Christmas Eve

Last week was a flurry of Christmas activity. Carol services, a pantomime, a party and carols around the tree. In between times I had all good intentions of finishing the gift wrapping but, just as expected, I only finished it earlier today.  Not that there was a lot left to do, it was just getting the opportunity to do it, if you know what I mean.

Once school finished on Friday, we were able to relax and enjoy a little weekend break in Chester. It has become somewhat of a tradition to take some time out  just before the day itself and visit a Christmas market. Last year we were in  York and, although much smaller, Chester market was just as delightful. Sitting and drinking mulled wine in the cold evening air soon had me feeling festive. We walked the city walls and even managed to squeeze in a visit to Santa before he had to dash off and get ready for his busiest time of the year.

Since returning home we have been finishing our Christmas preparations. I have been baking up a storm in the kitchen and we now have fresh bread, mincemeat slices and gingerbread cookies (which are disappearing at an alarming rate.) The gingerbread house has already been eaten.

As is usual for us, late this morning, we took ourselves off for a walk to get some fresh air. And what a beautiful morning it was - there had been a hard frost overnight and it was a bright, sunny day. The grass was white with frost and Lily skated across the frozen puddles declaring she was the Ice Queen. Further on, through the fields, she was trying to get up close to the sheep to wish them a Merry Christmas. Suffice to say they were not terribly impressed.

This evening there is a star shaped gingerbread cookie and some wine left under our tree for Santa and, of course,  a carrot for Rudolph. Our bedtime story was 'Twas the Night before Christmas and the house is now quiet and still but, I  know, tomorrow it will be filled with joy and excitement.

I wish you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas.
J. X