Happy New Year.
For last year’s words belong to last year’s language. And next year’s words await another voice. – T.S. Eliot
Like most years I want to make memorable and effective resolutions but I waiver with the thought of the unattainable and the disappointment that often results. Rather, I tend to make a mental checklist of what I would like to achieve and work to that. It is a practical way of dealing with what can often be forgotten or swept aside.
The other habit I have is to choose a “word” for the year.
A word to describe what I would like to achieve, improve or simply be. It’s challenging to find the right one and it’s a great little reminder, a silent voice, to keep me on track.
This year’s word is “brave”.
I would like to be braver in my choices, not fall rely only on the familiar but also walk forwards into change. I don’t wish to become too comfortable or lose the desire to challenge myself. Change and flexibility have always been qualities I strive for; as we age I believe we need a touch of bravery to maintain them. Fear of the unknown can impede our enjoyment and discovery of life; being brave is the counterbalance.
The idea to be brave started last year.
It was a year of change, a change from country life in Provence to town life.
This is the most exciting change and I need a large dose of bravery to get this one moving. We are now the proud owners of La Maison du Village in Saint Rémy de Provence, a small boutique hotel. It has been one of my most loved houses in the town and one I have long admired – I need to pinch myself that it is ours. Our acquisition is most serendipitous and like much of life, timing is everything.
La Maison du Village is in the centre of Saint Rémy and has 5 suite style bedrooms. I hope as my new part-time home it will be yours also. The feeling I wish to create is one of comfort and familiarity, so while you may be adventuring in a new country or returning to a place you know well, your “home away from home” will be there waiting.
I’m working on making it as comfortable and cosy as I can right now. There is much to do and I need to be “brave” to tackle such a project but I’m not going to let nerves or doubt influence me. My confidence flows when I think less about commercial ideas and put my heart and soul where they belong, in every large and small decision. This was my philosophy when we restored Le Petit Bijou and it has been a wonderful success.
La Maison du Village will be open in the springtime and I am very excited to share it with you.
London has become our home more and more over the years and in February we have another move. It might not be too far up the road but I am excited. For us, Notting Hill is a new area to explore and become acquainted with. More renovation is on the horizon but for now, I want to move in and get the feel for what can be. This is where the brave kicks in – hopefully I will be.
Which brings me to Craigievar Castle in Scotland. What a colossal pink palace?
If a towering musk coloured castle isn’t brave, then I don’t know what is. I’m very hopeful there is some heavenly shade of pink in my future. It’s been a long time coming and either here in Provence or at home in London must be where it will show its face?
What is your word for the year? Do you have one? xv
image, caigievar castle unknown source
