I resolve

More than a week of January has passed already. It's usually such a long (seeming) month that it's a blessing that a quarter of it has passed before I really noticed.

The weather has been continually wet since the new year began, and I've been feeling rather under par since Christmas, so what outdoor exercise I've managed to get between showers has been welcome but short lived. I have, however, very much enjoyed catching many signs of an emerging spring - emerald spears of the early daffodil, crocus and snowdrop. Songbirds singing to ward off trespassers in their territory, and nest building. Buds on the hydrangea. All of these things help to lift my spirits.

My mental health has not been good recently, so I've actively been thinking about what does bring me joy, and what brings the dark clouds into my life. I'm making lists. It's difficult to find any consistency when it comes to self care, it has to be worked at. And life has a tendency to poke a stick in the spokes of your bike when you're out for a carefree ride. Sometimes I want to be watching the sky and the trees as I pass, but have to keep my eyes fixed on the road ahead. 

I am still reading the two novels that I started reading in November. I always knew they'd prove to be a marathon rather than a sprint but I had hoped to finish at least one of them by the end of December. But no. I am incredibly impatient to move on and start a new book. I already have some follow-up reads picked out. Slim volumes all.

I've been circling my way back to a writing project. The festive season is always a large barrier to continuing my writing habit. I don't know why I should be so easily knocked off course but, as usual, I have been. However, I am feeling drawn back to my desk now that most of the year end/new year admin tasks and social obligations have been dealt with/enjoyed.

Resolutions? There will be more walking in nature, looking for joy, reading, and writing.