I write in one of three cafés. One overlooks the seafront. I love watching the tide wander in and out with it's constantly changing atmosphere. The Palace Writers' Group, of which I am an original member, meets here in a room at the back.
The second is at the bottom of Southend High Street, about 100 yards from the seafront. It has a fabulous atmosphere, eclectic decor and delicious cake.
The third is in Leigh Broadway with lace tablecloths, a friendly atmosphere and good food. It is also where my Book Group meet, and also small U3A Creative Writing Group that I lead.
Travel is my passion and inspiration. I love writing about the places I have been to, and reading about places that other people have been to. I grew up fascinated by stories of my Dad having travelled the world working on a cruise ship before he married my Mum. My childhood holidays to the Med always included seeing something of the local area, as well as the beach.
In my twenties I went to Australia on a Working Holiday Visa and discovered independent travel, always keeping a diary as I went. I started writing one after reading Anne Frank's. I began training as a nurse with the idea that it was something I could take on my travels with me. Then Multiple Sclerosis came along. Consequently the way I travel has changed as it has progressed, (I do shorter trips,) but they haven't stopped. This and my diaries are the basis of the memoir I am writing.
I also love taking photographs and my walls are decorated with shots from across the world. These too, will be included in my book.
As well as travel, I write poetry, often inspired by the Thames estuary I sit and look at as I write. Needing to give up work has allowed me more time to do this.
I also do a bit of crochet and I love nothing better than sitting in a café with friends, a cup of coffee and a slice of cake.
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