Carmen
Cortez

It’s beginning to look like Xmas 🎄...

Published: November 24 2025

I was invited for drinks at one of my favorite bars, a place that looks even more enchanting this time of year.

When my date arrived, he was holding a large gift bag for me. With a gentle smile, he reminded me of something I had told him when we first met; how much I love Christmas!

Inside the bag, was a beautiful beauty advent calendar from Selfridges. The fact that he remembered, that he cared enough to surprise me with something so thoughtful, left me deeply touched and humbled.

There is something special about having someone notice small parts of who you are and respond with genuine appreciation.

As our date unfolded, I let the warmth of his generosity wrap around me and set the tone for the rest of the evening….😉


Bees...

Published: October 15 2025

Woke up to the sun shining and decided to walk to work. Before leaving, I sprayed on that lovely floral perfume my “date” had given me, it made me feel like a blossoming 🌷. With my headphones on and my favourite songs playing, I strolled happily down the street.

Halfway across the road, a bee seemed to enjoy my scent as much as I did, it buzzed straight towards me and somehow got tangled in my hair! I panicked, shaking my head ferociously dropping my bag and headphones in the process.

A sweet old lady rushed over and asked if I needed help. Mortified, I blurted out “ I’m highly allergic to bees” ( a shameful lie, but it sounded more dignified than admitting I overreacted).

She looked at me with genuine concern and said, “You poor dear”. With a guilty red face, I managed to smile and thanked her, picked up my stuff and walked away, thinking how a tiny bee had turned my joyful walk into a funny tale.

Note to self: Google where to buy a beekeepers hat (Any excuse for shopping! 😊)