I haven't been at my happiest lately. I'm not looking after myself and it's taking it's toll. I've been stressing out about things I've had no control over and feeling super stressed about it. It's meant I've been very serious and totally boring, so I decided to do something about it and get some fun back into my life.
I was feeling the need for some laughter and silliness so I dug out some of my old books and came across a collection that brought an instant smile to my face.
Roald Dahl is an absolute hero of mine. I read all of his books as a child, I've seen all the movies and I just love finding out new facts about this incredible man. When I found out I was pregnant, back in 2011, one of the first things I did was to get a brand new collection of Roald Dahl books ready to read to my child. When I spotted them on our book shelf my face beamed, this was just what I needed. So, I started reading them all again - and it's given me an instant happiness boost.
From the amazing illustrations of Quentin Blake, to Roald's talent for expressive story telling and fantabulously made up words, I find myself laughing out loud as I remember what happens next and smiling like a Cheshire cat at the wonderful, off the wall tales and hilarious characters.
One of my favourite's is Boy - a short collection of stories of Roald's school years. His accounts of the terrible way children were treated by adults back then and the way he dealt with so many, rather disturbing, encounters grab every inch of my heart and, just like all of his stories, leave me wanting to know and hear more from this incredible man.
So far, my son has discovered Fantastic Mr Fox and I just can't wait to share the magical world of Roald Dahl with him when he's a little older, until then, I'll continue to boost my happiness with his magic words.
Coincidently, it's Roald Dahl day on Sunday 13th September. It would've been his 99th birthday! I love the fact children today are still enjoying his tales and so many budding writers continue to be influenced and embraced by his legacy. The mark of a true legend and wonderful man. Here's to you, Boy, thank you for reminding me who I am.
