Having been laid low with Covid, meaning I had to cancel/hand over everything in my diary last week, I’m feeling rather guilty at now being off on leave for a while. Looking forward to some sea air. Along with supporting my parents through the first days of Dad’s radiotherapy.

Deadline for academic paper on hymnody and social justice is rapidly approaching. Spending some time reading/writing before dinner out by the sea with the niece.

A few thoughts I was asked to write for the Methodist website on singleness. methodist.org.uk/about/news/ref…

Energy is still a little lacking post-Covid but I managed to get out by the sea with the camera last night and was rewarded with this rather wonderful sunset.

Finally finishing my first academic paper in a long time (pushing it a bit close to the deadline - Monday). Battling the imposter syndrome of being in a working group with people whose work I’ve read and looking forward to the week of sharing together in the city I call home.

Saddened that the Centre will cease to exist, but deeply thankful for the colleagueship and friendship of the wonderful team who I had the privilege of working with at OBU for 3 years.

Out with the camera in Freshwater during a few brief moments of sunshine.

Making my favourite cookies for the parents.

Back in Oxford for a last few days of annual leave. Planning a baking project over a cup of coffee.

Trying a new recipe - Blueberry, Lemon and Almond Financiers

Today is the last day of my leave. I’m thankful for rest and walks by the sea at sunset. Also that I’ve been able to support my family through the first days of my Dad’s radiotherapy. Back to work tomorrow for a few days before joining my first academic conference next week.

Back to work today after leave and the first thing I had the privilege to do was meet the delightful group from the United Methodist Wesleyan Pilgrimage group. A chance to chat with lots of wonderful lay and ordained folks from all over the USA.

Good to be able to attend the Welcome Service for our new Chair of District in Northampton today and to take along items that represent our Circuits.

Home for the next week at Keble College for the Oxford Institute of Methodist Theological Studies. I think I win the prize for least distance travelled…

Thankful to my lovely friend here at the Oxford Institute for reminding me (with generous gifts) that imposter syndrome is completely unnecessary. I’ve loved this week of learning, sharing and meeting wonderful new friends from across the world.

Thankful for a wonderful week at the Oxford Institute of Methodist Theological Studies. My 1st academic conference, hoping it won’t be my last. Feeling blessed by friends old and new from across the world. For the fun, laughter, learning and conversations. I’m beyond grateful.

Thankful for a lovely day in Gloucester yesterday with this wonderful friend.

On this the first Sunday of the Methodist year, I have the privilege of baptising a baby, confirming and welcoming into membership 9 teenagers and a young adult and presiding at Holy Communion. I’m thankful for the gift of serving a vibrant church community.

I finally joined a choir this evening after meaning to do so for the last 4 years since I moved to Oxford. I promised myself at the beginning of this Connexional year to do something I love regularly for my own well-being. It was joyous and I’m thankful for the warm welcome!

Sharing these bakes (Salted Chocolate Tart and Banket Bars) from Nigella Lawson with the family.