Looking and Seeing in February 2024
A (hopefully) monthly feature of what I've been noticing each month
Did you know that a large proportion of UK daffodils come from Cornwall? There’s a long tradition of them being grown in here due to the milder climate. I have a little passion for daffodils and get a bit geeky about them so seeing whole fields sewn with their bobbing little yellow heads has brought a new joy I didn’t know I needed on my country nap time drives.
Ive had such a lovely experience of getting to know different people in Cornwall. Admittedly, I have been actively searching for people to get to know which I do think makes a difference, but my experience over the past 8 weeks has been so overwhelmingly positive. I was wondering if this was a skill that comes with age or if finding a new tribe is a personailty trait? Whilst moving to new area isn’t quite the same as exploring new countries or continents, there must be something in our DNA that gives us the ability to go out and find new friends? Otherwise how else would we survive? Anyway, DNA aside, I have started to find some pockets of lovely humans and that makes me excited.
I know, it’s an obvious one but I am absolutely that person now. I love going for a cold dip and Ive taken every visitor we’ve had to Casa Cornwall so far. The thrill of finding a tidal pool, making sure you are safe whilst also knowing you’re not as safe as you were on dry land and getting out somehow feeling warmer than you did before you plunged into the freezing water. Its addictive and Im fully hooked.
One of my oldest - and dearest - friends will never tire of telling me I am the least practical dresser. I have been known, on occasion, to not pack a single coat on a trip to Canada in December; will often leave the house without my purse; and Im probably not the mum who’s got a spare wet wipe but I will absolutely help hunt one down for you. I did however, ask for an incredibly practical item for Christmas which has changed my life. I got a pair of the Merry People wellie boots and they are so practical, match the lining of my practical warm coat and are warm as well as dry. I don’t think this is a change in my fundamental personality, but I am absolutely seeing the benefit of future planning in my Christmas wish list!
As I mentioned, I have found a few small but mighty communities to join in with recently which in part, are due to joining baby groups, attending brunch and lunches as well as fitness sessions. All of which come from a place of huge privilege and I absolutely acknowledge that whilst mat leave pay is appreciated, it does not cover 80% of what you need to survive, let alone spend on activities and groups. I think I am absolutely the demographic most of these businesses are aiming to attract, but seeing female focused, female owned businesses and entrepreneurs is so wonderful. It is way harder to do any kind of business as a woman with children, regardless of how wonderful your partner is, and I appreciate every one of you.
