As I wrap up the year, it's time to think about how things were. It's been a really rough time in Sydney as you would expect. The shock and horror turned to a rage that flew around wildly, landing on whatever it could (for me, it was directed on predominately offensive and stupid jerks on Twitter telling us we need more guns).
However, there was a lot of comfort in time with friends. It grounded me. I've also had some nice moments with the kiddos and I've a lot to look forward to. So I will try to focus on that and save you the jumbled thoughts.
Something I loved I've written a few times about fading Christmas traditions and our annual trip to the Hunter Valley Christmas Lights - We just got back from what I am assuming will be the last time.
My youngest had her friend over to make gingerbread - they had Elf running in the background and she brought out her little Christmas tree from her room (as ours was not up yet). It was really sweet to see them enjoying so merrily these wholesome traditions.
Something I learned Christmas carols are called such from the old French word carole, that in the 1300s mean "meant both a joyful song and a form of dance in a circle or ring." It's the joyful nature that makes them carols over hymns. (See post)
Something that went well We couldn't get our normal accomodation in the Hunter due to late booking, but the kids had a great time at the Hunter Valley Christmas lights, and doing our other 'traditions' in the Hunter, even thought the weather was crazy hot. Bonus we discovered the Cold Rock ice cream place in the servo near Cessnock. Added a new tradition to the list. I pointed out to the kids that next year they'd be able to go own their own and go wine tasting and they both looked at me as if that was a terrible idea, which I thought was hilarious...if I get another year as chaparone, I won't complain!
Something I let go of 2025. It's been a good year personally but the whole vibe, globally and with the Bondi massacre, it's just a depressing state of affairs. Too many people are facing persecution, here and in other countries. Too many people are struggling financially. Or just struggling in general. Sorry to end on downer but it's how I'm feeling at the moment. I am trying not to read the news - everywhere seems to be in downward spirals, pending war and terrible treatment of citizens. Not that 2026 will change any of that, but it's mentally a fresh start.
To leave on a happy note, I have to say I've been watching Nazare Surf Competition and you can't beleive how amazing it is. Fabulous skill, extreme rescues and strangely mesmerising. Nature in ferocious beauty. Laura Crane may have ridden the biggest wave, Justine Dupont won the women's again, Lucas 'Chumbo' became everyone's favourite with some scorching surfs, some stacks and nail biting rescues and of course, James Carew, the Aussie.
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WATCHED Nuremberg on Boxing Day and off to Sentimental Value today. On TV just starting Sunny Days and really enjoying Population 11. Both filmed here. Off to my postponed performance of King Lear tonight.
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