So, four weeks in. The Great Wake Up! experience has been overwhelming positive. I can't say my life has been changed in some sweeping gesture, just that each week's experiment has challenged my routines and encouraged me to reflect.

The first week's challenge of vocalising what you love about those around you was more uncomfortable than I thought- perhaps putting the practical, level headed me in a more exposed position? But it was a significant first experiment which allowed me to drop some defenses and allow myself to be natural, playful and open with those I care about. i still now find myself in the more intense days thinking 'What do I love about this person? situation?.. Even if I don't share this, I think it changes my outlook and hopefully, my behaviour to others. In fact, writing this is a reminder to myself to keep the vocalising, not keep it all private!

Spending ten minutes outside first thing in the morning was more of a challenge as I came face to face with my slightly controlling nature (ouch- that doesn't sound nice!) Actually this challenge really encouraged me to reflect on this habit of cocooning myself in the care of others. It dawned on me that I should 'lighten up' and how it is perfectly acceptable to prioritise myself at times! On the back of this I have now enrolled in yoga classes and am loving every minute- with no guilt yipppee! I also now find myself lingering a few minutes before I get in my car to work, taking in my surroundings and sticking my head out of my classroom window during the day to keep up regular doses of fresh air.

The third experiment of cooking from fresh? I interpreted this very loosely. Basically I had a good think! Cooking for six each night does not fill me with delight. I do not envisage myself spending ages in the kitchen and that's fine. I can be joyful about my ability to feed my family with a range of good food, full of colour and variety. And so to fouth week- control over technology. Again, not a biggy for me as I am not overly attached to devices, but again it offered time to reflect on this very modern relationship.

Finally, the blog. Never having done this before, this has been a fab experience. I would recommend anyone that takes on these experiments to if not blog, journal, or do them with some one else. It has been so interesting reading the experiences of others. Being 'up north' and a full time teacher, attending the week day evening launch with Chris was an impossibility. Despite not meeting the bloggers - yet! you never know! - and the fact we come from so many backgrounds, there has been a commonality of experience. It has been so enlightening putting my thoughts into some order on virtual paper and reading the experiences of others. Furthermore, having a little 'project' for each week really enlivens the week allowing you to view those few days in a different light.

I am really enjoying these experiments. Like I said at first, I am not in a position to make grand sweeping changes in my life, and in many ways don't want to, but these little tweaks add a bit of variety in a way that is manageable but also invigorating and quite exciting! Thank you to all involved in this experience- a great way to start 2016.