The sun has been shining bright today.

It's been a tough couple of weeks around here. I'm sorry to say that I have already acquired more knowledge about cancer than I could wish to know. And I have had conversations that I wish I never needed to have. Life is suddenly, and irrevocably different and that's going to take some getting used to. But of course, I've laughed too. My mother and I share many things in common, not least of which is a pretty black sense of humour. It's one of the ways that we both process information and ward off fear. For as long as I can remember, mom and I have laughed together in times when we've wanted to cry (we cry as well of course!). And this is no different. I hope beyond hope that we can keep laughing for as long as possible. We certainly intend to try.

The sunshine today has brought both literal and metaphorical light relief to what has already proven to be yet another challenging week. Unfortunately Jim came home from work yesterday with the news that he has been made redundant. This is the 3rd time in 4 years and is a worry that we could well do without, but if there's one thing I'm truly learning at the moment, it's to try to roll with the punches. 

The sunshine gives me hope though. Suddenly I find myself thinking of picnics and beaches and sitting in the garden having lunch. For the first time in a few weeks, I found myself looking forward to something today. I don't think I've ever realised before just how much difference it makes to be bathed in the warmth of the sun. How much difference it can make to sit in my studio in the bright sun light, surrounded by fabric and books and all things beautiful.

I'm not going to lie. I'm scared of what this year may bring. But even one day of wintery warmth has lifted my spirits and made me just a tiny pinch less scared. It's not a lot, but it's worth grasping for.

Apparently we're back to grey skies tomorrow, but they won't last forever.