Is your life today what you pictured a year ago?

A year ago today, I was spending my first christmas after the loss of my very bestfriend, my dad. Two baby boys in tow, a threat to life in place and no certain abode.

There was no christmas tree, no christmas spirit. A very difficult time, however i had to keep a smile for my babies – they were actually the only thing that did keep me smiling 💚

The boys were aged 9 months old and 2 years old, so they still kinda wasnt up to scratch with what was going on. Luckily.

They opened their toys and played with them and still had a lovely christmas day!

However… to picture where we are now to where we were is magical.

My boys, particularly my eldest is now at an age where he understands holiday seasons easter/halloween/christmas.. and this is so exciting as its the very first year it has become so magical.

For every occasion, we have decorated for the first time! And to see their faces just keeps me going, the excitement, their big gorgeous smiles.

So in contrast, this year me and my boys have a certain abode, threat to life dropped and in a safe stable place.

We started the festive season in november by going on the polar express which was absolutely fantastic at Bolton Abbey. They were so excited to have the conductor clip their golden tickets, see the dancing waiters with all the amazing songs from the film. 10/10 would reccomend.

Early december we stayed over at gullivers world, had a day on the rides, went on the train to the north pole, saw santa, and went to the elf workshop to pick a toy. Not only that, we explored the land of lights which was beautiful at night as well as experiencing rides in the dark! We then stayed over in an amazing accomodation which was kinda harry potter themed however it was again just so magical due to little hidden areas and every detail taken care of. We then woke up and had breakfast with christmas characters. Would 10/10 reccomend.

We have been to christmas markets, we have decorated the tree, its absolutely beautiful and i let the boys take charge.

We have absolutely everything prepared and have a lovely time planned with close family 💚

All i can be is grateful for how far we made it and make it as magical as possible.