2011 :: the year that was

On one level it feels like not much happened in 2011, but reflecting more closely on the past twelve months it becomes apparent that the year was in fact rather action packed.

In 2011 we painted four rooms (three bedrooms & a lounge room), installed a new kitchen and ensuite bathroom and have almost laid a new floating floor throughout the main living areas of our home. That’s not bad considering we were also juggling both working full time, two smalls, a pregnancy and then three smalls.

We took a holiday to beautiful Margaret River and swam our hearts out at the gorgeous beaches. We ran through forests and drank lots and lots of milkshakes. More importantly we treasured some much needed family time.

The year started with us as a family of four and it ends with as an established family of five. Baby O’s arrival is an obvious highlight. What a gorgeous son and brother for us. We gained one baby and lost another. Ms. M started the year as a baby but she is now a fully fledged little girl. No dummy, no nappies, no floaties, no help needed to put on her shoes. She is becoming more confident and social. A bitter sweet realisation indeed.

E. thrived too. In the course of 2011 he learnt to write his name, he learnt about letters and numbers and discovered a deep love for rhyming words and assonance. He can now ride a bike and dive to the bottom of the deepest part of the pool. In 2011 he went to his very first school disco. At the end of the year he now initiates trying new foods (although rarely finishes them) and sleeps past 6am in the morning a little more regularly. There is hope!

2011 saw every member of the family have a stint at a hospital. E’s MRI, Ms. M’s ankle (after falling off the bunk bed), Dave’s quinsy and baby O’s birth and stay in the special care nursery. Here’s hoping that in 2012 we avoid hospitals all together.

Creatively 2011 wasn’t as productive as I’d liked. Whilst pregnant I was too tired and after baby O’s birth rather busy (and still tired!). Still I finished a crocheted blanket of E and Ms. M each this year and am half way through a cot blanket for O. I also managed to complete some re-fashions for the children and sew myself some maternity skirts. So it wasn’t a total loss.

… and now it is time to draw the curtain on what was all in all a great year for our family. The year ends with me feeling very exhausted, here’s hoping a fresh year will help recharge the batteries.

I wish you and your family a very happy New Year!