Well, Christmas Eve was fun.  We sent the kids to mums for a few hours so we could clean up, then in the afternoon we went to a carol service at a local church.  A lot of our friends were there (including non church friends) and so we had a ball.  They held a sausage sizzle afterwards, which was lovely.  Then we drove home via the christmas lights house.  It was great - a bit tacky in places - but that delicious feeling of holding both my kids hands as they stared in awe around them - delighted at the lights and sounds!  Wonderful!

We came home and began the battle to get kids into bed - by the time they were asleep i was exhausted and still had things to do - finally crawling into bed at 2.00am.  I didn't sleep well - excitement at awaiting the kids discovering their stockings.  Eventually I got everyone up at 9.00 so we could open stockings before guests arrived.  I must admit I was tired and cranky when the rellies all arrived, but once I began to relax and enjoy it, it turned out to be a lovely day.  The kids loved their presents and loved playing with their cousins.  My 12 y/o niece basically babysat my 19mth old all day and, after I had served up lunch, I could sit back and relax and enjoy.  The food was plenty, everyone seemed content and we actually talked to each other (which sometimes you don't do when things are busy).

I had a big nap after they'd all gone - and so did B.  Then we had a very late sleep in on Boxing Day before driving to my brothers to do it all again.  We were late - a big no no and they started presents without us.  However after that little hiccup all was well.  I had a lovely time with my brothers - even the one who normally races off.  The only downside was that I wanted to drop in on a friend and didn't get to. 

Today has been our quiet, rest and catch up day - for the kids to explore all their new goodies - castles and dragons for R and dollies for B.  I had a lovely long bath after breakfast and now I need to go and do washing and other hum drums - still it is nice to just potter.  Anyway, must go - hope you all had a lovely Christmas too!