CHRISTMAS NEWSLETTER
DECEMBER, 2021 (but really… March, 2022)
The Christmas newsletter is over two months late but IT IS HERE! Meri Kirihimete and happy 2022 to you all.
Photos above - Dan with newborn Maia (captured by Sarah Clements), Vic with Maia at 4 months (captured by Sarah Clements), Hagley Park, Christmas polaroid
Life
The most significant event of 2021 was becoming parents to Maia Elizabeth Jo. Our beautiful daughter was born at home on 13th March. She weighed a healthy 9lb/4.1kg and was named after Nannie Jo (Joanne Shelley), Nana Di (Dianne Elizabeth), Aunty Millie (Melissa Annie Jo) and Aunty Libby (Elizabeth Amie Jane). My labour and birth experience was full of wonder. With the support of Dan, my Mum, and our team of midwives - Jo, Heidi and Rachel - I transformed into a mother… and every day since has been so full of love. Watching Maia grow from a delicious newborn to a nearly-one-year-old has been the best journey of my life.
Through parenthood, we have made some wonderful new friends, and are so grateful that we have ‘the crew’ to share this chapter with. Our families have also made a big effort to visit us often, and have been such a great support (especially when we have been feeling particularly sleep deprived!). Some awesome trips together have been to Auckland, Ashburton, Maruia Springs, Hanmer, Mount Maunganui, Whangapoua, and the Catlins! We love visiting the extended family as much as we can.
Towards the end of the year, Dan and I made the bittersweet decision to sell our home - the first property we bought together, and the home that Maia was born in. We have very fond memories of our time there and certainly miss our wee sun-trap! Settlement date was the 1st February 2022, so we were busy packing and preparing to move in the New Year. We are now living in the house that was our rental property until we find something bigger. House hunting takes up a large chunk of our weekends and we are hopeful the right place will turn up soon!
Health
Over winter, Dan enjoyed playing for Christchurch Rugby again, his third season with the team. I walk often with my māmā friends, swim at the local pool, and go to yoga when I’m able.
In September, I had emergency surgery to remove my burst appendix. I spent two nights away from Dan and Maia in Christchurch Hospital. A silver lining was being in my own room overlooking Hagley Park, where I could sit in bed watching the kererū. We were so grateful for Dan’s mum, Di, and our friends - Storm, Amie and Chrissy - for supporting us the week after the operation. They rostered themselves on so I had someone with me every day to help with Mai.
Work
Dan continues in his role as Contracts Manager at Division, which is busy and varied! I became qualified as a validated member of CANZ (VCANZ accredited) which means I can now officiate registry ceremonies, as well as personalised ceremonies. I have really enjoyed experiencing both types of ceremonies over the busy wedding season.
Future Adventures
Maia’s first birthday is coming up soon and we can’t wait to celebrate with our best girl! Cheers to the coolest kid I know.
Aroha nui,
The Thomas fam xxx