An Introduction

I'm not really sure where to start explaining this blog. I considered opening with something along the lines of how the women in our lives shape who we are, often without even realising that they've done so, but

a) this is painfully obvious
b) it's so generic it's almost an insult to our most personal and special relationships
c) it runs the risk of giving the impression that the men in our lives have no part to play.

Although I will be focusing heavily on women's causes (I'm not preaching! Please don't close the webpage!) this is not a female-exclusive blog. I will hopefully be including some men's causes too at some point, but from the standpoint of a girl (because I am one, and indiscriminate or not, that's something I just can't help). However, for the immediate future, it's all about the girls.

Right, so far I have told you that whatever it is I am doing is mostly to do with women. So what is this wonderous project?

Well, painfully obvious or not, the women in MY life definitely shaped who I am. I have been blessed to have grown up under the influence of some incredibly strong female role models, both inside and outside of my family tree. My life has been touched by the actions, endeavours and stories of those women, and consequently, made me ask that question that I imagine a lot of us ask at some point; how on earth will I ever live up to the standard they set? I also think that the fortunate among us often look around and wonder what we can give back to the life that has been so good to us.

Cue brainwave. I have decided to start a project paying tribute to the people who have influenced me personally, and using their stories to raise awareness (and hopefully funds!) for various charities, campaigns and causes. In an ideal world I will be plugging a new charity/campaign/cause every month, and adding a new justgiving link. 

Just as a heads-up, the first charity will be Marie Curie and will be in honour of Shirley Bourge, my stepnan, who passed away early this year. Her story is sad in some places, wonderful in others and an appropriate tribute to begin my project. I will be posting her entry up soon, but if you wish to donate beforehand, you can do so here.

Although it would be incredible if people would click on each link as I add them, and donate even just a pound or two- it would be just as incredible if you would follow my blog, and recruit a few friends to follow it as well, and recruit THEIR friends, and spread the word!

I don't know one person who hasn't loved or lost a woman who inspired them, so this blog excludes nobody, and awareness is as important as anything.

I appreciate that anything I put on here could be very personal to me, so please, please, please leave comments with stories/tributes to the women in YOUR lives too. This is a tribute to every mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, friend, teacher, girlfriend, wife and daughter.

One for the girls.