It’s confirmed.
Christmas is upon us.
Until this weekend, unlike every other year I haven’t felt the joy of the build up to Christmas. For me it usually hits as we get back to work and school after our summer holiday. A little early I know but not this year. What with Grandad and our doggy being poorly and other ‘adult’ life moments I have been somewhat distracted. And so in a bid to get into the Christmas spirit from this weekend all that stops. And not because the problems have gone away, I’m putting a lid on them and realising that some things are out of my control.
It has been a weekend of festive joy. Of seeing Christmas through George’s eyes. Our first festive weekend of 2018. A weekend of feeling the magic of the most wonderful time of year. A shopping trip to the Trafford Centre, a Christmas coffee, picking out Christmas cards, choosing secret Santa gifts, presents for friends and family and let’s not forget playing Santa and sneaking gifts to the tills.
I am so glad that we still have a believer in the Hargreaves house. I love to watch George as he excitedly points out toys and games that he’d like to add to his list. Crossing his fingers that they’ll appear in his stocking or under his tree. Miraculously we are still able to sneak in bits as we shop as a family. I can’t imagine him not believing. He doesn’t suspect.
The festive merriment didn’t stop there. Oh the magic. We enjoyed our first Christmas movie at the cinema – we watched The Grinch. I would love to live in The Who’s village at Christmas time. They certainly do Christmas – what’s to be grumpy about? We loved the movie. And The Grinch, well he wasn’t really a grump after all. The Nativity followed and so the doors are open on the Christmas movies.
And when Starbucks releases their Festive Red Cups you know Christmas is just around the corner. I say, one Eggnog latte a week keeps the festive joy bubbling. And this year they’ve taken their red cups to a whole new level and released a reusable version. I couldn’t resist. Let’s not forget the festive treats M&S bring out. I picked up their infamous hot chocolate flakes and cannot wait to get a second pack in reserves. They smell delicious.
I am officially ready for the build up to Christmas. I even wore my favourite sequin skirt for our shopping trip. Sequins aren’t just for Christmas! Nothing like twinkling your way through the shops to get you in the mood. As well as a shopping centre all decked out. And Christmas songs. If anyone says it’s too early for Christmas songs, well I just don’t need that negativity in my life. We may have to break up.
I guess all that’s left to do is write lists. Shopping lists, food lists, elf on the shelf ideas, wish lists, planning diaries, so many lists. It’s all in the preparation. We’re a family of planners. We have a few lovely festive events locked in the diary, and a couple more to decide on. I can feel the excitement building. Are you feeling in the Christmas Spirit Yet? Chez Hargreaves are.
