I've chosen "El Blauet", the Catalan name for the kingfisher, as years ago, one very grey winter morning, as I was driving the children to school, a kingfisher crossed our path. It was the first time I had seen one. That bright, electrifying blue flash of its plumage lifted my spirits, whilst at the same time, leaving me stunned by its beauty.

This thatched cottage in the heart of the English countryside in Somerset was my first home. Here I developed my love of nature. I wasn't interested in how it functioned, but simply enthralled by its diversity, taste, fragrances and above all its beauty and perfection. I am now aware of the delicate balance of the natural world and never cease to be amazed by its intelligence and intricacies. Each species designed according to its habitat and function in relation to its environment and fellow inhabitants. Unfortunately man has interfered with this balance and only the growing understanding that it is the responsibility of each one of us can restore it. We too need to restore our balance and contact with the natural world can help.

I would like to share my journey with nature with you and I hope "El Blauet" will bring some light into your life.

Christine Coveney