Category: Nature

Magic and Loss

The magic started nine years ago, when the SSPCA contacted us about a whippet in their Balmore shelter. We loved the picture – he had something! When we met him, it felt like we’d always known each other. The moment we brought Eivor home, he gave a quiet sigh and slept. The nervous, frightened whippet… Continue reading Magic and Loss

What’s Out There and In There

A lovely view on the Moray Coast. Look closer and you will see what’s out there. Blue sky, the beach, the forest, the snow-capped peaks. And yet, I’ve met people who tell me there’s ‘not much’ up here. Wherever you are, whatever you’re doing, take a closer look around you. You may spot something you… Continue reading What’s Out There and In There

Peace

A lovely, peaceful walk on the beautiful Moray Coast today. On the beach, you can see the sea defences. A reminder of a time when the peace we often take for granted needed to be defended. Peace can be hard work. Being comfortable in your true self, recognising the rights of self and ‘others’, tolerating… Continue reading Peace

Contrast

Over the past few weeks, I’ve noticed people appearing happier with a return to their workplaces. They tell me they are enjoying the contrast between their time at home and workplace. Home working can save time and money; it can bring relative solitude. The workplace offers face to face interaction with colleagues, a higher level… Continue reading Contrast

Dialogue

This week I’ve had some conversations about conversations; how they can sometimes turn into an emotional, adversarial debate. The apparent certainty of our views, defending them, attacking others’ views and pursuing our one and only solution rarely resolves any conflict. Using dialogue rather than debate can be a more effective approach. It is possible to… Continue reading Dialogue

Home from Home on Burns Night

Again rejoicing Nature seesHer robe assume its vernal huesHer leafy locks wave in the breezeAll freshly steep’d in morning dews (Robert Burns – Composed In Spring) I am a proud Scouser. I am also proud to call Scotland our home for the past twelve years, so tonight we will be raising a tot of whisky… Continue reading Home from Home on Burns Night

Balance

So, how was your first week of 2022? My ten-day break ended with four sessions on my first day ‘back’. A great, intense way to start the year. The rest of the week was more sedate, with an even spread of delivery, design and meetings. Last week got me thinking about balance. The importance of… Continue reading Balance

Into the Light

Last week it was dark and cold. All day, every day. I had a packed week of virtuals, with the curtains closed and the big light on at all times. Friday was my first non-delivery day in weeks. We set our intention to seize the opportunity and spend a day in nature. The sun came… Continue reading Into the Light

Discovery

No-one was there. That’s how we sometimes like it. We made a point of stopping at the kind of place people pass while they’re busy rushing from A to B. There was ‘nothing’ there. Except overgrown bushes, a variety of fungi, a couple of weathered picnic tables and midge. Hundreds of midge, looking for the… Continue reading Discovery