I decided to start this while sitting on a sunbed in Fuengirola, after some of the most turbulent years of our lives. It felt like one of the first proper moments I’ve had to step to the side, breathe, and actually think about myself and my own life. After nine months of no real rest at work, and with responsibilities at home always pulling me in different directions, it feels like I’m forever chivvying through each day. 

In many ways, life has felt like a constant cycle of one step forward, two steps back. My husband has fought cancer and had another scare last year, my younger daughter has dealt with bullying at high school, and we’ve moved house only to find ourselves moving back in with my parents while our new home is being built. The new build has brought its own setbacks too, with what was meant to be ready in February now seeming to have drifted to ready in June instead. It has been frustrating and exhausting, but also a reminder that life doesn’t always move in a straight line.

We’ve also had to face heartbreaking loss, saying goodbye to both of my in-laws within less than two years of each other, in very different and painful ways. At the same time, we’ve watched our older daughter begin to fly the nest as she travels around the world, which brings its own mix of pride, worry, and joy.

Through all of this, I’m hoping others can relate to the craziness of life - the setbacks, the waiting, the worry, and the moments where it feels like you are trying so hard just to keep moving. This blog is my way of making space for those thoughts, holding onto gratitude where I can, and reminding myself that even in the hardest seasons, there is still strength, hope, and the possibility of new beginnings. L x