Ponds ponds ponds and Loch Lomond
Sunflower Diaries
My health journey – wellness, fashion, health and more.
about
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So everyone (who knows me) realises how I find nature very healing and also the importance of expression. I love how we can combine art and science with drawings, poetry, creative writing, designs and of course photography.
I created this drawing for my young family to show my daughter and husband how much they mean to me. Our little duck family.
I was inspired by a walk through our local park and seeing some beautiful ducks 🦆 flying over the pond. The male ducks were fighting for the attention of the female duck .
That time of year when the ducks get over excited. A bit like everyone heading towards Christmas.
I was mesmerised by the subtle red and purple hues in the winter sunset. Reminding me to stop and reflect/ think calmly and positively as my day continued.
I adore sunsets and cannot resist taking photographs of them (when the timing is right, of course).
I challenge you to do something creative this weekend! Whether it’s taking a photograph or writing a poem to express yourself in the way you should.
Take care of yourself and always remember to be kind to yourself and others. 🤗
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Drawing therapy
My road to recovery has been bumpy. I wanted to share some pieces I have drawn to express myself/ as a moment of self care while recovering.
The last drawing I drew for a presentation at work to highlight importance of nature based solutions.
Hope you enjoy and these brighten up your day! 🙂
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Parades, princesses and pumpkins
Start of Halloween season. Disneyland Paris was beautifully decorated with rows of pumpkin garlands down Main Street.
Full of excitement, pumpkin filled treats and Mickey Mouse delights. Halloween season is a special time for Disneyland. The weather was perfect with crisp evenings and clear/ sunny skies during the day.
Unlike the weather we were welcomed back with last weekend…Storm Amy.
Disneyland did not disappoint.
Our family enjoyed the shows, parades and fireworks. The highlight of the night time was the drone / light fireworks show – find your inner magic? I guess we all have an inner magic/ hidden talent .
It was a delight to see our daughter so happy, and excited. Think of a small puppy… and then you can visualise how happy and full of energy I was. Now double that excitement and we have an idea of how baby L was.
She was exhausted after a fun trip.
Although to her credit there is a lot of queueing and walking about …to visit various parts of the park.
Rides:
Disney Train.
My first time / experience on a steam train. Most of lands were under construction or maintenance so it was more of little break for our feet.
Slinky.
We waited 45 minutes for a ride which lasted 2 mins. Thrilling for little people but incredibly short.
Cars.
This was a fun adventure for an under 5. Told the story with a little splash of excitement at the end of the ride. She loved it.
Story Boat.
Fun little boat ride. Great for under 5’s and any Disney fans.
Snow White.
Snow White is quite scary for an under 5. My daughter was not a fan. She loved seeing Snow White but not the dark/ forest parts of the ride. She said mummy I would like to try when I am older, it was a bit scary but thanks for comforting me.
Peter Pan.
MY favourite ride was the Peter Pan ride.
Based on the classic story written by JM Barrie from Kirriemuir (Angus, Scotland). One of my favourite books as a child. It really feels like you’re in the flight to Neverland.
Tip if you stay in a resort hotel, use your magic time (one hour before park opens) and go to Fantasy land. Otherwise you could wait up to 90 minutes for this ride.
Simply magical…
Think of a happy little thought…any happy little thought… like toys at Christmas. You get the idea.
The queue for Dumbo was mad. We sadly never made it on. Hopefully she would like it next time we go!
Halloween Mickey
Mickey Mouse waved to crowds of fans from the balcony at various times of the day. I missed the Halloween parade during the day, as I was needing a rest so baby L and I went to hotel to rest and change for dinner.
Many princesses.
We loved dining with the characters. A few special moments together. Photos of our family we will cherish forever. I also got to meet my favourite princess Cinderella. A dream come true.
Frozen mini show.
Ideal length for an under 5.
Baby L is obsessed with singing and particularly Disney songs. The frozen show was fun. It involved moving from one room to another as the story developed.
Character dinners
The characters all interacted with the kids and adults. It was a long buffet as there were six characters to meet.
Mickey, Pluto, Minnie and Goofy – all adorable (as you might expect)
Tigger was super cute and friendly. Extremely cheeky … and bouncy trouncy fun!
Eeyore cute and cuddly! Gave my husband an extra hug.
Sensory overload… by the time we reached the airport we were all tired and needing home.
Our flight was delayed, and luggage was delayed until the morning after. We got home, had a quick dinner, and went to bed. Thank goodness for pizza.
It was a magical experience but a rollercoaster of emotions for all. I also realised that a short flight is all I could handle four months into recovery. I was pleased I was able to share the magic with our four year old.
Cheers to the next family adventure! Hopefully I will be less exhausted.
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I have been practicing yoga on and off for years. More so since lockdown as a way to focus on the breath/ reduce stress and build stamina and body confidence.
I am sure some women are sick of people saying it’s great for managing endometriosis or adenomyosis pain… I find it useful but in moderation. Like all exercise/ anything with a chronic illness know your limits.
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It only works when you are able to bend. If you are in moderate/ severe pain you should consult a medical professional before starting an exercise routine.
So why write this?
For the last 18 months, I was in so much pain that I couldn’t bend or sit in a position to allow me to do my yoga. This was a red flag and I knew my health had not only deteriorated but something else was happening to prevent me from practicing even simple stretches.
I found a few poses which really helped post endometriosis surgery.
Important to release the back/ spinal and pelvic areas.
Note not a yoga instructor so some exercises may not be suitable for you. Go with the flow.
Poses:
Cat cow- great for releasing spine/ Lower back and reducing pain. Your muscles and body will ache after surgery.
Cobra – opening chest and strengthening back. Opens shoulder blades, neck and collar bones.
The child’s pose – feels like sitting on a fluffy white cloud. Releases the hips and thighs. Reduces pressure (and pain) in the lower back.
Legs up the wall- reduces inflammation and improves circulation. Known as a calming pose.
Thread the needle- this pose is great. Gentle and effective for pressure in the spine. I felt great after doing this the other day.
Spinal twist – opens chest, and brings awareness to diaphragm breathing. Helps with digestion.
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There are many ways to practice yoga. I prefer online so I can go at my own pace and not feel embarrassed if I fall over (true story). It also means I don’t have to stand on my head (never liked it).
You can watch videos online/ use an instructor led programme or course or similar.
My review of Apple fitness:
I prefer Apple fitness videos, as these can be adapted for different conditions/ intensities. The friendly instructors and music provide the perfect blend for a workout. Jessica is one of my favourite instructors. There is a function to allow you to screen share on your tv screen – making it easier than a regular phone/ MacBook. You can even involve your family (if you desire). My daughter is keen to learn yoga but I will teach her once I feel more confident again.
There are two styles of routine: slow flow and energetic. Post surgery I would suggest keeping it light and practicing short routines. Bursts of 10 – 20 minutes and build up as you get more confident/ energy and stamina back. This worked post hysterectomy and hopefully works this time too.
Only you know your body- so do not force yourself to do a position if it’s sore.
Always use your breath. Builds confidence and endurance. You eventually stop stumbling and leave your routine feeling soooo relaxed.
Also – if you are in too much pain, I would recommend reduce the intensity and length of routine. A few gentle stretches and breathing exercises may be all you can do. I had to stop and watch some of the exercises (in between); as I realised I had done too much.
Top tips:
Do a cool down after each workout. Your muscles will thank you later. I skipped one once and I was worse off the next day.
If you feel comfortable, do not wear socks. You can buy yoga shoes or socks but not essential.
Wear loose clothes. No jeans.
Have water nearby and feel free to pause even mid routine. The benefit of online classes.
Future:
Will get into more energetic routines as I recover again. At one point I was practicing yoga twice a day (post hysterectomy) when combined with meditation and gratitude practices this is a lot of healthy (zen) me time.
My new yoga mat will help support in this. It’s soft and comfortable. Like no other mat I have owned. #sweatybetty
I loved doing the artist themed workouts. The music focuses on key artists like Ed Sheeran, Shania Twain, Queen.
Great music helps you prolong your exercise. You do not realise that you are working out/ the intensity sometimes. Just remember the cool down routines.
Useful information:
https://www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/fitness/yoga/a45204920/yoga-endometriosis/
https://www.myendometriosisteam.com/resources/yoga-for-endometriosis-your-guide
https://myyogateacher.com/articles/10-yoga-poses-for-endometriosis#
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Written to inspire other women with their journey.
Welcome to Sunflower Diaries.
About me:
Hi, I am Joy. I decided to write this blog to raise awareness of living with chronic pain and how to keep upbeat in even the darkest/ loneliest days.
I am a mother to one wonderful daughter and a wife to a very supportive husband. I met my husband during our PhD journey (story for another blog/ reflections I am sure). I knew from the moment I met him that it was true love. Our research and personal interests aligned well which made it easier to communicate and grow together.
My love for him has grown stronger every day and more so since our daughter was born. He is an inspiration to fathers.
We knew we wanted a small family one day but did not realise the issues I had as a young woman/ teenager would impact our fertility journey and lives to the extent it now has.
So, I am 1 in 10%. I have endometriosis. There is no cure.
But to add complications I also had adenomyosis (more about this below as I document my health journey).
I have chosen the name sunflower diaries for my blog to symbolise endometriosis. The sunflower is synonymous with growth, vitality and positive energy. My hope is to inspire other women and raise awareness of this disease; as well as adding positivity to your life. Future blogs posts will focus on lifestyle, fashion (as a mummy), sustainability, nature and wellness tips.
Transition. #NewJoy –
Challenge find the new joy in your own life.Health journey:
From a young age (age 11), I experienced heavy menstrual periods and debilitating pain, and embarrassing (or to a young woman) symptoms.
I dreaded the “time of the month” as it was filled with intense pain/ hormonal issues (yes imbalance causes mood swings) and a fear of leaving the house to avoid embarrassment. Needing to go home and get changed at lunchtime is never fun. Being afraid to use school/ public toilets.
As any young woman/ lady would know, this bleeding and fear is not normal and should never be normalised.
Some of my friends had very little pain or did not need to rely on emergency pain killers from a relatively young age. Sadly, a habit I have not yet stopped, I carry paracetamol (just in case) out and about and to work.
The pain worsened as my cycles progressed, and I was unable to think clearly (at points) which was not healthy as a teenager sitting exams. This made me feel hopeless and unable to advocate for myself-when I needed confidence in buckets to achieve my goals. My mother took me to the GP expressing concerns and I was told to go home and calm down/ use hot water bottles – it was probably anxiety. No one ever thought to ask me why I was feeling the way I did/ losing weight quickly/ feeling very light headed (only mid and end of my cycle).
I kept going back to the Dr/ GP for advice and support. My mother was again told she is probably depressed. I guess others in this position would feel the same (hopeless) as the pain was so bad at times I was vomiting and fainting/ near fainting (from blood loss). Even a routine blood test became a challenge.
In 2003, I even collapsed during my Gold Duke of Edinburgh expedition (I just laughed it off and said, it was probably the weight of the backpack). Unknowing to everyone the pain I was in – as I had “the time” climbing up Scotland’s munros. Looking back – I have no idea how I coped aside from an emergency red bull (my friend had stowed away) and a mars bar. After that I had the energy to bounce up the hill on the last day. Gaining the nickname “Tigger” from friends. I have always loved Pooh and friends, so it was a fair nickname.
Tigger at Disneyland Paris (2020) I usually had boundless energy outside of those times of month (well as a teenager/ young adult). My husband would agree when he met me – he was like how and why do you have so much energy? The truth is I don’t know how I did it. A distraction from the pain I was suffering, perhaps?
The summer of 2004, I finished High School and before starting University, I had a short spell in the local Territorial Army (reserve in the medical corps), I was due to complete my initial training and attended a weekend course. It was at this point where I fainted (felt very embarrassed) at the passing out parade. One officer commented (and joked) you are not meant to take this parade literally.
The Dr was concerned and sent me home the next day, and said to investigate with my own GP.
I had various tests over the summer – all inconclusive. No reason for fainting. Must be anxiety. ‘Now I know Differently’ anxiety driven by high blood pressure and not low blood pressure and fainting. I was young and naive and felt anxiety was used to gloss the problem.
I was put on the contraceptive pill at age 18 which did not reduce the pain but did limit the bleeding. I kept going back and tried various hormonal treatments, but I was told I should change my diet as I was not getting diagnostic tests.
I was diagnosed / suspected to have Irritable Bowel Syndrome (common mis- diagnosis as many cross overs in symptoms) and told to eat mints/ chew gum and take “buscopan”.
I was still not convinced but told it was so…and was so low in confidence, at this point, so I thought ok I will see if it makes a difference. I also reduced dairy and ate healthier (low fodmap).
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A few years later, after a stressful MSc year, I was experiencing exhaustion and kept falling asleep in the strangest places (including the lecture theatre and no the lecture was interesting). I was again advised to go to the Dr and get a blood test and see whether I needed other tests (as this happened during undergraduate and previous MSc). I thought “it’s fine”, I will go home and rest and resume studies in a few days.
I did. I had just started my dissertation and had an unexpected call from my GP who said I had anaemia. I was prescribed iron supplements and told to take contraceptive as usual.
I was told by GP during PhD to discontinue iron supplements.
Unfortunately I had an accident and ended up with post concussion migraines – meaning I had to change hormone treatment. Part of me was relieved as the bleeding and pain was exhausting…
I was given POP / Cerelle, to see if this limited my symptoms. The pain and bloating still persisted (allergies) but the bleeding was limited. I occasionally had spotting which I was told was usual on this pill… but in my mind I could live with the pain and bloating (as I was used to it) if I had no bleeding.
Sadly the chronic fatigue and exhaustion never stopped. This made it more difficult to pursue my PhD but my tenacious spirit helped with this. I was so determined to get it done and show myself what I was really capable of.
I continued along this course of treatment for several years until pregnancy and birthing my daughter.
Pregnancy was difficult (early threatened miscarriage, anaemia), bereavement (mother), and of course being in a global pandemic made everything 10 times more difficult. This was coupled with a series of delivery and post natal complications and gynaecology surgeries.
I am so grateful we have our daughter. I just wished I had been listened to at a young age/ although our outlook would probably have been different.
I feel truly blessed to have one daughter (intelligent, caring, and adventurous little girl) with my wonderful husband. I hope he realises how much we love him!
Diagnosis and Surgery:
I was finally diagnosed with endometriosis (and adenomyosis) in 2022. I was 36. That was 25 years after starting menstruation and 13 years after being diagnosed with “depression” and “anxiety”. The main source of my anxiety has been the uphill struggle of getting listened to. No one wants to be in pain… and I am so happy to now be listened to. Thanks to the surgeons and clinical experts involved. You are truly a credit to your profession.
Surgery History:
2022 – surgery one: age 36
Diagnostic laparoscopy/ hysteroscopy
Laser ablation and excision of endometriosis
Mirena Coil
Diagnosis (my golden ticket) – Endometriosis and Adenomyosis
2022- surgery two: age 36
Hysterectomy
Removal of fallopian tubes/ left ovary (and cyst) and cervix
2023- 2024- period of bad health resulting in gynaecological surgery number three. I tried other hormone treatments but pain became severe again. I even was prescribed the new Ryeqo. This was great to begin with but after 3 months my pain escalated. Clueless I went back for a second opinion – as I could barely walk.
Not most glamorous – post hysterectomy surgery (2022). 2025 – surgery three: age 39
Removal of right ovary
Excision of endometriosis
HRT – surgical menopause at 39 (best decision for me, my family and career).
Red flags to be aware of:
Not being listened to – key one for me. I was so thankful when I was listened to.
Change in conversation/ direction to other treatments.
Being told “it’s in your head”/ dismissive of pain/ severity of condition.
Constant abdominal and pelvic pain or other undiagnosed pain (watch out for nose bleeds and chest pain/ infections)
Bleeding
flooding clothes and bed clothes (not normal)
clot size and consistency (particularly post natal)
irregular bleeding or heavy spotting and pain mid cycle
Toilet troubles
Abdominal swelling or other swelling
Infection
Only being able to go to work and not socialise (been centre of many disagreements over years). I sadly lost on out on so many special occasions.
Chronic fatigue – yes it is real! If I need to rest or sleep, I am not hiding away.
Black outs – yes scary when it happens (even during exams).
Dizziness – part of low blood pressure
Nausea and vomiting
Fainting – can cause serious injury depending on where you collapse / if someone catches you.
Anaemia – can be managed with appropriate care and advice.
More on Endometriosis UK. Specialist and clinical advice and tips.
Blog Inspiration:
Nature: beauty of spring.
I live near a pond and it’s wonderful to hear the baby birds. Nature is very therapeutic for me. I have always been connected with nature and love showcasing its benefits. I even did a PhD blending engineering and ecology.
Swan – subtle nod to PhD and my mother Music: recovery and soft music/ 80s and 90s power ballads
Mainly been listening to smooth radio (very calming music)
Song: She’s Like the Wind – Patrick Swayze (from my all time favourite film: Dirty Dancing)
Podcast: Good Vibes, Good Life – Vex King (also an amazing author – recently gifted his book)
Top Tips for recovery from surgery:
Beauty:
La Roche Posay – Thermal Water spray (amazing for hot flashes and to reduce skin irritation)
Palmers Cocoa Butter – for scars and stretch marks
Batiste Dry Shampoo – good to have in case you are too sore for a shower. Like me this morning.
Fashion:
Comfortable clothes have been key to recovery. You don’t want anything to rub/ accidentally tear your stitches.
Leggings / pyjama trousers.
Not been able to wear jeans or tight trousers for months. Looking forward to this in the coming months. So many woman will support me with this (the freedom to wear jeans is incredible).
Loose fitting T-Shirts or jersey dresses (personal favourite : Joules)
Mini Ugg boots – easy to slip on and can be worn inside and outside. Warm and cool at the same time. Provides more support for my feet. My previous ones were worn in pregnancy/ early motherhood (all the time).
Colourful / patterned socks. I have always liked nice socks and bright colours (cheer you up on darkest days). My mother taught me this and always bought the best Christmas socks (future blog).
Wear something that makes you smile (always). I was once given advice from my sister in law who said she always wore a nice piece of jewellery to cheer her up. Great advice.
I like Fable Jewellery (Butterfly necklace) which is featured in my recovery photograph. I also own duck and swan earrings as a subtle nod to my PhD.
Book:
The Signal and the Noise: The Art of Science and Prediction (Nate Silver).
Husband recommended a few statistical themed ones after I read all of my birthday books (wellness and mental health based).
Photos of the moment:
Recovery Photograph 1 (2025) -necklace by Fable. Phone case by Blanc Space. 
Recommended Book guarded by plush duck (inherited). Now aptly named Granny Duck! 
My older brothers on my wedding day – a very happy memory. March (2019). We have been through a lot since then and our relationship has grown stronger. 
Puget Sound, Seattle – (2019) 
My favourite photograph and lifetime inspiration. Your memory never fades. (2013) 
Graduation in lockdown (2020) . Pregnant and happy. 
A nod to our wonderful daughter Baby L (don’t share pictures of her/ privacy) – May (2021) 
Pregnancy Journey – Early (2021) Dress credit Seraphine. Amazing maternity clothing. 
Inspired by Joules and comfort. 1 week after surgery no 3 – (2025) 
Artwork by my talented daughter – age 3 (2025) 
My art work – age 38 (2025). Inspired by Nature and spring. Love our craft Fridays. 
Day Job – urban drainage / modeller. Proudest career achievement since my daughter (2025). Photo – featuring Baby L in tummy on St Andrews Beach (2020) 
Early days as a couple. Grounds of Heriot Watt. PhD – year 1 (2014). We met on day 1 and our love has grown stronger. 12 years this year. -
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Is this the happiest time of year? We may feel it is yet (or told to believe it is) so many people are not as lucky/ excited or indeed feel relaxed, or sadly safe at this time of year.
I feel safe and loved in my home. My husband and daughter are a breath of fresh air after often very stressful weeks at work. Sometimes I am torn between speaking to each of them which can sometimes get a little strained/ uncomfortable at times.
I understand that my four year old is finding her voice/ finding her values and building her confidence.
Kudos to her. She is well rounded and has so much drive to succeed (a bit like her parents).
Something I have worked on consistently this past year (particularly the six months since my surgery) is building my confidence back up. This has been incredibly hard without the comfort and reassurance of my mother. She truly inspired me to keep going.
Surgical menopause threw me into a spiral of confusion/ pain and beginning to doubt my abilities more than before.
Don’t underestimate the impact of surgery in your life/ on your wellbeing. I highly recommend you talk through your feelings (even if just a close friend or relative). It’s important to allow you to heal and feel happier at work/ home and out with friends.
I celebrate the small victories/ successes.
Chunking. I did this during the PhD as well. Make big tasks seem manageable.
Rewarding. Give yourself a nice treat after completing a task.
Don’t be hard on yourself if you can’t manage you have already done well by starting your list.
Regular breaks from the screen. Whether you go for a lunchtime walk or have a break for a tea/ mindfulness session during the day.
Your brain will feel healthier and everyone will thank you as return to your desk restored.
No one should feel guilty of taking 5-10 minutes for a cup of tea/ coffee. I used to (especially with more home working) but you need some self care. A missed phone call can be returned.
Water. I drink more water than tea/ coffee. I feel less tired.
Asking others how they are/ reaching out to friends or colleagues.
Give back. Little acts of kindness.
🙂
Have a happy holiday.
Think of others and give back when you can.
Keep being strong. 🎄☃️
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I have written a lot of poetry during my recovery, and I thought it was a good idea to share this as one blog article.
Expression through art and poetry has been the best thing to allow to heal. I have always enjoyed writing but as I have said previously I cannot always express my emotions and feelings openly or confidently. This is one way I can comfortably achieve this.
Hope you enjoy.☺️
As always be kind to yourself and others. If you have had a transitional period in your life, please be gentle and remember healing is not linear. ❤️🩹
Only one life, please take time to enjoy it with those you love.
“Life is a journey to be experienced, not a problem to be solved.” — Pooh
Nature 🌲 ☔️ 🌹“Four ducks on a pond, / A grass-bank beyond, / A blue sky of spring, / White clouds on the wing: / What a little thing / To remember for years – / To remember with tears!.” ~ William Allingham
Healing 🦶 🌻
Love ❤️
My daughter 🧚 🦄
Life ⭐ 🌟 👶 ☕️
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Powerful women feel empowered.
Confidence is a muscle. You don’t develop it overnight. It comes with years of hard work and practice. Build on your muscles – like you would in the gym.
Listening to uplifting podcasts and songs will help.
Podcast recommendations:
The Science of Happiness
Squiggly Careers
Good Vibes Good Life
The Goal Digger
Harvard Business Review – anything from this series.
My strategy:
I know if I am going into an important meeting or event, I need to look and feel confident. This gives me the edge for interviews and important presentations.
I was given advice … and will give you the same, you need to have a power outfit/ pretend you are wearing a superhero costume.
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Dress to impress:
Hair and makeup
I like to look natural and relaxed.
Sometimes it is as simple as a fancy clasp with loose curls.
Minimum makeup.
Choose a scent / perfume which is not overpowering.
One you can associate with being powerful but does not smell too strong/ could cause a headache. For me, I choose Jimmy Choo Floral Scented perfume (best friend bought me it- just the right scent for office setting).
Outfits that make you look and feel good before you leave the house.
Suit trousers/ skirt, and shirt/ blazer combo
Or:
Suit dress. I tend to wear greys, navy or black. Add your own style but keep it simple and sophisticated (no bling jewellery or bright colours).
You don’t need to wear heels or certainly (if you do) make sure you can walk in them. I spent many years thinking I must wear high heels at interviews or client meetings. I ended up with sore feet. Choose wisely.
A formal pair of boots or Mary Jane’s often does the trick. I even wore a nice pair of shoes for a remote interview (my current job). Even though the panel did not see, it made me feel empowered and confident.
Post it’s
I find this helpful before an interview/ exam – with positive words or sayings.
Rehearse.
It’s like being in a play. Act the part you want to have/ impress your panel. If you have got to the interview/ presentation it shows that you’re worth it.
You never know the questions but be prepared to answer anything on your CV or presentation. Don’t bluff. Interviewers will know.
Research.
Know everything about the company, topic or reason for interview. You want to impress your panel.
Bring your whole self. Authenticity goes a long way:
“Bring your whole self to the experience. Because the more we do that, the more that people get to see that, the more comfortable everybody’s gonna be with it.”
Bozema Saint John
If you don’t feel like you can then you’re probably in the wrong place/ should rethink your options. My mentor last year said she always felt able to bring her whole self to work – making her more happy and productive.
Believe in yourself.
If you don’t no one else will. Advice from my mother.
This article is worth a read for more inspirational quotes:
https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/g38335193/strong-women-quotes/
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Sunset walks in winter time
Sunrises in winter ❄️
A time to reflect/ relax and unwind.
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Some pictures of Jupiter Artland near Edinburgh. Beautiful place to visit. Great day out for a young family.
Wonderful to unwind with nature.
The weather was fair and sunny. I enjoyed seeing the autumn colours and walking through the crunchy leaves 🍃 🍂 🍁.
I felt restored and relaxed after a two hour walk in nature. Great therapeutic experience.
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What principles define how you live?
Kindness 
Adopting a ‘Growth Mindset’ 
Be true to yourself and don’t deceive others Bravery 
Gratitude – 🙏 
Sustainable living
Sunflower Diaries 