Filling your cup with good friendships

Mr Chalk and I have just spent the weekend with some lovely friends on the North Norfolk coast, and had a wonderful time just chilling out, eating, drinking and chatting. I must say it did us both the world of good and we came back over the border feeling very much refreshed.

We got talking at the weekend about those people in life who 'fill your cup' and those who have a tendency to empty it. As we go through life we form friendships at different stages but we can sometimes find that, with some friendships it seems to be all one-way traffic.  We may find that we do all the organising, chasing, shoulder offering when things are difficult and generally keeping the friendship going. In return we seem to receive very little, and after a while this can contribute to low self esteem as we feel that we are not valued or given support in return.

I think that, as we get older, it's important to re-evaluate our friendships and when there seems to be too much effort involved, really think about possibly letting things fizzle out. This is sometimes difficult to do, particularly when the friendship has been a long-standing one. I feel that as I get older I really want to have friends that fill my cup, not empty it. Life is just far too short to be with people who do not seem to be giving anything back.

Best wishes,
Wendy x

Getting out

I realise that I often take for granted the beautiful countryside we are lucky enough to have around here. This morning, I took myself out for a brisk walk in the sunshine, and did a 'circuit' that incorporates the most wonderful views across open fields. Sometimes when I go out for walks I just stop and stare, taking in the view and breathing in the fresh air.

Apparently, experiencing awe and wonder has a physiological effect, and can reduce inflammation within the body and mind, which in turn leads to better immunity, and even lowering the risk of clinical depression. Perhaps it's a sense of 'a greater power' or maybe just a feeling of contentment when looking a something beautiful. Awe-inspiring architecture could presumably have the same effect, but personally I believe that nature has probably got the edge here.

Best wishes,
Wendy x