[Sprite-1]

There are two distinct areas that ground me, but are very different. The first is the library that contains many books collected since my great-great-grandfather lived here. Julie put a coffee machine in the corner. It was a deliberate choice because reading books is our first choice to loose anxiety, and sipping coffee fixes our caffeine addiction.

Get lost in a book and any worries affecting me go away. Our library is so serene that I don't want to leave. My guitar is there, and Wendi's. Julie's grand piano takes centre stage, and I'll play a classical piece to calm my mind.

Imagine this scaled-down version of The British Library. Like our villa it has three floors flanked with walkways and mahogany railings to prevent us from falling. Our library smells of books. I love the old bookcases and Gothic Revival tables we sit at. See why this vast place chases away the worries, making self-care my Number 1.

Number 2 is our kitchen. My self-care becomes extra special when baking on a rainy day (as is lying in bed at weekends, lazy toads we all are!)

Number 3 is caring for Ted. He's always been my priority. He feels the same way about me. We've been together for 4 years and are engaged.

"Engaged?" People scoff. "At 13?"

I say, "What of it? We've been through hell." I give a level stare. "And who are you? Who are you to judge me for my youth?"

They make no reply. Because they have none.

Self care is also a tankard of rich hot chocolate. Or sitting in the forest listening to birds with Rascal.