This just popped up on my timeline. So I thought I’d share it. Lough Swilly, Ireland. I took this during a visit to the RNLI lifeboat station there. Stunning place. And the inspiration behind Amazing Grace. It’s easy to see why. #Ireland

For all typewriter geeks out there here’s my just acquired 1921 folding, portable Corona 3. In perfect working condition, its original case with cleaning brush and metal vial of oil. Ernest Hemingway used one of these when he was a war correspondent in France for the Toronto Star from 1920 to 1925.

My Women’s History Calendar 2025 celebrates Simone de Beauvoir during the month of January. If you want to learn more about inspirational women throughout 2025 check out this calendar at Radical Tea Towel . There’s still time to get your year off to a feminist start.

www.radicalteatowel.com

When you have to go the long way round for this morning’s walk because your dog is too scared to walk past your neighbour’s inflatable outdoor Xmas Santa and Polar Bear.

If you’re going to have your own tiny library you need a decent cup of tea from a good tea pot. I was thrilled to find this 1950s Heatmaster tea pot, milk jug and sugar bowl at a vintage shop in Blandford Forum. Then I spotted this hand-turned retro tray at Broad St Vintage in Lyme Regis. 🫖🍶

Sometimes, even in somewhere as gorgeous as Lyme Regis, the best thing to do is buy a book, find a cozy pub, come in from the weather, and order a coffee.

This afternoon I will be sitting out the storm in my happy place. Creating a little library at the bottom of the garden has been a dream of mine for over 50 years. Earlier this year I made my dream come true. I had massively underestimated the positive impact it would have on my wellbeing.

Frosty rose ❤️

What a way to start the weekend. Sending tranquil vibes from Weymouth, Dorset. No snow here today.

We’ve got this snow malarkey nailed here in Dorset. 😱 It’s like Wacky Races on ice out there. Cars colliding everywhere. Just stay at home Dorset peeps. If you’re already out … take care.

Here’s a bit of Dorset blue sea to accompany the Blue Sky. With the compliments of By the Waves Charity consulting. Join me for a coastal coaching day if you are a charity leader who has challenges to resolve, perspective to regain and needs a listening ear. I have just the beach for you.

If you are getting that Sunday night sinking feeling, it’s time to figure out why and do something about it. You are not powerless. It might take time to make the changes. But the changes are yours to make. Don’t give them to other people.

I was in a coffee shop today reading this book and drinking a cup of tea when Alex Stone came in and said thank you. Apparently I helped her to fulfil her ambition of walking into a coffee shop to see someone reading one of her books.
Happy to be of assistance. It’s a great book too.

I’m starting the morning preparing a pack on Fundraising Law for a group of small charities taking part in a peer learning programme I’m running.
It’s important to stay compliant when you fundraise. Don’t fall foul of the law. It protects your charity and your donors.

Lots of decisions have been made here by charity leaders who join me in Dorset for a day of walking and coaching at the coast. This is the ‘thinking tree’ where I sit with clients when they need space to reflect. Perfectly placed to help regain perspective.

Living the By the Waves brand today and taking a day off at the beach hut.

I gave the dog a bath. He refuses to look at me. I am dead to him.

The most constructive thing I can think of to do today is start looking for a Trustee role with a women’s rights organisation. So if you see any opportunities please send them my way and I’ll apply. Thank you!

Much of my week will be spent talking to charity Trustees about how to be an effective Board member. So, Charity professionals, what advice do you think I should be whispering in the ears of Trustees?