New Year Musings

Reflecting on January

New Year National Trust

January started in our traditional manner - Taz and I have always visited a National Trust property on New Year's Day, and this one was no different.

We had a long drive back from London so we took advantage of a break in the route (and rain!) to stop off at Upton House & Gardens, stretch our legs, and continue our tradition. We sat in the courtyard and had a picnic, then Oli enjoyed racing along the lawns and down the long driveway before we jumped back into the car to continue the journey.

New Challenges

Personally, this month has been quite challenging - in a good way!

Over the past few months I've had the privilege of directing one of my favourite plays - Road, by Jim Cartwright. This play holds a special place in my heart (if you know, you know) so it was such an amazing experience to direct it at Chester Little Theatre - especially as it's the first time I've directed a play.

It had some challenges, not gonna lie, but I'm so proud of, and grateful to, the cast, crew and team at CLT who have made this show something quite special. And I know I could have chosen an easier play for my first time directing, but I've loved the experience, and if I'm gonna die on a hill I might as well enjoy the view, right?!

I've also launched a podcast at work - I work for an awesome group of travel brands, and the Inspiring Travel Podcast premiered at the end of December. I get to speak with Travel Experts about incredible destinations around the world, finding out all the insights and top tips, and basically fuelling my wanderlust. If that sounds like the kind of thing you'd like to listen to as well, you can find it wherever you get your podcasts.

Family Time

So, after a hectic couple of weeks, it was lovely to have a family weekend. We headed out to Delamere Forest for a walk in the fresh air, enjoyed a picnic, and spotted the Gruffalo and friends. Quiet weekends have been in short supply recently so this was a much needed day out!