Well, not so much a lightbulb. More like a fluorescent light flickering on and off until it finally kicked in. Oprah would call it an “a-ha” moment. Others would call it an epiphany.

I’ve been giving this lots of thought, especially lately with my move into voluntary work. I’ve decided that in addition I’m going to do a degree. A degree in, get this, Criminology.

I’m thinking why not? I’ve been fascinated by crime ever since I can remember. From the Famous Five and Secret Seven in my childhood, Agatha Christie in my teen years to Tess Gerrittsen, Karin Slaughter and Mo Hayder now. I love watching the Crime and Investigation network on Sky. I watch shows like Road Wars, UK Border Force and Nothing To Declare on Living TV and wonder in amazement at the car chases and people trying to smuggle drugs, or themselves, into the country and wonder how they think they’re going to get away with it. I always wonder at the psychology of it. I find shows like that fascinating. I love watching crime dramas, CSI, Criminal Minds and remember Prime Suspect – detectives at work; Columbo, Monk, Midsommer Murders. How the lightbulb didn’t come on sooner, I don’t know. Maybe this  is the right time in my life. Who knows?!

Unfortunately I’ve just missed January’s deadline, so I’ve registered my interest on the Open University website to start the next course in October. They have a degree course in Criminology and Psychology, which sounds right up my street. It’ll probably take me years, but I don’t care. Have you ever had one of those moments where you know something is so right for you? This is one of those moments for me.

I’m a little disappointed that I do have to wait until next October. But I’ve learnt that old adage, nothing before its time, applying to me more and more lately. So, I can be patient. I’m also very excited. To be honest I’ve never been more passionate about something in quite a long time.

To think, in a few years I can have a BA or BSc after my name. Good innit! Wish me luck.