A New Year.

Christmas has come and gone as it always does, lost in a whirlwind of glitter, pine needles and over-indulgence. It was a good one -  filled with all the things I love best, family, friends and Ferraro Roche.

Dee had such fun; her beautiful face practically lit up with glee on Christmas morning, she had such a good time unwrapping (destroying!) her vast amounts of gifts from generous patrons. Mr.D and I decided not to buy anything for her this year, we felt she would be spoiled enough without us adding to the mountain of presents. She is only 15 months old and doesn't really understand.

Christmastime - Daddy, Dee and Uncle Matt

Lost amongst presents! 

For the first time in 4 years we had Christmas with some of my family. It was special. My grandparents are now well into their eighties and I don't know how many Christmases I have left with them, so I took the opportunity to indulge in their company as much as possible. People of the older generation are such interesting souls; my grandparents enrich my life greatly with tales of days gone by, parish gossip and strong morals - we can learn much from them. I sometimes feel saddened that my days with them are numbered, with my Gramps especially who seems weaker this past year. I make sure I visit twice a week, not only do they make a mean cup of tea, but I want to allow Dee as much time with them as possible, so that she too may be influenced by the people who have strongly shaped my life. It worries me that she will not remember them, but I try to take lots of photos so that one day I can remind her of  days filled with the kind of love only grandparents can give.

I lost my maternal Grandad at Christmastime. It was nine years ago this time that he was lost from our lives. I took white roses to his grave to remind him that I love him and that he is always close to me. I wanted beauty to surround him just as our lives are filled with such beauty at this time of year. I miss him still.

We spent New Year with my beloved cousin and her family. We ate, drank and were merry. Nothing fancy of course, just a home-cooked meal, cheap plonk and crap boardgames! Bliss!

A collection of calmer moments

2013 brings lots of exciting things for my little family. We bought a 'house in progress' late last year and January sees the start of our dream home project. I look forward to tracking its journey through my blog.
We go to Thailand soon, which is both exciting and daunting in equal measures. A thirteen hour plane journey with a 15-month old is not ideal but I'm sure Mr.D and I will share the load of our buoyant and forever inquisitive little girl.

Life as always remains busy, tiring, interesting and exciting. I feel blessed going into a new year with so many wonderful things to look forward to. 2012 was full of highs and lows. Those close to me will know what these were - but in essence, I am glad to leave that year behind.

Here is to a new year that is full of all the best things life has to offer. Happiness, hopefulness and above all -  love.

Happy New Year to you all.

Love till next time - L&L x