Elving

We've been a busy house recently, elving away, making and baking and scurrying around in a mouse-like fashion. Experience has taught me that if I want to have a reasonably peaceful and stress free Christmas, and really relax into those last few moments before the big day, then I have to put the hours in now. I can't be one of those people who wrap their gifts on Christmas Eve, I just can't. I want to be enjoying a glass of something sparkly while watching Carols at Kings, not running around panicking because I've run out of sellotape. 

Gifts are being furiously made. I have just discovered Downton Abbey (why did I never watch this before?? It's wonderful!) and watched the first three episodes in a row last night snuggled under a blanket, happily crocheting away.

Cards have been written and are piled up ready to post. Is it me or are stamps really expensive now?

Gifts for my god-daughter and her new baby sister were finished, packed up and taken to the post office.

A little present wrapping is taking place here and there.

I gave my cake it's marzipan layer. I don't really know why I do this as I detest marzipan and fondant icing, and always peel it from my cake and just eat the plain cake underneath (with crumbly, mature cheese - it's a Yorkshire thing) but I like the look of the iced cake, and I like traditions, so the cake is iced.

And we've made some pretty little tea-light holders, just jam jars covered in lace. I'll post more on these in a couple of days.

The gingerbread house is just about holding up. The door had to be mended when a friend of Angus's refused to believe that the door did not open and pulled and pulled at it. The paper trees are trashed. It is currently being invaded by a group of curious animals. I fear it may only last one Christmas at this rate...

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How about you? Are you feeling festive? Organised or panicked? Tired? Excited? All of the above? What elving is afoot in your home?