The Holidays are a magical time of year. Amidst the hectic rush of festive preparations and a busy social calendar there is always more kindness, love and joy in the air. And by tuning into that – the love of family and friends, sharing time with people you care about, creating fun new memories, and showing how much people mean to you through word and deed… these joys of the season can remain in our hearts so strongly the entire year through.
On that note I hope that you and those you love have a restful and blessed Christmas. May the light that fills your hearts and home shine brightly after the twinkling tree is taken down… and may you take this opportunity to savour the precious time we have, and seize the opportunities this coming year brings.
As my own family blossoms, I reflect back on this year filled with so many exciting memories, and look forward to what the future holds. Many of you know the best gift for us will arrive in a couple of months, which has me dreaming about next Christmas and how wonderfully different it will be. Life is change, and I feel grateful for every step that has led me to this point (even the times I stumbled).
In what is likely our last Christmas in Oxford I feel grateful for the opportunities we’ve had here; the incredible people we’ve met, worked with and become friends with; and how living in another country has opened up our hearts and minds. It has been challenging to be apart from our family, friends and loved ones for the last two years. But the power of love is that it stretches miles and often strengthens when tested. Our lives have led us around the globe, and because of that pieces of our hearts are scattered across the continents. I hope wherever you are in the world you smile, and feel the hugs and love this message brings – and hopefully life will enable us to cross paths again soon!
May this Christmas bring bliss in the simple wonders and miracles of life. May your love and passions be renewed, and your faith restored. And may you find peace (and perhaps some relaxation) during this time. I hope the coming year finds you hungry, curious, brave and full of love & laughter.
Finally, while we’ve been experiencing some lovely rain and wind in England, many of my friends and family have been challenged by mother nature and a doozy Ice Storm. In the midst of hardship what has come through most strongly is the kindness and generosity of others. And so I leave you with this… and a reminder that all we need is love, and we have so much of it to give!
With much love ~ Erika (Malcolm, Basil and the little “Howard-to-be”)