Happy 1st September! The start of meteorological Autumn!

What a summer it has been! This summer, more than any I can remember, has had a profound effect on the land that surrounds me as well as my mental and physical health. Whilst the abundance of vitamin D from all the sunshine we have been blessed with has no doubt had a positive bodily response, I quickly realised that summer was not for me and definitely not my favourite time of the year.

I have been longing for cooler weather for many days. When the rain came, I wept. At last, I was able to breathe, happy in the knowledge that my fuddled brain and overheated body was to be brought back to some semblance of normality. When you dwell in Northern England, when 16 degrees Celsius is a warm summer’s day, experiencing mid thirties is an unnatural phenomenon that I would rather never be repeated.

Effect on the landscape

Much of my garden has been fried. When the promise of autumnal colour, from a garden planted with autumnal colour in mind, is clearly not going to materialise this year, it makes me very sad. Take this acer for example, by now it would be showing signs of the vivid scarlet in the leaves. A lot of my shrubs have missed out their stunning autumn transition and gone onto the leaf shedding phase or just standing there, clearly burnt. It seems I have lost a number of plants that normally thrive in the climate I have. I hope they will recover next year.

Effect on my creativity

There is no doubt, my writing has suffered in this heat. I wonder if it has been the same for you? I found it so difficult to settle into any flow. I would get up early in the coolest part of the day, in the hope that some of my words would surface and make it to the page. But, the effect of my not sleeping due to the “tropical” nights, meant that exhaustion overtook any thoughts of creativity and just left me with a fuzzy head and a frustrated mind.

I did manage to do some of the Summer Writing Sanctuary Beth Kempton offered us. I loved interacting with the community doing it too. It was easy to engage for just a few minutes a day, no pressure, no need to share if you didn’t want to. We were offered an opportunity to try out new prompts and writing in different formats. A welcome distraction from the day to day survival.

Annabelle turning green

Effect on my mood

Oh I have been so grumpy. There seemed no escape from the constant overheating, no matter how many fans were going at once. I tried my best to keep hydrated but most days I felt dizzy and nauseous and zapped of energy. I normally have an active, energetic disposition. The lethargy that took over was quite dispiriting.

Effect on production

I had so many summer jobs on my to do list including things to prepare for the last quarter of the year. It has been a real struggle to get anything done. This could be because of my brain being over twenty degrees hotter than it is used to at this time of the year. I am sure I just went into survival mode rather that get stuff done mode. I am glad I was able to dream about what was needed, even though practically it was put to one side until I was able to think and do tasks without too much effort.

Thankful

As the raindrops fall

The earth breathes sighs of relief

Parched begins to green

Well, at last, the weather has turned. The rains have started to fall, the temperatures are so much more bearable. I have had undisturbed sleep. I can sense a shift in energy. The season has changed and I am so grateful for that.

I wonder if this is the shape of things to come. I wonder if the ones (flora and fauna) to thrive will be those who can stand the heat. To survive another similar summer, I know that I must do something. My garden may need some more heat resistant planting, my house may need more forms of cooling, my holidays may be more Scandinavian or southern Hemisphere. We watch and we wait for things to come.

Coming soon!

I am pleased to announce that, before the heatwave, I started the process of developing a paid membership tier here on my Substack. My plan is to launch it on the Autumn Equinox on 23rd September this year. I will do a longer post next time with details on what will be on offer. In the meantime I thought I would give you a heads up that it is coming.

It will be for likeminded souls who love the beauty of nature and appreciate its therapeutic benefits. My dream is to have a nature hub, where, as a community, we celebrate the nature around us, lift each other’s spirits and interact in a meaningful way that brings the joy of nature into our hearts and minds. I am so looking forward to getting to know this community on a deeper level and sharing what makes our nature filled hearts sing.

I am curious:

What did you do to distract yourself from the incessant heat?

What has been the best and the worst of the summer season?

What type of community do you thrive in?

Would you be interested in finding out more about my paid tier membership?

Leave a comment

And there I was, five days after my 60th birthday, looking up agog at the most beautiful landscape. Close to utopia, breathtakingly stunning and ready to explore.

I had longed to come to this part of the world. I have a vague memory as a child, peering down a Viewmaster’s lens at a mountainous, forest rich land with lakes lapping their foothills and wishing I could be there. And now I was looking at the very same landscape, only with the sounds of the crickets, a warm gentle breeze and the turquoise lakes more iridescent than is believable.

Despite all the research, I hadn’t expected the peaks to be so close, to wrap around the hotel we were staying in like a comforting hand. Mountains have been described as many things; rugged, bleak, menacing, untouchable. But the ones I was witnessing, bathed in emerald forests and gathered in wonderous fellowship, fair took my breath away with each glance. Yes, dreams can come true, I had arrived in Bavaria.

The heat!

But oh, it was hot! And, being a northerner, I am not very good at heat. Bavaria was experiencing a heatwave so most days were in the mid 30’s, when it should have been low 20’s. No air conditioning, no need normally, meant for difficult, sleepless nights as well as hot, sticky days. To get the most of this experience, I was going to have to acclimatise and fast. There was much beauty to explore. Thunderstorms had been promised later in the week, some respite to look forward to.

Wildlife and Wonder

So, armed with copious amounts of Factor 50 and a very big hat off we set to explore.

Of all the beauty that surrounded me it was the wildlife that was a highlight. We visited a terraced apothecary garden in the town’s castle. It was teeming with pollinators of such variation I was hard pushed to know where to look. I saw my first hummingbird moth, darting from flower to flower. You will have to take my word for it as I have no photos worth sharing, its speed of movement resulted in only blurry images. It inspired me to increase my pollinator friendly plants in my garden, definitely more lavender is called for.

We walked around a tiny lake, Schwansee, in the foothills of a castle that inspired Disney’s Cinderella (Neuschwanstein). Grass snakes were swimming alongside the handful of human bathers, flitting dragonflies aplenty moved across the paths as we walked and so many unknown butterflies generously landing on our shoulders, rucksacks and hats.

One such butterfly befriended us whilst we were having our picnic lunch. I later found out that this was an Purple Emperor (thank you google id), its wings sometimes brown then changing to a iridescent purple when the light caught. It loved flying around my nectarine, I offered it some. It stayed with me for ages, its proboscis devouring the sweet juice.

When it was time to go, we placed it gently on the back of a bench to finish off its delight. I wondered if any of its friends would come and join the feast once we had left.

We watched the Crested Grebes in the lake feeding their babies, diving deep to bring up fish which the youngsters, after much squealing, swallowed whole. We noticed a couple of beaver lodges in the streams which fed into the lake. Such intricately constructed dams which seemed perfectly planned. What a treat to see those in the wild.

Significant Swans

There were a number of swans on the lakes, some with their cygnets. A lake being a usual habitat for them was made more poignant as they are such an important symbol of Bavaria. They were a particular favourite of King Maximillian ll, and his unfortunate son King Ludwig ll who built Neuschwanstein (New Swan Stone) and covered it with swan symbols, on interior pieces such as wood carvings, textiles and chandeliers. Even the local Festival Hall had sweeping stairways with swan railings. I will think differently next time I encounter one of these magnificent creatures.

Turquoise underskirt

The River Lech was the main river that flowed though the town, making its way down from the mountains. As you can see from the image, it wasn’t your normal river. It was the most amazing colour when the sun shone on it. Apparently the vivid turquoise colour is caused from the mountain minerals that are dispersed within the water. They catch the light and cause it to shimmer.

Majestic Mountains

I sat in this alpine flower meadow, having travelled up the side of the mountain on a wobbly cable car. To me, this was pure joy. Sitting there, I had an overwhelming sense of freedom. There was a calmness wrapping itself around me. I knew I had followed a dream, and it felt good.

The jagged Alps zigzagged across my vision. I was in awe of such majestic creations. Formed millions of years ago, their imposing structures, softened by rolling pastures and dense forests, layered themselves in hues of greens, blues and greys depending how far away they were and how much they were lit up by the baking sun.

With the lake where I was based looking like a mere puddle, I stayed there for some time contemplating life, the passage of time and wondering what the future may hold. I wondered how many dreams I would realise in the rest of my lifetime.

As the sun beat down, I looked at the parched earth were I was and I couldn’t help but think about the effect climate change would have on this wonderful landscape. Summer is certainly a lovely time for warm weather but I hoped rain would come soon to bring some relief to this thirsty mountainside.

On our final night we were treated to the most spectacular and only thunderstorm of our holiday. I am sure both flora and fauna in the surrounds welcomed the coolness and extra hydration it brought. It was a welcome relief for someone who had nearly baked to a crisp for nearly ten days in a row too.

I feel lucky to have a dream realised, to be free to wander further afield, to explore some of the natural wonders of the world. I am happy to have now returned to my garden, itself desperate for a drink. The first thing I noticed was all the long grass and clover had flowers and the bees were loving it. I might not have such a spectacular view as the Bavarian Alps afforded me, but it was good to be back in my happy place.

I am curious:

How was this season’s temperatures been for you?

Have you any dreams still to fulfil?

Do you feel free?

Leave a comment

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A bit of a fun, behind the scenes one today, all for a special cause…it’s my birthday! I’m not one for being in the limelight, the frogs and the roses do a much better job of that, but today is kind of different, I’ve reached a new decade and it feels a bit weird, but also a great privilege. It has been an opportunity to look back on how it was, what is missing, what hopes and dreams have yet to be realised.

One thing that has dawned on me is that I am entering a decade that my mother did not. I am sure a lot of people can say that, but I have many friends the same age who still have their mams and I haven’t had mine for over forty years. I wish she could be here to celebrate with me today. Alas, she is not, but she is in my thoughts all the same.

I heard this poem repeatedly growing up…Probably summed me up.

There was a little girl

Who had a little curl

Right in the middle of her forehead.

And when she was good, she was very very good

And when she was bad, she was horrid!

The simple life

I grew up in a time of simplicity compared with today. Telephones had wires attached to them. I, being the youngest, was the household’s remote control, changing channels for the grown ups. We had eiderdowns rather than duvets and coal fires, no central heating. We ate bread with most meals, to fill us up and an outside loo was the norm for most of my childhood. And 60 year olds seemed really old!

England won the world cup, don’t you know?

The best thing to happen in 1966, apparently according to some, was that England won the World Cup. I’ve heard so much about it in the intervening years that I feel like I was almost there. But of course, I was only a month old.

It is interesting that the World Cup has started again a few days ago, the hopes of every one of the 47 countries will be dashed when the winner lifts that trophy. Geoff Hurst (the scorer of three goals in the 1966 final) is the only member of the squad still alive, which seems rather poignant. I wonder if England can do it again? I’m sure it would make Geoff a happy man.

Life as usual

What a lifetime it has been so far. The usual ups and downs as every life has. A wonderful husband, a child, two grandchildren, numerous houses, friends, pets. I know I am wiser, I feel that more than I feel my years. I would probably do some things differently but in the main I am who I am because of my experiences, so no regrets. I am happy being me, happy in my own skin, happy to be 60.

Looking ahead, I just want an easeful life, full of plants and wildlife, with connections to kindred spirits and an end to anything that jars with my inner peace. I yearn for a dog. I would love to see Mount Fuji. I want a book out into the world, as most of you know, but I don’t want to force it before it is ready. It will happen if it is meant to. That feels ok to me at this stage in my life.

UK facts from 1966

The Severn Bridge was opened

Longleat Safari Park was opened

Camberwick Green was first screened

Glasgow Airport was opened

Tragedy struck in Wales with the Aberfan disaster - a horrific loss of young life

Apparently, according to Wikipedia, nothing significant happened on my birth date but the day after The Beatles performed live on Top of the Pops for the first and only time and mimed Paperback Writer.

I share a birthday with:

Noddy Holder (Musician from Slade)

Courtney Cox (Actor)

Justin Fletcher (Mr Tumble)

Rev. W. Awdry 1911-1997 (Author of Thomas the Tank Engine)

Harry Nilsson (1941-1994) (Singer/Songwriter)

Some others who will be turning 60 this year

Ruth Jones (Actor from Gavin and Stacey fame)

Toby Jones (The Detectorists)

Gordon Ramsay (TV Chef)

Janet Jackson (Singer)

David Cameron (Ex Prime Minister)

Rick Astley (Singer)

Paul Hollywood (TV cookery judge)

Mike Tyson (Ex boxer)

Halle Berry (Actor)

Helena Bonham Carter (Actor)

Chris Evans (Broadcaster)

Out and about

I’m off on a little adventure soon as a birthday treat, to be amongst trees, mountains, lakes and waterfalls, a few days to really make my heart sing! I will be taking a small sojourn from Substack, but I will be fully back soon. I’ll tell you about my trip on my return.

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I am curious:

What lessons has life given you?

How old seems old to you?

What significant thing happened in your birth year?

Who do you wish celebrated your birthday, who no longer can?

What hopes and dreams do you have for yourself?

Leave a comment

My Writing View

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Everything in my garden is lush green at the moment. The hot weather, followed by heavy downpours have caused the foliage on the shrubs and trees to put on a growth spurt. As I look around my garden from my writing window, I see very little colour.

There are the purple acers near the pond, white bridal wreath spirea is doing its waterfall cascading thing. I spy tiny pink flowers from the ever spreading geraniums and a bright red Geum in a pot by the back door, a plant that I cannot remember buying.

Oh and there is the grey and white underbelly of the squirrels that visit on a daily basis. I watch with fascination as they collect peanuts I have left out for them. They busy themselves burying them in various pots around the garden, rarely eating any. I wish they wouldn’t do that, such a waste.

The rest of the garden is an array of green hues, from almost yellow to deep bottle green. At this time of the year - between early June and the beginning of July - my garden flowers are hiding in preparation for their big ta-da!

But, looking closely, I know wonderful things are afoot, a quiet developing, and in my opinion, just as wonderful as the fully formed blooms themselves. So what follows is the potential of a garden flower bed. I hope you enjoy.

Take a peep at the delphinium, a favourite bloom of mine. The flower spike produces ever decreasing flower buds which get ready to pop. This one is white and took ages to establish itself. I had hoped I could have divided it by now but the plant is still relatively small and only produces one spike a year.

The Spirea Goldflame directly outside my writing window, has lost all of its springtime fiery foliage and is now just mid-green. It has clusters of tiny flower buds to create new interest for me. It will take a few weeks for them to develop, but once open the pollinators will flock to them, a true garden friend in early summer.

My numerous roses are gearing up for their main show, one in particular is my Hot Chocolate rose. You would never guess its prowess looking at its bud. Developing quietly inside are a bunch of silky petals, reddy brown in colour with the most amazing, sweet, chocolatey fragrance. How I love this rose, I am so excited to see how many buds there are this year.

I can see it clearly from my desk and as I write this, I spy a yellow and dark brown striped snail heading up a stem, carefully avoiding the razor sharp thorns. I wonder what he is up to? Is he lost? I’m off to have a look, ……back in a mo!

By the time I got to him he had hidden himself inside his shell. No damage has been done to the rose leaf so I am non the wiser as to his antics. I will have to keep an eye on him. He looks like he is up to no good!

I have a few hydrangeas in my garden which have the most showy of blooms of all of my garden flower collection. My favourite is Annabelle, a vibrant white cluster of flowers which are in preparation for their display. I rather like the lime green tinge that the buds create. Another hydrangea is a lace cap, brought as a cutting from a relative’s garden. You can just make out what hue it is, though for such a complex flower, it is best to wait until it is fully out to appreciate its genius.

So, for now, we wait for the flowers to show their prowess. I can’t help thinking that the real delight is in the anticipation of what they will offer. In the weeks to come, with a little more nurturing, the right balance of sunshine and showers and a little bit of love, I know I will be in awe of their beauty.

P.S. the snail is not on his way back down. He was clearly just having an early evening wander. Go steady little one, and mind those thorns!

Quiz question:

Guess the hairy bud….

An annual

A climber

A sweet, heady fragrance

A pod making machine

I am curious:

What flower bud intrigues you the most?

What are you looking forward to this summer?

Leave a comment

Knowing what is good for you

The sunlight was exquisite last night so an impromptu late evening woodland meander was called for. The tiny woodland in question is, fortunately, only five minutes walk from my home. I visit it often, and have been for over two decades. The crispy path through it feels far enough away from the estate road which runs adjacent to it. It is a safe haven and calm wraps around me each time I enter it.

Once inside, the air becomes sharper, clearer and my favourite thing is to stop and take in all the hues of greens in front of me. The woodland is in full leaf now, not a bare branch to be seen. The woodland floor is heaving with fully formed bracken, cleavers, flowering nettle, dandelion and emerging bramble briars with newly forming buds. The delicious fruits will be here before we know it!

The hardened muddy path snakes off into the distance, a slight curve promises more delights further up ahead. The shadow contrasts along the floor are strong, despite the fading light. There is a special vibrancy in here tonight, I can’t quite put my finger on why. Maybe it is because it is the eve of metrological summer or that we are nearly at the longest day of the year. Whatever it is, the woodland seems to be taking full advantage.

They are back!

Up ahead a delicate purple hue shines out from the side of the path. The Rhododendrons have arrived and fill the woodland with intense lilac colour. I stop beside them and study their blousy blooms, each one bigger than my fist. I stare at them a while, looking at the detail of their formation. I find them fascinating and get transfixed gazing at their beauty.

Hello again!

Half way through the wood, I stop at a familiar tree. I have named her Grizelda, I am not sure why, but she seems to suit it. She looked so happy today, she was surrounded by sunlight and birdsong. Who wouldn’t feel happy in those conditions? She seemed animated tonight so I wanted to capture that. I told her I am going to share the video with you. I am sure I saw her smile.

Listen

As I continue my journey downward, towards the end of the path I switch on my Merlin app and record sixteen different kind of birds, singing for me and Grizelda, including black caps, wrens, collard doves and chiff chaffs. No wonder she looked happy. The man-made culvert, created as more houses were built, is dry. No sound of the usual trickle, no chance of the surrounding houses getting wet.

There is more light emerging as the woodland opens out and glimpses of the road ahead can be seen. I pass the line of Silver Birches, the tall one, right at the end of the path, is a special one as I had professional photographs taken of my dogs standing in front of it. I always say hello, another of my dear friends of the woodland.

Choices

I have two choices now, one to carry on downwards towards the road and follow the houses home. Or to double back on myself and re-enter the woodland and do the journey in reverse. I chose the latter, of course. You can never get enough of the atmosphere trees emit.

Happy 1st June!

It rained hard overnight, the woodland will no doubt look different today, maybe greener, maybe a little melancholy. I will find out later today what mood it is in. Best take some sturdy shoes to cope with any sludge on the path.

The rains will be staying with us for some time, according to the forecast. The flora and fauna world will be more thankful of that than the human world, no doubt. Fortunately, all of us will benefit from the trees being happy. I hope you have a wonderful, fulfilling summer and get to spend some quality time in your favourite natural space.

I am curious:

Where do you go in nature for your solace?

What plans do you have for your wellbeing this season?

What is your favourite part of the Summer months?

Leave a comment

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It is here again!

Lilac season is upon us and I couldn’t be happier! My heart sings on the breeze as the Lilac scent drifts by. Their perfume, reminiscent of childhood, is intoxicating. Their clustered flower formation is complex but each flower blossom is a simple four petalled trumpet. The combination of these clustered blooms makes me linger much longer than any other shrub in the garden. I would never be without a lilac in my life!

My garden lilacs

I have five different types of Lilac in my garden.

I wrote about my love for them around this time last year. Here is a little reminder of that post:

Patience!

Joy of joys, one of them has flowered for the first time since it was planted over five years ago. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I found the flower buds forming about a month ago. Its flowers are so fragrant and their smell wafts towards my main garden seating area just as I hoped it would.

How patient I have been, it has nearly been uprooted for the last two years, given that it was all leaf and no sign of the flower that tempted me to purchase it in the first place. But here it is, it brings me great joy to share it with you

.

The one just inside the front garden has been exceptional this year, (see main photograph). You can smell it from half way down the street and I witness parents, with their children, taking in its scent on their way to school, a lovely thing to get the mind going I don’t doubt.

My common lilac, brought as a cutting from my in-laws garden, has produced the biggest flower heads. I have cut some and brought them into the house to appreciate them long after the sun has set. It is supposed to be bad luck to cut a lilac flower for the home, but I couldn’t resist this year

Roses in Spring

The main season for roses is Summer but there are a few that make their presence known before the new season is upon us. Look closely to see the true beauty of a delicate rose, petals of silky paper.

Ice anyone?

My climbing Iceberg rose is full of juicy buds and flowers have been present since the start of Spring. Its scent is delicious, it is a beautiful sight around my front door, my favourite rose in the garden by far!

A rose in the dark

Another rambling rose has started to flower in a more shaded part of the garden. Its pungent, peachy, smallish blooms shine out in the dappled shade like a solar light. The cluster of blooms send the pollinators into a frenzy. I often cut these for tiny posy vases that I have dotted around the seating areas in the garden. It has a long flowering period and produces a second flush if dead heading has occurred.

Borrowed and wild!

My wild rose is in full flower now. Technically it is not mine as it belongs in the adjacent woodland. But it peeps over the deer fence and is at home amongst my plants. It is vibrant and brings a cheer that is most welcome.

It is not long now before we start the Summer season, how this year is whizzing by! Spring has been glorious. Our gardens, I am sure, have brought much solace. I am off out into mine to take in what is left of the seasonal sights and smells of my little corner of bliss!

Share NOURISH and SPARKLE through NATURE🌳

I am curious:

What plant reminds you of your childhood?

What is your favourite Spring flower?

What have you had to wait for but were rewarded deeply for your patience?

Leave a comment

Share NOURISH and SPARKLE through NATURE🌳

Hip hip Hooray!! Has it really been two years?

Today I am celebrating my Substack birthday. Two years ago, I held my breath and dared to press publish on my first post, one of the scariest things I have ever done (and I have been to the top of the CN Tower!). It was only four paragraphs long, not particularly awe inspiring, but I did it! It was open and heartfelt and, at the time, I prayed that no one would see it!

Here it is if you want to have a read.

Why start a Substack?

Over the last few years my writing has become increasingly important to me. I have always written, for self reflection, for my jobs, for my family. I knew that I wanted to share my writing, one day, as I have several books that I want to get out into the world. They would be my act of service to folk who needed a perspective on life that allowed for freedom, wellbeing and relaxation.

But, to be honest, I was scared of putting myself forward, scared to let my voice be heard. I needed a platform where I could exist without comparison, to gain confidence and to find understanding, kindred spirits.

Q. Can you resonate with this journey?

After several courses with Beth Kempton, who raved about Substack, and some positive feedback from some within those courses, I took the plunge to start my publication. I didn’t know what to expect of myself or my readers but I knew I had to give it a go. No monetary investment, just time and energy to share my words that wanted to come out.

Q. What was your motivation to start a Substack?

Themes of my writing

I write mostly about the wonderful world of nature and the feelings that are stirred from being amongst it. It brings me deep joy to share my discoveries, my moments of wonder, a little bit of knowledge and ways to use nature to support wellbeing. I believe nature is our greatest guide, the tiniest of creatures can help us to reflect on our own lives.

I write about my travels and how I interact with nature further afield. I write on the need to save our planet in any way we can. And, I have musings, philosophical queries, where I try to make sense of my world and passions. This element of my writing is a chance for my readers to get to know me a little bit better. I hope some of my writing has resonated with you and that you have enjoyed a glimpse into what makes my heart sing.

Here is one of my “musing” posts which, to date, is my most popular

Q. What themes of my writing resonate the most with you?

Positives

For me, there are so many positives to being on this platform. Firstly I have “met” some wonderful, kindred folk who just get how good it is to interact with nature, from the tiniest tadpole to the greatness in the skies above. There doesn’t seem to be competition here, just celebration of efforts and achievements, the smallest wins and losses matter.

“Notes” has brought me some wonderful connections. A joyous community is growing around me and it feels wonderful. There are “strangers” that I have come to know. We mutually enjoy interacting and sharing our words, and that feels special. The algorithms of the platform bring me trees and dogs, ladybirds and insights into other worlds I would never have met, but somehow fit perfectly with my heart. I am immensely grateful for this.

Q. Have you had a similar experience during your time on Substack?

Frustrations

The Substack platform has made many changes since I started up. Having to relearn elements or adopt a new way of communicating with my audience can be quite debilitating and overwhelming at times. I have tried to keep up the best I can and hope that stability will be with us for a while.

I worry about the AI element of the writing world and how many bots subscribe to me rather than real people. I don’t want to make shortcuts in my writing for efficiency and speed of production. I like the slow, steady pace of consideration and human interaction. I’m old fashioned, and probably will eventually get left behind. For now, I value real, authentic connections and hope that most of you reading this will agree.

Q. What difficulties with the platform have you faced?

Five things I have realised about myself since beginning my publication:

Nourish and Sparkle through Nature🌳

1. I am braver than I thought I was. I no longer hold my breath before I publish. Phew!

2. I can connect with people who resonate with my words. I enjoy hearing how my words have made people think and feel.

3. I can find many kindred spirits out there. There are people who understand. We share a common voice. This has been the most joyous part of the journey so far.

4. I have the patience I need to build a genuine community. This has not happened overnight. Slowly, steadily I am finding my people.

5. I have ambitions to develop my Substack (see below for more details)

Plans for the coming year

I have been beavering away behind the scenes to make my publication ready for the next phase. Later on in the year, to correspond with the Autumn equinox, I plan to add a paid tier so that a deeper connection can be developed with those who want a more in-depth interaction with me and my community.

More on this in later posts, but for now, suffice to say, I am excited for what is to come. If you are interested in joining my paid tier or would like to support my writing, please subscribe so that you can keep informed as to what will be on offer when the next tier is launched.

Thank you

To everyone who has joined me so far, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your presence has meant the world to me. Here’s to another year on Substack together. I am looking forward to what is to come.

A favour to ask

On this two year anniversary I would love to know who is out there, viewing my posts and notes. Please would you be able to spare a second to like the post (comment and restacks welcome too) so that I can see you. I would be most grateful.🙏

My favourite Lilac, spreading its beauty and scent outside my writing room window.

18th May 2026

I am curious:

Can you remember the first time you published on Substack? How did you feel?

What have you learned about yourself whilst sharing your words?

What would you like to see happen to your Substack?

Leave a comment

Turville

We found ourselves in a tiny village in Buckinghamshire this week, in an equally tiny renovated converted out-building. It was a necessary trip down south to visit a friend who hasn’t been too well of late.

The village was as quintessentially English as you could imagine; set amongst rolling hills and a wooded valley where the tiny dwelling’s ancient brickwork was festooned with wisteria and cottages gardens brought colour and pollinators a plenty. A feast for the eyes for sure.

Opposite our abode, was the church. The graves spanned the centuries, marking the life of, amongst others, a two day old, a war hero and a playwright whose grave was adorned with cow parsley, alliums and forget-me-nots.

Grave of Sir John Mortimer QC

Inside, the empty church’s stained glass shone brightly into its nave. It was not particularly ornate but it had a silent peace about it that made you want to linger and contemplate.

On the Wednesday evening, as the sun was setting, we were treated to a church bell practice. The melodious sounds rang across the valley whilst the red kites circled in appreciation. It was a lovely moment in time, listening to the bells in the village pub beer garden, sipping the local real ale.

Claims to fame

There were certainly quirky elements to the village, the main one being that it has been used as a set for many programs for TV and film. The most recent famous one being the outside shot of the Vicar of Dibley’s house. It was clearly a popular sitcom as we witnessed a number of people just staring at this doorway.

The village has also been used for Midsomer Murders, Goodnight Mr. Tom, Killing Eve. The windmill just behind our dwelling was made famous in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and more recently in Jonathan Creek. Quite a claim to fame which we didn’t know existed until just before we arrived.

Doorway of the Vicar of Dibley’s house

Pub doorway of the Bull and Butcher

Cobstone Mill, Ibstone

Basil

The infamous Basil (we presumed)

We were told by the owner of our property that we had to watch out for a ginger cat named Basil who has a habit of visiting most people in the village and jumping onto their bed for an afternoon nap. He is also know to join the congregation during church services.

Sure enough a ginger cat did cross our path but he was a bit aloof, maybe realising his cover was blown when we called him by name and told him we knew what he was up to. His beautiful marmalade markings shone in the evening light and he eventually let us touch him, briefly. I love an animal with personality.

The tricky part of the idyll

It wasn’t all wisteria and roses around the doors though. The village lacks parking spaces so cars visiting the famous spots left the village feeling rather squashed in. The roads leading to the village were only just one car wide, and my husband often had to reverse into a passing place to let cars, vans, dustbin lorries and tractors pass. Quite unnerving to witness at times. I think I prefer my roads with white lines down the middle rather than tufts of grass.

Venturing further afield

We had some relaxing time away from the village too, taking our friend to two nature reserves. One of them was just beyond Wellingtonia Avenue, an avenue of approximately 111 Giant Redwoods planted in and around 1863 to celebrate the Duke of Wellington who lived nearby. They were a magnificent sight.

We also circumnavigated Horseshoe Lake with its calming waters and abundance of damselflies. We had to be careful where we stood, their haphazard flight paths made for a lot of ducking and diving.

Half a day was also spent at Hughenden Manor, the former home of Benjamin Disraeli, a UK prime minister from the 1800’s. Owned by the National Trust, the house has an amazing history of broken lineages, time trend alterations and a wartime secret which has only recently been discovered. Maybe that is a post for another day.

Our time down south was over all too quickly. We enjoyed our stay immensely, and promised ourselves, and our friend, that we would be back soon.

I am curious:

Have you stayed in a place famed for its location?

Do you have a claim to fame?

What is your idea of a typical English landscape?

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I attended a very interesting poetry workshop recently. It was free, so there were lots of people there. I felt a bit intimidated, poetry is not my natural go to, or strong point, though I am fond of a Haiku. I write poetry in the spur of the moment, when something moves me. I keep most of my poems private, preferring to hone my craft slowly, and without worrying about judgement.

The main part of the session was to write an instructional poem, which I had never attempted before. We were given three examples my favourite one by Billy Letford on how to be a well prepared scaffolder.

We were then asked to come up with one of our own, with a time limit seven minutes.

Here is my unedited, first attempt:

How to plant an award winning sunflower seed

Let the competition begin, gather up your pots,

Six will be best.

There will be choices to make -

Strength, growth and beauty to discern.

Now, look at your seeds

All stripy and plump.

Choose very carefully,

Choose ones with hope.

So, taking a finger,

Plunge it into the middle of the pot,

Not too shallow or deep.

Maybe a knuckle and a half.

OK, pop it in

Pointy side up,

And cover it over.

Don’t press too hard!

Bang the base on the table,

Get rid of the air.

Next gently water -

Too much, it will drown!

And smile at it kindly,

And pray for its growth.

Notice it swell.

Look after it well,

There are reputations at stake,

There are comparisons to make,

There are prizes to be won

And rosettes to be worn.

There were some great poems to listen to around the room; about loading dishwashers, playing cricket, walking the dog, living life. Being the private introvert, unsurprisingly I didn’t offer mine, but I did promise myself I would share it with you.

There is more tweaking to be done, for sure, but it is amazing the flow you can get into in only seven minutes. I wonder if this has spurred you on to write your own instructional poem or indeed grow some prize sunflowers. Do let me know if you decide to do either or both.

I am curious:

Do you ever read or write poetry? If so, what was the last poem you read or wrote?

Do you have a favourite style of poetry?

Do you have a favourite poet?

Which sunflower seed from above would you choose first?

Have you ever grown a sunflower? If so, how tall did it get?

What do you feel when you see a sunflower?

How brave are you at speaking in a public arena?

Leave a comment

Sunflower grown in 2025 by experts at RHS Bridgewater

Generally, I am not one for celebrating named days such as those that draw attention to issues that should be recognised on a daily basis such as World Kindness Day (13th November) or World Bee Day (May 20th). However, I make one exception - Earth Day, an environmental movement that began in America in the 70’s. Its aim was to educate, inspire and encourage governments to think about and act upon environmental policies that will serve to protect the planet.

One hundred and forty countries now mark Earth Day. It takes place every year on the 22nd April and its premise is to globally raise the conscience of citizens of the earth , to bring into focus one issue that can protect the planet with its yearly theme. This year the theme was:

Our Power, Our Planet

I love this beautiful planet. I know that is a sweeping statement but I don’t make it lightly. My appreciation of it makes for a joyful existence. It brings me awe and wonder everyday. But our Earth is a delicate ecosystem and I am worried that its fragility is being compromised daily by acts of ignorance and a blasé attitude that will eventually lead to its demise. So, anything that can raise awareness about our important role to protect our planet deserves a shout out.

Witnessing the earth from all angles

I have so enjoyed looking at our planet from a different perspective this month. At the beginning of April, I watched in awe (and trepidation) the mission of Artemis II to the far side of earth’s satellite, the moon.

The historic trip for the crew, to travel further than any human had ever been (252,760 miles from the Earth). That must have been breathtaking, terrifying and so very humbling for all concerned. Being a minimal risk taker, my fingers were tightly crossed that the voyage would teach us so much and that the crew would return safely.

Artemis II Moon Mission

Launch: taken on 1st April 2026 Credit: NASA/Joel Kowsky

The Walkout: NASA/Aubrey Gemignani

Orion Spacecraft Crew: Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, Jeremy Hansen

The astronauts pictured above were photographed waving goodbye to family and friends and are about to undertake an historic voyage. Their loved ones must have been holding their breath and probably, in the back of their minds, thinking about the two explorations into space in our recent history that ended in disaster. I had an uneasy feeling as I saw the preparations for the Artemis II mission. Please let them be safe, I silently whispered to myself.

I remember, vividly, watching the Space Shuttle Challenger in January 1986 explode just 73 seconds into its mission, killing all seven on board. I was deeply affected at what I witnessed on the TV screen, not quite believing what I was seeing. Technology had failed them and their families. Was their bravery and ultimate sacrifice worth it, I wondered?

What an image!

Our beautiful planet and its incredible satellite.

Photo by NASA on NASA website

Seven hour flyby on April 6th

We were treated by NASA to the most amazing photographs of the voyage. I loved looking at the surface of the moon, so many craters! But most of all I loved the images of looking back at our Earth.

It was sobering to think that we are all existing on such a beautiful, natural, but fragile surface. I would like to believe that most of us are trying our best to preserve it in our own, small way. Earth Day reminds us of how wonderous our planet is and the Artemis II mission showed us the pictures to confirm its magnificence.

Photo Credit: NASA/Bill Ingalls

Christina Koch, gives a grateful hug to the Orion Spacecraft,

which had been tested for its potential for further missions.

On their return, in their “tiny” Orion Spacecraft, they had to endure many mind-blowing conditions before they could put their feet back on our celestial body.

The journey back to earth was textbook, technology did not fail them (unlike it did for the crew of Space Shuttle Columbia in 2003 who did not survive the homeward trip). A series of parachutes on the way down, slowed their speed so that at the time of splashing down in the Pacific Ocean, the Orion spacecraft was travelling at 20mph, miraculous.

Back again!

The crew found it difficult to walk at first due to the earth’s gravity weighing heavily on their limbs that had become accustomed to a more floating experience. According to Reid’s Instagram account, they spent the initial days back, collecting data about themselves and how their bodies were coping with the after effects of their mission. I wonder how their experience will affect them long-term. It will be lifechanging no doubt!

I saw the moment on Instagram when Christina was reunited with her dog. What a welcome home she gave her, how wonderful a reunion that must have been for Christina. After all, she hadn’t just popped to the shops. She had been on a risky, historic adventure no other woman on the planet could claim.

Welcome home to the crew of the Artemis II program, and thank you to all of the technical support staff that worked tirelessly to make this a most historic journey our generation will never forget. Your life choices have led to us witnessing a perspective of space and the human capacity thought impossible only a few short years ago. I wish them well for their next adventure in life, what ever that may be.

Keep on caring for our Earth

If you marked Earth Day in some way, I salute you. Our collective care for our planet will help it to survive. If we fail to consider its needs, it will be catastrophic. It is our choice, it is in our power to make a difference. Lets do it.

I am curious:

What part are you playing to protect this planet?

What are your views on space travel?

What risky adventures have you had or would like to have?

Leave a comment

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For more information on the Artemis II mission and the amazing work of NASA, go to

www.nasa.gov

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Whenever I feel a bit stuck, I pull an oracle card. Unlike fortune telling tarot cards, oracle cards serve more as an inner guidance, what resonates from the words and symbols offered is up for personal interpretation. This method of reflection suits me well.

This morning I pulled a card from my favourite deck: Earth Blessings Oracle - Cards, connect with the healing power of nature by Liz Dean. The card that arrived was Choices. It explained that just like a tree, we are faced in life with many places of possible divergence, the branches of life. It is our job to see the opportunities that present themselves with each twist and turn.

But after pulling the card, I felt that something was missing. I needed to know more. So, I pulled another card from the Sacred Creators Oracle by Chris-Anne.

The card that showed itself was One Step Ahead is All You Need. It explained that of all the things we have to face, progress can be made by taking it gently, even a tiny 1% step forward makes a huge difference long term. And so, with both cards pulled, my inner interpretation went something like this:

In life, especially at the moment, I am facing many choices/dilemmas/options. These can feel overwhelming and sometimes debilitating. But, within each choice I am faced with, there are many opportunities that could prove to be beneficial to me. I need to be open to seeing what is presenting itself.

I can achieve progress by taking tiny steps for organising, sorting, deciding. This comes with the proviso that everything does not need to be done at once. So, feelings of anger and frustration when projects are going too slowly, feelings of overwhelm when life feels too big need to be eliminated for a more positive interaction with life.

Methodical, careful, gentle and calm: slowly, slowly, catchy monkey! Doing it this way will make life feel better, more manageable.

Reflections of choices

A significant birthday is fast approaching, so I have been doing a lot of reflection about the choices I have made, to get me thus far. Career moves, house moves, relationships and animals seem to have had the most significant impact on my life. Sometimes a complicated tree structure and sometimes a straightforward broom shank has been the trajectory.

My previous working life in the public sector was painfully restricting, the feelings of being shackled, suffocated, were very real. So my grand plan, in my twenties, was to retire at fifty two (my mum’s early death was behind this decision).

Well that didn’t happen! I escaped the shackles in my forties and became my own boss. The freedom of self employment meant that the “work” I was doing felt easeful and so enjoyable that I didn’t want to stop. Who knew work could be liberating? I now have the freedom to choose, what I do when I do it and answer to no-one but myself. Bliss!

I wanted to move mid country to start a retreat business. It never happened, the economy downturn made selling up difficult. Instead, I built a wellbeing and retreat business here, ten miles from where I grew up, hiring venues for short periods of downtimes for clients. It works well, it’s more affordable and less demanding of time for people who are busy.

I have slowly built my writing “career”, particularly over the last ten years. My words often reflect my love of nature, wellbeing and the joy that comes from being amongst kindred spirits and writing from my heart is so soulful.

Being published and getting paid for my work feels a long way off but I have learned in my years on this planet that dreams do come true, often when you least expect them.

One of my favourite writing stations is in Maisy, my vintage campervan.

Going forward, I have a plan. My new decade year is to be filled with nourishing acts of positivity, travel, creativity, spontaneity, connection and moments of blissful, inner peace, regardless of what I have to face. As we are nearly half way through the year, so far, so good!

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I am curious:

On the whole, do you mostly reflect what has been, do you look forward to what is yet to come or do you live in the moment?

What small step could you take to get closer to your dream?

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I love writing at anytime of the day but my favourite time is that time between day and night, at twilight. For me, there is something very magical about the closing of the day and tonight I decided to document what I saw and heard as my words flowed out onto the page.

Writing station - Garden room

I have many writing stations in my house (as recommended by Julia Cameron). This evening, as I was writing longhand to give me time to observe and ponder, I decided to come into my garden room. A converted outbuilding, it is a place of peace for me, with a big picture window which gives me a lovely view of my favourite tree and the woodland to the side. It was a warmish night, so I left the door open, allowing the sounds of the evening freedom to waft in.

The sky, a crisp air-force blue shade, was cloudless. You could still make out the lime green leaves, newly formed, waiting to grow as the days get warmer and longer. My tree, a Horse Chestnut, is forming its sticky buds giving it a polka-dot appearance as the light begins to fade. The solar lights, strewn at the side of the house suddenly popped on, ready for a night shift of illumination.

Inside, I turned on my own fairy lights at the writing desk, their tiny bulbs reflecting twofold in the double glazed window. I lit a candle - pine, cedarwood and bergamot - to encapsulate the scent of the forest. The heater was on, warming the room to a comforting temperature. I closed my eyes for a few moments, taking in the silence, and despite a distant ringing in my ears, I felt relaxed and tranquil. A lovely conducive condition to be in.

Listen

I tuned into the soundscape outside of the room. A blackbird and a robin were singing a duet with a coot in the distance offering backing vocals. An unusual combination for sure. The blackbird’s strong voice showed its dominance in the garden at this time of night, still some stamina left in its delicate bones.

A scurrying sound alerted me to possible outside “danger”, but in my eyeline I spotted a squirrel racing up a pine tree in the woodland, no doubt ready for that welcome rest in its comfortable drey. With the longer days and the youngsters to consider Spring is an exhausting time for all garden creatures.

A gentle wind began to connect to the wind chime. The soothing pentatonic tones rang out into the emerging shadows. Every note a friend of the other, culminating to harmonious melodies and dulcet tones. It sounded most satisfying, and hopefully will lull the daytime mammals to a peaceful night’s sleep.

Look

My view allowed me to spy on the blossom trees I planted in pots two years ago. One, an ornamental pear, shone out in the fading light. Bright tiny white blooms which were the first to flower, still strong and steadfast. It will not be giving up for a while yet.

Nearer to the garden room door, my cherry blossom tree, Prunus Kanzan, has started to show off with its hundreds of crimson buds and newly emerging candy-floss coloured flowers. It is going to be spectacular in a few short weeks. I cant wait!

A writerly break

As a short break from my writing, to keep the bones moving, I was inspired to try and take some photographs. Illuminated by just the lights from the main house, fading daffodils and emerging dandelions showed off their buttery petals.

It was not easy to focus but it did highlight the darkness that had now arrived. The inky blue sky had plunged the garden plants into silhouette, the moon yet to appear at this side of the house.

My garden is my sanctuary, hidden from view behind a tall wooden gate and a thick native hedgerow to the front and a small woodland to the side. Tonight, I was glad to connect with it in the fading light. I enjoyed keeping its secret.

All new visitors welcome

As I turned to go back into the warm garden room to finish my writing, I heard a familiar shuffle. The hedgehog was around, somewhere close. Although I could not see it, its rustling of decaying Autumn leaves meant that it was in the nearby wood and heading this way, the cat’s food always a temptation. I left it in peace, it too deserves solitude to do what it must.

Twilight has had a bad press over the decades, letting the zombies free to wreak havoc. But I find it beautiful, a time for transition, a moment to reflect on what has been and what is yet to come. Twilight is a time for secrets, when the nocturnal shenanigans can begin, with a knowing that they will go unnoticed. That is unless you dare to take a peep as the light starts to fade.

Rear window of garden room, lamplight reflecting into the darkness

I am curious:

Do you have a favourite time of day to write?

When was the last time you noticed twilight?

Leave a comment

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Nature from the outside.

Much research available to us now shows that being amongst nature is so good for both our mental and our physical health. This time of year illustrates this beautifully. Spring is such an amazing time in nature, an explosions of positivity, hope and beauty.

The picture nature creates outside our window is so uplifting. We observe the frothy, candy floss blossom of the cherry tree, witness the sleepy bumble bee searching for nectar. We hear the deafening dawn chorus and smell the fragrant blooms as they make their way through the softening earth.

We observe its detail, and marvel at its expertise. It forces us to slow down to learn and connect from its wisdom. There is no doubt in my mind that nature heals, and when you stop to look at the miracles that occur daily, it fair takes your breath away.

Nature from the inside

I have always been fascinated by the medicinal effects of the nature that surrounds us. For centuries, people turned to plants growing around their local environs to help solve medical problems, using nature to help heal from the inside with tinctures, teas and tonics absorbed through the digestive system and ointments, oils and poultices absorbed through the skin.

Monks and village herbalists used plants long ago, as a way of supporting the body to heal itself. Some of these plants we now class as weeds, and have lost their healing prowess in recent times with western methods preferring the synthetic route to healing. But it feels like this ancient blueprint is making a comeback, with research on the efficacy of such things as dandelions, turmeric and valerian root becoming more accepted. Does nature have the answers after all?

I have recently signed up for a course in herbalism to see what the natural world has to offer us to support our health. I am fascinated by the science behind our local plants and want to find out more about how I can support myself and my family. Is what we use to heal ourselves just the tip of the iceberg in what is available to us to restore, and heal our mind and bodies? I am just beginning my journey, I have much to learn. I am certainly not against conventional medicine, but if it can be supported by natural methods which are backed by research, then I would like to know.

Take the humble nettle for instance.

The stinging nettle plant (pictured above) is hated, feared and to be avoided at all costs! If it dare to take up space in the garden, it is often yanked out and disposed of. But in the world of herbalism, the nettle is revered as being one of the most nutrient dense plants you can find, a medieval multi-vitamin if you like. You can readily buy nettle tea from health food shops or even pick it (carefully) and dry some yourself. Don’t forget to leave some for the peacock butterfly caterpillars though.

The dandelion

I am a big fan of dandelions, as some of you will know. Not only is it one of the first plants to support the sleepy pollinators but it is a plant that can be used from flower to root for health benefits. The leaves and roots are known to have anti-inflammatory properties which is a cause of many medical conditions. A weed or a solution? A good question to ponder.

The Cleaver (aka sticky weed)

The cleaver as a medicinal plant is a new one on me. It is a weed that occurs in most gardens. I have only known it as a plant that you can pick and throw at someone, due to the numerous barbs on the leaves, and have a good laugh as they walk around with a plant on their back, oblivious to what is attached to them. What childhood fun!! The cleaver is purported to be a supporter of the immune system and thus can help many conditions. A weedy saviour?

On a recent herbal training event we have been encouraged to make a tincture with all three of these plants, using a tried and tested recipe. I am glad I have accredited guidance so that I know how I create, use and dose safely. My motto is always proceed with caution.

What’s your tipple of choice?

Teas

I love herbal tea. I particularly enjoy a peppermint or a chamomile. I would also love to be able to make my own ceremonial matcha tea like the Japanese do in their tea ceremonies but it is quite a specialist procedure and rather on the expensive side. I stick to matcha tea bags as a substitute.

I try to buy organic tea bags to avoid any pesticides and I use the act of tea drinking as a slowing down, a connection to self and a reset for the rest of the day, what ever is in store for me. This mindful approach can be so calming and restorative and something I look forward to everyday.

Cacao

I have recently discovered ceremonial cacao and am really enjoying the preparation and drinking of it. The cacao I use has been loved from source to packet. It comes in big chunks of single origin cacao from an identified tribe in Peru, where the pods are prized and nurtured.

You have to measure the amount you want (around 20g), chopping it away from the big chunks. Melting and frothing is the next stage. A dash of plant milk can be added, and some honey, but I prefer the pureness of the cacao mixed with the hot water. The whole process to get it to the cup takes time and patience and a bit of trial and error. But when it works, it is a wonderful thing to drink.

Water

Keeping the body hydrated and in balance is a priority for me. I tend to drink bottled, mineral water, rather than tap water, as it tastes less of chemicals. Harrogate Water, Buxton or Highland Spring are my particular favourites.

As soon as the weather warms up I love to make up a jug of water to drink throughout the day. The flavours I use to create a refreshing and thirst quenching drink, which help me to keep a clear head, are lemon, mint and cucumber. Delicious!

Does nature have all the answers?

I can’t help thinking that there are still many things the human race has yet to discover about how nature can help us. An open mind, rigorous research, and maybe a little gut instinct will help us discover what may end up being our and the planet’s natural saviour.

A word of caution!

It is recommended that you do not undertake any herbal remedies unless you are fit to do so. As with any system there are lots of do’s and don’ts. For example, if you have a medical condition herbal medicine may interfere with any prescribed medication. It is always best to seek medical advice prior to taking any supplement.

I am curious:

What herbal medicine have you tried and found to be effective?

Do you have a favourite herbal remedy you swear by?

Leave a comment

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As some of you know, I don’t live very far from the coast. One of my nearest beaches makes up part of the Durham Heritage Coast. The coastline is famous for sea glass- “jewels”, officially litter, laying there in the shingle, tumbled and washed up from a local glass industry of old.

I visit here regularly, when I am in need of some bracing air, the sound of the waves and some contemplation time. I easily spend a couple of hours after high tide mindfully scouring the beach for washed up sea glass, which comes in all colours and shapes.

I have an abundance of it, two big vases full to the brim. I place them on a window sill so that the light shines through. I have some lovely, chunky pieces and for some time now have wanted to do more from my pieces than just look at them. So, I looked around at possible sea glass workshops and came across a sea glass jewellery making one in the next village to me. Perfect!

The workshop, which was expertly taught by Lindsay, guided me through the process of making wire wrapped sea glass jewellery. Her calm manner and encouraging presence meant that I could channel my inner artist. Patience, dexterity and an eye for detail were required, all of which I am in the infancy of said skills, but it was one of the most satisfying morning activities I have done for some time.

I took along my sea glass and set to work creating a spiral out of coloured wire. The end of the spirals were positioned initially at either end of the sea glass and carefully, with some maneuvering, managed to encase the glass, transforming it into a nurtured jewel. It was most inspiring!

Two and a half hours later I had made four pendants and a ring.

I felt satisfied, skilled and proud of myself that I had given time to fulfil a dream. It felt like I was walking in the footsteps of ancestors, whose primitive skills to decorate and adorn led to self expression and personality. If the jewellery I created is a reflection of me, then I am a litter picking, recycler who loves all things colourful and full of texture.

Now I have a few skills, I am definitely going to be making some more of these pieces. Just a few bits of equipment and of course my vast collection of glass to choose from is all that is needed to get me started from home.

I am curious:

Have you ever found a piece of sea glass?

If so, what did you do with it?

Is there anything you are drawn to make or create?

If you wear jewellery, what does it say about your personality?

Leave a comment

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To find more about my adventures with sea glass, check out my post “Soulful, salty air”

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What a week!

I haven’t been my usual, cheery, optimistic self.

But that is ok.

Life happens!

Acceptance is the key.

Let the waves come.

Grief and sorrow

I learned at the beginning of the week that one of my very dear friends had died. My head has been spinning ever since. Regrets, confusion, sadness for all who knew her have flooded through me. She was ill, with a newly diagnosed, cruel, degenerative disease. She had had to make some changes in her life, to make living easier. We were in regular contact, and I was waiting for her to let me know when she wanted me to pop round for a, much looked forward to, get-together.

Did I do the right thing by waiting for her to get in touch with me? Should I have contacted her, as looking back, the spaces between our meet ups were getting longer? Why was it so quick, in the end? I thought I would see her again many times. Regret is with me right now, there is much to process.

I will miss her so much. She was a kind, genuine, honest, and humble soul. All the qualities I cherish in the people around me. RIP my dear Em.

Guilt, disappointment and frustration

I have broken promises this week, something I feel very frustrated about. I try to keep my promises, once committed, I don’t like letting people down. I promised to help someone out evaluating their work, I promised I would send my work to somebody who had kindly agreed to proof read it for me. I promised myself I would complete a task that has been hanging over me for weeks. I am sorry if I have not been myself on this platform either. I have not had the headspace for deep interactions.

A feeling of fuzzy

I love this time of the year, when all the blossom starts to unfold on trees and shrubs. It is like nature is exploding, her rainbow of colours is everywhere and after the long, dark, wintery days, it is so welcome. But, with the blossom comes the pollen and I am so allergic to this. My existence changes and some days are downright unpleasant.

I woke one morning and I thought I was coming down with a heavy cold, sneezing every few minutes, eyes streaming, throat tight and tickly. With no aches, or feeling like I had caught a bug, I recognised that it must be some allergic reaction. I’m not good with dust or cats, so that was my first thought. I damp dusted the bedroom to within an inch of its life, vacuumed and then changed the bedding in case the cat (not our cat but a regular visitor) had sneakily been on the bed.

But then, a quick glance at the window brought the realisation that I had slept with the window open. The balmy Spring night had tempted me to let the fresh air in. The view just beyond the window resolved the conundrum. The trees from the adjacent woodland had exploded with blossom. My own trees had also released their blossom for me. Clearly the pollen had made its way into the house and up my nose!

There is so much pollen around now, I am in for a bumpy, sneezy ride over the next few weeks.

Traipsing through treacle

I am having a few renovations in my house this year. I am grateful that I can make things better around me, but, being the perfect perfectionist, I am finding the decision making process so difficult. Our soon to be replaced bathroom requires twenty three major decisions. I am often found, head in hands, wondering what to do for the best.

I am sure, eventually, I will be able to resolve the dilemmas I am currently faced with. But whilst they are in my head, I find even the most simplest of tasks debilitating. Overwhelm is cruel, and often forces me to retreat into inactivity to avoid mistakes, regrets or major blunders. In reality, everything is reversible but I would rather not have to go through that.

When things are getting overwhelming, I tend to curl up into a ball and not unfurl for a while. I have gone into hedgehog mode this week.

Bumps in life are inevitable

Life events bring positive and negative feelings with them. I have certainly had my fill of negative emotions this week, which has felt uncomfortable. As humans, we have to ride the waves. When challenging situations come all at once, it is important to give ourselves time for reflection and recouperation. I need to find a way forward, eventually. No rush.

Finding joy

One thing I try to do is to look for the positives. Finding joy in what seems like a crumbling existence is not easy, but when we think about or notice something that makes us feel that little bit better, some light relief follows.

For me, it is to get out into nature, albeit with some extra tissues at this time of the year. The fresh green leaves of the shrubs, the emerging perennials, the appearance of the first daisy and dandelion all make me smile. And nature writing, that brings me deep joy too.

The Sound of Joy

Joy is the melody of sweet sounding birdsong

Speaking in whispers and hailing from rooftops

Joy is the peace discovered between blossom

It lingers in pond edges, where buttercups unfurl

Joy is the freedom, we find in the changes

In new beginnings, a new way of being

Joy is treasured memories of lives intertwined

Of times spent in laughter and tears of understanding

Joy is the silence

found deep within

Let joy guide us through the dark times presented

Let joy hold our hand and allow us to breathe

Soon

I know, as things get resolved, adjusted to and accepted, the heaviness will begin to ease. I will wait for the lightness to return, as it always does.

Patience, kindness and understanding is required in the meantime, gifts to give to myself, whenever the waves come.

I am curious:

Where is your “go to” when things feel heavy?

What words to you use to describe a feeling of uneasiness

Leave a comment

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Well, it is that time again!

When mid March arrives, and Gardeners’ World starts a new series, when the birds start their morning in a more frantic frame of mind, and the blossom starts to smile with the sun, I get a strong urge to get my seed box out, have a rummage and start planning what I will be sowing for the year.

There are always the same favourites: Aquilegia, Astrantia (never works!), Cosmos, cucumber, tomatoes, and I try out some of the seeds my Gardeners’ World magazine has offered as a freebie for my subscription. I have been an avid Gardener’s World viewer for decades. Geoff Hamilton, Alan Titchmarsh and the current presenter, Monty Don are my particular favourite hosts of the programme.

And so, inspired by these experts’ enthusiasm for trying something new, in addition to my usuals, this year I have decided to do something a little different; I’m going to grow a few plants that I have avoided for the whole of my gardening career, because their fussy habits and messy upkeep have, until now, put me off.

The Potato

I like potatoes, well eating them, but I have never been drawn to growing them. I don’t have a garden big enough to lend some of it over to a vegetable plot so potatoes have to be grown in a bag. These always look ugly and when you finally start to see some of the foliage, you have to put more earth on them. It is what I call a faff! You are not always rewarded with a good yield either so up to now I felt it was easer to buy them.

A friend was waxing lyrical about her amazing crop of potatoes she grew last year so I decided to give it a go. I read the books and set to work. I bought some proper potato bags with handles to carry them over to the compost bales. It has a flap to check if there are any potatoes to harvest without having to bury your hand down amongst the foliage. My gardening books said that the first part of growing potatoes was to chit them.

Who knew the reproduction of the humble potato could be so fascinating? Very quickly, leaving them exposed in egg boxes and seed trays, tiny shoots began to form. The shoots were rather gnarled and monster-like but I am reliably informed that undertaking this process will give them a good start to producing new tubers. I have planted my early crop potatoes now and am keeping my fingers crossed for lovely potatoes by June.

The Dahlia

Another flower I am giving a go is the Dahlia. I have always associated them with earwigs. When I was a child, I saw a bundle of them coming out of a bunch of dahlias my mum had been given from someone’s garden. My sister teased me about the sinister behaviour of an earwig which made my blood run cold.

So it has taken me until now (nearly 60 years on) to be brave enough to grow them. I have chosen an open variety which I will be able to keep my eager eye on. The tubers don’t look very beautiful and I know I will have to lift them at the end of the season due to their delicate nature, but I am looking forward to seeing the blooms and I will be proud of myself putting an old worry to bed.

I am also growing Ranunculus for the first time. I fell in love with the colour, it reminded my of a Peony I had in my front garden as a child and I love the way the papery petals layer themselves onto each other. The bulbs look like little spiders and I think they will be tricky to germinate, having read the do’s and dont’s on the watering front. But, I’m giving them a go and will try my best to help them to flourish.

By the time I had finished with my seeds and bulbs my back was aching from stooping over the garden table I use to rest on, which made me think that my life in the garden would be so much easier if I had a potting shed. I would love a potting shed like Monty Don’s. I believe I have:

Potting shed envy

Picture of Monty’s potting shed taken off Pinterest (photographer unknown)

Monty, though originally a jeweller, is a great influence in my gardening. He writes the most amazing garden books, highlighting gardens and their secrets from all over the world. But on most Friday nights, he brings us into his garden at Longmeadow in Herefordshire, and treats us to his vision and methods for developing his own garden.

He has an amazing potting shed where he often films from and I stare lovingly at the screen with deep envy. He has a perfectly positioned bench to work from. All his pots are easy at hand and his soil is kept beautifully tilled so he just scoops a handful of the deep, dark loam into their growing containers. The pens to write the newly planted seed names onto the labels just at his side are easy to reach. He even has swallows nesting in the corner of the shed during the summer, what a privilege that must be for him.

Greenhouse envy

There are a few in my seed collection I will not be attempting to grow. These particular seeds need a warm, constant temperature to germinate and I do not have the means to do this nor am I able to keep them at a consistent temperature during the early weeks of the seedling stage. This method of temperature control is much easier set up in a greenhouse which made me have a few pangs of greenhouse envy.

I have always wanted a greenhouse, one that you could walk into, feel the warmth through the glass, do gardening jobs properly even when it is pouring down outside. I love the idea of staring out of the greenhouse window into what will be the nurtured seedlings’ final planting position, happy in the knowledge that they are in the safest place before the weather warms up.

I love the Victorian style greenhouses with brick at the bottom, French doors in the centre and two wings either side of this door, so you have a choice of going left or right on entering. I have had a greenhouse on my vision board for many years and one day, I know I will get one…one day.

I envy the aforementioned Alan Titchmarsh’s greenhouse. I have watched many an episode, when he hosted Gardeners’ World, where he tended to all the delicate plants on his greenhouse staging with heated mats under them. I think he is particularly proud of his Pelargoniums, though I find these plants rather smelly.

Polytunnel envy

The ultimate propagation temple is a polytunnel. If I ever wanted to go big scale or had a garden big enough to house one, I would love to own one. Making the most of the translucent plastic for the roof and sides the sun is muted but the heat captured and makes inside the polytunnel ideal for protection.

They can be large structures, with staging either side and space to grow more crops down the middle. I find them rather calming, almost spiritual spaces and although they look rather ordinary from the outside, their hidden secrets of growth and nurture inside make them intriguing.

This polytunnel belongs to one of my subscribers who has kindly given me this photograph of her new polytunnel to show you. Just look at the sunshine reflections - beautiful.

Thank you Melissa, I wish you well in your first growing season inside here. Check out Melissa’s Substack, it is a wonderful place for all things nature, with beautiful dogs as a bonus.

I will, of course, keep you updated on my seedling’s progress. Fingers crossed for a marvelous, successful growing season for all of us.

I am curious:

What are you looking forward to growing this season?

What have you grown in the past that you were particularly proud of?

If you have a potting shed, greenhouse or a polytunnel, feel free to post a picture of it in the comments. A little envy is ok, I’m sure!

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I’ve been off on my travels again. I discovered a rare and exciting opportunity to stay in the grounds of a celebrated National Trust house, here in the North East:

I had visited here, many years ago, when the grounds come alive with the explosion of Rhododendron colours, but this week I had the privilege of staying for a few days in the former Estate Manager’s cottage. It was such a delight, restorative and awe inspiring.

The main house (whose land was purchased in 1863 by Sir. William Armstrong, later to be known as Baron Armstrong of Cragside), is famed for being the first house in the world to be powered by hydro electricity. Though the original dynamo has been upgraded, it is still run to this day using the power of water to generate its electricity.

William Armstrong’s interest in engineering meant that the house was to feature in the history books and paved the way for innovative living, well before its time, and marveled at by very influential people.

The house is immensely impressive architecturally, which is why it sees hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. If you enjoy all things technical and innovative, it has much to offer.

Lord and Lady Armstrong’s vision for the grounds was to recreate a Himalayan scene on a desolate moor in the wilds of Northumberland. This, they achieved superbly. The grounds make me quiver with excitement - they are spectacular.

I have made full use of them during my stay, including before and after public visiting hours when the grounds were all mine, or so it appeared, shared only with the melodious birds and the shy deer.

Water is a big feature in the grounds, it was needed for the generation of power so lakes and ponds were constructed to facilitate this. But even these necessary constructions had an contemplative air of beauty about them. This is humbly known as Basin Tank, a reservoir situated high above the house. It was used to supply the water to the house to work the lift and other domestic appliances.

But some water features are purely decorative and bring a great deal of peace and tranquility. In the formal gardens, reflective ponds show off the towering trees on their border. Staring into their depths, one can lose oneself in the dreamy landscape beyond.

In this particular pond, below, it was impossible to see beneath the surface. This mystical experience led to many a moment of wondering, what lurks beneath, what could I make up that lurked beneath? My mind whirred with possibilities.

By far my favourite part of the garden was the pinetum, with a meandering, silvery stream running along its edge.

Being in amongst some of the tallest trees I have ever seen, the air was crystal clear, the hues of greens were blissful to the eye and the sunshine sparkling past the huge trunks cast shadows of immense proportions.

To experience this multisensory overload, a visit is highly recommended.

On the last morning, thick fog cloaked the estate grounds, making for a most atmospheric immersion that I am glad to have witnessed.

Some 7 million trees and shrubs were originally planted in the Cragside grounds which are now carefully looked after by a dedicated team of gardeners. I was in awe of the scale of commitment it takes to maintain such an important, historic creation.

More recently the garden earned its place in the Guinness Book of Records for having the tallest planted Christmas tree. The 160 year old Giant Redwood stands at 146 ft and 7 in and was given this honour last December when it was decorated with around 2000 lights.

I have promised myself another visit to see this and the house decorated for the festive period. And, of course, to revisit the pinetum to re-acquaint myself with the majestic giants I met and fell in love with during my break this week.

I am curious:

Which garden has taken your breath away?

What is your favourite feature in your outside space?

Which garden is on your “to visit” list and why?

Leave a comment

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For more information on Cragside go to www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Ribes sanguineum (Flowering Currant)

Happy 1st March

I have always been of the mind that Spring doesn’t officially begin until the Spring Equinox on 21st March. Therefore, we still have three weeks to wait before we can name a new season.

But for the past few years, I have started to look more to the weather patterns and nature clues to show me when we are in the seasons and I can definitely say that, although I live “UP NORTH” in the UK, where the climate is on the chilly side for most of the year, Spring has truly sprung!

A welcome sight

There was no big build up this year, the frogs arrived one night in their myriads and croaked their song for five nights solid. My small wildlife pond was awash with writhing bodies all knotted together and as I write this, at least twenty gelatinous blobs of frogspawn have been deposited. Just wondrous!

I am forever grateful for this sight. They have chosen my pond and I would like to think it is a homecoming for some of the baby frogs who started out life in our little puddle we created, a quarter of a century ago.

The Spring rainbow palette

Tiny Tete a Tete daffodils

I have planted numerous daffodil bulbs in my garden over the twenty five years I have tended it. My favourite, by far, is the tiny Tete a Tete which are joyously miniature and their clumps seem to replicate my love of community gatherings, nodding to one another in conversation, all on the same page, all accepting of one another.

I wait in anticipation of them showing off their bright, buttery petals. A few were waiting for me this morning. They are slightly fragrant and as I have so many of them, I often treat myself to some cut ones from the garden to put into little vases and dot them all over the house. A display of such radiance always makes me smile.

A flower of old

The primroses are starting to emerge too and this purple one is very special. It has been fifteen years since we collected the parent plant. We dug it up from my in-laws garden, a reminder of their wonderful long life together and cherished plot, gently tended in partnership for over sixty years.

It took a while to get established, as it had been in their garden. It was, as if to say, it didn’t feel right, it was not where it belonged. We cherished it and showed it love and gradually it surrendered. It is quite a prolific sight now, planted near to the house, close by to see it in all weathers. It was out this morning and as you can see there are many offspring.

Early flowers still smiling

The traditional early flowers are still doing their thing and seem to be enjoying life now that the recent deluge has subsided. I still get a thrill when I spy a snowdrop and the crocuses seem really happy in the spring light and show no sign of giving up just yet.

Sunlight and catkins

My purple hazel tree has some wonderful pink catkins but a few years ago I noticed some equally beautiful yellow ones, coming from the same plant. I think what has happened here is that although it should have pink catkins, part of the tree has returned to its root stock and now produces green leaves in places, with yellow catkins from this part of the plant. Isn’t nature clever?

What is missed will come again

I have missed my hellebores this year, plenty of leaf but not a flower to be seen. I am sure there is an explanation and as this has happened before, I am hopeful they will return next year. I have also missed the hyacinths I carefully planted up in pots. Again, plenty of leaves but the flowers, unformed. It is disappointing when you wait so long for something and it doesn’t materialise. A lesson for life perhaps?

Its worth a little walk

So, with only a few steps around my garden, I came across so much life and hope. I am certain there are still some nippy winds and frosty mornings on their way but I am confident we have entered into the most frenzied of seasons, even if it is a little earlier than I normally expect.

Thank you for joining my little garden tour, and sharing this special start of something wonderful with me.

I am curious:

What nature changes have you noticed from your back door recently?

What is your favourite spring flower and why?

Leave a comment

Where am I?

I am seated at a large dining table, looking out at a garden where snowdrops carpet its banks and gnarled 100 year old apple trees covered in moss and lichen await the warming of the air. I stare into the distance, to an intricate iron gate, flagged by a pair of strange two legged dragons with sharp tongues. And further away still, to the snow topped Breidden Hills, below which the Severn and Vyrnwy rivers flow in spate.

All is quiet, apart from the crackle of burning logs. I am content, surrounded by my journals and notebooks. I am excited for the next seven days because, for the most part, I will be writing. Not a fan of the heat and crowds of summer, I prefer to take a break in the quiet of winter. Once the recent festivities have become a gentle memory, it is time to reconnect with my heart and start to spill my words onto the page again.

Magic exists, whatever the weather

The weather is what one would call mixed, with lots of rain showers, glorious sunshine, frosty mornings and plenty of mist and fog curling its way towards my abode like a giant wave. Once the rain eases, it is time for a walk in the wonderful grounds; to inspire, to marvel, to connect.

The specimen trees stand strong and varied. A magnificent Oak, a vivid Giant Redwood, a stately Beech and a shimmering Silver Birch. Cedar, Pine and Fir bring texture and much needed greenery and contrast to the skeletal forms of their deciduous neighbours.

A wander to the upper, most outer edge of the garden takes me past a pet cemetery, where Prince and Tweed rest. I say hello to dragons, expertly carved from a fallen tree and I peer into an ice house, kept for food preparation and sorbets before a time when more hygienic food preservation was invented. Then close by on the lower slopes of the garden I spy Stable Pond, where the ice would have been sourced, tranquil, with reflections that mirror the beauty around them.

An inspirational break for writing

I am treated to many writing stations throughout the garden, seats tucked into ancient yew trees, benches with views over the surrounding fields and ones in front of a particularly spectacular tree. Once seated, a chance to take in the detail of the gardens awakening; tiny cyclamen nestled at the foot of towering trees, primrose flowers wafting in the breeze, purple and speckled white hellebores nestled in the sight line of snowdrops and newly emerging daffodils. Still in the depths of winter the garden is coming alive. A writer’s paradise.

A highlight of my wanderings is being able to give a big hug to a baby Giant Redwood tree. I have only ever seen fully grown ones, whose top seemed to reach to the clouds and girth took five of us to span. But this one, with its bright orange, spongy bark, soft needles and a canopy I could almost reach is adorable. I visit it everyday, and am sad to say goodbye. I wish it a happy life and promise to be back to watch it thrive.

Conservation, connection and contrast

Our cottage for the week is a rather grand, Arts and Crafts dwelling situated in the formal gardens of a castle. In its heyday it was occupied by the gardener of the castle and much of the interior period style had been preserved. We are treated to intricately carved fireplaces, curvaceous window catches and door fittings with keyhole escutcheons (covers), leaded windows and authentic period furniture.

The view from the bedroom window looking onto the formal garden is particularly inspiring and, laying out on the comfortable chaise longue, is where I get most of my writing done.

The Bothy, in the grounds of this magnificent Welsh Castle provides us with a taste of the past. The general public are allowed around the grounds at this time of the year, but it is quiet. I can see people pointing to the 14m high ancient yew hedges. They are a sight you cannot miss and take your breath away.

Nearer to the castle, topiary, terraced borders and statues provide more historical and horticultural interest. On the way our to the nearest town (Welshpool) a 15 minute walk through a rambling deer park serves as a reminder of pursuits long gone.

Intrigued to know where I am?

No more clues……

I am in the grounds of Powis Castle in the county of Powys, mid-Wales. It is managed by the National Trust who, with their skill at conservation and preservation, keep the site impressively beautiful. As a long time member of the Trust it is a privilege to see their work in action for a week, from gardeners to staff and volunteers and housekeepers who keep an old cottage clean, cosy and authentically fit for a wonderful stay to all those who choose to visit.

I am curious:

Where have you stayed that has brought your creativity to the fore?

What part of a landscape inspires you?

Leave a comment

Check out other NT properties to visit and stay in at:

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Ambition and Life Path Vs Curiosity and Freedom

I have never been one to stick to something for a long time before questioning “I wonder what else there is out there?” I have had many careers, and have not always followed an expected path. I am ok with this now, but I did doubt that I wouldn’t be taken seriously unless I stuck to a career that lasted my whole working life.

As most of you know, I am a lover of trees and I am certain that there is something in their structure which connects them to my soul. Part of the tree is simple in form, one trunk, straight, strong. Occasionally you see a two trunk tree, but these are not the norm.

Then there are the canopy and roots of a tree which are much more complex, branching off in many directions. I think it is these features that I relate to the most.

TED talk

Many years ago I discovered a TED talk that really resonated with me. Emilie Wapnick back in October 2015 delivered a fascinating talk about

In her talk she described how she felt she was wired, not following one specialism but being curious about many subjects and seriously following her curiosity to discover and subsequently develop many new skills and knowledge. She states that our culture encourages the one vocation, one life model and therefore those who find this a difficult concept to follow deem themselves unusual and deviant.

She said that these people were MULTIPOTENTIALITES and, what’s more, they had superpowers that were needed and important for society. Multipotentialites are able to recognise the potential when two fields intersect. They see connections that open up many possibilities. When their curiosity in the intersection is piqued, their creativity can thrive, if it is given the freedom. At last, I thought, as I watched her explain, the penny dropped… it is ok to be me!

What underpins it all

There are constants in my life, the non-negotiables that , no matter what I am interested in, are always a feature. These two aspects are: nature and writing. Whatever has sparked my curiosity, the two are always close. In my teaching career I was the science curriculum leader. I designed wellbeing gardens, led science groups and supported teachers with the development of their scientific pedagogy. As a counsellor and now coach, I encourage engagement with nature and therapy. As a Reiki Master I am a practicing humanitarian, valuing every living creature and the world we live in, writing nature meditations and guided relaxations to connect my clients to the natural world. As a sound therapist, working with frequency for healing, I am joined by the animals around my garden as I play my therapeutic instruments (they particularly like the drums and gongs). As a retreat holder I take my participants out into nature to interact with it in beautiful, creative ways. Nature and how it relates to our wellbeing and how we can express this is at the core of my working life.

What is next?

This is a great question, and one I ask myself on a regular basis. I need to get several books out into the world. A burning ambition which has been alight for many years. With nature at their core, I now need to produce them to a quality that will be commercial. My writing has never had to be that so, I suppose, this is my next learning curve…the publishing industry.

However, the publishing industry seems the scariest, cut-throat of all the industries I have been involved in. Extreme emotions, exhaustion and endless rejection seem to be the formula one has to to endure. Competition is fierce. Only the steely ones will survive the rigours of the system, especially first time authors. I doubt on a daily basis whether I have the personality or stamina to push through this. But write about nature, I must. So I push on. There must be a way.

I read many books on how to get a book out into the world, how to be a good writer, how to navigate the system. I have joined numerous courses to hone my craft, including writing book proposals, to have the best chance at getting noticed. I am a member of various writing groups and have several writing buddies who cheer me on too. And yet, my books are being cosseted by me and not let out into the world, probably too scared for both of us.

Legacy

I believe in my writing. I believe I have an important message to share with both adults and children. I believe I am capable of getting a book to print. I have even made a mock up of one of my books with the cover and vibe I want. It is there on my desk as a reminder of my burning dream.

The logical, multipotentialite in me says go for it, your grandchildren will thank you for it! I feel I am so close to realising my dreams. I need to see this through before the next big thing in my life comes along and distracts me from my path. The final push is a painful one and my introverted sensitivities are reeling. But push I must. Fingers crossed for me. Watch this space.

I am curious:

What fire burns within you?

What do you need to do next?

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