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For much of my childhood I had two homes, one in London and one in Wales. You could say I grew up on the train travelling back and forth between the two. I loved it. There was always so much bustle and excitement. Train journeys were adventures. I found they also provided thinking time, and I used to spend the journeys writing poems and drawing pictures. Perhaps that’s why I love public transport. The top deck of a London bus feels as though you have a view of the world. 

For years I lived in London, in an attic flat at the top of an old house. It had an expansive view of treetops and chimney pots. A close friend used to call my flat, ‘Mary’s little eyrie’, and I came to realise that a panoramic view is great for your well-being. I would certainly recommend an attic flat if you don’t mind climbing stairs. 

In Wales I lived in the countryside. We kept chickens and had pets and there were piglets and lambs on the nearby farm. Animals were like my brothers and sisters, and I still have a great love of them. I also lived not far from the sea. That was special. Even though I know it rains in Wales an awful lot, I don’t remember the rain at all. My memories are of a big, bright sun and that wonderful warm feeling of heat and contentment at the end of a day spent messing about in rock pools. 

Once again, the coast is not so far away. I visit as often as I can, so there you are – I’ve come full circle.