It is with great joy I write this blog, it is a perfect opportunity to reflect, reminisce and enjoy the memories we have made this year.
For all those who have listened and helped us reduce our consumerism we all enjoy our memories far more than tripping over the latest 'in' toy that has now gone out of fashion.
January saw us return to France and a different location of St François Longchamps for what is turning out to be an annual skiing trip. We live so closely attuned to the seasons the winter effects us all badly! A good dose of sun and exercise gives us real enjoyment in the darkest month.
Mia managed to get along to an archery and falconry day put on by the winter activities team from the sailing charity Horizons.
We also welcomed Elsie our dog, a big decision but one as she starts to settle we are more and more pleased we took. For all the extra hassle (customs) she has already proved her worth as a fierce (on the outside) protector of her pack.
February was spent preparing for our big trip, lots of work, vaccinations for Elsie and lovely trips out socialising our puppy to all life may throw at her.
March had been long anticipated, Mia and Jacob celebrated their birthdays. With Jacob lucky enough to go to the local clip n'climb with the Beavers on his birthday.
Shortly afterwards we started our journey to Portugal. We got to stop in France and see my aunty (and lost a lifejacket) it was so lovely seeing where they lived after all these years. We continued our journey down stopping in Spain and arrived in Portugal the day before Mia's birthday.
Highlights of Portugal, to name but a few, the visit to see the dinosaur footprints and museum in Lourinhã, Lisbon's castle, the food was delicious, Serpa's Easter parade and most importantly much needed family time.
April we were still in Portugal for the beginning and en route back thr children still rave about the thickest hot chocolate they have ever tasted it was glorious.
On our return the children joined in Surfing Lessons and Canoeing needless to say it was difficult to get them away at the end. Mia started sailing again with Horizons
May was spent mostly enjoying our gorgeous surroundings with each other and friends and we had a lovely visit to the Maritime museum with family, Jacob really wanted to see the Titanic exhibition quite chilling but an important part of history to understand.
June we had a homecoming visit from family showing them the local sites and lots of lovely walks.
Then we got away and had a lovely escape to France and Falmouth only problem is it wasn't long enough.
July was a busy month beginning in Falmouth for Mike's dinghy sailing course. The most gorgeous weddingil in Kent and a week in Lymington for Scout Camp
August was amazing with us all going Boardmasters. So much fun and an important reminder to us all to careful with what we buy and to look after what we have. We also were visited by more family and visted Pendennis castle with them which was awesome.
September saw us return the visits and a trip to Paultons park with them all.
Mia also got to go on her first cub camp with 1st Millbrook. It was a great camp and I got to join in for the day too.
October was another epic month,
Jacob got to go to Morwhellham Quay with the Beavers and Mike volunteering for 14th's sailing course saw us stay in Tonbridge and visit family and friends.
In amongst all of these larger planned things, it is the lunches or dinners shared as a treat, ice-creams, hot chocolates on the piste, the days out exploring, English Heritage membership, theatre and museum trips that make life all the bit more fun (and tasty!).
In whatever way you have contributed and been part of our memories this year a huge THANK YOU to all of you. No one can take these awa and they are building the blocks of adventure in our children inspiring our Pirates to dream big and work hard. Hopefully making us all humble to know we are such a small part of this world with a huge part to play in protecting our future.
Much love from all of us
xxxxx