In times of uncertainty, plans are hard to make. This summer, we had hardly any idea about what to do. Before the pandemic, summer holidays were planned right at the start of the year, and it was often already too late regarding good deals on flights. Pandemic meant no plans. After pandemic, we felt no rush. There was still a possibility that covid wouldn't be quite over, plus the troubles surrounding any kind of travel were putting us off. Who wants to have flight cancelled last minute or be stacked at an airport with work deadline looming?
Add to it change of jobs, rising prices, strikes, and there is hardly any surprise that our enthusiasm was lacking. Also there was burning knowledge of a delayed house improvement project, that was slowly turning into an emergency. This was our first summer as parents with no clear plan. Let's just enjoy summer, we said. And we did.
We had a trip, there was a bit of life admin and friends catch up that meant we went to London. Expenses wise, a trip to London is almost equal to a week all inclusive out of term... Other than that, we stayed in the North West of England. Each week, we walked a part of the Kingfisher Trail. Some places we knew, some not. There is a lot of nature and greenery right by our doorstep. Who needs to travel for hours? Lovely hikes, nice quiet places, nature, and the comfort of home afterwards. Child wants camping? We camped in the garden for one weekend. House work was fitted around, it was quiet, and nice. Strangely, I enjoyed it. Perhaps I'm getting too comfortable, who knows. But I like being home. Nothing wrong with that.
The biggest thing that had made last summer special was the steady routine. While the child could have a lie in and there was no rush (husband is grown up and capable of getting ready on his own), I kept waking up early and instead of sitting down to write, I walked the dog first. These early summer morning are always magical. We enjoyed them right till the end and miss them still, even though it is too dark anyway. Early morning practice followed, then writing (editing at the moment) and as the other members of the house were getting up, I could do whatever was needed knowing that my practice, quiet time and writing were already taken care of. Little things are the magic sprinkle of everyday life. And making time for oneself is not a bad thing at all. Once we achieve that, we are on our way...
