24.12.09

We are replete,

satisfied,

delighted,

tired.

Last night we went out - there was a new show in town.
My Mom starred - with an excellent supporting role played by my sister in law.
My Dad and his side-kick (Jak - the cat) gave a stirling performance as production hands, as did my brother and his chocolate coloured shadow (Roxy the labrador).

The name of the show?

Christmas Eve Dinner - 2009.

The stage was set - the table was laid.
The decor delighted the audience.
The atmosphere was electric - the boys were excited.
The music just added to the wonderful ambiance.
The mist came in making the lights outside more magical and mystical than before.

There was the last minute nerves

the last minute stirrings and slicing and trimming.......when..........

ta da!

Time to take our seats.

Table presents were quickly opened and oohs and aahs abounded.

The first course - a starter of a citrus medley with maraschino cherries - a favourite of my late Gran, was soon eaten.
Hurrah went the audience

This was quickly followed by a traditional Christmas performance with veggie-wimp delights (for me)

Crackers cracked

Jokes regaled

Food eaten

Stories told

Candles flickered

Boys giggled

Party hats worn and lost

Party favours swapped

Plates piled high

Second helpings abound

Encore!

Then....... the anticipation was palpable

the tension crackled in the air

it was time for

the Christmas pudding

(or as himself refers to it - the torching of the pudding)

The lights were dimmed

the brandy warmed

then lit

and............

voila - this brought the house down (not literally fortunately!)

The evening wound down gently

after the family marathon of washing and drying of the dishes

Wonderful.

The show was a success!

***************************

This morning we awoke to the whispering of two very excited boys.

Somehow - sometime during the night -

very - very - very late during the night 

(due to the wakefulness of said boys)

two stockings had arrived in their bedroom

and they had come to ours to open them.

Santa had got it right! (phew say his helpers)

Downstairs, under the tree were more delights.

Later, my family arrived bearing Santa-like sacks filled with goodies.

Lunch was an 'iffits' affair - if it's left over - it gets eaten.

These must have been the tastiest left overs in a very long time.

*****************************

Today has meandered pleasantly and we are now sitting in front of the TV

some toys have been played with,

books have been partly read,

a few chocolates have been consumed

and.......

We are replete,

satisfied,

delighted,

tired.