Dear Readers,
It’s been 18 months…. and a lot has changed.
For a long time, I wasn’t sure how to come back – or what to say. Life has unfolded in ways I didn’t quite expect, and if I’m honest, it hasn’t all been easy.
But then again, when is it ever?
What I can say is this – I’ve been doing the work. The messy, non-linear kind. The kind that doesn’t always make for neat updates, but changes you all the same.
On April 2nd, I celebrated my 60th birthday. I had been dreading it – thinking I was almost past my sell-by date – but then something shifted. I realised that I’m simply lucky to be alive. And not just alive, but thriving. I have my health, my faculties, a family and friends who I love (and who love me), and a safe, beautiful place to live.
On May 13th, I’ll mark seven years without alcohol. That feels significant in a quiet way. Not something I shout about, but something I carry with a deep sense of gratitude – because I know how different my life might have been. I see it in my relationships, and in the way I show up in them.
And alongside that, I’ve been writing.
Very slowly at times. Reluctantly at others. But consistently enough that I can now say… I have a novel that’s almost where I want it to be.
That feels both exciting and a little exposing.
I’m not here with a big announcement today. Just a gentle reintroduction.
If you’re still here, thank you. Truly.
I’d love to know how you’ve been – what’s shifted for you over the past while.
More from me soon.
In the meantime, take good care of yourself.
Love,
Gill
