Last year was pretty spectacular for London. The huge spectacle of the Diamond Jubilee and the Olympic and Paralympic Games did a good job of making the city feel like there was a real community spirit.
Personally 2012 was a mixed bag for me but ended on a good note. Throughout the year D and I hosted some of my closest friends from Canada.
It was great because usually I only have 2 or so weeks every year to try to fit in visits with friends and catch up. Inevitably I end up feeling stressed and in need of another holiday after returning to London. Much nicer to have people visit if they can. Also any expat will tell you that one of the best things about living abroad is being a tour guide when friends and family visit.
Career wise things were steadily getting worse until halfway through the year I found a new job. Instantly things changed. It was much needed and the timing was spot on. It has allowed me to have much needed balance in my life. No more shift work and working through every holiday.
As far as travel is concerned I will have to stick to the UK for the time being. I’ve had an application in for my next visa since August last year, which means no passport. The good thing is there is still so much I want to see in the UK and a ton of things do in London that I’m sure I won’t have a problem keeping busy.
Finally, my unintended (but much enjoyed) break from blogging is over. I have tons I want to catch up on and write about from last year so that should keep me posting much more regularly. Hope you enjoyed your holiday and Happy New Year.
Most of this post could’ve come straight from my fingers.
Thanks for sharing.
Glad you liked it. Hope you had a good holiday, did you head home or stay in London town for it? I hope 2013 brings good health and wellness your way.
Hey, check my last post for the answer.
I wish the same for you, too. 
Congratulations on your new job!
I look forward to your future posts and pictures.
Thanks Alee! I’ve been getting up to date with everyone else’s posts so time to focus a bit more on mine.
Glad you are back to blogging… I enjoyed your prior postings. ian
Thanks Ian.
Happy New Year Melissa and glad to have you back!
Thanks Jay! Good to be back.
Happy new year! I’m so glad to read that the job is working out and you’re achieving balance in your life! I hope you get your passport soon but yes, UK travel is fun too!
I’m not sure when I’ll return to the blogging world. I think blogging itself had been interfering with my balance. I’ll try break it this weekend!
I think I needed that break more than I knew. It can upset the balance and sometimes become a bit of a burden so it was best to go away and come back to it fresh. Take your time, but not too long!
I’m just excited for you to get your passport back..
You and me both, fingers crossed it arrives soon.
Happy new year to you Melissa. Looking forward to your 2013 posts!