Being kind in business as well as in life generally is important.
You never know what someone is going through.

If the recent past is too painful and raw, we may not feel ready to share an experience widely; we can choose not to. It may be too soon. We sometimes yearn to understand and learn from a cruel blow in life or a terrible experience. Meanwhile, the sadness may feel profound and surreal.
 
Whilst being keen to move forward I have found that reflecting on other moments from the more distant past can lift the spirit and help me through the most difficult times until I am hopefully able to see it all with a broader perspective.
 
‘A picture says a thousand words’ and may mean different things to different people but to me this image feels serene and hopeful.

 [This is a photo taken 20 years ago on our memorable exploration of the Galápagos Islands]
 
 
Looking forward to the future and reflecting on the good memories of the past.

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by Dr Julie Charlesworth 27/02/24

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Back to the here and now: some of my snapshots taken in January and February 2024 close to home.

I am a northerner in the UK. Here ‘up North’ Snowdrops are hardy winter flowers seen blooming as early as January and February; even pushing through frozen, snow-covered ground. A sign that Spring will be coming again with new beginnings, rebirth, and hope.

Snowdrops are a joy to behold!

by Dr Julie Charlesworth 20/02/24

Here are some moments on film from our visit to the Galápagos Islands 20years ago…

Blue Footed Boobies are also famed for their courtship and dance.

Happy Valentine’s Day on February 14th.

by Dr Julie Charlesworth 14/02/24

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[Another meme I prepared using my photos from that adventure]

A curious scene I captured on film during our visit to the Galápagos Islands 20years ago…

[Another meme I prepared using another one of my photos from that adventure.]

by Dr Julie Charlesworth 05/02/24

More moments on film from our visit to the Galapagos 20years ago…

[Another meme I prepared using my photos from that adventure.]

Sometimes you have to look beyond to really see and understand what is in front of you.

by Dr Julie Charlesworth 29/01/24

I am very glad Hubby and I visited the Galápagos Islands when we did – 20years ago this month! It was truly inspirational and we captured some special moments on film.

[I prepared this meme using my photos from that adventure.]

There will be more surprises to come 😊…

by Dr Julie Charlesworth 22/01/24

Thank you to everyone who has supported and read my posts over the last twelve months. Thank you also to those whose own posts elsewhere have informed, shared wise words, or entertained. I have learned a lot and enjoyed reading and viewing them.

Wishing you all the best for 2024.

To happiness, hope, positivity, and possibilities.

From Julie
A Tree of Life Sciences®

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Taking a moment to smile can mean a lot to someone who needed it 😊❤️.

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by Dr Julie Charlesworth 01/01/24

The year 2023 marks 10 years and counting…
It’s been a blast!

A Tree of Life Sciences®.

🚀🤩🤗😊😉 🎉💥 ☀️ 🌟
Lost for words 😉.

by Dr Julie Charlesworth 27/11/23

I am thinking again about all those embarking on studies and research careers, particularly in life sciences and of course generally as well. How the world and humankind need you! How we should all be encouraging and supporting the younger research generation. For all those students and researchers driven by a passion for their subject it should be a time to really enjoy studying and research for the sake of research; a time to explore interests and have a great life and social life too. It’s not the easiest of times and research can be very frustrating with many ups and downs. It was ever thus. It is however an adventure with opportunities to grasp, whilst keeping a sense of perspective and having fun! Many of us are willing you on to a great future!

Looking forward…

The skills learnt will be transferable for many different career options. Early career researchers have much to contribute, and they deserve to be challenged, encouraged, and supported in their research careers. They also have so much potential in many walks of life and different spheres.

by Dr Julie Charlesworth 26/09/23

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Life is an adventure. Overall, I am enjoying the journey but just now the road is a bit rocky.

I am thinking of those people whose summer holidays are coming to a close and the many who are returning to work etc. Others are still on holiday, maybe even stranded abroad for now. Some will be about to have their holidays. There will be many stories. Many people like me were affected by the UK air travel issues on August 28th. My summer break literally never got off the ground this time.

I decided to return home after a day at the airport. On the other hand, my luggage is having an adventure of its own!
 
There will be sad stories and even funny stories from different people in different situations. At the airport, naturally there were many frustrated travellers. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the feeling of togetherness and sense humour of many people in the face of adversity.
 
I did have some reservations about being away this time and so on the plus side I get to spend time with family members who may be appreciative of support now.
 
Sometimes we don’t know who is having a tough time – always try to be kind.

Life happens! Even the best laid plans don’t always get off the ground.
 
Look for the light. Stay positive!
 

by Dr Julie Charlesworth 01/09/23