in some reflective writing. It hasn’t been easy, but it’s reminded me how important it is to find balance and make time for learning, loved ones, and yourself.

Looking back, this week has been a mix of effort, emotion, and small wins. Life doesn’t always slow down when you want it to, but when you take a moment to breathe and reflect, you realise how meaningful even the busiest weeks can be.