Happy Holidays - Cheers to 2012

Santa on the Southern motorway, Auckland

Well, here I sit, finally relaxing at Mt Maunganui after what seems like the craziest of years, taking a deep breath and enjoying a fine glass of champagne. Though it sometimes feels I was the only one exhausted by the events of the past year, my mother- in-law has rightly reminded me that everyone has had a crazy year. I won't be alone then in saying "Cheers - I'm sure glad I made it through that one!"


So, as is often the case at this time of year, its time to reflect, take stock, give thanks, and make sure to get enough relaxation for the next installment. Or....... here's another version we decided on over Christmas dinner last night (and I like this even better):

Look back, look forward, and drink lots of champagne in between!

Looking back

• Mark and Cath had Felix in February and we became fairy god parents
• Went to Melbourne and Rutherglen for Stu's birthday in March.
• Canada for my Mom's big 70 in April.
• Bought a new Car - dogs friendly of course!
• Melbourne again for Adam's big 40 in Sept.
• My baby sis got married in October - a fabulous occasion, complete with lots of family from overseas. 
• A busy year at work - a bit all consuming but kind of rewarding just the same.
• Not the healthiest year - lots of colds and flus so next year will hopefully be a bit better.

 Add a few (too many!) fabulous wine and food events and presto the year was as eventful as ever.
As always, I am thankful for my great family and friends who made this year and this life more interesting. 

Christmas Dinner: Confit Duck with Cranberry Dressing and a nice glass of bubbles

Looking forward

• Tomorrow we are going to visit next year's new additions, our Airedale pups who will be coming home around end of January. I am certain that will keep us entertained.
• We just won a trip to Margaret River in Western Australia, the most amazing prize, care of our favourite wine shop, First Glass in Takapuna.
• Al and I turn a mid way milestone birthday this year (a bit scary! half way to another 'oh')
• We are already muting the possibility of next Christmas in India.
• More crazy work/life balance challenges
• Hopefully some productive new years resolutions on the health front
• And of course lots of fun food and wine events

So....... Here's to the bubbles in between.

Right now here's to relaxing and living for the moment! Next year will be busy enough.

All the best for the holidays, may the bubbles flow for you also, and may you feel nice and recharged by the time the next year begins.

Cheers!
Ev

The view on boxing day from my Mother In Law's House, Mount Maunganui.  A bit overcast, but not too bad