It's been a difficult few weeks, but today I managed to do some things out of the house. It was just a short trip to our local farm supply store in the village and then a mug of peppermint tea at our favourite cafe, but it made life feel more whole.

Summer hasn't really hit me this year. Usually, as much as Autumn is my favourite season, there is a lightness to summer and a joy in its brevity (especially in England).

This year, though, the heat has only added to the freight train on my chest and there hasn't been that same sense of freedom that usually accompanies this time of year for me.

Today was different though. Maybe I'm starting to breathe again. I suppose we'll have to wait and see what August brings.