Return to Tehidy

Because it was such a lovely day yesterday, I decided to drive with a friend to Tehidy Country Park, hoping to be able to photograph some of the autumn colours. It was still a bit too early for the autumn colours although some trees were beginning to turn but it was still a beautiful day out. The woods were lovely and peaceful and almost everyboday we met was friendly. There were also lots of photo opportunities, not only of the trees themselves but also of ducks, swans and the occasional obliging squirrel! All in all it was a beautiful day out in surprisingly mild weather.

Social Media

Image via WikipediaAs a relative late-comer to the use of social media, I was somewhat cynical about its use and the hype that was around it. I think that it is important to accept it for what it is. It is a useful link to other people and organisations and does provide some means of human contact. At the same time, I feel that it in no way replaces interpersonal relationships with other people in the standard way. It is still necessary to meet people face-to-face to share and support one another. At the same time I've found some wonderful sources of information and inspiration through the social media, particularly Facebook. Also you find information this way that might not be accessible though other avenues. So providing that it is possible to combine both types of relationships, both social media and ordinary friendships I feel that it is an important way to expand our lives, if not taken to excess.

Zero Carbon

Image by climatesafety via FlickrI have just read a report in Positive News that the UK could eliminate greenhouse gases within 20 years. This report was the result of input from universities, research facilities and industry and offers a comprehensive energy strategy without the use of nuclear energy. Also in the same paper I read that developing countries like the Maldives have pledged to reduce carbon levels to neutral by 2020 and Ethiopia by 2025. Wouldn't it be good if other countries could make similar pledges?

Red Kites

Image via WikipediaWhen I was in Wales, on holiday, I was priveleged to see a number of Red Kites flying over the valleys. They are not particularly common in the part of Cornwall where I live so this was a wonderful experience and added to my enjoyment of my holiday.

Contentment

Image by jon- via FlickrSince returning from my holiday in Wales, I've had a deep sense of contentment and connection to where I live. Of course the beautiful weather has helped a lot and it is always easy to appreciate this wonderful part of Cornwall. Once again I feel blessed to live here.

Wales

Last night I arrived home late from a few days in Wales. I've been to mid-Wales, where I was based this time, before but very many years ago. I'd forgotten how beautiful it is with its mountains, rivers, streams and waterfalls. Despite the sometimes wet weather I had a lovely time but am pleased now to be back home in wonderful Cornwall.

Gratitude

Today I am feeling very grateful for all the good things in my life, for the lovely weather, for my friends and for the beauty of this place where I live.