Linda Nolan
Speaking from the heart
I HAVEN’T been to bingo for a few weeks now. That’s always a bad sign. When the dabber loses its sparkle, something’s up.
I haven’t made any secret of the fact my spirits have been a bit low lately.
Obviously the tooth loss hasn’t helped. I did force myself into the dentist’s chair on Monday, by the way (no one was slapped). As predicted, there wasn’t a whiff of a Minions badge despite my exceptional bravery. I particularly needed one – or maybe a stiff Gin-ion – after the news a single tooth implant would set me back £2,000. I have three gaps.
Nevertheless, I’m feeling brighter, and I have the kids to thank for it.
Maureen’s son Danny, his partner
Maddie, and their brood Ava, Sienna, Roma and baby Marlie (as in ghost) came on a flying visit from the States to sort out some admin stuff. They popped round and stayed hours. Roma, who’s eight, stuck her head round the door first with a big grin and opened her arms wide. I’ve missed them so much.
Children have a superpower, the superpower of being nowhere but here; right here, right now, in the moment. And they drag you into it.
Roma was immediately telling me about her “crush”. I asked her if I should get a hat and she looked bemused.
Baby Marlie is nine months now and was as good as gold. She slept for 10 hours on the flight, they had to wake her up for a feed. She’s like her Auntie Lin – only with more teeth. Sienna, who’s 14, was there in her crop top looking fabulous so I had to remark, as my mother would’ve: “She’s wishing her youth away.”
“Oh, Aunty Lin,” she eye-rolled, quite rightly. Anne’s grandkids are fabulous, too. Vinnie, who’s 14, made scones and brought them round with a jar of strawberry jam. I’ve advised he apply for Junior Bake Off and promote me to professional taster.
They’re all there for me, all so enthusiastic and at the start of their lives.
It rubs off. If you don’t have kids, I say borrow some every once in a while.
I thanked them before they left. I said: “You don’t know how much this means to me.” They just smiled.