I've been pondering
and I've come to the conclusion that what I really want is a happy, creative
and meaningful life.
There are a lot of
dreamy quotes out there to kick off a moment of reflection, but I rather like:
Be the change you want
to see in the world.
I want to see supermarkets
where the food isn't embalmed in plastic. That means not buying at the ones
which do. I've cracked buying fruit and vegetables without packaging, but I
think I can do better. This year I'm going to double my efforts to shop in
farmer's markets and eco-friendly supermarkets which also sell grains and
pulses loose. I also could do better about buying dairy products in card or
glass, rather than plastic. I'm going to be bolder about bringing my own
containers and plan ahead more.
I want to see a world
where people exercise their power as consumers in favour of the environment and
equality. I don't want to invest in a fast fashion industry which traps its
workers in poverty and pollutes their homes. This 2020 I aim to only buy
second-hand clothing, or those locally-made, or crafted in a way that isn't
harmful to the environment. I bought some of my favourite items last year from my local Allen Graham Charity 4Kids, so I'm actually relishing the
challenge of being a creative and thrifty shopper.
I want to see the kids around me caring about the planet enough to not throw their litter on the street. I
have a now not-so-secret-desire to finish an fun, animal-packed children's book I've been working on with a cute message about our heart and nature's song being one and the same.
Oh, and one more
thing:
I want to see more of
my novels in the world! ...Because I LOVE writing them, and some of you have told me you have loved reading them!
So - as well as, erm, trying to be a kinder, more conscientious person - this summer I'll be
launching my next contemporary novel, called MELTING POINT - and no, don't worry, it has
nothing to do with climate change! I'll keep you posted...
For more regular updates, you're very welcome to follow my Facebook Author Page.