There are only two days left of this year and as usual I can't believe how fast it's gone. Life is normally so fast paced that I don't have much time to reflect. There's no time to look back as there's always something new and upcoming to think about. So at this time of year, after this slow magical week post-Christmas it's been the perfect period to look back on 2016, taking stock of just what a year it's been. I know a lot of people will be pleased to see the end of it after some sad events around the world and a lot of political change but on a personal level I have such a full heart and feel incredibly grateful after such a memorable year. Two thousand and sixteen for us has been a fun adventure with moving house and starting our huge project along with unforgettable travels around the globe. As ever, this time of year makes me feel so so grateful and thankful for so much, especially those around me. I love looking back upon these posts, this blog has and will always be a diary for me to reflect upon so thank you for indulging me on this look back on some of the highlights and as ever for reading. 

I'm writing this after eating yet another plate of yummy leftovers and after another long frosty cold walk with the whole family. I love these magical Christmas days when everyone can slow down, not know what day it is and I just wish they could last forever. I try and make it last as long as possible so for me Christmas started back last weekend and ends at New Year, alll the photos below. 

Deck the halls with boughs of holly... Do you remember my deck the halls christmas blog posts over the past couple of years with our old house? {here and here}. Well this year it's all about decorating our new house for the season. Fa la la la la la... It's been so exciting to have new space to decorate and come up with some new ideas this year... Tis the season to be jolly.... 

Our latest renovation project {before the huge project beyond projects started} was in the lounge. You may remember me talking about our plans to open up the chimney breast in here to put a log burner in nearer to our sofas. We finally received planning permission {it's a listed building, normally you wouldn't need planning permission for this} and so set about getting to work on it.. 

It's December already!! This makes me all kinds of happy and I'm so excited for the next four weeks of wreaths, fairy lights, carols, fires, gingerbread and alll the turkey. It really is the most wonderful time of the year, don't you think? It's been a while since I feel like I've written properly on the blog and there's so much to fill you in on!