I think it's fair to say that we've had an incredible year full of excitement, adventure, laughter and tears. There were times we doubted our decision to move halfway across the world, but they were usually promptly dissolved. There were some really really tough days but we got through them and were rewarded with valuable experiences that we'll cherish for years and years to come. Below are some of the highlights from 2022 and what we have to look forward to this year.

The Move to Riyadh (obviously)

Following months of preparation, I remember the overwhelming range of emotions we went through during the weeks leading up to, and immediately following our move to the Kingdom. The anticipation followed by dread, followed by excitement, anxiety, wanderlust and homesickness, wrapped up and tied with a bow made of stress. And then that wave of relief once we realised we have finally arrived and settled in. Not going to lie, it took months to finally reach this point, but now I couldn't be more content with our decision. It's so exciting to get to know the city, there are so many things to do and the country has so much to offer, we can't wait to see more next year.

Meeting our wonderful nanny

I can't seem to stop repeating how lucky we are to have met so many wonderful people in Riyadh and I can confidently say we have even made a new friend or two. However, there is noone more special than our nanny. Like everything following the move, finding suitable childcare for the boys was also a huge challenge. We tried a number of different avenues and had a few disappointments and found ourselves in some awkward situations before we found her. I just realised it's not unlike dating around trying to find the right fit. We got lucky, the boys adore her and she's made such a difference in our lives. I hope she will be with us for as long as we're here.

Having another toddler

Baby turned 1 at the end of last year and it's so great to see what a spirited, jolly and confident toddler he's grown into, not unlike his big brother. I absolutely love having two toddlers, seeing them play together warms my heart every time.

And in 2023 we'll be...

Preparing for friends and family to visit

My bestie will be visiting us at the end of February and I couldn't be more excited to show her around the city. I'm busy taking note of all the places I'd like her to see, all the restaurants that offer local or regional cousine to try, and some of the unmissable events on the tail end of Riyadh Season. We also decided on going to AlUla for a weekend, which will surely be incredible.

Visiting home

Surprisingly, neither of us suffered from homesickness during the Holidays as we kept so busy there was simply no time. But now that our first trip back to London is coming up, I get all nervous and excited whenever I think about it. I'm busy contacting everyone to make sure we get to see as many of our friends as possible, arranging dental checkups and hairdresser appointments (I have trust issues when it comes to my hair). I also have a running list of things we need to buy to bring back with us. I realised there are some things we can't seem to get our hands on and are unable to live without. I might make a post about these once we return!

Getting a car

So this one is important because we're still renting and the rental car isn't a 4x4 meaning it isn't suitable to go out camping to the desert. I've been banging on about driving out for a sunset picnic while the weather isn't too hot, but we can only do it once we have an appropriate vehicle.

For a change, and despite the doom and gloom predictions in the media, I'm optimistic and looking forward to what 2023 has in store for us.