Christmas countdown

The Christmas countdown has begun. The advent calendar is out and filled with exciting prizes for Mario to go through each evening - since there are chocolates, lollipops and candy canes included you can't have them for breakfast so it is an after dinner job. We have also included balloons (we had so much fun the other night playing balloon soccer), money and stickers. So far Mario waits patiently to help find each count down number but I wonder how long that will last.

As we won't be with my family this Christmas we had a get together last weekend. The weather was wet and miserable but with 5 children and a Christmas tree and plenty of food and drink it was just so much fun. We let everyone open their presents - mainly so we could see their excitement - check out Mario with his Thomas train - and I must say it was great with no expectations plus time to treasure and enjoy each toy or gift. I tried to take photos but there was too much action and movement and too much to watch and enjoy but it was just wonderful.

Now it is time to finish the rest of the shopping, do my annual cards and letters, go out and celebrate with friends, go and enjoy cand sine loudly (even if out of tune) at carols by candlelight, remember the true meaning of Christmas and delight in childrens faces. Keep well and take care and if I dont get to write before Christmas make it a happy and merry one.