Uneasy

The heat is returning after a month off, and with it some nameless anxiety in me. Maybe it isn't nameless, let's see if my final one-to-one meetings with the students tomorrow will set it to rest. I've been doing some Pilates exercises L has taught me and my shoulders are stiff, and I have a residual low-back/ hip discomfort from hard digging a few weeks ago on the allotment, which I now realise I have to avoid. All in all I don't feel quite right.

Yesterday a birthday walk and picnic in a beautiful spot in Wharfedale, for friend S on the occasion of her 61st. Most of the women there over 60, and again this aging thing gives me pause. Theirs, mine, everyone's. S boldly donned her swimming costume and swam in the icy waters - a fine way to celebrate! Some of us paddled, others just watched, there was much laughter and food and good conversation, and the sun came out, the warmer spell beginning in S's honour.

Tomorrow L's coming in to Leeds to meet me after I finish my morning's work and have lunch, and then a look around the city art gallery. Getting to know this other great city at the opposite end of the train line from Manchester, little by little.