Read
January was so busy and full of illness, that it left me with little energy or enthusiasm for reading. That said, I have an extensive list of books I’ve read over Christmas. These include:
Boston Terrier (Smart Owner’s Guide) – As we picked up our Boston Terrier puppy on New Year’s Day, I used some downtime on holiday over Christmas to swot up about what we were taking on. Of course nothing can prepare you for the real thing (bit like having a baby!), but we are getting there.
Jet (The Marked Men, Book 2) – Sizzling hot, easy read that was perfect for lazing around the pool with one eye on the children (you can’t read more than a few sentences at a time when you’re doing that, so you don’t need anything that requires too much concentration, if you know what I mean).
The Sad Man – a novella I downloaded from the author’s website, written as a sequel to his Danci Lancing series. I was in awe of the characterisation of the hero in this story – such complexity and depth.
Watched
The busy month of January ended with my middle daughter performing in the annual Pantomime of the Sevenoaks Entertainers. She is in the Young Entertainers group and they played a small part in the Snow White show, being also involved in the main ensemble numbers.
The Entertainers are a non-profit organisation, with the panto being their main show each year, involving both young and adult groups. They always work incredibly hard and put on a fantastic performance. This year’s was no exception.
In between all this (on the same weekend – of course it would be wouldn’t it?), I took my daughter up to Bristol to compete in her first Acro gymnastics competition. Previously, she has competed in floor and vault, so is no stranger to the process, but has only been working with her partner since just before Christmas.
The girls perfected their routine in just a few weeks and did a fantastic job. I was so impressed by how much they had come on since getting together as a pair. It was a long and tiring weekend, but it’s worth it when you see your children doing something they enjoy and doing well at it too.
Made
My children are flagging this term (not surprisingly). It’s always a tough time of year for them. To help them on their way, I like to make a big batch of my favourite porridge.
I make it the night before and assembling it all in the morning takes a matter of minutes.
This one had apple and pear with cinnamon and walnuts. Hot or cold it works well, but a hot breakfast is just the ticket for these cold mornings don’t you think?
Heard
No offence to the Bieber, but I’m getting sick of his songs played over and over on the radio. On our way up to Bristol and back, we heard all of them at least three times each way. There’s such a thing as overkill you know!
And lastly…
I mentioned last week how fed up I was, as I felt I had made a rubbish start to the year. I would like to thank everyone who came back with encouraging and supportive comments. I am happy to report that I seem to be going about my day with a little more purpose this week, rather than dragging myself through the motions. I’ve got some of my energy back!
This comes after feeling ill for almost two weeks and of course with everything that was going on last month, it didn’t help. This post is just a snapshot of what we’ve been up to. It was a full on start to 2016, but things have calmed down now and we’re back to a bit of normality.
Hurray for February!
What a busy but exciting weekend! Drama and gymnastics performances! That gymnastics routine photo is fantastic, they obviously put a lot into their routine.
Have a lovely (hopefully a little more relaxing!) weekend ahead xx
My daughter took that photo as a still from the video clip and then did some editing on it.
I’m knackered after reading this! Glad to hear that you’re feeling better hon xx
Got ideas flowing round my head again after all the fog has started to clear. Feels good!
How are you finding the new canine addition to your family? We have a 7 month old cocker spaniel who is going through his rebellious teenage stage, talk about wearing me out!
Your girls sound very active. Lily would love to do gymnastics.
Sevenoaks, I used to live nearby 🙂
Have a great weekend xx
He’s just over 5 months and like a naughty toddler! Good fun though, but taking some adjusting to seen as my youngest child is 7 and we’ve long been past the needy stage! Cocker spaniels are lovely. Quite energetic though?
Glad you’re feeling better and I’m not surprised you were tired – what a month! xxx
Did I mention we had two birthdays as well?!
That gymnastics routine looks amazing! And how cute is your new puppy! Have a great weekend 🙂
He is cute, even if he is a pain! Thanks for stopping by.
A wonderful update, Nikki. It’s a good illustration of how positive events happen in the wake of tough ones, and all of it intertwines. You have much to be proud of.
It’s true. Busy but with lots of positive events occurring and yes, I am very proud.
Great to read you are feeling better. 🙂
Busy time! xx
Thanks. Yes it was, always is in January.
That picture is AMAZING, love it. Such poise and perfect pointe. Glad you’re feeling better, what a busy week xxx #LittleLoves
Thanks. It’s taken from the video as a still, then my daughter did something clever with it. Came out well though.