Seaford in Summer

Well, we have made it! We have got to the summer holidays! I know for many of us, there may not be much difference in the months that have just past... kids at home and trying to find things to do, but I want to approach this with some positivity. The past few months have meant time away from family and friends and a lot of time at home, but maybe, the summer and relative easing of UK restrictions means we can really benefit from time with our friends and family, time to continue our hobbies, to enjoy our local area and to *maybe* start looking forwards. Here are some of my faves and plans for the summer...

k Get outside I’m not going to lie, compared to some lockdowns across Europe, ours was relatively ‘light’ – unlike Spain we did get our daily exercise slot and freedom to get outside. I know that for many, our beach and Seaford Head became a popular spot. This won’t change for us now the summer holidays are here – bike rides along the esplanade, beach picnics (taking our rubbish home, of course) and walks around the local area really will be a big part of our activities. This means we get the fresh air and exercise needed whilst also attempting to steer clear of big groups and overcrowding. It’s a shame that so many of our local beauty spots have been overcrowded and even a little abused by visitors in recent weeks, but I’m hoping the novelty has worn off and we can make the most of Cuckmere, South Barn, Seaford Head and the glory that is Seaford beach. k New hobbies During the months at home, I found I needed something to keep busy with, that at the same time was calming and took my mind off the anxiety and worry of what was happening around us. Usually for me, I escape through a good book, but having read most of what was in the house and finding the times so challenging I needed something else...much to my Mum’s shock, this became sewing! I made a felt garland for a friend’s baby, a Christmas decoration for later in the year and am soon to start on a piece for our house. I should admit here that at the age of 37 I had NEVER sewn even a button on until Lockdown! Ha! It was great to challenge myself to try something new,

learn something, and really take my mind away from what was happening and the intensity of time at home with young children for so long. Did any of you find new hobbies or activities during this time? I hope if you did, you found them a help and continue with them.

k Catch up with friends Technology is amazing. I’m sure we’ve all realised how crucial it has become for home working and keeping in touch with friends and family. But, a video call or message doesn’t make up for sitting with a cuppa and putting the world to rights, a play-date where the kids can play contently with much-missed friends, a BBQ on a sunny afternoon... I plan to do many of these things. If anything, the change to routine and ‘normal’ made me take stock of my life. Now, we may have the time to actually enjoy friends and family. It doesn’t need to be a costly activity, just a walk together, a meet in the park, a cuppa in the garden; these small pleasures can really brighten up our day. My family aren’t local to Sussex, so I have really made the most of technology to keep in touch, but I really can’t wait to see them face to face. Even if a hug isn’t quite allowed, I have learnt how precious time is.

I hope you get to see your friends and family a little more in the weeks/months to come and can step outside and enjoy what Seaford has to offer. J Hanby-Penn