We’ve had a lovely 2025 with a lot of firsts for the kids as they emerge from the toddler years. We’ve been noticeably less ill, finally, and enjoying a bit more free time and head-space now the kids can entertain each other a bit more.
Henry turned 4 in August with a pirate ship bouncy castle in our field. He started school in September and has been really enjoying it, especially phonics. His teacher has been fantastic and he’s made a lot of friends. He still spends most of his home life as a character of some sort (Santa, currently) and inventing things with cardboard, Blu Tack and Lego.
Robyn will be 3 in March and is enjoying nursery 3 days a week. She’s been loving bouldering and gymnastics with Em on her days off. She gives Henry a run for his money physically and is pretty confident with unfamiliar kids and adults now. She likes dancing and singing and is always keen to get out of the house.
Emily has spent her child-free days working in the field, taking care of our new chickens and preparing to grow some cut flowers next year. She's performed in town with a samba drumming band and joined a Rapper (sword) dance group in the evenings.
Like half of the tech industry, Sam was laid off in March, but found a similar job managing mobile developers remotely for a US pizza app called Slice. He had fun getting to know his team at a gathering in Belfast and re-hired his friend Ben from Sendwave. Sam and Em still manage to go bouldering together most weeks and Sam plays board games with another local dad.
The kids flew in an aeroplane for the first time in June on our way to a Eurocamp in Pisa. It was very hot but we had a great time in the water park. Dance Camp was fabulous as ever and we’ve had many lovely visits to friends all over the country. Thank you so much for having us.
We’re at home in Sheffield for Christmas this year, which we expect Meg is most pleased about. She's showing her age (11 or 12, we're not sure) but still enjoys a slow walk to the park when it's not too cold or wet.
Hope you have a wonderful day and see you next year!Love Sam, Emily, Henry, Robyn & Meg x