We missed celebrating the Winter Solstice on the 21st of December in Penzance due to grief for our dog and a friend’s chest infection. But we are gathered here together in St Ives for the weekend of Inbolc.

The world does feel as if something is shifting.

The views from our roof terrace were full of early morning promises.

Just like last night we wandered streets and alleyways with no particular purpose or plans. A ‘good’ coffee was an essential but as a target for a day that was it.

A coffee with the best view in the house was a bonus. Double bonus and a gold star when achieved twice.

On a meandering cliff walk I found the perfect name for a character for a novel. (As yet unwritten).

Who is Rusty Lovelocks? What genre?

Romance

Erotic literature

Adventure

Historic fantasy

Crime

Psychological thriller

For some time I have wanted to rehabilitate the name Beryl. Of all the lovely gemstone names, Beryl seems not to have floated back into fashion. And yet I have never met a bad Beryl.

How better to do that than write a novel featuring Rusty Lovelocks and Beryl Heliodor.

Beryl Heliodor brings gravitas and a touch of Skandi Noir. A strong woman.

Rusty Lovelocks, sexually ambiguous, softer maybe but with a fierce loyalty and intelligence.

Whatever sort of novel might I write. But  I digress.

Today is about the reality of sunshine. And Imbolc. Things to look forward to.