[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][mk_image src=”https://www.moveitorloseit.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Ann-with-band.jpg” image_width=”800″ image_height=”350″ crop=”false” svg=”false” lightbox=”false” group=”_general” frame_style=”simple” target=”_self” caption_location=”inside-image” align=”left” margin_bottom=”10″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″]So, here we are. All the intricacies of Christmas; the meals, visits, outings, gifts etc. are over and we’ve made it to the end of the year – pats on the back all round.

I wasn’t sure how I was going to find time to write this month but it’s just so nice to hang on to the comfort of the normal while all the Christmas madness is whirling round, both in my head and the world.

I know many people make a New Year resolution which is a nice challenging way to start the new year. I’m wondering how all those in the Lake District, Yorkshire and Lancashire have managed since the disastrous floods during December. It was wonderful to see how many volunteers got stuck in to help. I can’t imagine how the residents felt, losing treasured possessions and during the winter, the cold must have somehow made it worse. I’ve also been reflecting on what’s been a sad and violent time for so many so I’m making a New Year’s wish rather than a resolution; who knows – wishes do come true.

I’ve had all sorts of lovely treats this month. I saw my daughter playing in a local Wind band and although the audience wasn’t invited to join in, I couldn’t resist the temptation to sing along with all the Christmas favourites – and why not indeed! I made my first visit to a Mexican restaurant. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text disable_pattern=”true” align=”left” margin_bottom=”0″]I wondered how I would fare with all that hot spicy food but so many restaurants take account of the growth in vegetarianism and the not-so-hot foodies, that I was spoilt for choice. I’ve also had the pleasure at being school Christmas shows – both junior and comprehensive levels; takes me back to my childrens’ school days and the joy of being invited into their school lives.

One event which I certainly didn’t enjoy was the attempt made to hack into my on-line banking. I didn’t realise just what large and sophisticated crime this is. I’ve had some very interesting telephone conversations with the fraud department of my bank. Due to their diligence, nothing was taken but what an experience that was. I’ve had really excellent support from the bank. It’s been back to the old days before on-line banking – keeping an account of spending and income. Thank goodness for pen and paper eh?

The Sunday before Christmas is a traditional day for me: it’s the annual Wrapfest. My daughters come and spend time wrapping all my presents. I bribe them with lunch (and mince pies of course). We had a scare this time. My daughter Rachael was late (not at all like her) and then I had a ‘phone call from her to say she was on the motorway hard shoulder waiting for the breakdown service. She’d had a tyre blow-out. It was a relief to know she was ok but obviously shaken. I don’t even want to think what might have been! She arrived safe and after lunch, she was fully back to her usual vibrant self. I was privately thanking her guardian angel!!

24^th to 30^th January is Cervical Cancer Prevention week. Knowledge is power and who knows – this time next year could see that final breakthrough which finds a cure. Being hopeful is a good way to start 2016, isn’t it?

Another joyous thought is that we have now had the shortest day. The blades on my lawn mower have been sharpened in preparation. The extraordinary weather has seen the garden blooming and certainly the lawns could do with cutting but I’ll restrain myself till the official start of spring. 

So health and happiness to us all in 2016. If we keep Moving It, we can’t fail!!![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]