Hello. It’s been a while (understatement of the century).
Where have I been? Well, it’s a long story, but essentially after a lot of blood (not really but almost), sweat (lots, especially in the warmer months) and tears (a lot), I have just finished my psychotherapy training.
Yes, she is now a fully fledged therapist (eep!).
This post is not about that though, but it seemed remiss of me to completely ignore the absence. I am taking a huge exhale, as summer embraces the Northern hemispheres, and looking forward to some much needed time off soon back in the Australian winter (because jokes, I do not actually like summer).
You know who does like summer though? Londoners.
Unless you have witnessed the mass personality transplant that seems to sweep the city during a consistent spate of warm, sunny days (which let’s be honest recently has seemed like a maximum of four at a time), you will in fact not believe me.
Walking around this weekend, though, I saw it, with my own eyes. People walking with iced drinks in hand and a spring in their step. Actual smiles received by passersby, and the palpable feeling that anything is possible.
Now, I cannot lie that even in spite of my personal dislike of summer (hello hot frizzy hair, chaffing thighs, sweaty backs and sticky bums on hot tube rides), I do completely and utterly rate this version of London and it’s people.
It does indeed feel like the exhale of a city desperate for some Vitamin D, and a collective sigh of relief, when those non-rainy/drizzly, clear sky, warm sunny days finally arrive. And whilst everyone knows they may be desperately short-lived that does not stop the energy and enthusiasm.
So, I raise you an oat iced coffee (6 pounds!!) and bid you a beautiful summer (even if it is at my heat-avoidant expense).
Thank you also to everyone who has stuck around over the last few years of radio silence. There are lots more exciting things coming in the way of this Substack and book/cat obsessed therapist life (in general) and I cannot wait to share more with you soon.
I am also hoping to share more interviews with my favourite authors, writers and people that inspire me, on here. To really dive deeper into what’s ‘Behind the Fringe’ of the creatives we love. If there’s anyone you would love to hear from then do drop me a message or comment below.
Some recommendations for summer days
For some summer reading: the debut novel ‘Experienced’ By Kate Young. A steamy rom-com and the perfect summer beach read.
For some summer listening: the new debut album by UK pop artist Florrie. Perfect for garden party background listening or a walking accompaniment on a bright day.
For some summer eating: definitely these chocolate-coated frozen strawberries. I have been living off them!