Nativity

 

Yesterday, Lily's school enjoyed their annual Christmas celebration in the village church. I say annual, and yet it hasn't been held for the last two years because of the restrictions. Therefore, this year's service felt rather special, and it was so lovely to see children and their family members gathering together again, after all this time. And of course, nothing is quite so festive than some tiny children acting out the Christmas story and singing 'Little Donkey.' 

It seems like no time at all since Lily played the part of an angel when she was in reception class, and yet next September she will begin her final year of primary school. It has all gone so fast and I'm still in denial :)

The day didn't actually begin terribly well. All the snow had melted away, the car had a flat tyre, and then I was needed at short notice to cover for a colleague who was feeling unwell. Even though it seemed like a huge invonvenience at the time, there was a silver lining. The flat tyre didn't occur when we will be travelling later on in the week. And also it was one of the tyres, which believe it or not, I had already arranged to get replaced at the garage today. Working the additional hours also prompted my new contract to be drawn up, so I will be in my current position until the spring, at least. 

Thankfully, I was able to relax a little in the evening. The day had taken it's toll just a little. Not too long to go now. 

J. X

December Weekend

 

I never meant to miss posting over the last couple of days. In fact, I had also hoped to spend some time catching up with a bit of blog reading, it's just that I've hardly stopped. 

🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄

Friday passed by in a blur, filled with Christmas Carols, tiny Angels, Kings, and Shepherds. Then in the evening, I attended my work's Christmas party, which was a lot of fun, and everyone had such a great time. I went with the sequined dress in the end, and I am happy to say it received several compliments. It actually felt good to dress up and make a bit of an effort for once. The dress was a lovely fit, and with it being a little bit stretchy, felt very comfortable to wear, even after I had helped myself to a generous plateful (or two) of food from the buffet :)

The following morning, I was delighted to discover that it had snowed again overnight. It looked ever so pretty, although getting about proved to be difficult. Even so, it was a very festive morning I spent in the town, finishing off my Christmas gift shopping. There was a brass band playing, carol singers, and of course a beautiful snowy backdrop. Better still, I managed to get everything I wanted, and a bit more besides. A box of mince pies somehow found their way into my shopping bag :) 

In the afternoon, I put together our Christmas Crackers. My gift isn't going to be much of a surprise, but I made sure I didn't read any of the jokes before placing them inside. Making them was probably an added hassle I could have done without (noted) but it was quite nice to add some more personal touches to each one, and they are going to look lovely on our Christmas table.

Today I finally got around to drying some orange slices to hang on the tree. I've done this for several years now, and I love how they look against the glow of the fairy lights. I've also strained the Winter Spice Vodka, which had been steeping in a large kilner jar at the back of the kitchen cupboard, since the end of August. I might have enjoyed a small glassful this evening - all in the interests of quality control, of course

In between, I have wrapped and delivered a few more presents, I've eaten more mince pies than can be considered a reasonable amount, and I've thought about the possibility of not doing Christmas at all next year,  but going on holiday instead!*

J. X

*Only joking. Lily would never allow it :)

Cold

 

I really don't tolerate cold weather very well at all, but I haven't found the recent low temperatures too unbearable, that is until today. It has been freezing all week, and so incredibly chilly that I made sure Lily has been wearing a pair of leggings underneath her school trousers each day! But it was -9° when I took her to school this morning! A little 'fresher' than I would like. 

It also doesn't help that I have been feeling tired today, as I had woken several times during the night.

An ordinary day, it began as usual for me, by putting some food down for Mog and Boo. Who, if appearances were anything to go by, hadn't eaten in days :) Next, I topped up the bird feeder, with a reminder to myself to buy some more fat balls next time I am in town. I also put out some fresh water and some small pieces of bread. We've been receiving plenty of visitors on these frosty mornings. My favourites, as always, are the robins.

This afternoon, I was, again, helping at the Warm Space event in the village. And after it proved to be so popular last week, I baked some more of the mincemeat shortbread, which went down a treat, and disappeared just as quickly.

An unexpected, last minute cancellation of plans, meant we have, at least enjoyed a less hurried evening.  Now, it is an early night for me, as tomorrow I will be spending the day rounding up Shepherds, Wise Men and Angels!

J. X

O Christmas Tree!

 

Much like our new bauble, I sourced our Christmas tree back at the beginning of the year. And yes, it is artificial. Lily wanted to go big this year, which for us would have meant having to get a cut tree. And as many of you know, I don't like the idea of a tree without roots.

Although I usually prefer a living, potted tree, I do quite like this one, because of its lack of symmetry and realistic shape. It is neither too big nor too small, and just the right width that it doesn't dominate the room. Also, it would probably withstand the attentions of a small kitten should he ever be inclined to give it a closer inspection :)

It is much lower maintenance than a real tree. I don't need to water it on a regular basis, or constantly vacuum up pine needles, although I had forgotten just how long it takes to unfold all those branches. 

If I'm being honest with you, I think I might just have been converted. Although, next year, I might consider a real tree again. Just a small one. In the kitchen. 

J. X