hello
From the editor
Hello and a big warm welcome to our first edition of 2024. I’m so excited to share this issue with you. There’s plenty of juicy reads to get stuck into and ideas to take forward into the new year. Every year on the last day of December I like to spend some time reflecting on the year gone. Too often I rush through life without taking stock, without stopping to stand and stare. To stand beneath the boughs, in the words of William Henry Davies. So this is a good chance to revisit all that came before. I also spend time looking ahead feeling into what I’d like to be, create and do for myself and my family in the months to come. The word that I chose to reflect my intentions for this year (the year of the Wood Dragon in Chinese astrology, starting on 10th Feb) is Nest. I want to build on the safe, cosy space that we’ve been creating for our children to come home to. Maybe especially the older kids, who are out in the world, forging their way. It feels important to make somewhere where they can drop all their defences and holding, where they feel comfortable to just be. Where they feel accepted fully for who they are. I’m keeping it really simple and so far it’s been about doing lots of baking, so there’s always something good to eat, and keeping the home fires burning.
I’ve also been painting little scenes around the house, like a seasonal one on my four year old’s door, picturing harvest mice swinging from vines. This cosy nest creation also benefits me too! I’ve made the perfect reading nook, wedged up near the woodburner, right next to the
“I’ve been painting little scenes around the house, like a seasonal one on my four year old’s door, picturing harvest mice swinging from vines ”
bookshelf, with space for a mug of tea and a powerful reading lamp. Oh and some scented candles within sniffing distance. And a tube of handcream. Happy days! I’d love to hear your word for 2024 or what you’re going to focus on. Send me an email to letters@thegreenparent.co.uk. Wishing you a joyful year,
Melissa Corkhill - Editor
: EMMA CROMAN
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Email letters@thegreenparent.co.uk what I’m doing right now
PLAYING OUTSIDE I’ve downloaded the tracker from 1000hoursoutside.com and the little one and I have committed to spending plenty of time outside this year!
WALKING My goal is to walk 2024 kilometres in the next twelve months – it’s an excuse for some glorious walks around Sussex – rolling frost covered downs? Sigh!
PLANNING A day out at Brighton’s TEDx in April with my sister – I’m so excited!
MAKING All sorts! A favourite at the moment is a really simple marmalade recipe, packed with 3 types of citrus fruit.
THE GREEN PARENT • 7
