2021 was not a great year. I’m sure many of you will feel the same. I started off the year with the fairly straightforward target of posting on my blog once a week. In the end I only managed 19 new posts. It’s not that I didn’t have the time as I was at home more than ever before but I found it hard to get motivated. As I said, it wasn’t a great year.

2022 will surely be better. It has certainly started that way. I am currently on a wee New Years break with my family in the East Neuk of Fife. I just love it here. We have rented a lovely house for a few days. It has a view of the churchyard here in Anstruther. I know that not everyone would be happy looking at headstones but I’m quite happy wandering round a cemetery so it suits just fine. We’re just a short walk to the coastal path so have enjoyed some gorgeous walks by the beach. Warm clothing essential!

It’s dark at this time of year by 4pm giving me time back at the house to read and to write and to think about the year ahead. I’m not making any promises or resolutions. I’m sure 2022 will not be without its challenges and I don’t need the pressure. I am feeling quite excited about getting back into my family tree so hopefully this year will be more productive. I’m even considering the 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks challenge but only because the story prompts might give me some ideas and not because I think I’ll manage 52 posts. I tried once before. It’s hard!

I always enjoy hearing from folk who have read my family stories. Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to read, like or comment on any of my posts. It’s such a buzz to hear that I’ve helped someone with their research and I know there are a few who have stumbled across my blog and found something about their ancestors that they didn’t know. Of course, that’s a two way street and some of those “accidental” readers have provided me with new information. I love that connection.

I wish you all the very best for 2021. Be kind to yourselves and take time to enjoy small pleasures. This evening for me that will be some Anstruther fish and chips!