Christmas.

Mulled wine, wrapping paper, brandy cream and lots of childish laughter. I love Christmas, I always have. Although becoming an adult has meant that magic that came along side Christmas has gone, but in many ways having children means I can bring that same magic to them. This year I felt it was the first one Eva really understood, she was excited more then I ever thought she could be. From opening day 1 on her advent calender she was geared up in Christmas mode, counting down the days and wanting time to go faster.

I wanted to make this Christmas all about the children, and I think I did that completely. Last year I remember seeing photo after photo of Christmas eve boxes, everyone seemed to be doing then#m. This year I decided to jump on that bandwagon and made the children one of their own. I kept it simple, some new PJ's, dressing gown, book, a cup with some hot chocolate and a teddy each. But I wanted to add a little magic to it too. Christmas eve we always go over to my aunt's house for food laughter and present giving so I used this to set up the presents under the tree (without them knowing) ready for them to open once we arrived home. Adding even more magic to it, I saw out of the window of the car a orange light in the sky - from a hot air balloon I believe - Eva saw it too and asked me what it was, quickly thinking I told her it was the Elf patrol out and about on Christmas eve double checking the naughty and nice list before Santa arrived that night. Her face was a picture when we got home to find Alfie the Elf had left her and Archie both a box full of presents for them to open on Christmas eve for extra good this year. 

Christmas day started at 6:30 am and guess who woke up first? ME! Eva had been up every hour during the night asking if it was time to go open her presents yet but come 6 am she was still sleeping! and probably could have slept longer if I hadn't of got fed up of laying staring at the ceiling and woke her up (oops). After a morning of opening presents, I set to work on the Christmas lunch while grandma (who'd since arrived) played with both children. Once the kids had gone to bed that evening I relaxed with some chocolate and tea.

Boxing day wasn't a great day for the fact Archie hadn't slept all night and woke up very wheezy. We did manage to go out for the morning, to the hunt - although these days it's just a scent trail - where all the dogs and horses leave through the village on there way. It's a big event with 200 people attending every year. Mulled cider and turkey baps on hand, and loads of dogs everywhere! It's honestly very beautiful. Afterwards we headed to the children's grand parents for yet more present opening and food!

Over all I had a lovely Christmas. Definitely one to beat!!

Bean xo