International Women's Day

Hi everyone,

A few days ago it was International Women's Day and what an amazing day it was. It is not often in the year that we take time out and genuinely reflect on ourselves. This blog post highlights the women who have made a difference in my life from women I look up to, to women who I am very close to.

The first woman who has made a big impact on my life is my mum (I call her mumsy). She has been an absolute gem and I can always count on her when I need to talk. My mum has been a Christian for over 30 years and her love for Jesus is infectious (as well as her laugh). I am so glad I have a mum who has God deep in her heart and knows his love knows no bounds. She has taught me so much over the years and I am forever grateful for everything she does. Love you mum!!

The second woman who has been a constant in my life is my aunty Claire. She prefers to just be called Claire but is truly someone who is always there for me and gives wonderful hugs. I know I can always phone her when I need to talk to someone and she gives great advice. I have many a great aunt but the relationship I have with Claire goes above and beyond that of an aunt and niece. Her smile always beams from ear to ear and it makes me feel happy inside when I see her smile. Thank you for all you are and all you do Claire. Love you lots!

Thirdly, I must give a massive shout out to my sisters and my sister's in law. Mary, Sarbina, Lauren, Steph & Emily. The last 4 years have been trying ones and you've all been there every step. Thank you for checking in, calling, sending cards etc. Just to know you're all there on the other end of the phone gives me peace inside my heart. Thank you so much. Love you all xx

Fourthly, I am so grateful for all the women in my church. You know who you are. Like my sisters and sisters in law, you've been there since we visited Evan 4 years ago. Praying for us, guiding us, catching up with us and more. Most importantly you've been absolute rocks for us and I have loved every minute of time we've spent together. Thank you all xx

And thank you to all the women I have come to know over the years at both the church I grew up in and the church that Duncan and I used to attend in London before moving to Evan. Michele, Phillipa, Jo, Barbs, Philly, Helen, Rachael and many more. Thank you for being there for us and for being a listening ear.

Now I do have to mention a few women who have not only inspired me but have helped me gain more confidence and grace as a woman- as a Christian and as a writer/blogger. The first being Tiarne Tranter. She is one of the music leaders and writers of CityAlight based at St Paul's Church in Sydney, Australia. She loves Jesus so much that it genuinely shows when she sings of how amazing he is. She inspires me because she doesn't let the things of this world hold her back from declaring how much she loves Jesus, nor does it deter her from accomplishing her dreams. Thank you for all you are and all you do Tiarne and thank you CityAlight for your ministry to all across the world through your music.

The second being Sara Davies. Crafting queen, mother, and all around inspiration, I am ever so grateful to her for inspiring me to be all that I can be and to continue crafting even though sometimes I struggle to do so. Thank you for coming up with great ideas for crafts, for supporting women in their businesses and for your empowerment towards women. You are amazing and if I ever get the chance to meet you, I'll hug you with open arms and thank you in person.

Last but not least, I have to thank two amazing chefs. The great Rosemary Shrager and the amazing Cherish Finden. Both have made me a better chef/baker and have inspired me to go out there with flavours in my recipes and to not be afraid to try new things. I met Rosemary Shrager a good few years back now at the Cake & Bake show where she did some amazing food demonstrations and it was a pleasure to have my photo taken with her. I met Cherish Finden at last years Cake and Bake show. I was immediately star struck as she is such an incredible pastry chef and person. We were both left wondering how to make Macarons without nuts or seeds (as I did ask her this question whilst there) and I can still say I'm still stumped on this. I did tell her that if I figured it out, I'd let her know. Both of these women have given me great confidence in myself that I can have allergies yet still have great food. Thank you both for every recipe and for all the guidance you give.

To all the women out there, don't let anyone tell you, you can't do anything or be accomplished. You can, because even in the moments where you may fail you get back up on your feet and try again. For all the women past and present who are making an impact on lots of areas for women- thank you for all you are doing and all you have done.

I pray that this year will be one of peace, love, joy, hope and success for us all (in God's timing and in his mercy.)

Love to you all,

Lily xxx