Thursday 24 December 2020

Merry Christmas

Hello Lovelies, 
this Christmas is like no other isn't it. Though we are not in tier 4 (essentially lockdown) yet, we are warned to be super cautious about any mixing, especially with this new strain of coronavirus which is even more contagious spreading throughout the country.

It's sad not to be able to meet up with family and friends, but as we are a family of 5 it doesn't feel lonely at all. I know I'm so blessed to have all three boys at home.

I've been making regular batches of mince pies using THIS pastry and THIS mincemeat . Christmas is wonderful for baking opportunities isn't it. All offerings disappear pretty quickly these days.


I've been walking everyday, going a little further when the sun shines.



Feeding my friendly festive bird


Who posed beautifully for me this week.




I also managed to get a picture of the Nuthatch who comes for a snack.


Back home presents are wrapped, mostly in reused and reusable gift bags.


Cards have been sent. I was impressed with these charity cards from Tesco. Minimal packaging, no glitter


And easy to recycle.


I'm aware I don't do much to support small businesses, but I did order this embroidery kit as a present to myself from a lovely UK Etsy shop . I'm looking forward to trying out a different craft after the big day

On Monday, the winter solstice, I did a final bit of decorating, prettifying my kitchen window


With much loved old decorations


and due to the lack of an Amaryllis this year...a red geranium....brought in from the conservatory.
 



In the evening we went to a local market town to admire their twinkly lights while it was quiet.



There's still so much I'm thankful for, despite this reduced celebration. The little things and small joys are largely unchanged. Also It's the first time in 17 years I don't have to work at least part of Christmas....I'm super grateful for that. 

I do hope you all stay safe this Christmas and manage enjoy however you celebrate it. 

Jacquie xxx

 

15 comments:

  1. Lovely pictures as always, amazing to have geranium flowers at Christmas. I hope you and yours have a lovely Christmas. CJ xx

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    1. Thank you CJ, It's been nice so far thanks. Hope it's going well for you xxx

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  2. Like yourself I am exceedingly grateful that I don't have to rush around frantically to get everything ready for Christmas as I used to do. It has all been done with much more care and all in my own time.The robin photos are brilliant, better and better. I'd swear in the second pic he is posing :-). Wishing you and your family a safe and cosy Christmas xx Amanda

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    1. Thank you Amanda. I do hope you are having a nice festive break. It's been very pleasant here, staying home and relaxing xxx

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  3. Everything feels slower and simpler this year, and I find myself grateful for it to be honest. I like simple and slow, suits me just fine! Wishing you the most joyful of festive times jacquie, enjoy your boys and your new found freedom xxxxx

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    1. Thank you so much Lucy. Yes, slow and simple suits me too xxxx

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  4. Your holiday sounds perfect. I adore your little Robin.. ours here in Oregon USA are totally different and not at all as cute. I hope your new year is better than the last. ((hugs)), Teresa :-)

    ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉
    *M*E*R*R*Y* *C*H*R*I*S*T*M*A*S*!*
    ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉

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    1. Thank you Teresa, yes lets stay positive and hope 2021 is a big improvement on this year xx

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  5. Happy Christmas! Stay safe and well.

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  6. Looks like you had a lovely Christmas. Nice to stay in and spend time with your family. Love the cards too.

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    1. Thank you, yes it was very relaxed. I know my boys missed their Aunts, Uncles and cousins though. Lets hope Christmas 2021 can be more "normal" x

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  7. Thank you for your lovely posts Jacquie, lots of beautiful photos of your walks, family musings and crafty inspiration. Wishing you a relaxing last few days of this very different and challenging year and the hope of a brighter New Year to you and your family xx

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