Day 57: Andy's Hamsa Hands

Today I'm wearing one of the two gorgeous pairs of earrings Andy (Day 16) gave me last week to mark the midpoint of the treatment. These are a pair of 'Hamsa Hands', which I've always associated with Indian culture, but as Andy told me, and as I read up on them now, realise they originated in the Middle East and are an important symbol in almost every faith. These hands are a protective sign, bringing the wearer happiness, luck, health, and good fortune. They also ward off evil spirits. It's a combination that I so need right now, and so typical of Andy to find something so appropriate! 

I wore these today for a busy day at work, with four back-to-back meetings - I wasn't worried about evil spirits, but good fortune always comes in handy! My first meeting was as a member of the UNSW Honorary degree committee, chaired by our Chancellor David Gonski, and boy does that man know how to run a meeting! Second, was a catch up with Andy and lovely Emily Waller, our joint PhD student, recently returned from Africa and about to get stuck into her thesis writing in earnest. Third, I did a pre-record of a presentation for the Manchester conference I'm sadly missing out on in early April. And finally, I enjoyed a long overdue lunch with my dear Law colleague, Sarah Williams. Not only did Sarah shout me lunch, she gave me a generous gift of a beauty treatment gift voucher, and a pretty pair of earrings, selected by her two  delightful daughters, to be displayed soon. Another great colleague, Paula also sent me a thoughtful gift. I feel so incredibly spoilt, cared for and protected! 

Millie and her first Nanny cuddle

Millie and doppelganger Ceilidh Doll

Today is also important as it's the birthday of my special niece, Millie Watson. It's hard to believe that she was born 22 years ago today; I remember it as if it was yesterday. 
Mum and I were looking after her big siblings, 

Millie, Poppy and me, Somerset House, London July 2015

Daisy and Harry, when my brother-in-law Col called to tell us Millie had arrived. Mum and I, (I think with Lindy and Cazy) all rushed to Prince Alfred Hospital as soon as we could to meet our new grand-daughter and niece. Millie was born with the most beautiful strawberry blonde hair, which darkened early on to an enviable auburn. Now back in Brisbane after three years living in London - where I was lucky enough to meet up with her once with Dad and with again with Rob  - Millie is living life to the full. She has an amazing singing voice and is a great musician, has a great eye for fashion design, and is also a talented cook.  Happy birthday Millie Moo!

Millie and Rob, Ai Wei Wei exhibition, Royal Academy December 2015

Day 57 and I'm feeling well, albeit tired after my busy day on campus. The tingling has reduced and there seems to be no other side effects - may it continue for the next week. 

P.S. I've given the blog a make over today in terms of formatting, just because the option was offered to me, and because I can! If you want to read earlier posts, just click on the Earring collection journal link at the top of the post.