AULD LANG SYNE

 Can you believe that just one week ago we were rushing around, worrying that we had enough food, presents and drink for everyone. Every year I promise myself that I will be more organised so that I can enjoy the day more but it never happens. We put so much on our own shoulders and feel we are letting everyone down if everything isn't 'just so'. We had a lovely Christmas, made even more magical with our little Granddaughter. We were also joined by my brother, Des and sister-in-law Fiona, the first time we had shared a Christmas in 23 years which made it even more special. Here are a few photos of before, during and after.

No snow as yet but fingers crossed!

Our BIG wreath gave me a few sleepless nights during the recent storms but it stayed in place, thankyou Jon!

The gingerbread and candy window with Merrylegs in the background!

The Father Christmas and woodland window!

The snowman window, children love this one!

A trip to see Father Christmas with Papa. Naughty Grams didn't do a very good job, very blurry. Soraya was quite unsure of the 'Big Fella' and wouldn't sit on his lap! She was very proud of herself afterwards though and wouldn't stop talking about him! 

The fireplace!

And again!

The candy table,yum!

The Christmas cake, quite a bit went home with the kids but still plenty for Dad's packed lunches!

Our lovely SIL making dinner for us all on Christmas Eve. Empire Chicken (a Jamie Oliver recipe) and rice/salad. It was sooo delicious, could be a new family tradition!

Our little princess, milk before bedtime in her new jimjams! She was very excited but her Baba managed to get her to sleep after quite a few stories! It was so lovely putting the milk and mince pie out for Santa and of course the carrot for Rudolph, once again.

One of the two Christmas tables, nearly ready for lunch! Two very tired dogs either side of the table, two year old humans are quite exhausting!

 Soraya with one of her presents, putting on a little show!

A slideshow in the afternoon, long forgotten piccies and many laughs. Soraya stole the show though!

For my husband and I the most memorable thing about this Christmas would be us listening from our bed to our little Soraya opening her stocking from Santa in her bedroom with her Mama and Baba. The excitement in her voice as she opened each little gift. "I must have been a good girl, I got soo many presents!", "Oooh look I got an orange!" and "I asked for one of those!". Also her great delight in her sugar mouse! I know these memories will stay with us forever. We are so blessed to have such a wonderful family and to be all together for Christmas. Through all lifes ups and downs, family will always be there.
I hope that all you fellow bloggers had a lovely Christmas and I wish you and your loved ones health and happiness in 2012! HAPPY NEW YEAR!

ANNEMARIE XX