Never ones for the dull life, the Rookes are growing again. This time we've decided to get a dog. After much heart searching, deliberating, ignoring and avoiding (parents); and much pleading, begging, nudging and cajoling (kids); we've finally relented happily agreed to get a cute furry thing. Exact flavour isn't 100% finalised but likely to be in the ballpark of a spaniel type furball. It's a big decision as taking on the commitment given our lifestyle isn't without it's cost; but overall the benefits definitely will outweigh any hurdles. And the kids were clearly delighted when we told them whilst celebrating our 9th family birthday. In fact, in true Niomi style I don't think she has topped talking about getting a dog since!
One of the many beautiful things about adopting a small person is that every year we get to celebrate a family birthday, which is the day Niomi joined us and our family was fully formed. I think though that this years news topped all other previous birthday presents and we'll be hard pushed to ever beat that again!
And in other Niomi news, whilst Chloe was visiting I managed to sneak a video of her singing. Despite having a beautiful voice, she's normally very resistant to any performance, being put on the spot or sneakily videoed, but Chloe seemed to work some magic and the results were simply lovely. More singing growth please Niomi!
As I emerge from a very frosty start to 2026, its time to pick up the blog once more and have a quick round up of the recent weeks in festive hibernation.
The Southern Rookes arrived on Christmas Eve and we had a lovely Christmas Day of feasting and present opening which included the arrival via Santa of 'Wreck' (or possibly Reck) a rather large toy dog that Niomi transports everywhere. I think he was the highlight of my Christmas as he's given Niomi a greater sense of comfort and confidence in a world that can at times be challenging for her. Well done Santa! And following swiftly on from the big day itself was the arrival of the Dutch contingent to bring much energy and laughter into the mix. Despite my brother being a little unwell, we spent a lovely time sharing quality time with each other which included a meal at the Broadcroft, a great trip to Edinburgh and the giant lanterns at the zoo (joined by the Gurneys), and an enjoyable trip out to see Zootropolis 2. We played many games, ate too much, laughed plenty, finished a jigsaw, drank the odd cocktail, and got plenty of fresh air. The weather was kind and the company wonderful - so all in all another great tick of the Kirkymas box.
Then as the grand company left on 29th, we quickly were back out walking in the frosty air with a variety of friends before a night with our neighbours on the 30th, and then we saw in 2026 in style at Viv and Liams! An epic party from which we returned at 4.30am, with the prize to Niomi for staying up late! Thanks to our hosts for a wonderful night. Never before have I tried to play darts at 3am in the morning after drinking more than advised by any health and safety darts officiandos.
And then it was off we go 2026. There was more walking everyday in the stunning crisp weather. I started to get my body back into shape after its December lull. Work and school started. And then before we knew it Emily was away on the school ski trip to France and my niece Chloe had reappeared to record the Music and Meditation podcast for Radio 3 with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra.
So if the first 12 days of 2026 are anything to go by then we are in for a wonderful year and the diary is already getting well booked up. 2025 wasn't my favourite for a variety of reasons but this years started with a bang so let's hope it continues. Happy New Year all! May 2026 be a great one for us all.
