EG ROLE IN BRINGING UP CHILDREN

EG ROLE IN BRINGING UP CHILDREN

From a very early stage in our relationship before we got married I was involved with bringing up Mhoraig and Cathleen.

Hamish and I experienced many problems with Fiona over the well-being and care of the girls. Hamish was keen that I take over as soon as possible. He organised for me to meet with them very shortly after taking on the rent of Easter Belmont, Edinburgh.

When we were living at Easter Belmont I regularly took them on outings, had their friends play, took them to their friends and collected them.

West Court – Newton

I basically looked after Mhoraig and Cathleen on my own. Hamish was away on business, either in Stoke-on-Trent (Royal Doulton) or abroad. I had help with the children on part-time basis as I did not want to drive to Kilgraston, Perthshire with Ruairidh (a small baby at the time – 45 minute journey each way). We agreed to get some help. I employed a 18 year by the name of Jennifer Slee. She was delightful and stayed with us for 18 months. I sometimes drove to school and she sometimes drove to school. I had a lady help for 2 hours a week and I maintained the house. I kept the garden and occasionally had help.

The girls often had friends from South Queensberry to play and stay overnight. We had weekly visits from Hamish’s mother and father (in particular his mother).

I attended to all the girls needs:

Took them to the doctor when necesassary;
Hospital visits
Arranged their activities
Wellfare – hair, shopping
Washing
Helped with homework, project work
All aspect of school work – other requirements from school
Collection from Fiona’s – Hamish did in fact help out from time to time
Holidays in Tiree – all organisation
Visits to inlaws and my parents and family