Lockdown has been a kind of strange paradise

We have had an opportunity in Covid lockdown to enjoy our beautiful surroundings in peace and solitude in a way that has never been possible during the years we have been here. It has made us feel enormously grateful for our privilege in living here, and more acutely aware of the importance of holding on to the positive aspects of these past few months.

We must try and keep a balance so that visitor numbers are kept to a level which allows us all to walk on the coastal path and find space and enjoy the majesty of the scenery, walk through our pretty coastal villages without crowds, and wander across our fabulous Cornish beaches without having to step over the litter and debris of picnics and BBQs, whilst allowing enough visitors to keep our hospitality businesses going.

These are some of the things that i have experienced during lockdown and that I would like to continue

Quieter streets and no visitors parking in front of my house

Regular long walks on sections of the coastal path

Lack of seagulls sitting in wait for chips and ice cream

Getting to know all my neighbours better

Having the time to do regular volunteering work

Using the car very little and really exploring everywhere that we can walk to

Coming across wildlife that I have not noticed before-birds, flowers, marine life.

Not being tempted to shop unnecessarily

Appreciating my home and garden.

The divine weather has made everything more beautiful, and my rosy view of the past few months must be largely due to that. I am worried about the crowds returning and interrupting the peace and spiritually uplifting experience of our natural surroundings.