Thank Yous

Three big ‘thank yous,’ from me this week.

The first has to be for the public and private messages you sent after last week’s post On Being Vulnerable. I like to think that perhaps the post touched a nerve and carried a universal message. But regardless, from my own personal point of view, it was hugely supportive to hear from you. Your words truly encourage me in continuing the sometimes difficult work of writing my memoir, Handmade.

My second, ‘thank you,’ goes to the Weardale Wordfest, especially to Chris and Jamie, for organising last week’s Book Fair in Stanhope which was extraordinarily well attended. There was a real buzz about the day; so many writers so many books such diversity. I spent a very happy Saturday there not only selling my books (and here another thank you to all who bought from me ) but also catching up with fellow writers, especially Vane Women poets, and my enthusiastic readers. Writing can be a lonely affair which is why it’s doubly important for writers to be out in the community, to have the opportunity of meeting others engaged in the same business, and to connect with our readers. Watch this space for more about events at the WordFest in October.

WordFest Book Fair Stanhope.

My third, ‘thank you,’ goes to the fellow writer who forwarded me the link to this, Feel Better Live Longer podcast with Robin Sharma.

It’s a long one. I’m already planning to listen to it for a second time. (It may help to to listen to it in shorter bursts)

Rarely have I listened to a podcast that covers so many of my current thoughts and concerns about what makes a good and fulfilling life. I’ve been guilty recently of giving Robin Sharma a bad press in relation to his 5 am club. The 5 am club is still not for me, however I cannot deny what a difference the change in my morning routine has made to my daily life. How it has energised me and brought positivity and intention to my day. But the podcast is about much more than morning routines. There are some powerful ideas here. I particularly like the idea that a great life is a series of seasons, and that after a season working on a serious project we need a season of deep recovery and rest, a season I’ve been guilty of ignoring. Tending to put work and achievement at the top of my list, of doing what Shama describes as climbing the wrong mountain, of ticking the boxes that have been laid out for me, the drive to achievement and hard work. Too much ego not enough soul.

There is something here for all of us and much that relates to creativity and the creative life, so make yourself a cup of tea or coffee, a glass of wine even, and settle down to listen..

Meanwhile, this afternoon, I’m settling down to read, Life Escapes, A Biographer’s Search for the Soul, by Ann Wroe - a book I know nothing about but which I came across by chance this morning in Collected Books, where I was meeting Emma to discuss future events, including writing workshops for 2025!

The problem with Collected is it’s impossible to spend time there and not buy a book…

Now, a final thank you, as always, for reading!

Avril x