The Gratitude List

Around every 2 months or so I like to look back and reflect on the little adventures and things we have got up too, when life can feel chaotic this can be a great way to get some clarity as gratitude should be something we aim to practice daily - but with anything it does take practice. I'm not going to beat around the bush, the past 6 weeks have been somewhat up and down for a variety of reasons - technical issues, John hurting his back, adjusting to being a mum to a school age child and the playground politics, new friendships and emotions that come with that and seeing my son grow and learn so much over this year. I also lost a dear friend to cancer, she was only 32 and its times like these that the little things that make you smile and laugh each day really do count.

1. We recently spent a weekend exploring Basingstoke as part of the Made in Basingstoke Festival. We were excited to find out that Jane Austen was born 7 miles from Basingstoke and as part of the festival they had these beautifully artist painted benches dotted around the town as part of an art trail

2. A couple of weeks ago we enjoyed a really relaxing walk through the Newport Wetlands and part the lighthouse looking out across the bay. Simple pleasures are what I love most

3. Dyffryn Gardens is one of our favourite local National Trust properties, I take the children there a few times a month although I recently managed the rare thing that is spending an hour or two there by myself, meaning I could slow down and appreciate all the beautiful flowers coming into bloom.

4. Siblings, there are moments when they are best friends, it doesn't happen all the time but their friendship is certainly starting to bloom, especially on outdoor adventures.

5. I have been trying work on a capsule wardrobe as part of my minimalist challenge and sort out what I really do and do not wear. I will always love the Breton and black jean combo, this look always makes me feel good.

6. We spent a glorious few days away from wifi and social media to enjoy each others company and reconnect with nature at our recent Glamping trip in the Wye Valley at Mad Dogs & Vintage Vans

7. Is there anything better than picking fruit fresh from the source and enjoying big juicy strawberries and raspberries, it's something we do each year and absolutely love it. If your looking for a nice PYO in Wales do check out Hendrewennol

8. I've been trying to find more time to enjoy the things I used to do more of - crafting, creating and DIY was one of those things I find have dropped by the wayside late. So I really enjoyed heading to our local garden centre with my eldest and picking up a few small plants and putting together a little indoor garden - such a lovely craft on a rainy day. I share this on the Days Out With Kids blog if your looking to make your own one

9. My youngest is a born adventurer, he loves nothing more than getting really dirty and stuck in and is not fazed by anything. He loved our glamping breaks much, especially wheelbarrow rides from his brother.