Christmas Is Coming

The run-up to Christmas is always extremely hectic at work and this year it was no different - I clocked up 80 hours over Halloween week, took a mild breather at the start of November and then it was full festive steam ahead, culminating in several 15 hour working days. Oof.  The plus side to all of this is that we shut up mid-December and I get to use up my annual leave by having three weeks off over the holidays.

It's not exactly peaceful to start with - I get no chance to do anything at home when I'm basically at work all the time, so when I'm finally off there's a lot of housework to catch up on! Also I don't know why but I always manage to forget about the pre-Christmas socialisation. I've been out for a party, a retirement meal, brunch, pub dinner and a birthday meal in the past six days! For shy old retiring me, that's quite some effort.

But the house is finally ready for Christmas and even if I do say so myself, it looks awfully pretty. My endless to-do lists are nearing completion and I am very much looking forward to a relaxing, fun, family time.


My stash of books to be read on Christmas Eve are waiting for me.



As it consists of Wodehouse books this year, I've christened my book tree the Whathohoho Tree.



I've even put baubles in the bathroom. Well, why not?



The stairs are garlanded



Appleyard London sent me this gorgeous Advent Bouquet which is brightening up the hall a treat. This is my usual spot in the house for fresh flowers but I was despairing of finding a Christmas bouquet I actually liked. This one is beautiful - the perfect solution!




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Advent calendar has nearly all been scoffed



Cards are up wherever I can fit them and Father Ted is being brightened up by some holly lights.




Altogether, things are looking festive and jolly.





I'm now ready for a whole lot of loafing around, snuggling with Phil and reading books. Bliss.