Tag: beginning

  • Training Contract Time – How to Make Your CV Stand Out!

    Training Contract Time – How to Make Your CV Stand Out!

    Judging from the number of CV’s and general emails the firm I work in is getting from potential trainees and law students aiming for a training contract, it must be that time of year again. I refer to the autumn period where firms start having open evenings and coffee morning – asking potential trainees to attend to explain why they should all fight for the limited spaces they offer for them to “slog it out” in order to land a rare and valuable training contract. Trying to obtain a training contract has always been a skill in itself with more people applying for the limited places there are. They are highly competitive and as time has went on, it is not as simple as just sending your CV, having an interview and hopefully obtaining one. Yes, crafting a standout CV is crucial to getting noticed and getting a foot in the door, but most firms now have tests you need to do, interviews in 3 or 4 stages and what would feel like some kind of psychological evaluation just to get an offer, never mind the fact that it all hinges on successfully passing the Institute exam in Northern Ireland.

    Thankfully there are still some firms, who go on the old CV basis which is where it all starts. You need to get this right to even get a response or get noticed. So here are a few tips which I found useful and hopefully you will too.

    1. Start with a Strong Profile Summary

    Your profile summary is your introduction to your potential firm for the next number of years who are going to take you under their wings and spend time and money on you. Use it to briefly showcase your motivations, experience, and core competencies. Think of it as a mini-elevator pitch that emphasises your passion for law and commitment to a legal career as well as any would be firm who will take you on. If they are going to invest in you, you need to show some loyalty and willingness to stay with them for a short while and give something back. For example:

    “I am a motivated individual with a keen interest in corporate law and a solid foundation in contract and tort law. I am skilled in legal research, with practical experience in client-facing roles and I am committed.”

    Be concise but memorable. Tailor this summary to highlight specific skills or areas of law relevant to the firm’s practice. Off course you need to make it relevant to you and there is plenty of room to “jazz” it up.

    2. Highlight Relevant Experience

    While trainee roles often focus on learning, firms value prior experience that demonstrates your interest and initiative in the legal field. Emphasise:

    Legal Internships or Work Placements: List any relevant legal roles, including summer placements, paralegal work, or shadowing experiences. Focus on specific tasks, like conducting research, drafting documents, or attending client meetings, that showcase your skills.

    Transferable Experience: If your background includes other types of work (e.g., retail, service industry), highlight skills that translate to a legal environment. Examples include customer service, attention to detail, and handling sensitive information.

    Pro Bono Work or Volunteering: Many firms value commitment to social justice. If you have volunteered with a legal aid clinic, been part of a student-led legal advice organisation, or taken part in community initiatives, mention it to illustrate your dedication.

    3. Emphasise Academic Achievements and Awards

    Academic excellence is still highly valued, especially at the trainee level. If you received high marks in law-related courses, or if your dissertation or project focused on a relevant topic, mention it. Any awards, scholarships, or recognitions should also be highlighted, as they demonstrate hard work, knowledge, and commitment.

    4. Showcase Legal Skills and Technical Competencies

    Firms want to know that you’re already building a robust skill set. Focus on:

    Legal Research and Analysis: Outline your familiarity with legal databases (such as LexisNexis or Westlaw), case law research, and document review. Provide examples of any coursework or projects that required these skills.

    Writing and Drafting: Legal drafting is a key skill. If you’ve drafted documents in past roles or as part of your studies, such as legal memos, client letters, or even case summaries, include these examples to showcase your writing abilities.

    Attention to Detail and Organisation: Law firms value accuracy. If you have experience proofreading, editing, or handling complex documents, mention this to show your ability to manage the precision required in legal work.

    5. Include Extracurricular Activities and Interests

    Your personal interests and hobbies provide insight into your character and can help you stand out. Activities that demonstrate teamwork, leadership, or commitment to ongoing learning are especially valuable. Examples include:

    Debate or Mooting: If you participated in mooting competitions or a debate club, list these experiences to demonstrate public speaking, argumentation, and critical thinking skills.

    Student Society Roles: Mention any leadership roles, such as serving as a member of a law society or organising events. These roles show your initiative and teamwork abilities.

    Additional Certifications or Courses: If you’ve taken additional courses, such as online classes in contract law or specific legal software training, highlight these to show a commitment to skill development.

    6. Tailor Your CV for Each Application

    Generic CVs often fall flat. Tailor each CV specifically for the firm you’re applying to. Research the firm’s practice areas, values, and recent cases, and adjust your CV to show how your background aligns with their needs. For example, if applying to a firm specialising in corporate law, emphasise your knowledge and interest in commercial law.

    7. Perfect the Presentation and Formatting

    Make your CV easy to read, professional, and visually appealing. Use consistent formatting, a clean layout, and bullet points to make key information stand out. Ensure your font is professional and that the CV doesn’t exceed two pages.

    Consider using these sections:

    • Contact Information

    • Profile Summary

    • Education

    • Relevant Experience

    • Legal Skills

    • Additional Experience

    • Extracurricular Activities

    • Interests

    8. Proofread and Get Feedback

    Errors can undermine an otherwise strong CV. Proofread multiple times and, if possible, ask a mentor, career advisor at University, a solicitor you know or friend to review it. Simple mistakes can make a poor impression, so ensure your CV is polished and error-free.

    Final Thoughts

    Your CV is your first chance to make an impression, so make it count. Be strategic, emphasise your strengths, and show the firm that you’re more than just a capable candidate—you’re a future solicitor with the drive to excel.

    Often in Northern Ireland we tend to undersell ourselves and be too modest. Off course there is a balance, but don’t be afraid to tell it as it is and if you have things to be proud of which highlight just how good you are, promote them and emphasise them. Don’t be shy – NO-ONE ELSE WILL BE!

  • Navigating the Intricacies of the Legal World: A Former Trainee’s Guide.

    Congratulations! You’ve landed a coveted trainee solicitor position. Now, you’re standing at the threshold of a fascinating, challenging and often bewildering world. The legal landscape is vast and intricate, filled with towering precedents, labyrinthine procedures and a language all its own. But rest assured, after the initial shock, and some time to adjust, believe me – you will settle into it and embrace the challenge!

    Charting Your Course: Essential Tips for Trainee Solicitors

    • Embrace the Learning Curve:

    The first and most important step is to accept that you’re still on a learning journey. Dive into every case, meeting, and research task with an open mind and a thirst for knowledge. Ask questions, don’t shy away from unfamiliar territory, and remember, even the most seasoned solicitors were once wide-eyed trainees.

    • Master the Lingo:

    Legal jargon can feel like a foreign language at first. But don’t let it intimidate you. Familiarise yourself with key terms and concepts like “consideration,” “tort,” to name just a couple. This will off course depend on the area of law you have your seats in. But immerse yourself in legal writing, attend seminars, and don’t hesitate to ask your colleagues for clarification. The sooner you speak the language, the more confident you’ll become.

    • Find Your Mentor:

    Seek out a mentor, a senior solicitor who can guide you through the intricacies of the practice. A good mentor can answer your questions, provide valuable insights, and offer support and encouragement. Don’t be afraid to reach out and build a relationship with someone you admire and respect.

    • Become a Research Ace:

    Legal research is the backbone of any successful case. Hone your research skills by mastering online legal databases, understanding case law hierarchies, and learning how to effectively analyse statutes and legal precedents. The better you can research, the more valuable you’ll be to your team.

    • Sharpen Your Soft Skills:

    While legal knowledge is crucial, don’t underestimate the power of soft skills. Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management are essential for success in any legal practice. Actively participate in meetings, learn to collaborate effectively with colleagues, and develop strong organisational skills.

      Embrace the Adventure!

      The legal field is brimming with fascinating challenges, intellectual puzzles, and the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives. Approach your trainee journey with curiosity, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and remember, every day is a chance to grow as a solicitor and as a person.

      Beyond the Blog: Additional Resources for Trainee Solicitors

      • The Law Society Gazette: Stay up-to-date with the latest legal news and developments.
      • Legal Cheek: A popular online forum for legal professionals, with career advice, news, and discussions.
      • The Junior Lawyers Division: Offers support, resources, and networking opportunities for trainee solicitors.

      Remember, the legal world is your oyster. With dedication, hard work, and the right guidance, you can navigate its complexities and build a thriving career. Enjoy it as a trainee and use the opportunity to your own advantage.

    • A Day in the Life of a Conveyancing Solicitor.

      Although the title is, “A Typical Day in the Life of a Conveyancing Solicitor” it is probably somewhat inaccurate as there is no typical day for a conveyancing solicitor. Perhaps that is why it is such a good job – no two days are the same and each day is scattered with different problems and issues that need addressing. One day you could be booked solid with appointments with clients, and another dealing with queries from solicitors working for the respective Vendor or Purchaser. The work will also vary depending on what stage of the conveyancing process the clients are at. However, after a long think and a look through my diary, here is a general overview of what a typical day might look like:

      Morning

      • Arrive at the office and check emails and voicemail as well as get a coffee on the go, which is an absolute necessity!
      • Prioritise tasks for the day, looking at any urgent matters or deadlines.
      • Review contract and title deeds, raise enquiries, and report to clients on their contents (I tend to wait until everything has been provided before drafting a comprehensive report on title to the clients and providing them a copy of the most important documents. This is very time-consuming and takes a lot of time and focus. I would also leave any draft report a day or two before reviewing again and checking if anything needs to be changed before sending it. This was some advice that was given to me by a senior solicitor who said that you should never send a document of any importance straight away but leave it a day or so and reflect and re-read it to make sure it is correct. Time away from something that you have been focusing on for so long can help you spot any errors that you might not pick up on.
      • Draft and send legal documents, such as contracts and transfer deeds.
      • Liaise with other parties involved in the transaction, such as estate agents, other solicitors, and lenders.

      Afternoon

      • Continue to review and draft documents.
      • Respond to emails and phone calls.
      • Chase up outstanding matters with other parties.
      • Update clients on the progress of their transaction.
      • Attend meetings with clients or other parties, if necessary.

      Evening

      • Finish off any urgent tasks that need to be completed.
      • Review and prepare for the following day’s work by “rolling over” any tasks that I just was not able to get to.

      I wish I could say that everything runs smoothly and there are never any issues, but that of course would be quite a lie! These are some of the things that I have noticed:-

      • Conveying can be a complex and time-consuming process, with many different parties involved. This can lead to delays and frustration for clients, not to mention the frustrations and disappointments you face as a solicitor.
      • Conveyancing solicitors must be able to understand and apply complex legal principles. This requires a high level of knowledge and expertise.
      • Conveyancing solicitors must be able to manage their time effectively and prioritise tasks. This is essential to ensure that deadlines are met and clients are kept informed of the progress of their transaction.
      • Conveyancing solicitors must be able to deal with difficult clients and other parties. This can require good communication and negotiation skills.

      Despite the challenges, conveyancing is a rewarding career. Conveyancing solicitors play an important role in helping people buy and sell their homes, and they can make a real difference in their clients’ lives. Usually, the pros outweigh the cons in this profession and the thanks and gratitude of the people you help is genuine and definitely help you feel you have made a difference in the life of someone.

    • One Year Post Qualification – thoughts and musings.

      Yikes! That went fast! It has now been one year since I qualified as a solicitor. It feels like just yesterday when the time between training and qualification, but only a few months seemed like a lifetime. Waiting for that confirmation that my practicing certificate had been granted and I had been admitted into the noble profession I had worked so hard to get into. But now, I’m a fully-fledged solicitor, with all the responsibilities and challenges that that entails. I have documented some of those difficulties for you to read, and I really hope that you have enjoyed and gleaned something from my own experiences – both good and bad!

      There is no doubt in my mind that it has been a steep learning curve, moving from apprentice solicitor (with some form of safety net) to full-on solicitor, working things out as I go with sometimes a little dread and fear but marching on anyway. All being said I have loved every minute of it. I’ve had the opportunity to work on many cases and take responsibility for them. Meet and work for some amazing clients, some of whom have terrified me and some who have made me laugh a great deal with their amazing sense of humour and attitude to life. I have continued to learn much about the law and seem to learn new things each and every day. I work with amazing colleagues who guide and support me.

      Of course, there have been some tough times too. There have been cases that have been emotionally draining, and there have been times when I’ve felt like I’ve been in over my head. But I’ve always managed to pick myself up and keep going with the help of those around me. One of the main things that will stick with me is that you should never be afraid to ask for help or talk to someone. We sometimes have this idea that we are expected to work and deal with things on our own, but that is certainly not the case.

      One of the things I’ve enjoyed most about being a solicitor is the feeling of making a difference. I know that the work I do can help people, and that’s a really rewarding feeling.

      I’m still at the beginning of my career, but I’m excited to see what the future holds. I’m looking forward to continuing to learn and grow, and to making a positive impact on the lives of others.

      Here are some of the things I’ve learned in my first year as a solicitor:

      • The law is constantly changing, so it’s important to stay up-to-date.
      • It’s essential to be able to think on your feet and adapt to new situations.
      • Communication is key. You need to be able to clearly explain complex legal concepts to clients.
      • Problem-solving is an essential skill. You’ll often be faced with difficult cases that require creative solutions.
      • Resilience is important. There will be times when you feel overwhelmed or defeated, but it’s important to keep going.
      • Never feel alone – speak up and ask for advice, help or someone else’s opinion – a fresh perspective can be a great help!

      If you’re thinking about becoming a solicitor, here are a few things I would recommend:

      • Get as much experience as you can. Volunteer at a law firm or legal aid clinic.
      • Get involved in extracurricular activities related to law. This will help you develop your legal skills and network with other lawyers.
      • Do your research and choose a law school that’s a good fit for you.
      • Be prepared to work hard. Becoming a solicitor is a challenging but rewarding career.

      Here is to year 1 and hopefully many more to come. I would love to hear from you and be able to advise help, guide or just read an email from a reader and your thoughts. Email me at hello@learninglawyer.co.uk or reach out on Threads, X(Twitter), or Instagram.

    • Writing emails to clients as a solicitor

      As a solicitor, effective communication with your clients is paramount to building trust, maintaining strong relationships, and delivering exceptional legal services. I have found that email is usually the primary means of correspondence. So, the question is what makes an email professional and makes the right impression on clients, ensuring clarity, professionalism and knowing you are coming across well to them.

      I think that the first thing is to make sure that you establish a Professional Tone. Maintaining a professional tone in emails is crucial. Always address clients respectfully, using appropriate salutations and formal language. Avoid jargon or legal terminology that clients may not understand. But, the number one rule is to be clear and simple while still maintaining the necessary level of professionalism.

      Try and see things from your client’s perspective. Try and consider your client’s level of legal knowledge and tailor your communication accordingly. Explain legal concepts and processes in a way that is easily understandable to them. Avoid overwhelming clients with excessive legal terminology or complex details.

      Think about the subject heading of your email. Craft subject lines that are concise, informative, and relevant to the content of the email. A clear subject line will help clients quickly identify the purpose and importance of your message. For example, instead of “Update,” use “Important Update Regarding Your Case: [Brief Description].”

      Structured and Organised Content.
      There is no excuse for sending sloppy email content to a client. Write in a logical and structured manner. Use paragraphs to separate different points or topics, making it easier for clients to follow along. Start with a brief introduction or summary of the purpose of your email. Present information in a sequential order. I have found that headings or bullet points for clarity work wonders with clients and will make your life easier as it will limit the back and fourth with questions and queries.

      Provide Context and Background.
      When discussing legal matters, it is essential to provide context and background information. Briefly summarise relevant events, case details, or any changes that have occurred since your last communication. This will help clients understand the context and relevance of your email, ensuring they are well-informed.

      Be Clear and Concise.
      Clients appreciate clear and concise communication. Use plain language to explain legal concepts, avoiding unnecessary jargon or complex terminology. Use short, focused sentences and avoid lengthy paragraphs to maintain readability.

      Anticipate and Address Questions.
      Consider the questions or concerns your clients may have after reading your email. Anticipate these queries and proactively address them in your message. Providing answers or suggestions in advance can save clients time and demonstrate your proactive approach to their legal matters.

      Proofread and Edit.
      This seems something that most would automatically do but I have found that in the heat of the moment and in the need to be quick and efficient this is often forgotten. Thoroughly proofread your emails before sending them. Correct any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure your message is clear and coherent. Pay attention to formatting, such as font styles and sizes, to maintain a professional appearance. A well-edited email reflects your attention to detail and professionalism as a solicitor.

      Respect Confidentiality and Security.
      As a solicitor, it is your duty to safeguard client confidentiality and sensitive information. Ensure you are using secure email platforms and take necessary precautions to protect client data. Be cautious about sharing sensitive information in emails and consider using encrypted attachments or secure file-sharing platforms when necessary.

      Timely Follow-Up.
      This one can is the one I find a solicitor can fall down on, and I include myself. Nothing annoys a client more than having to wait days for a response. Please, save yourself unnecessary heartache and respond to client emails promptly. Clients appreciate timely updates and acknowledgment of their concerns. Even if you cannot provide a detailed response immediately, acknowledge receipt of their email and set realistic expectations for when they can expect a thorough response.

      Without a doubt, effective email communication is an essential skill for solicitors to provide exceptional legal services and maintain strong client relationships. By adopting a professional tone, providing clear and concise information, and anticipating client questions, you can enhance your email correspondence and ensure that your clients feel valued and well-informed throughout as well as save yourself from heartache and fighting “battles” that don’t need to be fought!

      I’d love to hear from you and your thoughts. Follow me on Instagram @learninglawyeruk or email me at hello@learninglawyer.co.uk

    • Working with legal secretaries – my experience.

      Without a doubt, whether you are a trainee or solicitor, whether in a big firm or small local one, you will come across Legal secretaries. They are without doubt, an essential part of any law firm. They perform a wide range of tasks, from managing calendars and scheduling appointments to drafting legal documents and preparing for court appearances. In short, they keep the law firm running smoothly and I have found, worth their weight in gold!

      Given the importance of their role, it is essential that we solicitors treat their secretaries with respect and courtesy. I have been amazed at how some, including trainees and legal executives, in the past firms I’ve worked with have treated the legal secretaries as beneath them and underestimated their abilities vastly! I have found the opposite to be true, where legal secretaries know a huge amount, and have a vast amount of experience in many areas of law. I have often relied on them for help and advice and they have often come to my aid. I think, starting as a NQ, you should keep the following in mind;

      • Be polite and professional. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s worth repeating. Secretaries are professionals, and they deserve to be treated as such. Always use a respectful tone of voice, and treat them as you would want to be treated.
      • Be clear and concise in your instructions. Secretaries are busy people, often doing work for two or three different solicitors, so it’s important to be clear and concise when you give them instructions. This will help to ensure that they understand what you need and that they can complete the task as quickly and efficiently as possible.
      • Be appreciative of their work. Secretaries often go above and beyond their job descriptions. Take the time to thank them for their hard work and let them know that you appreciate their contributions to the law firm. It costs nothing to do and makes them feel part of the team. If they feel you appreciate them, believe me, they will do what they can for you.
      • Be open to feedback. Secretaries are often in a position to see things that solicitors don’t. If they have a suggestion or a recommendation, be open to hearing it. They may be able to offer valuable insights that can help you to improve your work. I often would give my secretary my bill drafts to review, and other documents to clients. They have founds things I’ve missed and saved me future hassle.

      Here are some additional tips for treating your secretary in a law firm:

      • Be respectful of their time. Don’t expect them to drop everything they’re doing to answer your questions or complete your requests. If you need something urgently, let them know ahead of time.
      • Be organised. If you have a lot of tasks that need to be completed, try to organise them in a way that makes sense for your secretary. This will help them to prioritise their work and to get things done more efficiently.
      • Be flexible. Things don’t always go according to plan, so be prepared to be flexible with your secretary. If they need to adjust their schedule or take on additional work, be understanding and supportive.
      • Be communicative. If you have any questions or concerns about your secretary’s work, be sure to communicate them in a clear and respectful way. This will help to ensure that you’re both on the same page and that any problems can be resolved quickly and easily.

      Essentially, just remember that your secretary is going to be vital to you and treat them with respect and from time to time show them that you value their work and that you appreciate their contributions to the law firm. This will help to create a positive and productive work environment for everyone involved.

    • Never work with children, animals or the general public!

      Obviously if you want to avoid contact with the general public, working the legal sector, especially in private client, is certainly not the way to go. Usually, every day you will be contacted by someone, usually your client, looking an update, advice or generally to query this that or the other.

      I have slowly learning three important things to remember before taking a phone call, or even responding to an email from a client. Those being:-

      1. Take a deep breath, clear your mind, prepare to listen;
      2. Do not rush to give any advice, or react – take time, think, choose your words and if necessary delay any response in favour of getting as much information as you can;
      3. Set your own personal feelings, thoughts or reactions aside – take a step back and step outside the situation.

      All too often I have been guilty of trying to give advice too quickly, too soon and without thinking it through. Often leading to the client being confused, me being confused or just getting it wrong.

      I think the best advice I can ever give when working in private client law is to take it slow, don’t rush and don’t feel pressured to make snap decisions. Think it through and work it out. Write everything down and make notes. Believe it or not, you need to remember so much at any given time, you tend to forget information that is longer than a few hours old. I never anticipated how much I would need to remember at any given time and how often clients expect you to remember what they said to you a few days or even a few weeks ago. Often I hear the phrase, “do you remember when I said…?” More often than not the answer is, “no I have no idea…”

    • Get Up, Dust Off, Move On!

      Wise words that I was told by my mentor during a particularly difficult time when I felt I could do nothing right in my job. I am probably my own worst critic, and I am told that I am unnecessarily hard on myself, especially when I make mistakes. I dwell on them, stew in them, overthink them, go over them for days in my head asking myself questions such as, 

      “Where did it start to go wrong?”

      “Could I have done something different?”

      “What could I have said differently?”

      “Did I not express myself correctly?”

      “Did I not use the correct legal terminology?”

      And around and around it goes in my head, torturing myself over something that I cannot change as it is done!  

      I was particularly down and must have seemed low one day, as my mentor asked me how I was doing. I didn’t hold back in telling him what was happening, and he just came out and said it. “You are going to make mistakes; you are just starting out so you will make a few as you learn and gain experience. What you do is, you get up, you dust yourself off, make a note of what happened whether mental, phone or paper, and you move forward from it. Don’t hang yourself over it but don’t ignore or hide it. Address it, move on!”

      Wise words and although I am still trying to implement that advice, I do not think I am as bad as I once was. I will still ponder on it for at least a few days, but yes, I soon move on from it. The words from some song come to mind – “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger!” You know something, in some limited way, the phrase is probably correct. I am getting stronger and wiser as I learn from my mistakes and move on to become a better solicitor. 

      Hopefully someday, I will be wise enough to pass the knowledge on to others. For now, baby steps. But the one main thing I did take away, is that you should admit your mistakes, talk about them, take advice from others, try to correct them and if they can’t be fixed, limit the damage, and learn.

      I feel fortunate to have at least one person in the firm that I can go to and talk to and seek help when I need it. Find that one person and you will be OK!

    • Lets start from the Beginning!

      Part 1 – From then to now…

      It all started in 2003 – well that is when I got my law degree anyway! I can’t say that I worked super hard to get it – I did what I needed to do and got what I needed. As soon as I had graduated, I got a job as a Paralegal/Legal Executive in a city firm which I hated. There was so much competition that the relationship and environment between paralegals was toxic. Everyone trying to get one up on each other, stepping over one another and being ruthless to make themselves noticed by the Partners for when the time came that the application and interview process opened for Training Contracts. It put a very bitter taste in my mouth and I decided not to pursue it. I did not want to be that “cut throat” and lower myself to the level some had dropped too. Perhaps this all would have been different if I had had contacts in the Legal World and knew somebody who could have taken me on to mentor me. The problem was, that I was inexperienced, naïve and just didn’t have a clue!

      I left the legal world, and did other things, lived in other countries and tried new areas of work. I grew both professionally and mentally and after some time, it was my wife who encouraged me to go back into the legal world. I did. It was a rough 3/4 years in a firm that was as ruthless as the former paralegals I had escaped from! Perhaps worse! I stuck it, I did not sacrifice my own morals and did things right and proper. It was noticed a number of occasions, and I was not penalised for it. In fact, as time went on, I progressed through the firm, becoming quite high up. It was then that I decided to start my training contract and finish my practical training and qualify.

      After two years of working full time, a COVID pandemic and some bumps along the way, I qualified as a solicitor. One of the biggest reliefs and proudest moments of my life besides the usuals of marriage, children etc. etc.

      So that is a very quick overview of the then and brings us to now! I am a practicing solicitor in the area of Residential Conveyancing, Private Client and Civil Litigation. Quite a varied range of areas, each with their own joys, pains and challenges!

      The question is – what is the aim of this blog? I have read that it is a good way of decompressing! Writing about elements of your life in written form and thinking through it as you write can be therapeutic – so I am told. Perhaps I will see. Of course the big thing is that it is in a public forum – a danger, perhaps a risk! I don’t know. Time will tell. Maybe it will help others who read this who can learn from my mistakes, laugh with me at some of the situations I get myself into and who knows – see where it goes.

      Until next time…