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 45/2025}

The teens have a two week half term so we took them to Belfast for a few days away. We visited the Titanic Museum; took a black cab ride round Belfast to learn about this history of the Troubles and see the painted murals and Peace Wall; and hired a car and drove up the coast to the Giant’s Causeway.

I love musicals and booked tickets to see Paddington: the Musical which opened last week. The musical is based on characters from Michael Bond’s book series and StudioCanal’s film series, so it felt very familiar. The music and lyrics are by Tom Fletcher, and it was good fun.

Whilst we were in London we went to visit the St Pancras International Christmas tree. This year they have created a 12 m tall tree in partnership with Great Ormond Street Hospital, and it’s a musical box with a ballerina perched on top. You can see some of the hand written wishes of some of the patients at GOSH and of course, make a donation. The tree is up until the 2nd January, so you have plenty of time to go and see it.

The teens both belong to Scouts so took part in the annual Remembrance Day parade on the high street today. They both looked very smart in their uniform.

We found some limited edition gingerbread flavour Doritos which are just perfect for my annual gingerbread themed gift guide. I’ve discovered some lovely gingerbread products this festive season and will be sharing it with you very soon.