Hello 2017

So.  2016. You weren't great. But you weren't too bad either.  You were a definite improvement on 2015.  So I'll take that.

As I sit here on NYE still unpacking and trying to find places to stash things (one really needs to declutter in 2017), looking forward to going to a friends house a littler later today to see in the NY, I thought I'd jot a few things down I am grateful for that came out of 2016.

Buying my own home is # 1. I had no idea I could be so happy to get home.  A far cry from living in the ghettos only a few short weeks ago.  It is small, I paid a premium but it is mine and Lil's.

Travelling to Cananda and Cuba for a month is # 2.  Who knew I had it in me, at 44 (ok, nearly 45) to go it alone for that long.  But I did and I am super proud I created so many beautiful memories.

Meeting the person I shall always refer to as "my hippy" is # 3.  It started with a lot of laughs and fun, taught me so much about just breathing and relaxing and then it was over (don't get me wrong it was terribly painful at times, but we tend to remember the good bits, don't we?).  Thank you, you taught me so much.  I still miss you, you were this huge part of my life for 10 months and then you were gone.  As hippies have a tendency to do when they feel tied down.  Be safe, take care of yourself.  I think of you often.

Starting the foster to adopt program is # 4.  I still have a very long way to go but maybe this time next year I will be getting ready to go to the 9pm fireworks instead of the midnight ones?  I live in hope.

2017 is about continuing to learn to relax, breath and being mindful.  It is about forgiveness and letting go of the past.  Getting myself back on track (and I started that this year but it shall continue) and living.  It is being grateful that Lily is happy and content these days, a far cry from 2 years ago.

It is going back to the gym, starting to cook again (I think I have shares in microwave meals, most of them rubbish) and appreciating what is in front of me.

2017 is no more tears.  About getting out there and socialising.  Trying new things.

Happy New Year to anyone out there reading this. I hope the year ahead is filled with love, laughter and new experiences.

Axxxx