Many people are saying that 2016 was cursed because we lost so many beloved celebrities, and even though it did have some lows for my family too, it wasn't all bad. The ending of a year is a good time for reflection and thinking of the future. So, here is my family's 2016 year in review.
Our family had a lot of adventures...
We went to many places in England-Africa Alive! Safari Park, Colchester Zoo, Church Farm, the Anglo Saxon Village, High Lodge in Thetford Forest, beaches in Norfolk, the Royal Family's Sandringham Estate including apple picking in the Queen's Orchard, and trips to London, Cambridge, and many small villages. We also attended festivals and events in our local area.
Separation...
We survived another "business trip" of Hero's.
A Dream Vacation...
Little Man and I went to Paris! The whole trip was like a vivid dream. Growing up below the poverty line, I thought that I might only ever see Paris in books. Even just 5 years ago when my son was born, we were going through such a rough time and struggling to survive each day. I felt such a depth of gratitude for us both being able to have that experience. We walked the streets and explored the famous landmarks of Paris. I got by speaking what little French I could. (I learned in elementary school, but it has nearly disappeared in my study of English and Spanish.) I noticed it helped us get better deals than English-only tourists, especially when buying from food trucks or farmer's markets. We took a tour boat down the river. French food deserves its good reputation! We mostly ate from food trucks and recommendations from locals instead of the overpriced, lower quality restaurants crowding the main tourist areas. It was truly amazing seeing the "Mona Lisa" and other masterpieces in the Louvre! (Thank God they had free strollers!) Every major tourist attraction stop was accompanied by something kid-friendly-a carousel, playgrounds, a caricature artist or street performer, and toy shops. We stayed in a room in a French family's home. I made sure to find a place with many positive reviews and a "Superhost" rating on Airbnb, and we weren't disappointed. A French grandma was our host, and she loved Little Man and gave him some sweets when we checked out. My son has begged to go back ever since, and we're hoping Hero will go with us again this year or the next.
Medical Issues...
Official diagnoses were finally made for health problems I have had for years, including a congenital genetic disorder. Those enabled me to get proper treatments. Healing and progress aren't always linear. So, we did have to go through some deep lows in this journey, but it's good to be able to move forward instead of spinning my wheels. I'm so thankful to have a supportive husband to help us get through it all.
Gardening...
Little Man and I also had a little garden again this year! It turned out pretty well. LM was especially proud of the sunflowers he grew from seeds and transplanted into the beds.
Schooling Changes...
There was big change in our son's schooling. He completed his first year of full time schooling in British Reception. He was one of the youngest in his class (if not the youngest), but he did well. After the summer break, we switched to home educating. So far it has proven to be a much better fit for our family. We participate in a large weekly co-op where parents take turns teaching the classes and organizing social events. I'm also in leadership for a mother's ministry, and the kids get to enjoy being together during our meetings too.
Earning A Little Extra...
I used my arts and crafts hobbies to earn a little extra money for our family. It wasn't much money, but it challenged me to better my skills. I made hand painted home décor items and shoes. I don't think I will be able to make into a full fledged business though until we're back in America. So, this is more like good practice. Seeing families happy about having something unique and meaningful that I was able to create for them is also rewarding.
A Wedding...
Our whole family was able to travel this summer to the States for my younger sister's wedding. She looked like a Disney princess, and I was happy to hear that she also started college soon after the wedding. We were able to spend time with all of my siblings and my mom-a rare privilege. Little Man met his cousin and my brother for the first time and hung out with family he usually only sees in pictures. They showed us around the beautiful landscape and took us out to eat delicious local food. I'm grateful we all had that time together.
So much happened that was unexpected this year. I have many hopes and maybe some surprise announcements for 2017!
I would love to hear your highlights from 2016 in the comments below! Happy New Year!!
