Monthly Musings

I set myself a challenge to write 100 blog posts in a 100 days. I am on 17 which is pretty good, except writers blog hit me on about day 4 so its been a struggle and honestly some of the posts aren’t great so I am taking inspiration from where I can.

I saw these prompts from Good Better Best Life and even though we are in winter now, I thought it would be fun to join in.

Favorite thing about winter 2025

I loved our little getaway to the Western Cape. It was just what we needed. I got to check in with Kiara, we had a little family time and I had an opportunity to catch my breathe and heal a little bit.

We also got to see some beautiful parts of South Africa which was such a treat.

I did also enjoy the fact that our winter was cold. Last year we had a hot winter and so the heat felt relentless for the whole year. This year I have been able to wear my pretty jerseys and scarfs and even my winter pjs.

Favourite thing you ate this winter?

We ate well this winter. Our time in Cape Town meant exploring new restaurants and I got to eat a gluten-free pie for the first time in years. It is such a simple thing but it was so delicious.

Jack, Kiara and I had a divine meal at a little chinese restaurant in Cape Town – it was so good.

I made a delicious oxtail. I have been taking more time when I cook and it is paying off, the oxtail was rich and delicious. Perfect winter comfort food.

Did you see any winter movies?

I don’t think so. Clearly if I did they didnt leave an impression on me. But I did watch the Bear. I watched Season 4 and then rewatched the whole thing ago. It is such a good show.

What books did you read this winter?

I only read one book. Mainly because I didnt plan properly and took a book with us on holiday that I had read already.

I found a book while we were at the dam called “All the Frogs I have Kissed.” or something like that. It was ok.

Ready for spring or hold onto winter?

Oh I am not sure. The last few days have been so cold and I just can’t get warm, which hasn’t been a whole lot of fun. But I have really been enjoying the cold weather.

But also I am ready for the beauty that is spring.

What is different about your winter schedule than the rest of the year?

Not much to be honest. We do also have a 3 week break during our winter which does mean the kids are also on a break for a bit but for the most part our routine stays the same.

We are super lucky that our winters are gorgeous. Beautiful clear days, so we can still get out and do the things we do in summer.

How do you take a break/relax in winter?

This year we were intentional about taking a break. Well I was, my husband is still adamant it was a work away. Our time away was a mix of work and relaxing but not having to manage the kids schedules means I can take a bit of a break from the mental load of life.

Any trips still on the calendar for winter?

Nope, we have done our travel for now. The kids are back to their activities and school and we are trying to get Emma settled nicely into her routine so did have a little getaway planned but have moved it out to later in the year.

Any winter concerts this year?

Nope but to be fair I never really go to concerts.

When does winter end in your world?

For me it ends at the end of August. 1 September is spring day here. Not sure how scientifically correct that is but it works for us. We thought the weather was changing last week to start getting warmer but we appear to be having one last cold snap.