The Tiny Forest signpost and QR code needed to be switched around so that visitors could properly take part in the citizen science activities.

One of the Tree Keepers, Patrick, and I took the necessary tools down to the site and swapped the signs over. Thanks to Patrick’s help, we got the whole job completed pretty swiftly.

The QR code is now ready to use, so please consider visiting the Tiny Forest and taking part in some citizen science. Simply scan the code and follow one of the activities.

It’s a great way for children and families to explore nature during the summer holidays while also contributing useful information about how the Tiny Forest is developing.

Five Goodgymmers met for the run from the Phoenix to Shepherds Hill Gardens. Setting off in good time, we jogged the long road down to Highgate in good weather, to meet Pat and Joan, stalwarts of the friends group managing the lovely green space. Fanny soon joined us, followed a bit later by Amanda, so we had plenty of help for the tasks ahead.

We split into teams, Daniel and Richard trimming hedges at the top, while Subham got stuck in to the hedges lower down ibto the wood. Fanny and Paul started on litter picking, while I began sweeping and clearing the paths. Then we rotated, doing a record amount of tidying and trimming, then taking the green waste down to the compost pile, while stopping to admire the amazing view across Queens Wood.

Once done, and, we all stress it's never the reason we go , Pat broke out the famous refreshments we love so much - apple juice, fresh mint tea and biscuits. Then a quick wrap-up taking the tools back to Pat's, and the round trip back to the Phoenix for the five runners and a cheery wave goodbye to Fanny and Amanda.

I was one of the 11 Goodgym-ers who signed up for this task, and this was my experience. I completed the task on my way home after finishing a long day shift.

I’d also like to share a little story from earlier that day. On my way to work, I was walking (and occasionally jogging!) across the common carrying my litter grabber. I noticed a lady feeding the hawks with some bread, which I thought was lovely. However, when she finished, she simply threw the empty plastic wrapper onto the ground instead of putting it in a nearby bin.

She was walking just ahead of me, and I found myself wondering whether I should politely remind her that it wasn’t the right thing to do. After a moment, I felt it was the right time to say something. I walked past her, slowed down, and kindly said, “You can put that plastic in the bin, you know.”

She looked at me, noticed the litter grabber I was carrying, smiled, and seemed to acknowledge what I’d said. Perhaps seeing me with the grabber made her think, “That makes sense.” I’ll never know, but I hope it encouraged her to dispose of her rubbish properly in the future.

I walked away feeling surprisingly empowered. It reminded me that sometimes it’s all about choosing the right moment and using a respectful approach. A simple, kind reminder can make a difference.

I hope that small conversation made a positive impact. If we all help each other in little ways, we can keep our community clean and make it a better place for everyone to live.

Be part of the solution, not part of the problem.

Cecilia D🍀

Note: By the end of my litter pick, my bag was mostly filled with recyclable items.

A few people came online to do yoga.

Yoga talk

Balancing and spreading your toes helps to create a strong, stable base (something you can’t do in your shoes). This not only helps you to keep your balance in a tree pose (or a similar one-legged pose) but it can also strengthen your feet, helping to prevent foot problems. Yoga helps you get acquainted with your feet!