Tracey Smith
But before I get to that, thanks for wanting to look!
There’s not much to say here really – I’m nothing special – just an everyday gal, a wife, a mum and a very proud downshifter. I’ve a passion for writing and I love spreading the word about simple, green and sustainable living…to a fault sometimes.
I’ve been in the doghouse on more than one occasion for putting my ‘work head’ on and going off on one about some green issue or other, when I really shouldn’t have, but I can’t help it. The other week, I was milling around Bridport with my husband and there was a stand outside the Art’s Centre with a very nice man from Recycle Now and another from West Dorset’s recycling department. I was dragged away, politely (ish) by Ray who reminded me that it was actually our wedding anniversary and asked me nicely if I could, ‘Just shut up for a bit’.
Thing is, it’s difficult really and I feel there’s such a lot to do – I’ve almost got a bit evangelical about it of late, but not to the point of obsession, I’m just fuelled by a passion.
So what’s to tell you? I’m 42, I’ve lived all over the place, I love enjoying simple food at home in the company of a few good friends and I buy just about everything from the charity shop, with the exception of, well, you know… I love the two voluntary roles I have as a hospital radio presenter and trustee for NACOA and get more a buzz from doing my bit there than from any paid job I’ve ever had.
That’ll do. I hope you enjoy a slow virtual stroll around The Book of Rubbish Ideas website and if you are on a mission to reduce your waste too, drop me a line and tell about it!
Rubbishly yours,
TS x
Everytime I’ve seen the cover of your book, I’m struck with that fabulous artistry. The image is superb. Can RUBBISH be tasteful? It appears that it can. Who knows, this could be the beginning of a new genre … Rubish art!
Colours and form are so beautifully portrayed here in a harmony that is almost the antithisis of what rubbish is all about. Maybe that’s exactly the message. Rubbish is not waste, it’s a resource that can be turned into something useful and beautiful again.
Hi Richard – too right! Rubbish ‘is’ a resource and it’s one of my goals to try and make people see it that way.
Glad you like the artwork….it’s quite captivating, although it took a while to grow on me, but once I saw the book I feel in love with it. I think the scatty imagery is a perfect reflection of the mad old bat writing about it…
TSx
Just read your article on nacoa – it was inspiring, just like your good self!. I too lived with parents who were alcohol intense as i like to put it and im looking at ways i can spread the word. such a common problem and yet so little attention.. i think we are in living in exciting times – with lots of opportunity (in the face of adversity) to push all those things that really need to be heard into the light at last.
Hilary and the team at NACOA are such a wonderful loving bunch and incredibly welcoming!
I know my experiences were tough and its heart breaking now as a 30 year old, married mum of one.. to even think of any child suffering in silence.
I think if any human being has known a lot of suffering in their life – that there is a huge opportunity to live a life that is deeply connected, aware and to make a real difference using that connection – i believe you demonstrate that perfectly!
with love
atalina x
Dear Atalina,
Thank you for your lovely note and I’m so glad you found a smile in the piece!
NACOA are amazing and it’s one thing I can really thank my mother for…
Wishing you well,
With love,
TS x x