Now that the big day is finally over and done with, it’s time to summarise and reflect. What did we learn? And what did Santa bring?

I personally received two very exciting pieces of news!! One I had known for 2 weeks but was sworn to secrecy – I am going to be an Aunt! My younger brother and his partner are expecting next Winter, and I could not be more excited – neither can my other brother, my parents, grandmother or the prospective parents themselves. Looking at tiny baby things the week before Christmas made me all the more excited for next Christmas, when there will be a 6 month old little one to fawn over, and go goo and ga at. It is especially nice to have kids around at Christmas I think, they bring out the magic of the day because they don’t know all the drama involved in gift buying and organising lunch for 25.

The second news I received was the engagement of a friend from University. I have now heard her proposal story four times and I still get teary, yes I am a sook! While we sat around and discussed the proposal, possible dates, dress options and honeymoon hideaways, I was still dabbing a tear at the excitement of it all and the sadness of us growing up. It feels like just yesterday we all still believed in Santa, yet now we are getting engaged and having babies. Congratulations to Mr N and Miss B – I look forward to being the best Aunt there could be, and to Miss E and Mr D – may your union be happy and long lasting! I love you all!

And now onto the good stuff – tell me what the bearded man left for you in the night! I was again very spoilt – clothes, jewelery, photo frames, wall hangings, notebooks and so much shoe stuff, Santa certainly didn’t forget I had moved house.

I’d love to hear what lovely things you received, and if you received any exciting news this festive season. How did you spend your day?

Merry Christmas emporiumites!! xoxo