As we ease towards summer, I am reminded of the peace and tranquility of winter and the also-inherent feeling of slowing down as the short days and long nights remind us all that sometimes it’s better to rest than to constantly be on the go.

The initial reminder of this period of rest was that I fell sick with COVID-19 on June 11th, curtailing what was to be a winter getaway to Queenstown.

But we each write our own memories to some degree, and I want this written record to focus on the positive aspects of this past winter. Firstly, I was fortunate enough to attend the birthday of the son of some dear friends of mine; he’d just turned 2. I feel so immensely grateful to be able to watch him grow up and become the amazing person he is destined to me. We ate scones, shared cake and cheese, and enjoyed the company of close friends while the children played.

Secondly, on the same day (Sunday 19th June), my partner and I attended a Yule service at the Celtic-Catholic church we frequent. It was a special time of reflection and a good reminder that while things might seem dark and life may seem difficult, the light will come as Spring approaches. It was also good to realise that, without the darkness of winter and of sorrows, it is harder to appreciate joy, summer and light.

Wishing you all a happy springtime and hoping you had a peaceful wintertime this year.

Thanks for reading, Janine