Hello lovelies,
I know that this post is probably a few days (or more) late as 2013 is already 12 days old!
2012 was not a good year for me. I felt very disappointed and negative when I looked back on it.
I thought about losing my job. A job that I loved. Turning 30 in that same week! Discovering a tumour on my thyroid and having endless hospital appointments with the possibility of another on my pituitary gland. Being diagnosed with an anxiety disorder and yet another year with no positive results struggling with infertility.
I am blessed with an amazing husband though with such a great outlook on life and he reminded me of all the lovely things that happened during 2012. I felt embarrassed at the way I looked at things. He reminded me that 2012 was the year we brought home our little puppy who bring us lots of laughter (and sometime "tears" as he has chewed quite a few favourite heels and crafting supplies), but mostly laughter, wet kisses and warm fluffy cuddles. It was the year I received my British passport and we finally got to experience Rome and travel through Italy. Something we have wanted to do for a very long time. My mum came to visit and I got to spent some quality time with her.
I am also blessed with precious parents who taught me the power of prayer and about an Almighty God with endless love for His children. Without their prayers (and I know there were others as well, thank you) I am not sure how things would have turned out, but the lump on my thyroid was benign and there was no tumour on my pituitary gland.
Although anxiety and panic attacks are horrible things to suffer with I now at least know what I am dealing with and can start learning to not let it rule my life and dictate how I live.
I then went to my computer and looked through all my photos of last year and picked out a few that made me smile and wanted to share them with you! I hope you are also able to look back on your year and find some things to smile about and memories to treasure.
Started off the year in South Africa!
My big brother getting married and me gaining a little sister
Snow in February...
never too old for snow Angels... :)
Business meetings..
bringing home our boy...
spending time with these two (above and below)
Training for our Charity Challenge....
Coffee dates with Matt in London....
getting a few unexpected wet-nose-kisses from this cutie pie....
Raising more money for Charity....
Remember you never too old to be silly....
Turned 30 and had a great time...
Love this little bug....
Spending a perfect day with my two boys...
Getting spoilt on my Birthday....
Remembered to lay on my back and look up at the sky (like when you were a kid) 
Had a great time on a craft retreat!
More Training for the big Charity Challenge...
The actual Charity Challenge!!
There were lots of laughter during this gruelling challenge believe it or not...
I had long hair...
Then I cut it and looked like this....
The Queen had her Diamond Jubilee...
just so in love with my pup....
and of course this handsome fellow!
Enjoying the summer..
Matt enjoying old cars and busses...
still not content.. I cut my hair again...
Oh! Hello again!
Louie got his first haircut..
and again...I like this..for now ;)
Meeting a new friend...
catching up with an old friend...
Enjoying a day out with mum...
Ally Pally with mum!
Ready for an adventure? Yes I am!
Pompeii
Mount Vesuvius
Monte Cassino
Assisi
Rome
Ice Cream in Florence
Autumn....my favourite time of year!
Christmas...another favourite
oh, well what do you know this cutie pie just keeps popping up!
Here is to a fantastic 2013. It will be what you make of it. Take all the chances and opportunities that come your way. Say yes to those things that scare or intimidate you. Believe in miracles and take care of those around you.
Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Have a great day!
Love, Cindy x
