rivers2cross

-4 degrees when I got to work this morning, so it will no doubt end up being one of the coldest mornings of the year, especially down here in Thames Valley / Chilterns where I live and work. I dread to think what the actual temperature inside my work unit was today, as it is warmer outside than in. Fortunately in my little office the radiator takes the edge of things. Thankfully I had some local deliveries to do this morning in Wycombe and Maidenhead. For those interested I supply packaging materials. Dad set up the business in 1976, and I have been working here since leaving school in 1984. I feel a little like Goodbye Mr Chips!

This morning I was able to pop into my parents grave at Littlewick Green Church just outside Maidenhead. That is one advantage of delivering in the area. I have always found it an incredibly peaceful and calming experience when I am there and today was no different. Of course it is sad that they are no longer alive, but I take much comfort from the beautiful setting where they were laid to rest. I took the opportunity to tidy things up, especially raking up the dead leaves. It’s quite a shady situation, so it has always been difficult keeping any kind of decent grass on the grave, so another round of reseeding will take place in the Spring. Some good news is that there are signs of the snowdrops peeping through behind the headstone, so I will be looking forward to seeing those in the coming weeks.

Tonight I treated myself to fish and chips. It’s these little positive things that can make a difference to any day, and are the kinds of things I would put in my positive log. It doesn’t have to be anything massive, and might seem insignificant even, but I am no longer underestimating the importance of being kind to myself.

And talking of treats tonight I played this vinyl that I bought for myself before Christmas. The In The Poppy Poppy Fields 5 LP collection was originally released by my favourite band, The Alarm, on just CD in 2002/03, and to celebrate the 20th anniversary all 5 LPs are being re-released on limited edition coloured vinyl. Music has always been a big part of my life and brings me huge enjoyment, so I am sure it will feature quite heavily on my journal. It’s now coming up for two years since I last went to a gig. I miss it hugely so hopefully 2022 will see me put that right.

So I finish off my evening listening to music and perhaps will read for a while. I have changed my bedtime routine in recent times. Going to bed an hour earlier and spending less time on social media. Once again not a massive change, but something that helps my well-being.

So this marks the end of my first journal post. I would love to get some feedback, and hear where I can improve and if there are things that you would like me to talk about or know about me. My plan is to post every day, so until tomorrow x