Our July has been both quiet and full of noise.

Matariki nights, floating paper stars on the steel partition — our own small tradition. Blanket-wrapped evenings on the couch, popcorn in hand, watching a film as the light fades outside. Mornings of sleeping in far too late, then sitting down to brunch with sleepy, unbrushed faces. Afternoons lit up with paint, shells and gem stickers, everyone lost in their own small burst of creativity.

And weaving through these quiet little days — small guests arrive for sleepovers, padding around in their prettiest pyjamas. The trampoline, finally free of the midday heat, gets crowded again and again. The birds scatter at the sound of the children, and the neighbour's cat, who'd come round for an afternoon nap, shakes off its paws and leaves.

A holiday that drifted along with no plan at all — and for once, we properly rested. These few days of catching our breath will carry us through.

Happy holidays, everyone.