Merry Christmas

I wish these pictures were of a snowy disposition but sadly not. We have had some glimpses of sunlight here and there though, and have been for the odd little walk. The winter solstice gave us a dry afternoon so we had a jaunt around the village before heading back indoors to the warmth of home.

There have been parties. So many parties...

Joe is still wary of Father Christmas but got close enough to collect his present.

We've had visitors and good food. The tree - despite three (yes, three) sets of lights now having failed - looks very pretty. Cards have been written and dispatched. Presents were wrapped last night.

The food has now all been bought in, much to my relief. No more queuing and struggling to park and getting irritated. The dresser's groaning under the weight of bottles and jars.

This afternoon I need to frame and deliver a couple of prints. It's bright and sunny so we'll go for a wander, then back here to prepare for more visitors. I'm planning on making shortbread too.

It's official: Christmas Eve and Christmas Day we're closed for business. This past week has seen us entertaining/attending parties/visiting at least twice a day. So for the next few days we'll be holing up and resting and eating. We may not even bother getting dressed.

That should give me the break I need ready for Phase Two: Boxing Day. Trifle-making, buffet-preparing, visitor-receiving. I can't quite believe we're already at December 23rd. Talk about a festive whirlwind.

Joe's looking forward to Christmas. The advent calendar is almost at its end. We have 'reindeer food' he made at preschool ready to sprinkle on the garden on Christmas Eve. There are good things to eat and (despite there being a lack of the Radio Times to refer to) good things to find on TV. I'm hoping we haven't already missed 'The Snowman'.

Jay and Joe have just arrived home after a present-delivering trip. They've also bought yet another set of fairy lights. I'm hopeful LED ones will have a better life expectancy.

Anyway... I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and that you enjoy your own family traditions before thoughts start turning to the New Year.

Thank you for reading throughout 2015. And, of course, for leaving comments. It's been a stressful year in many ways, what with bereavements and house moves and starting a business. But I've been able to share lots of good things too.

I may be back to post between now and January 1st. If not - I'll see you on the other side!

Sarah x