Starting the week by writing the Happy List is something I’ve been doing for the last few years. It’s my chance to sit down and reflect on the little or big things that made me smile in the previous week, as well as to record some of our family adventures.

Five Happy Things {Week 1/2026}

I love the week after Christmas. I had the whole week off, as did the teens, so we planned a few trips. Our first event was for me Lil’ Sis to go and watch Elf the Musical at the Aldwych Theatre. We didn’t manage to watch the film version this year but the musical was great. Beforehand we went and spotted the new Banksy at Tottenham Court Road (before it gets covered up) and did some shopping and had lunch.

We took both the teens to Simply Race in Milton Keynes. Big Brother loves to race and this place was recommended to him by a friend. They had a couple of races and then we went for a yummy lunch at Wagamama, one of our favourite places.

The weather has been cold and icy but that didn’t stop us having a few more days out. Strawberry Hill House and Garden in Twickenham had been on my list for a while and we visited it whilst it was decorated for a Georgian Christmas. We also went to Dennis Severs House in Spitalfields (which was a Christmas present from my husband).

I set my 2026 Goodreads Reading Challenge with a goal of 24 books to read, so hopefully that makes two a month. I love to read so I’m hoping this target will encourage me to keep reading but not put too much pressure on me.

We usually do something to our house over the Christmas holidays. We have been busy moving furniture around and found a 1960s drink cabinet at the recycling centre which we will be using soon.

I hope this inspired you to look for your own five things this week. See you back here next Sunday!