Hi there,
My friend asked me a question when I met them for a drink and dog walk on Friday that I found really refreshing. As we parted ways post-pub, they said: “Do you celebrate Christmas?” I loved that there wasn’t an assumption based on society’s standards that I would be. As it happens, I am celebrating this year, and this week has been chocka with friends, family and festive fun, and while I am so grateful, there is part of me that is longing to retreat inwards after a full on transitional year.
For some people the expectation to celebrate or have plans can make them feel more isolated, feel pressured to see people they don’t REALLY want to or exacerbates lack of funds. I know some people are approaching things differently this year because they feel they can’t celebrate when there is so much pain happening in the world right now. I’m taking the energy of less assumption and more open questions into 2024. Thank you, wise pal!
As this newsletter reaches you on December 25 or beyond, I wish you peace, a good night’s sleep, and joy, whatever you’re doing.
Thank you
A big thank you to everyone who has so generously sponsored my cold water swimming and dips to raise money for the Catching Lives Winter Appeal. I’ve done three more swims, including a naked one at sunrise at Brighton nudist beach, and three ice dips at the sauna, since I last wrote. If you still want to sponsor me, you can do so here.
Uplifting News Stories
First bison conceived at West Blean and Thornden Woods reserve is born | Kent Online (Worth it for the photo!)
Catching Lives is extending its Winter provision | Catching Lives
Joy as babies born to mum with rare double womb | BBC News
Worth Sharing
Goodbye, Instagram | The Hyphen by Emma Gannon
‘Dark days are a time to replenish’: how to walk well in winter | The Guardian
8 Unique Things To Do In Brighton: January 2024 | We Love Brighton (disclaimer: by me)
How to Slow Down and Savour the Holidays | Greater Good Magazine
10 things I remind myself to do on those days when I'm feeling isolated | Twitter
Podcast: Wild Swimming with Marjolein Robertson | The Joy Agenda
Things That Have Brought Me Joy Since I Last Wrote
This beautiful Christmas card made by my talented housemate. Check out his work on Instagram: @_twoheadedboy_
Several visits from lovely friends. Who knew Brighton would be so popular?
Visiting Brighton treasure The Open Studios on the seafront for the first time. This quirky converted boatyard featuring a group of resident artists is definitely worth a visit. I bought some postcard-sized prints from the brilliant Nate Cordery.
Reviewing The Brighton Lights for We Love Brighton. Hence the picture of me sitting on a big moon at the top of this newsletter.
The abundance of Christmas wreaths in Brighton.
Saying hi to dogs.
Winter solstice festivities including a sunrise swim and beach ritual with a fabulous new friend, my first ever Burning The Clocks, and a sunset sauna at Beach Box Spa, which generously included taster treatments as part of the Solstice celebrations.
Returning to the woods in Kent.
Reunions with friends and family
A Few Recommendations
Donna Lancaster is launching a Substack newsletter on January 1st: A Pilgrimage for the Soul - walking back to meet ourselves. Sign up here.
Brighton people! If you’re making a resolution to make new friends / meet more people in 2024, then there’s a Connection Jam on January 9. Tickets here.
If you’re struggling over Christmas, charities such as Samaritans (Call 116 123) and Shout (text 85258) are still open.
Right that’s it from me for now. Talk to you soon.
BB x
The energy of less assumption and more open questions into 2024🙌🏼