Dear New York,

I hope you're doing well. 

It's been a while since we left you, but we certainly haven't forgotten you. You're still very much in my heart. I think of you often and smile, the occasional tear creeps up when I'm feeling sentimental but I'm okay. We left in a bit of a rush, and I'm sure that's a big reason why I just can't seem to get over you. Our time together was cut short, but regardless of that, I'm so thankful that we got to wander and explore while we did. 

We moved to a much smaller quieter town, on the other side of the world really, and she couldn't be more different than you. She's quaint, and sleepy, and friendly. Calm, and slow, and covered in overgrown greenery. Despite the massive change, I'm surprised to find my day-to-day life hasn't changed very much at all! We still hear sirens for late night fires, and see the occasional police arrest. We walk to parks, to go shopping, and sometimes just to get out of the house. We still fill our days with busy toddler projects and games. We still watch cartoons on sleepy mornings and bake yummy treats in the kitchen. The overall scenery has just changed. No high-rises, underground subway rumbles, or relentless cab honking. No verbal abuse from passing strangers, dog poos to avoid on the sidewalks, or pompous rich people snubbing our humble background. No brownstones, stoop sitting or late night catch ups with mom friends in the stairwells... 

We loved living in your city, New York. You have so much to offer, and I can only hope we were able to give, even just a little bit, back. Somehow, while living with you for two years, we missed out on some of your charms and historical characters, dozens of places we didn't make it to but wanted to. We did SO much, and saw so much of you, but still didn't manage to do it all. Which, of course, is why I'm glad you're still there, waiting for us to return. 

I miss you, so very much, but I think my time for grieving is needing to come to an end. It's time to move on, my dear New York. I can't stay sad over you any longer. 

I can't wait to see you again, to return to your gorgeous skyline, become another dot in the otherwise endless sea of faces,  and soak in the electric vibe you ceaselessly expell. It will be an amazing day, when I get to return to you, but until then- I've got to live my life. You can move on, too, welcome new families and visitors alike. Let others leave their small, but important mark on your map. I'll be excitedly awaiting my return to you... And until then,

Stay lovely, New York. I'll love you forever.

This Christmas.

Christmas is approaching quickly and I'm glad to say that, although I'm slacking on the present purchasing, we DID get our tree up.. Our first real tree since we've been married, y'all. Now that's something I can get excited about.   

Out first Christmas was only a few weeks after our wedding and a few days after arriving home from our honeymoon. It was a lovely and quiet one with friends in KC, gathered around my childhood mini Christmas Tree feasting on my very first attempt at making crépes. I think we even did a little secret Santa exchange with a $10 limit. 

The next year was spent in California with Nic's family, and we decided against decorating our apartment too heavily since we'd be gone for 3 weeks! We all got a stomach bug (Nic's parents and sibling included), which made it a little bit miserable of a trip, but we still managed to get out and do some dirt-biking and go-karting, and enjoyed lots of family time. Plus, sharing our exciting news about baby #2 made it a really special trip! 

Last year was spent in Albuquerque with my family, and once again, we decided not to put up a big tree since we'd be gone for a solid 3 weeks. We got to soak in some sunshine, hike and snowboard, and enjoy heaps of quality family time at random brunches and dinners. Truly a wonderful Christmas vacation! 

This year is so different. 

We don't have to travel more than 5 minutes to see family (2 siblings currently LIVE with us, so it's as simple as going downstairs, haha.) We are staying home, and attempting to create some of our own traditions in a new country and a yet another new home. And we have a little preschooler who is TOTALLY into all this Christmas stuff. I am really looking forward to seeing how this side of the world celebrates Christmas. From what I've seen so far it all seems pretty similar. Jesus' birth is a central theme and advent is pretty well observed, in fact, this Christmas marks the 200th year since the gospel was first shared with native New Zealanders, which is super exciting! And of course, the fat man himself Santa, is also all around and a huge part of celebrations. Although, this Santa wears shorts and looks a little bit like a beach bum. Haha. Still rocks a long white beard though! 

Summertime Christmas may never feel normal to me, but thankfully, summer in NZ still means random cold and cloudy days. Which means I can still gladly find an excuse to stay in all day and bake, or drink hot cocoa, or cuddle up and watch Elf! Definitely a Christmas tradition I refuse to let die. :)

Hasta luego, lovely people. 

Precious, isn't she?