Here's a nice idea that I found on the front of the church bulletin today:

'One Advent tradition is known as the 'Good Deeds Manger'. This is an ideal way for families to prepare together. Instead of putting your crib up with all the figures, long before Christmas arrives, put an empty manger in a prominent part of the house. By the side of the manger place some hay or something similar. Each evening try to come together as a family and talk about the good things that each one has done for others during the day - it may simply be sharing of sweets, or helping Mum in the kitchen without being asked. For each good deed that it done, the person who has done the good deed places one piece of hay into the manger. On Christmas Eve, the Baby Jesus is placed in the manger on the soft bed that has been made with the family's good deeds.'

It's a nice idea, but I envisage a few problems in this house........

1. '...come together as a family and talk about the good things each one has done for others during the day....'

Yes, well, I can't see that being much of a conversation.

2. '.....helping Mum in the kitchen without being asked......'

Enough said.

3. '......the Baby Jesus is placed in the manger on the soft bed that has been made with the family's good deeds.....'

I can't see the bed being that soft, somehow.

Look, we'll give it a go.

I may be proved completely wrong.

It is nearly Christmas after all.

No Kit Kats Allowed

The Peacemaker: Mum, we got the names for Secret Santa in our class today. You have to get chocolate or toffees beginning with the person's initial.

Me: Who did you get?

The Peacemaker: Kieran.

Me: Well, that's easy! I can think of one straightaway!

The Peacemaker: He doesn't like Kit Kats.

Me: Oh. Plan B, then.

Any ideas from any klever kommenters out there?

Let It Snow!

We woke up this morning to find a blanket of white stuff covering the entire area.

I love snow.

In fact there are few things I like better in the world than snow.

It is so useful.

I mean, what other substance can take a garden full of old bikes, dolls prams, an abandoned lawnmower and various bits of toy kitchen which normally has a general air of Steptoe's yard, and turn it into a winter wonderland overnight, with absolutely no effort required from me?

Let it snow, I say.

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas......and January........and possibly even February........

Before:

After: