a year

It's been that long ... Plus a bit more! In a new country, a new culture, a very different set-up, with a new little person in our family, for just over a year.  We left what we were familiar with. We left our friends and family and moved to a different set of friends and family. It has been an experience. There were some bumps along the way. Although it wasn't an unwelcome change for me, we've all had to adapt. And things like that take time. But for now, I'm happy to feel more settled. I've found some lovely new things. I've found some lovely familiar things too. The most surprising thing of all, is that I seem to be finding myself more and more. I guess that's how adventures go! 

We've had new experiences but we've also had picnic iftars by the sea just like we would have in Jeddah!

My parents visited Algiers. It was wonderful to have them here but I was so new here back then, I'd just had a baby AND my husband had to go back to Jeddah ... yes two days after I gave birth!

My aunt also came over in the summer. 

I'm pleased to be knitting and crocheting again. I want to knit and crochet ALL the things! Especially for my one-year old.

In fact, we were inspired by others, such as Ines, to start up our own little craft sessions! Need I mention that much tea and coffee is drunk and much cake is eaten at these weekly, knitty, hooky sessions? Lots of chatter is thrown in too! And one of the best things about having craft-y friends is that they make wonderful things for you (and your baby)!

It's extremely cold here these days. 

Summery days went on for quite a while but then December brought plenty of rain and the kind of weather that has you bundling up before heading out. Better still, you might want to just stay under the covers with hot drinks! Perfect weather for knitting up things to keep everyone warm. 

I've been wearing this cowl to death this winter. I received it in a swap and just LOVE it! 

And oh was I excited when I received it all the way from America and I got post from my family in Malaysia (goodies for baby)!

If you'd like to read more about life in Algiers, you might like to read this and this, where my friends blog all about their lives in this crazy, quirky, place!

I do hope you've all been well this past year and faring well during the winter (if it is indeed winter where you are)!