I enter the new year bemused by the reporting of global celebrations as we leave 2023 with wars, cost of living crises, and much uncertainty with forthcoming elections. The increasing commercialisation of bank holidays concerns me as there is always such a build up to Christmas Day with shoppers filling high streets…and then again on Boxing Day. It defies logic. Personally, I relish the opportunity to hole up indoors and idle away the darkest time of year with family, friends, food and a film or three. This year, I have been fortunate to be well supported by such people and things while I recover from a foot operation a couple of weeks before Christmas.
My aim this year is to find an agent for myself and to promote my friend Iryna Ilnytska in her singing career. She deserves to be heard on a global scale.
January is traditionally a time for resolutions and new beginnings but I feel Easter and spring are more conducive to this approach. January is a proper winter month when soups and pies can be enjoyed after brisk winter walks in the fresh air, and sunshine when available. It is a time to enjoy the massive Orion constellation with naked-eye glimpses of the fuzzy blob that is the star forming region (can be found just below the 3 belt stars).
Wishing you a hopeful and healthy 2024
Karen Hedges 