Chickpea's Sunday Flow

The day began in the best possible way: with a Joe Wicks workout to shake off the sleep, followed by the Zoe podcast. By coincidence—or perhaps gentle rhythm—the podcast aligned perfectly with my Sunday once again. Today’s episode was all about the benefits of coffee, which felt particularly fitting. Coffee is still new to me, but ever since Coconut (my mum) introduced me to an espresso in Berlin, I’ve discovered how much I enjoy the ritual, the gentle lift, and even the way it helps curb cravings.

For now though, my morning remained grounded: plenty of water, and a much-loved green tea—the first in a long while, as I usually favour herbal infusions these days for better sleep. And because dinner the night before had been on the late side, I decided to lean into the chance for a little reset, delaying breakfast until later in the day.

At 10am, excitement arrived in the form of a four-legged visitor for a familiarisation session. What a joy he was—full of curiosity, energy, and charm. He made himself right at home, exploring with enthusiasm and a wagging tail, and it was easy to imagine how well he would fit into our family rhythms. I can honestly say we’d look after him with love and care, given half a chance.

Of course, Roxy the cat had her own opinions. She was sparked out on the sofa when our guest arrived, and while I could have carried her off to a quieter room, I decided to let her remain. She’s part of our household, after all, and it’s important for visitors to meet the reality that a cat lives here too. Still, perhaps a little silly of me, as her hissing made it very clear what she thought of being disturbed. But even then, the scene was easily managed—no harm, just introductions on feline terms.

Upstairs, Peanut’s slumber was broken when our furry guest bounded happily onto his bed, which earned an indignant, sleepy protest. Meanwhile, Lentil, waking up just too late, was in tears at having missed out on the first cuddles. By the time she finally made it to the kitchen, though, Roxy was calmly perched beside her on the bench, staring at the milk in Lentil’s cereal bowl as if nothing had happened. Balance restored in its own way.

When my afternoon meet-and-greet was moved, I filled the space the best way I know how: with food. Lunch was a feast of colours and textures—Oliver’s Bakery rye sourdough from yesterday’s trip, creamy avocado from Tesco (they’ve been perfect lately), juicy allotment tomatoes, soft-boiled egg, leafy greens, seeds, and a drizzle of Greek olive oil. Simple, nourishing, and wonderful.

After hanging up the washing, I sensed Lentil and Peanut needed space, so I slipped out for a purposeful walk. I stopped to refresh one of my posters that had suffered in the recent rain. It had survived the wind thanks to tree cover but not the damp—though a few earwigs seemed grateful for the shelter.

My route led me to Aromas, an independent coffee shop I used to visit more often. After the Zoe podcast’s reflections on coffee, today felt like the perfect time to return. One small espresso later, I felt renewed: no cravings, no need for my usual banana and almonds, just contentment and water to carry me through.

On the way, I passed under Walton Bridge, where I noticed another change: graffiti, once stubbornly sprayed across the wall, had been scrubbed clean. From there, the path opened to the cricket pitch, where a ladies’ match was in full swing—a refreshing sight, full of energy and colour.

I wasn’t the only one enjoying the day. A group of “beavers”—mini scouts—were out by the river, clipboards in hand, busily ticking boxes and comparing notes. Later, near the café by Walton Bridge, I overheard one of those amusing exchanges that stays with you:“You really need a wee after five minutes of walking the dog? Go into the ladies, I’ll wait here.”“Ok, Mum, but can you get me a drink?”

By the time I looped back home, my watch rewarded me with over 10,000 quality steps. I still can’t decide whether I prefer the route to Garsons or to Weybridge, but one thing is certain: in Walton, you don’t need a car to enjoy Surrey’s best walks.

Back home, I lengthened my spine with a forward fold before dinner. The day closed in the kitchen with aubergine caponata, orzo, and crispy capers—rich, tangy, and deeply satisfying.