Hope's Journal 2026

[Hope67]

I really wanted to pop in on 26th July, because it's one of those great dates that begin and end with the same number.  Anyway, I am here on 29th July instead.  I have been feeling quite lethargic today - but I have also noticed that things are processing in the back-ground, and I am thinking that it would be good to consider maybe some intentions for the month of August, as that is fast approaching.  Actually I think I feel as if I'm 'wilting' today - so maybe it's down to the heat-wave.  I'm managing to keep relatively cool though.  I haven't ventured outside at all today - keeping in the coolest parts of the house.  Feelings slightly hermit-like, but that's okay.

[sanmagic7]

it's ok, indeed, hope.  whatever it takes to get thru this heat is what's best for you.  i hope you get relief soon. i wilt in the heat as well. love and hugs  

[zen_racer]

I agree, it is okay.  I agree with wilting in the heat as well.

I relate to being hermit-like also.

 

[Hope67]

Hi SanMagic & Zen_Racer,
Thank you for what you each wrote.   

*********
5th August 2026
So, August is here - still hot.  I found I couldn't write much here for the past days - although I did pop in to read things.  I know that there was a part of me that was reluctant for me to write anything, and I heeded that caution. 

Interesting that as I am thinking about writing something just now, I have that sense of caution again.  I think I'll heed it.

[Marcine]

Hi Hope,
A martial arts teacher taught me, "Sure, listen to your gut instinct"...
But more important, he said, "Heed it. Act accordingly."

Your journal entry inspires me.

[Hope67]

Hi Marcine - thank you for sharing that - you inspired me by sharing those words.  It felt very validating.  I appreciated what you said.

*******
6th August 2026

I am putting a list of things I wanted to put as my intentions for this month of August:

I feel like August should be a month where I try to be less focused on trauma work - and more balanced in how I spend my time.  I want to:

* Continue to read the book about trauma and cults, but really leave more time for other things
* Enjoy more walking in nature
* Focus on finding nice recipes to try new meals
* Do some one-on-one socialising - as I don't like groups.
* Visit some new places
* Read a fiction book! (unusual for me).
* Try some Art - drawing or painting.
* Maybe think about a holiday somewhere.

I'm not sure if I'll manage to do any or most of these things - but the intention is there.  I have enjoyed a walk in nature today - it was cooler outside than in, so I enjoyed it!

I also think I might be aclimitising to the hotter weather - getting used to it.  Feeling less drained by it - at least today anyway!!!

I have treated myself to a loaf of freshly baked bread - so I hope to enjoy some of that for lunch.  Really looking forward to it.

[Hope67]

Just to say that the freshly baked bread - it was delicious! 

[NarcKiddo]

I like your August list. I hope you get to do some of those things. Especially art, but I am biased that way.

Glad you enjoyed the bread. Freshly baked bread is so lovely to have.

[Hope67]

Thanks NarcKiddo 

[HannahOne]

Hope, I love your intentions! Whether you do them or not, they are a form of dreaming, hoping, opening to possibility and that seems positive.     

I am inspired by them. Walking, trying new recipes, going to a new place, art, and socializing, all things that are important for me too, activities that are engaging. We need those, to balance the trauma work! It makes sense to titrate the trauma stuff. I will be interested to see what things you try, or don't, and what your experience is. 

[sanmagic7]

hope, that was inspiring, and i think your list is lovely.  i've also been thinking of beginning to go out to play a popular card game in a group at the library.  been thinking of it for over a year, and i know there's an opportunity this coming monday.  we'll see if i actually do it, but your post has given me a little extra 'push' to see if i can actually get there.  so, thanks for that!  balance is good for the mind and the soul, after all.  love and hugs

[Hope67]

Hi Hannah and SanMagic Thank you both for what you said.