Two Christmas Days

Yesterday, obviously, was Christmas Day. However, we and Jenny and Philip decided to make it a children-oriented day, and today, while the foster-children were with their grandmother, have a grown-up Christmas Day.

Christmas Tree (© Ian 2011)

Christmas Day Part I, therefore, was predictable. The children excitedly opened their presents from Father Christmas before breakfast (when we arrived). While Liz and I cooked lunch, the five of them (and the dog) went out for a walk (cooking lunch wasn't so selfless!), and we ate when they got back. As for the last couple of years, I dismembered the turkey (an enormous 15lb bird), and we only roast the stuffed breast—the rest will be used up over the coming weeks, having been frozen. As normal (apologies for the immodesty) it was very tasty; it's much better cooked this way, as the time/temperature can be designed for the breast, without worrying about getting a balance for the whole bird. After lunch, tree presents (the children's) were opened, admired, and played with, and we watched both the Gruffalo's Child and the Snowman (a staple). We'd gone round yesterday evening to sing carols, and previously watched the Gruffalo, so we've had a good number of child-friendly activities.

Today, Part II. Jenny and Philip came over for brunch, after the children had gone (the stollen we cooked on Christmas Eve). We tried a pork recipe for lunch, roast in cider with pears, and with a very good chestnut stuffing, which may become a regular recipe. Otherwise, presents were opened, mince pies consumed, and hot berry cordial quaffed. I think the cordial is a great success, and very enjoyable. We'll have to make at least as much next autumn, once we see how far this batch goes. It's very frugal in mixing, as you only need a small amount per mug, and we do have about 3 litres.

The decorated fireplace (© Ian 2011)