Christmas countdown

“Christmas is not as much about opening our presents as opening our hearts.” ― Janice Maeditere

I know I say it each year, but I can't believe Christmas is once more upon us and the end of another year is nearly over.  2013 has been a busy year, with exciting work projects, a new house and a fast-growing little toddler. 

Christmas for me still has all the nostalgia and associations with growing up in England......cold, dark days with twinkly lights in shop windows, Christmas carols being played at home on the record player (yes that's the generation I come from when we grew up with record players) and if we were very lucky some snow for snowmen and sledging.  So, sitting here writing this on a bright sunny, steaming hot 35C day and planning what food I need to organise for our orphans Christmas, doesn't really feel much like christmas.  But really, however and wherever Christmas is spent, it's a great opportunity to catch up with friends and family and take some time to enjoy being together (for a short time anyway!)

Wishing everybody a wonderful Christmas and all the best for the New Year.  :)  

Port Macquarie long weekend

We recently got back from a mini escape to Port Macquarie, which was just lovely.  We were only away for a few short days, but the mini break was perfect to just unwind and take it easy for a day or two.  Little Mr J loved playing on the beach and paddling in the soft waves, and we even found some crabs to put in his bucket which was very exciting.  My formula for a perfect long-weekend escape is quite simple:   Sun + sand + waves + ice-cream = bliss :)