Embracing Change-A Year of Reflection and Transformation

From Recovery to Hippy Happy Gull

After two decades in a landlocked county where the closest water sources were a beautiful river and a canal, both of which, I loved with a passion, I felt an insatiable urge to reconnect with the sea, and living back in Cornwall, it would be rude, not to. I longed for the sound of waves crashing against the shore, the invigorating smell of seaweed, and the crisp salt air that can lift your spirits no matter the circumstances. This yearning led me on a transformative journey—a year-long recovery and reflection that ultimately birthed a new business and a complete change of direction in my life.

Reconnecting with the Coast

To satisfy my craving for the ocean, I embarked on trips to both the North and

St Ives Malakoff Bus Station

South coasts, travelling by train or bus. Breaking free from the confines of my winter cocoon filled with endless YouTube videos and the comfort of my bed, I began to rebuild my self-confidence. The coastal landscape, I had once embraced but abandoned long ago, became my muse.

Armed with a notebook and camera, I meandered through the narrow streets of St Ives and Penzance. I found joy in photographing buildings, street signs, and other curiosities that sparked my interest. These excursions not only reignited my passion for photography but also, inspired me to write again. I delved into the fascinating social history of these places, researching their strange place names and signs, and weaving them into narratives that brought the towns' pasts and presents to life.

The Therapeutic Power of Writing and Photography

My walks along the coast were incomplete without capturing nature's beauty—plants, birds, and other elements that piqued my curiosity. Over time, I amassed a significant collection of prose and photographs, allowing me to explore the artistic side of photography. This creative exploration was not only fulfilling but also therapeutic. Writing, in particular, became a vital outlet for me, enabling me to indulge in my thoughts and emotions, and fostering a sense of well-being.

A reawakening of my innate optimism accompanied the slow resurgence of my creative side. I have always believed in finding a positive in every negative, and this perspective blossomed once more. During my walks in the coastal towns the signs of ‘Do Not Feed The Seagulls’, and the amusing sight of people covertly eating their chips, pasties and/or ice creams,

Do Not Feed The Seagulls Sign

or simply running away from the naughty gulls made me giggle. One day an idea struck me—why not embrace these cheeky birds? The idea of making them colourful and fun sparked my sense of humour, which often thrives on irony.

The Birth of Hippy Happy Gull

With a love for the vibrant music, fashion, and colours of the seventies—an era that defined my teenage years—I decided to combine these influences with my newfound inspiration. My creative instincts, coupled with my experience in running a business, leveraging technology, and employing methodical organization, gave rise to a burgeoning idea.

I allowed this idea to develop organically, savouring every moment of its evolution. Thus, Hippy Happy Gull was born—a whimsical range that celebrates the playful spirit of seagulls. However, I needed a broader umbrella to encompass my creative endeavours, and so Intuitive Design UK was created. The name reflects my commitment to living life intuitively from that point forward.

Intuitive Design UK: A New Chapter

Intuitive Design UK is more than just a business; it's a representation of my journey and my commitment to embracing the unexpected. It reflects a way of life that prioritises creativity, intuition, and the joy of exploration. Through this venture, I aim to share my passion for nature, colour and fun with others, infusing every creation with the vibrancy and humour that I rediscovered during my year of transformation.

Embracing the Journey

This new chapter in my life is a testament to the power of recovery and reflection. It demonstrates how embracing change and following one's passions can lead to unexpected and fulfilling directions. My journey has taught me that life is a dynamic tapestry of experiences, each contributing to us as a person and the paths we choose to follow.

Sharing My Story

Through Intuitive Design UK, I hope to inspire others to embrace their journeys of self-discovery and transformation. By sharing my story, I aim to encourage others to listen to their intuition, explore their passions, and remain open to the possibilities that life presents.

In conclusion, my year of recovery and reflection has not only brought me closer to the sea but has also paved the way for a new business and a complete change of direction in my life. The creation of Hippy Happy Gull and Intuitive Design UK embodies my journey of rediscovery, creativity, and intuition. As I continue to embrace this new chapter, I am excited to see where my past year of reflection and transformation leads and to share the joy and inspiration it brings with others.

Intuitive Design UK