Oh dear just found this thread and have not really introduced myself. My name is Trisha (trishauk) just over 50 now and I live in Rayleigh which is close to Southend-on-sea in Essex and I joined the forum in 2007 after lurking in the shadows for a very long time not plucking up the courage to join. Well here goes - I am divorced after a very violent marriage which unfortunately lasted for ten years. I have four very handsome boys who are the pride of my life (the only good thing out of the marriage) They are now - the eldest Brad is 33 and married to Sandra and they have given me a gorgeous grandson who is now 3yrs old Keion - the next one is Craig who is 32 and married to Donna (my crafty companion) He was in the RAF for 9 years but could not sign on for a further term as he had an accident whilst serving (ongoing health problems with his spine) they have been trying for a baby for the last six years (unfortunately there is a problem there need ivf) - my third is Dan who is living with his partner Annette (getting married in July) and they have given me the most gorgeous grandaughter Paige who is 3and a half years old and a little terror (but lovely with it) grandson Lewis who is 1 and a half years old - the fourth is Michael who is 25 no girlfriend and lives at home (cheaper that way me thinks). I look after my grandchildren three and a half days a week which allows the mums to go to work (share the grandies with the other grandma/nan). I have osteo arthritis and fibromyalgia (but will not give in to it) had a major spinal op. so my back is pinned and bolted together (bionic grandma!) so not allowed to work (looking after the grandies is a full time job!!). I love to look after my garden as well (gives me great pleasure especially in the spring and summer) looking after the grandies and seeing them grow up (hopefully one day my grandaughter will craft with me - she tries now at 3 1/2 years). I have crafted in one way or another since a child making things (sewing), knitting, cross stitch and now cardmaking - tried working with flowers but failed miserably - sorry Joanna. I was accepted into art college to do graphic design but my parents stopped that unfortunately. I did have five cats but recently have lost all but two due to old age and cancer the eldest is lady who is 14 and the baby is charlie who is just two.

There you have it a brief profile.
Hugs to all and happy crafting
Trisha xxx