Be the Change 2020 - Let's have a go!

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...

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