It takes a village

It's been over a month since my last post.  I have a number of excuses, all of them reasonable but mostly I've just been outside enjoying the beautiful Spring weather with people I love!

After a 2 week vacation (1 week in NJ with my fabulous family and most of the following week in sunny Puerto Rico with 3 of my favorite people)  I am back home and attempting to settle back into normality. 

One thing that I've come to realize this past month is how important surrounding yourself with amazing people is.  I am so lucky to have a wonderful network of friends and family on both sides of the Atlantic. 

Something that I've really come to appreciate is the fantastic village where I've lived for the past (almost) 5 years.  Although it's a rather sleepy village without a shop, there is always something going on; especially now that the weather is nice! 


In traditional English style we celebrated the Royal Wedding with a street party.  A huge stretch of the road was closed off in front of the village hall and church and everyone brought picnics and set up tables right in the middle of the street.  The kids were able to run free and had an amazing time taking part in relay races, playing games,  having their faces painted, and eating loads of food!  Most Fridays the village pavilion opens and families all congregate on the cricket ground to enjoy a drink and watch the kids play on the playground or run across the open field.  Because it's a small village everyone knows everyone else and the kids all play together, regardless of their age. 

I grew up in a small suburban community with much the same feel.  There was a strong sense of community, lots of kids and frequent parties and events planned.  I'm so glad that I've found a similar place to raise my family!  I love the idea that my children will grow up with friends they've known forever and a community of grownups that they know and trust.