Category Archives: Life

Map Schmap!

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One of the best things about living in Sheffield is the proximity to the Peak District.  If you’re the spontaneous type (which I am) and fancy a short walk on a sunny summer’s evening, then you can be on the hills within 15 minutes and can walk until sun sets.

Since we’ve moved here, we often head out after work to breathe in the fresh air and wash away the day’s drudgery on England’s green and pleasant land.   In our part of the Peaks there are huge expanses of rolling heathland that intermittently come to an abrupt end where the cliff faces of Stannage Edge or Froggat Edge drop away into the valleys.  The rocky outcrops are a mecca for climbers, walkers, joggers and evening strollers, but if you go late enough, you can find yourself alone in the wilderness with wild grouse, hares, weasels and kestrels for company.

L and I are still finding our way around and we’ll often deviate from our pre-planned route to explore a new path or take in a new vista.  Unfortunately, my enthusiasm for this, coupled with my failure to carry a map every time we go for a walk, often leads to unwanted adventures…

Fits and starts

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I recently set myself a mission – to draw something at least once a day, even if it is just a quick 10 minute sketch.  I lectured myself; “If you want to improve your drawing skills, then staring at your sketchbook is less likely to bring results than actually picking up a pen and making marks on the paper”.  A friend tells me that writers are encouraged hone their skills with daily scribing exercises – if you force yourself into the habit of writing something every day, soon the words will just flow out of you without any effort.

The problem is, I’m not terribly good with missions, resolutions or practice.  I want to be good at playing the guitar, photography, drumming, drawing, writing etc., and I want it instantaneously!  Alas, to be good at these things takes time and effort,  two things that don’t sit well with a procrastinator.    I envy those people who are driven, focused and goal oriented – wouldn’t it be nice to know where your future lies and head for it without distraction.   My motivations peak and trough depending on the weather, the time of month, the day of the week, who I chat to or simply whether I’m caffeinated.

Two months ago, I was pressing ahead with my photography – practicing landscapes and devouring the tips in photography magazines. This month I’m determined to improve my drawing, looking for ideas in everything I do but not always finding them.  So what happens when you get artists’ block? Is it OK to save yourself for those moments of inspiration even if it means weeks can pass before it hits you?  Should I worry that my ‘mission’ isn’t quite on course, and my daily practice may slide into weekly?

40 days & 40 nights

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This was the BBC weather news this morning:

“Experts are warning of floods in many parts of the UK, with a month’s rain due to fall in 24 hours…97 flood alerts – which warn people to be prepared for possible flooding – are in place…The Met Office has issued an amber warning urging people to “be prepared” while the Environment Agency warns flooding could be the worst of the year so far with transport links and homes likely to be “severely affected…”

Looking out the window, there is no doubt we are in for a very, very wet weekend – and beyond. It has rained almost constantly for the last 3 weeks and the nation is beginning to wonder whether we’ll ever see the sun again.  We sigh and stoically go about our business, discussing…er..complaining about the monsoonal conditions at great lengths whenever the opportunity arises. We tune into the weather forecast every day hoping for news that there will be a break in the deluge.

I have decided to be proactive, our wet weather gear has been bolstered with new waterproof trousers and sturdy umbrellas.  I may consider buying a boat or perhaps invest in some scuba equipment.