clarity

When we were on holiday in Cornwall I was so struck by the quality of light there. 
Everything was pin-sharp. It was really striking

Of course, it's always easier to see things more clearly on holiday, with so much sky and sea all around.

I always feel better about things, and myself, in Cornwall.

And I had a 'ping!' moment, which was as if a light had shone on a thought...

I often feel that the world is a mean, hard, brutal place, and that I should be defensive and prepared for whatever mean, hard thing is due to come my way. But when I blog, and more importantly, when I read other people's blogs, I see so clearly that the world isn't always tough and unyielding. And I gain so much from seeing the world through others' eyes.

It really does help to steer me towards a kinder way of thinking, towards the world, and towards myself.

And for that, I am truly thankful.

winter

Winter has been baring her teeth this week, with an east wind blowing in cold air all the way from Siberia.

My part of town has some delightfully bonkers inhabitants. Some kind soul clearly felt this tree was in need of a bit of warmth and comfort, and knitted it a little jacket.

Gentle hearts rule.