A fresh start…
of Sorts
I feel inclined to start this story at the beginning, some forty years ago. I do enjoy storytelling, and I've been told that I'm quite good at it—so much so that I should write a book. Not everyone shares this opinion, of course. I've also been told differently, especially when I swear. So, I’ll keep profanity out of this space.
A fresh start. A blank page. The beginning of a new life. When I say "a new life," I tend to divide my memories into distinct chapters—different lives—especially when something major shifts or changes. For instance, when I moved to a new place with friends and a different entourage. A new life, a different one, full of new things and wonders. Oh, the excitement that brings… and the anxiety.
Some months ago, I had to relocate due to a horrendous event. I won't name or recall all the stress, struggles, and fear of the unknown that came with it. No, this is about hope, positivity, growth, passion, light, and order. I’ll keep the chaotic darkness out of this space.
A fresh start: a new job, new colleagues, a new company, and a new house. A new route to work, new places to explore and visit. New friendships to forge, new photos to take, and so many memories to create. I can feel my spirit rising.
I am so lucky! I have so much to be thankful and grateful for. I feel truly blessed right now. I get to do work that excites me, work that challenges me in so many different ways. I have a family that cares deeply about me and friends who would drop everything in a moment if I needed them. And I haven’t even started talking about where I’m living!
Dorset—one of the most beautiful counties in the UK. Blue seas with golden beaches, charming towns, a rich history, and countless landmarks to visit and explore. And the landscape? Oh, heavens! I can’t wait to start exploring and capturing it all in photographs, just like the good old days. The wonders I’ve seen and the ones I look forward to immortalizing! And the local scene? Fantastic pubs and absolutely superb restaurants. What’s not to enjoy?
Yes, there’s the distance from my loved ones, the friendships I’ve left behind, the fellowship… but hey! Enough of that. This is a happy, positive post!
I’ve been here for more than three months now. I’ve wanted to start a new blog for a while. I’ve "always" had a blog of some sort. Back in my heyday, around fifty people checked my entries daily. Look at me, bragging again!
I enjoy the routine of this “new” life so much. The coffee in the morning, the commute to work—whether hot or cold, dry or rainy—I happily choose to cycle. It brings me joy and puts a smile on my face. If the weather is nice, I savour the views and the quiet path through the park. If it’s cold and miserable, I smile because I put myself through it and made it. Sure, I could choose the comfort of the car, but where’s the fun in that?
Then comes the start of the workday: the greetings from my colleagues, the problems and solutions, the routine, the novelty, the jokes, the banter, and the seriousness.
The commute back often includes a stop—whether for groceries or a quick beer at the pub. I’ve started enjoying a post-work beer. Why not two? Maybe some nachos? Yes, the most exquisite, please!
My after-work routine is still seasonal and evolving. I enjoy taking photos, reading again, and listening to audiobooks. The joys!
The plan is… to make a plan. To write, to post, to get out there, to discover, to explore, to live and to enjoy. My new life, my fresh start!