YOU’RE NOT BEHIND

We so often think “others” have it all

They have fun, and their lives are a breeze

That we’re on the sidelines of life, just wishing

We could have, what they have, find the keys

To unlock the door to the life we want

That we could find some magic path

To enlighten our world and align our needs

To the universe and, well, you do the math

For our future seems set, in our heads at least

And we think we must catch those “others”

That life is running away somehow

That we’re behind, and we should be tougher

But the truth in all of our beautiful lives

Is that no-one is left behind

There’s no measure that we must live up to

So we’re alongside some fictitious guide

Our lives are unique, there’s no-one like us

Our preciousness has no measure

The contributions we make to this world, they ripple

They create beauty and joy, there’s no pressure

So relax, and live, and be free in your being

Love wisely, breathe quietly, and see

Be still and know that you’re on the right path

That you’re exactly, where you should be

X

The Offing – A Book That Stays With You

I absolutely love reading, and earlier this year I joined a local book club. There is something special about reading a book and then gathering with others to share thoughts, opinions and the different ways a story can touch each of us.

Our first book club read was The Offing by Benjamin Myers, and it proved to be an excellent choice.

Set in the summer of 1946, the story follows sixteen-year-old Robert Appleyard as he sets out on a walking adventure along the Yorkshire coast. What begins as a simple journey soon becomes a life-changing friendship when he meets Dulcie Piper, an eccentric woman in her later years with a passion for food, art, nature and books.

I found the opening chapters slow and descriptive, and it took me a little while to settle into the story. However, once Dulcie appeared, I was completely captivated. She is one of those rare characters who leaps from the page and stays with you long after you have finished reading.

Beautifully written and rich in atmosphere, The Offing explores friendship, grief, kindness, learning and the importance of embracing life. It reminds us that wisdom can be found in unexpected places and that some of the most meaningful relationships are those we never see coming.

This is not a fast-paced novel. Instead, it invites you to slow down, savour the language and reflect on the people and experiences that shape us. For me, it was a memorable and deeply moving read.

If you enjoy thoughtful, character-driven stories filled with nature, food and gentle observations about life, I would highly recommend adding The Offing to your reading list.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

A beautifully written coming-of-age story that rewards patience and leaves you reflecting on life's simple pleasures long after you've turned the final page. 

This Month's Book Club Pick

One of my favourite parts of the Tenacious community is sharing books that encourage us to slow down, reflect and disappear into another world for a little while. This month's choice was The Witch's Tree by Elena Collins, and I have to say, it didn't disappoint.

When our book club met to choose our next read, everyone submitted one recommendation. We then each had three votes to cast, and the book with the most votes became our next adventure. It was such a simple and enjoyable way of choosing, and I think we'll be using the same idea again.

From the very first chapter, The Witch's Tree drew me in.

The story centres around a cottage that has stood quietly for centuries, witnessing generations of lives pass through its doors. Yet while its occupants have come and gone, one soul has never truly left. I found that idea utterly captivating. It gave the novel an atmosphere that lingered long after I'd put the book down.

Without giving too much of the story away, the novel follows two women whose lives become beautifully intertwined across different periods in time. Although separated by history, they find themselves, quite literally, living beneath the same roof.

Elena Collins writes with such warmth and sensitivity that I quickly became invested in both women's journeys. Selena's artistic view of the world felt vibrant and hopeful, while Grace Cotter's story offered a poignant reminder of how much life has changed over the years. Their experiences are woven together so naturally that the past and present seem to breathe alongside one another.

The setting itself deserves a mention too. Sloe Cottage, nestled within the picturesque village of Ashcombe, almost becomes a character in its own right. The descriptions are rich and atmospheric, making it easy to imagine yourself wandering its rooms or strolling through the surrounding countryside.

For me, this wasn't simply a story about mystery or history. It was a gentle reminder that every home carries memories, every generation leaves something behind, and every life becomes part of a much bigger story.

If you're looking for a beautifully written, atmospheric novel to curl up with as the evenings begin to draw in, I'd wholeheartedly recommend The Witch's Tree. Pop the kettle on, make yourself a favourite drink, settle into your favourite chair and allow yourself to become immersed in its pages. I have a feeling you'll find it just as difficult to leave as I did.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I'd also love to hear what you're reading at the moment. Has a book inspired you recently? Has a story stayed with you long after you turned the final page? Or perhaps you've written a short story, poem or reflection of your own that you'd like to share with our growing Tenacious community.

If so, I'd be delighted to hear from you at welcome@tenacious-wellness.com.

After all, every wonderful story begins with someone brave enough to share it.

Next month, we're hosting our very first Secret Book Club online get-together!

A relaxed, friendly space for women to share their favourite reads, discover new books and enjoy a good conversation.

We're keeping numbers small, with just 10 free places, so everyone has the chance to have their say.

Subscribe to our free monthly Tenacious newsletter for early access to booking and all the latest book club news.

Good books, lovely company and a little time just for you.

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