Onwards

So time plods ever onwards. Ruby's first Christmas is over and a fine time was had by all.

The emotion of it all kicked in on Christmas Eve, just as I had thought it would. We took her to the crib service at the church fully equipped with various items to amuse her, none of which were required as she loved the whole thing. She charmed the choristers behind us with her beautiful smiles, she danced during the carols, waved at the nativity procession as it made its way past and held hands with her three year old cousin during the candle lit 'Away in a Manger' and 'Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star' renditions at the altar (which brought inevitable tears from Mummy and Auntie Elaine and one of those moments you know you won't ever forget).

She loved putting wine, mince pies and carrots out for Father Christmas, although the reindeers nearly did not get the carrots as Ruby was intent on chomping them all herself!

She quickly got the hang of ripping wrapping paper off...

...and predictably found the boxes the most fascinating of items.

Once the packaging was all cleared away, she got on with the serious business of playing with her new toys and had a super time charging around the house.

We were touched by (and very grateful for) the number of gifts that Ruby received from friends and family near and far and thank-you letters will be winding their way in due course. She loved all the lights and excitement and was, as she always is, a star throughout it all.

A big Godsell family thank-you to everyone who helped to make her first Christmas so special.

In just fourteen days it will be her first birthday. I can hardly believe it. The thought of it makes me very emotional. She is growing up so fast.