I’m Lisa Oldham. A few people know me about twitter and Facebook and I even dug into G+ too for a short while and loved it but it just drank my time away even more than twitter so.. I’m a social networking queen but not addicted! Or not anymore!
I’m half of 90 in (April 12) and not enjoying the number, but I’m feeling better in my skin than ever before.
Though it was my decision to split with my partner of 17 years I was devastated by the very bitter and lengthy divorce that followed. I will never be able to come to terms with how vindictive he was and how cruel, even getting his solicitor to write a letter on the day of my mothers funeral asking for details of her estate of which he later tried to claim 50%! I constantly mourn for the collective family unit that we could have continued together apart which he actively decided he didn’t want.
Though I regret those wasted years with someone who proved totally they didn’t value or care for anything I had ever done or achieved, the relationship did produce 4 amazing children that made my life whole and made me into the person I am today. Without them I’d be a shadow of my current self. I’m locked now in the horror of realising that they are growing up far too quickly and soon will start flying the nest. I’m determined that if I ever get any spare time I’ll take advantage of it and make the most of those youthful moments with them… even though they drive me nuts!
I went to Sheffield Polytechnic ( now Hallam uni) many years ago and trained in IT. I tried through various ways to keep my hand in but after 15 years of unforeseen developments in the IT world I find my skills are obsolete! I also believe strongly that my children gain by me being at home as much as possible before and after school and during holidays. I appreciate that many parents choose or have to work full time and really I need to too, but I want to find a way of doing that from home.
Since my separation I have worked part time in a local pub/restaurant. I never expected to still be there 3 years later but its a godsend allowing me to work enough hours to claim tax credits without which I could not survive! Its not the job I’d choose for myself if I’m honest. I hate the looks I get off some people I have known for many years when they find out, but its fun, I get to meet lots of great people and I get chatted up constantly, which at 45 (cough!) is no mean feat I reckon 
Enjoy my blog if it ever happens… but whilst you’re waiting can you visit my shops please Cheers xxx