I'm almost afraid to say it, but I'm ready for Christmas! I've bought all the gifts and written all the Christmas cards. I even posted the cards for oversees destinations before the last posting date! I found a supplier in the High Street for all the gift bags and bows, so no wrapping as such, just gorgeous little bags of delight. I have given my wish list to my husband and my father, together with links to the right size, style and colour, and overseen said purchases, so I won't be surprised by things I don't want or need. I haven't been greedy, but I have chosen well, even if I do say so myself.
(I should say at this point that the gift purchases I have made include fourteen(!) small, individual gifts under £10 for each of the staff working with my husband at the hospital and a special gift for each of his secretaries. I'd be happy to tell you what and where from....)
And then there was the dinner party last night. A very pleasant pre-Christmas affair, not a turkey or mince pie in sight. We invited good friends and neighbours who have helped us this year and to top off the evening I brought out my home-made chocolates. I even found time to make a festive table piece with holly and gold ribbon.
The dogs were mostly well-behaved although the big big dog was a bit too friendly and I noticed a lot of dog hair on dark trousers as our guests were leaving. Oh well, some people have children, we have dogs.
Thank goodness it's cool and wet this morning, perfect for tidying up and putting the Noritake away. The dogs seems very tired, content to lie-in as long as necessary. I am watching the man of the house pick up the last of leaves from next-door's oak tree, the dogs are doing their usual supervision of garden tasks. Dad has been organised for the day, the house is clean and quiet. I am a domestic goddess after all. Bliss.