I love this time of year. Christmas. Ever since I was a little girl, I have always been a Christmas nut. Not just because of the presents but simply because there is a ‘specialness’ in the air. From the first DFS ad that promises me a sofa by Christmas to the Magic and Sparkle of M&S, I can’t help getting excited and cracking open the mulled wine and mince pies, well, pretty much after I’ve trashed the pumpkins from Halloween.

But most of all, I get excited by children at this time of year. I don’t just mean my own little ones (who sadly aren’t that little anymore) but children in general, who bring this time of year to life. I love seeing their eyes sparkle when they admire the pretty, twinkly lights; I love the hushed awe and shy hesitation when they visit Santa for the first time and whisper what they’d like for Christmas in his woolly ear, I love the tuneless belting out of Christmas carols, the ripping of paper, ribbons and boxes, the over fondness of tinsel…oh I just love it all.

I think the reason for this, is because this is the one time of year, that I can genuinely remember what it felt like or indeed feels like to be a child again. I generally, feel young at heart, but somehow that Christmas feeling and child-like sense of anticipation is infectious and even though birthdays are exciting, nothing conjures up that warm and glowing feeling on the inside like Christmas Spirit. Some of the most treasured memories of my youth and childhood are of Christmases spent in the loving bosom of my family and friends, many of whom are looking down upon us now as bright shining stars in heaven. They are happy memories that make me smile and make me want to create the same magic for my children and those around me.

So on that note. I know for many of you, Christmas will be extra special because it may mean a new addition to the family, or it may the first Christmas where you get a sense that it may ‘mean’ something to your little one beyond extra paper and ribbon to nibble on. Or perhaps like me, it simply is ‘another’ cosy Christmas where we snuggle up and watch ‘Mary Poppins’ with those we hold most dear to us.

Whatever, it is, I wish you a very special festive season, full of new, exciting and most importantly happy memories to treasure with your babies big and small!

Wishing you lots of love, sparkle and minced pies,

Justina

xxx