A Christmas in Maidstone

Our sit with Martin and his family in Maidstone carried a special kind of magic, wrapped up in both fur and family. Their home was alive with energy thanks to Nala and Esme, two playful Pomskies, a Pomeranian and Husky mix, whose bright eyes and bounding paws brought joy into every day. Alongside them, five rabbits filled the garden with quiet curiosity, their gentle presence reminding us to slow down and notice the softer rhythms of life.

Most of our days flowed between the garden and the fields that stretched out beside the house. Dylan played with Nala and Esme on the lawn, their games full of laughter and paws tumbling through the grass, while feeding the rabbits became a sweet daily ritual, one of those simple tasks that ground you. Walks in the fields gave us space to breathe, the crisp winter air mixing with the dogs’ excitement as they raced ahead.

This sit wasn’t just about caring for animals, though. It was woven into the heart of our own family story. Maidstone is where Nathan’s family live, and the timing meant we spent Christmas Day surrounded by loved ones, Dylan reunited with his cousins, and the house echoing with the kind of warmth only family can bring. We even celebrated Jack’s birthday, Dylan’s youngest cousin, a reminder of how precious it is to mark those little milestones together.

Martin and his family were so welcoming, opening their home and making us feel part of something bigger. They even put up a Christmas tree for us, a thoughtful gesture that wrapped the whole experience in comfort and belonging.

Reflection from the road: This sit reminded us that home isn’t a fixed place, but a feeling. Whether found in a field walk with Nala and Esme, the quiet care of feeding rabbits, or the glow of a Christmas tree, it’s the moments of connection, with animals, with family, with each other — that truly make us feel at home.