IT'S HERE: MERRY CHRISTMAS 2007!

[Cruella DeVilla]

Hope Santa Claus was good to you?

Well it seems a good a day as any to start a Christmas thread! (I could not contain myself last year and had it up in September so I promised I would control myself this year).

I am so excited already and have all the planning done, a few presents bought and into the swing on things generally. It's the one thing I love about Germany, Holland and Belgium at this time of year it's just fab and the atmosphere in general is super plus the Xmas markets are only 9 days away now (12 Nov)....woo hoo! After them it's a month in Florida to defrost[party2]

[Cruella DeVilla]

Just to get you in the mood. (Sorry Pat)

http://www.toonedin.com/movies/WhiteTrashXmas.html

[Sniff]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Cruella DeVilla
Well it seems as good a day as any to start our anual Christmas thread! (I could not contain myself last year and had it up in September so I promised I would control myself this year).


[xmas2]So with only 48 days to go what are you asking Santa Claus for this year?

I am so excited already and have all the planning done, a few presents bought and into the swing on things generally. It's the one thing I love about Germany, Holland and Belgium at this time of year it's just fab and the atmosphere in general is super plus the Xmas markets are only 15 days away....woo hoo! After them it's a month in Florida to defrost[party2]
[/quote]
We are doing it the other way around! Off to FL on Sunday, and then back in time for the Christkindlmarkt...glühwein, lebkuchen...and lots of snow predicted this year [clap]

[chrizzy100]

We do Turkey day here first...trying to pick up a 6ft blow Turkey up for the garden....

[ali-uk]

I like the white trash christmas song!

[LiesaAnna]

i got my present early my dog,
cant think of anything other the usual want of a villa of me own for christmas,
one year i would like to spend christmas in florida only the kids wont let us!!


couldnt listen to all that white trash song.....[msnscared]

[Paula D-S]

We are eating out for the first time this year, I usually cook dinner for my whole family but we decided to try something else this year. We are off to a hotel for lunch then back to mine for present swopping and tea (dinner) later in the day.

I have started my Christmas shopping and I'm almost finished for family and friends, just need ideas on what to get my daughters. Neither of them has any idea of what they want.[xmas2]

[gail and david roberts]

we will be in Florida for the first time at Christmas ,[msnsmile2] which I thought when booking it would be great ,relaxing time , not having the whole family here for boxing day dinner , which I have done for the last 20 years
but Im a Little lose ,at the moment [msnsad][msnsad]
not having to run around Buying presents,
my two are 15 and 18 now and want money so they can go to the malls instead,
Ive been asked for Vouchers for the rest of the family , so they can buy what they need , so little fed-up at the moment, just counting the days away

[Cruella DeVilla]

Oh Gail don't be fed up just think about your upcoming trip and Christmas in Floirda which is absolutely magical, do what I am doing at the mo and research what there is going.

I know not everyone likes to plan like a military operation but I always have a list of places, restaurants and events I want to go to for the Christmas and New Year period. (Each time we go throughout the year we visit or do something new too).

It sure passes the days away planning and you won't have time to be at a loss!

[gail and david roberts]

yes have done that ,List is printed out
[msnsmile2][msnsmile2]
its just feels funny not running about buying this and that for everyone ,
I Guess once there I will be Like that in florida
its been a year since we where there ,
we have always been over a couple of times a years
so its been a long year for us , due to work and exams for the children
just cannot wait to get there now only a couple of weeks to wait [msnsmile2][msnsmile2]

[LiesaAnna]

well now the last 2 birthdays of the year in our family almost finished (today) Derek 27 today and Terri shes 19 today, have always got these 2 out the way before christmas shopping,
have just come from argos bought new pram for one grandaughter and baby stuff for the youngest grandaughter at present so christmas shopping is officially begun here oh and a nice ladyshave for Lauren now shes a young lady and wants to act like one!![msnsad] growing up to fast....... no dollies for her this year[msncry]

[Cruella DeVilla]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by gail and david roberts
yes have done that ,List is printed out
[msnsmile2][msnsmile2]

[/quote]

So what have you planned then Gail?

[chrizzy100]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by LiesaAnna
well now the last 2 birthdays of the year in our family almost finished (today) Derek 27 today and Terri shes 19 today, have always got these 2 out the way before christmas shopping,
have just come from argos bought new pram for one grandaughter and baby stuff for the youngest grandaughter at present so christmas shopping is officially begun here oh and a nice ladyshave for Lauren now shes a young lady and wants to act like one!![msnsad] growing up to fast....... no dollies for her this year[msncry]
[/quote]

Got most of babys stuff...tons of Thomas the Tank engine...the only reason we are having Christmas at home is to see baby...if not we would go to FL and by pass it...we now have to put up all the Christmas lights and then remove them a few days after Christmas because I may not get back home till Feb...

[Sally D]

Snap Liesa, my youngest has her birthday today, 13, which means we now have 3 teenage girls in the house[msneek]. I can't think about christmas until after today. Not looking forward to the shopping and planning, wish we were off to Florida. We have suggested it and the 2 older ones agree but it's the youngest one who doesn't want to go then[msncry].

I could happily just give them money when we get there so they can get their own shopping.

I am hopeing that they all want one big thing this year and not loads of little things which means I am always shopping.

If you really want to runaround Gail I give you a list[msnwink]

[gail and david roberts]

Thank you sally
Im the same my youngest birthday is next Saturday ,she will be 15
so maybe feel a little more in the mood for Christmas ,after the 17th

we have planned to visit some parks before the mad rush Christmas week . lots of shopping on the list and the ice show , also the Christmas night at Disney and of course go down to celebration , also we are planing to go to Daytona to see the cars race on the 5th Jan
so lots to do also jobs in the villa , putting a computer in , buying a new sofa bed !!!!
and painting some rooms, and pool deck
and hopefully meeting some of you guys
group meeting at the manors clubhouse on the 17th
good Job we are going for neally 4 weeks
[msnsmile2][msnsmile2]

[Cruella DeVilla]

4 weeks is the only way to do it Gail;)

[Cruella DeVilla]

Well had a nice day out yesterday we just went for a drive through to Holland and ended up coming back with bags and bags of stuff which is unusal for us on a Saturday.

Lots of nice knick knacks and stocking fillers bought plus a few nice Xmasy things to take to the villa for the festivities. It really got me in the mood for Xmas espcially all the nice food and hot chocolate and lashings of cream (mind you tryting to lose 6lbs before Xmas so need to lay off them)[msnsmile2]

[davepat]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Cruella DeVilla
Just to get you in the mood. (Sorry Pat)

http://www.toonedin.com/movies/WhiteTrashXmas.html
[/quote]

Just seen this (sorry CDV) and played it - Dave thinks it's abit tacky - strewth how can HE say that about anything!!

[Cruella DeVilla]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by davepat
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Cruella DeVilla
Just to get you in the mood. (Sorry Pat)

http://www.toonedin.com/movies/WhiteTrashXmas.html
[/quote]

Just seen this (sorry CDV) and played it - Dave thinks it's abit tacky - strewth how can HE say that about anything!!
[/quote]

Tell him it's supposed to be:D

[CarolAnn]

Wish I could join you chaps over the Christmas period, husband working, daughter is "too busy", WHAT?
If they drive me more mad than usual, think I will just come over by myself[msnwink]

[Cruella DeVilla]

Mr CDV is asking me for my Xmas wish list. I haven't got a clue what I want!

Also I have decided to hand deliver my Xmas (and parents birthday) presents so booking a flight at the mo to come back over to the UK next week for a week or so. I will definately have Christmas all bought, wrapped and deliverd by the time I come back to Germany on the 29ish and it's then just him indoors I have to worry about. It's also his Birthday two weeks before Xmas but I will probably just wait until we are back in Florida before I sort him out!

Evertime the adverts come on it makes me excited, although the M&S one not as good as normal although as they have AB in it I will let them off.

[Cruella DeVilla]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by CarolAnn
Wish I could join you chaps over the Christmas period, husband working, daughter is "too busy", WHAT?
If they drive me more mad than usual, think I will just come over by myself[msnwink]
[/quote]

Oh dear too busy to go to Florida, oh my she is growing up fast:D

[CarolAnn]

I know[msneek] can you believe if offered a trip over xmas to Florida, instead of spendng xmas with the extended family, she would effectively turn it down[msneek][msneek]

[Susan J]

I would love to go to FL again for Xmas- but we have aging [all in 80's] parents who depend on us, but won't go to fl with us -so I can't -My son is 14 and desperately wants to go, but I just cannot leave all the parents here to be miserable. sigh, will get my reward in heaven.
Now -any ideas for a 14 year old boy, who has got everything?!?!

[Cruella DeVilla]

Braving the German shops today:D<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Susan J
.
Now -any ideas for a 14 year old boy, who has got everything?!?!
[/quote]

What about my lovley MP4 player for sale on the forum[msnwink]

[Cruella DeVilla]

Well I had a lovely day yesterday. Problem is when it is so cold you wrap up but then the shops are roasting and you are too warm!

I ended up with dozens of little stocking fillers and birthday gifts for my folks. They wrap them up so nice for you too.

The German stores are full of Christmas stuff but no lights up as yet as the Markets don't start til the 23rd. They are building them at the mo and it's lovely. They also love their coffee and cake overhere and have lots of bakeries etc. I had a look in one yesterday and the stuff is just gorgeous, i'll post a foodie picture later, so you slimmies keep out;)

Next phase of the Christmas shopping is this weekend we are either off to Belgium (Antwerp)or Holland (Maastricht) still deciding.

[Susan J]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Cruella DeVilla
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Susan J
.
Now -any ideas for a 14 year old boy, who has got everything?!?!
[/quote]

What about my lovley MP4 player for sale on the forum[msnwink]
[/quote]
Got one already!! [I mean it. he has everything!]

[Cruella DeVilla]

Bit like myself Susan. I have MP3, MP4, this phone and that phone not to mention cameras and every other gadget imaginable I think I must have boy genes inside somewhere.

Still not given Mr CDV my own Xmas list yet as I have no idea what I want [:P][msnscared]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Susan J
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Cruella DeVilla
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Susan J
.
Now -any ideas for a 14 year old boy, who has got everything?!?!
[/quote]

What about my lovley MP4 player for sale on the forum[msnwink]
[/quote]
Got one already!! [I mean it. he has everything!]
[/quote]

Susan what about an iPhone[msnwink][msnwink][msnwink] Don't tell me he has one of those already[msnwink]

[Cruella DeVilla]

Christmas in Florida is even more appealing today watching all the leaves fall from the trees like snow although it is 6 degrees today so not as cold.

We ventured down to Eindohven yesterday in the end which was a good choice as Santa arrived well it was actually St Nicholas. I will post some piccies later as it is quite different to how the Brits and Americans do it.

My ideal Christmas Eve and Day is a white snowy cold one but on Boxing Day I would like to fly away to sunny Florida[msnwink]

[Cruella DeVilla]

We're the opposite Julie but I know what you mean as I like the run up in the cold with the shops and wrapped up to the ears for the Xmas markets. Also getting into our finery for the Christamas Ball season would be strange in the sun.

I have to admit though that I just love escaping to the atmosphere in Florida just before Christmas, especially (MoM). Must also be something to do with drinking Champagne in the pool on Christmas Eve into Christmas morning[cheers]

[taylona]

Like many, my parents won't travel to FL, so we Christmas here. Working in an infant school the children are already excited and we're planning the nativity play. The children are all excited at the parts they are to play in it (I teach Y2). Wrapped up my presents today - just two more to get! Turkey ordered and looking forward to a rest. My youngest, Olivia is 12 in December so have to plan her birthday as well - cinema (Fred Claus to get in the spirit) and 8 'sleeing' over. [msnwink]. Both will have roles in our church during the Christmas services... I love Christmas and can't wait to choose our tree and decorate the house. :D :D :D

[canarypam]

Oh my you are all so organised! I haven't started yet and I have to get everything wrapped and delivered by the 20th as we are off to florida on 21st HELPPPPPPPP!!![msneek]

[taylona]

You've plenty of time to get the presents to Santa Pam! [xmas1]

[Cruella DeVilla]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by canarypam
Oh my you are all so organised! I haven't started yet and I have to get everything wrapped and delivered by the 20th as we are off to florida on 21st HELPPPPPPPP!!![msneek]
[/quote]

December I presume Pam and not this Wednesday[msneek]

[canarypam]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Cruella DeVilla
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by canarypam
Oh my you are all so organised! I haven't started yet and I have to get everything wrapped and delivered by the 20th as we are off to florida on 21st HELPPPPPPPP!!![msneek]
[/quote]

December I presume Pam and not this Wednesday[msneek]
[/quote]

Yes December - I would be REALLY worried if it was this Wednesday[msneek]

[canarypam]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by taylona
You've plenty of time to get the presents to Santa Pam! [xmas1]
[/quote]

Yes I suppose I still have 4 weekends to do my shopping [msnsmile].

[mizzy]

i'm doing a lot of shopping online again this year, with the radio on for christmas songs

i've got it all sorted in my head, i think [msneek] hopefully i'll get away with just one trip into town

i know what you're thinking "bah humbug" and i'd agree, it's soooo not like me at all[msncry]

[Cruella DeVilla]

Hey shoping on line is cool too Marie, I always have a wee nosey to see what's available. Infact I "window bought" about 8 pairs of shoes today on one sight! Don't get me started on my other addiciton as I am almost cured (EBay).

Also just back from the supermarket and I managed to slip somemore German goodies into the trolley for the American suitcase, the trick is trying not to eat them before we go, only failed once so far[msnwink].

One trip into town also sounds good, I try to avoid shopping in Dcember where I can. You should go down into York as they had a Xmas market there last year too.<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by canarypam
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Cruella DeVilla
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by canarypam
Oh my you are all so organised! I haven't started yet and I have to get everything wrapped and delivered by the 20th as we are off to florida on 21st HELPPPPPPPP!!![msneek]
[/quote]

December I presume Pam and not this Wednesday[msneek]
[/quote]

Yes December - I would be REALLY worried if it was this Wednesday[msneek]
[/quote]

I'm happy to be your personal shopper Pamela, it would be even better spending someone elses money! (My biggest wish is someone would let me do over their house, now that would be fun)[^]

[stabard]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Susan J
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Cruella DeVilla

Originally posted by Susan J
.
Now -any ideas for a 14 year old boy, who has got everything?!?!


[/quote]

what about an Archos 705. Don't ask me too much about it but him indoors ( Mr Gadjet man) has requested this for his Christmas box.

Had enough of this cold and can't wait to get to the sunshine in Florida.

[canarypam]

Originally posted by canarypam[/i]
Oh my you are all so organised! I haven't started yet and I have to get everything wrapped and delivered by the 20th as we are off to florida on 21st HELPPPPPPPP!!![msneek]
[/quote]

December I presume Pam and not this Wednesday[msneek]
[/quote]

Yes December - I would be REALLY worried if it was this Wednesday[msneek]
[/quote]

I'm happy to be your personal shopper Pamela, it would be even better spending someone elses money! (My biggest wish is someone would let me do over their house, now that would be fun)[^]
[/quote]

Yes you could probably make some money doing that Jacqueline!

[LiesaAnna]

i just bought a wierd present for Russ dont tell him tho, prisoner cell block H dvd, 1-16 and 17-32 i love ebay, new, apparently the whole collection is 899.00 well i started it off for him!:D:D:D:D

[Cruella DeVilla]

Well into the next phase of the Christmas shopping, flying back to Manchester tonight as it's both my parents birthday in the next week and then Mr CDV's 10 days later so off on the hunt for something nice before I return to Germany ready to hit the Christmas markets!

[mizzy]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Cruella DeVilla
Well into the next phase of the Christmas shopping, flying back to Manchester tonight as it's both my parents birthday in the next week and then Mr CDV's 10 days later so off on the hunt for something nice before I return to Germany ready to hit the Christmas markets!
[/quote]

Julie posted some nice pics of the markets in manchester so perhaps you could have a nosey round there for stocking fillers/pressies jacqueline

i'm pleased to say i started my christmas shopping online yesterday, my favourite sites being hotel chocolat[msntongue] virgin wine (you get miles when you order from here)[party2]and i want one of those.com

I bought two pressies for my girls last week and I am planning some online shopping today, most of my older boys pressies will be from the Apple Store[msnwink] My 10 son y/o wants and electric drum kit to add to his music room full of guitars and keyboards [msneek] so thats him sorted out, 18 y/o daughter may have a new Playstation ++ for her digs at University and some other girly things but my 6 y/o daughter is the hardest because she is not into toys as such and she has just had a birthday??[msnscared]

[Cruella DeVilla]

Glad to hear you girls are getting on with the shopping. I don't have to think about too many kids just a couple of babies in the family and I always get something in the States for them so it's relatively easy for me. It must be hard with teens!

I will definately do the market Marie but only for the Gluhwein and food as a pre taster for next Saturday when we are going with a group of friends into Dusseldorf and oh no we have to do it the next weekend all over again when my folks come over to visit. We have 6 or so markets planned all over Germany/Holland so really looking forward to that and 3 days later I am on Florida to thaw out!

I love shopping in Manchester and Leeds so looking forward to a few days before it really goes nuts for Xmas. Must try some restraint though..............[msneek].

Right away to finish my packing as I leave in a couple of hours.

[mizzy]

tut tut mrs cdv

"r****aint?" [msneek] i'm so shocked to hear such a word from you [laugh] i may need some chocolate therapy to get over it[msnwink][easter1]

[Cruella DeVilla]

Now you sure that's not just an excuse for a chocolate fest Marie!

Arrived back safely and just plucking up the courage to go out as it's cold and grey but the shops are calling! It's late night opening so probably head over to Manchester later this morning. My Mum's finished at lunchtime til Monday so may take her and do the mens Xmas shopping!

Thinking of taking her to Birmingham at the weekend to hit the shops and have a few birthday drinks and a decent cuurry.

[mizzy]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Cruella DeVilla
Now you sure that's not just an excuse for a chocolate fest Marie!
[/quote]

who said i needed an excuse? [laugh] a small amount of chocolate is good for you [msnoo] it's just what's quantified as a small amount i don't get [msnwink]

[Solana]

Well the shopping is going quite well for friends and family but again the teenagers are such a problem. My son wants driving lessons but this is not something we are particularly encouraging as he is just 17 and really does not need to drive. The quotes for insurance are astronomical at his age. My Mum offered him her car - Hyundai Amica with very low mileage but he has rejected that as not been cool enough!!
By my reckoning not that keen then!

Wish we were going to Florida soon and maybe we can look for tickets for part of the kids present, it gets so much older when they are older with exams and studying, even more fixed to school holidays and we are already booked for August.
Think I'll put the fire on and get out my pressies and start to wrap as it is raininy and cold here today..

[KarenScott]

This time next month:D[clap]:D

Can't believe it[msnwink] I know its the same time every year but it seems to creep up on us all:D

Thinking this time last year we were packing for our Florida Christmas this year we are at home but looking forward to it all the same:D

[Mrs Brizzle]

well I am pretty much done christmas shopping but I am seriously missing my florida fix. This time last year we were gearing up for xmas in florida, this year we have a new baby so it is home for us this time. What a difference a year makes!
Heidi

[Susan J]

Thanks for your ideas- has got an Archos 605 [rarely used gadget category] and I am buying him an iphone- unfortunately it means swapping to O2 which is a pain. Not a good reception near us, we are better with Vodafone.

[Cruella DeVilla]

I AM SHOPPED OUT!

Well what a few days I have had, it's been crazy and I am whacked and looking forward to going home for a rest:D

Best day was in Birmingham yesterday where I sent hours wandering and picking up gifts (Unfortunately most of them were gifts to myself)[:I]
Had a wander round the Christmas market which was from Frankfurt, it was really quite nice but wow the prices were outrageous so didn't buy anything as got the real deal at the weekend. (£1.50 for a Berliner).

Also did the Manchester Christmas market last week and hit the shops in the city and that was actually quite fruitful.

Having a rest day as cooking for the family tonight as it's my Dads birthday tomorrow so having a wee get together.

Less than 2 weeks til I go to Florida and boy do I need a rest and some sun[8D]

[gkjones]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Cruella DeVilla
Oh Gail don't be fed up just think about your upcoming trip and Christmas in Floirda which is absolutely magical, do what I am doing at the mo and research what there is going.

I know not everyone likes to plan like a military operation but I always have a list of places, restaurants and events I want to go to for the Christmas and New Year period. (Each time we go throughout the year we visit or do something new too).

It sure passes the days away planning and you won't have time to be at a loss!
[/quote]

I love to plan before we go. I have booked Christmas Day lunch at the Celebration Hotel, then on to Downtown Disney in the evening to watch the Cirque De Soleil. We are dining at Chef de Paris in Epcot at 3pm on New Years Eve, then will watch the first set of fireworks at about 7.30pm to coincide with UK midnight in the UK part, what an atmosphere with all the brits gathered by the Rose and Crown. I get goose pimples just thinking about it. We won't stay until midnight, but make our way back to the apartment at Lake Buena Vista Resort to watch all Disney parks midnight celebration from the balcony. I love planning what to do, and where to go before we go.

This will be our 4th visit to Orlando and our 3rd Xmas and New Year!

[mizzy]

good to hear you're all sorted Jacqueline, now there'll just be the wrapping to do, i can just picture it now, there you are with a cocktail beside you, surrounded by paper, carols on the radio and a log fire burning :D

i did a lot of shopping online today and yesterday [clap] so much so that my credit card company called me this morning to check my authorisation on certain purchases as there was "unusual activity" on my account [msnoo] now i just have to wait for it all to be delivered and then i'll be like Jacqueline sat by the fire doing my wrapping feeling all christmassy [xmas2]

[Nikki D]

I'm nearly all done now which is unusual for me as I'm normally out still shopping on Christmas eve. AS for Christmas day I usually have a lovely dinner in my sister Paula's with the whole family. But we are going out this year[msncry] I bet it wont be a patch on my sisters Christmas dinner but beggars cannot be choosers I guess.[msncry]

[Cruella DeVilla]

That's my ideal "wrapping" night Marie, Christmas tunes, a nice alcoholic drink or 6 and things strewn everywhere.

Arrived back in Germany early hours this morning so today just chilling. Mr CDV is doing the shopping as my back is a bit sore after the journey, he's a good un even bought me a huge boquet of red roses and my favourite Lillys all hand tied which I was not expecting so that was lovely....think he is secretly pleased to have me back and it's nothing to do with the depleting bank balance ;)

Now looking at the flowers has got be thinking about what fresh wreaths/flowers/centre piece I am going to have this year. Might try and knock something together myself as I have a few ideas floating round.[msneek]

[mizzy]

anyone got their tree up yet?

we put ours up friday teatime, we've two trees this year now the house is bigger and we have the kids den, it looked a little bare in that room last year so we made an effort and bought another tree, my indoor greenery and outside wreath i get at the village christmas market tommorow night, and then i'll be all done [clap]

the outside lights went up yesterday and walking the dog last night i noticed we seemed to be the only house in the close so far that have decorated for christmas [msnsad] hopefully some more will go up today

[Paula D-S]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Nikki D
I'm nearly all done now which is unusual for me as I'm normally out still shopping on Christmas eve. AS for Christmas day I usually have a lovely dinner in my sister Paula's with the whole family. But we are going out this year[msncry] I bet it wont be a patch on my sisters Christmas dinner but beggars cannot be choosers I guess.[msncry]
[/quote]

Ah but this year dear sister I will be looking radiant when sitting at the table instead of the usual bedraggled mess I look on Christmas Day. [xmas2][xmas2][xmas2]

[Sally D]

Well I am done now[clap][clap][clap]

Very pleased considering I had done nothing a couple of weeks ago. I can now sit back and relax (apart from food)

Had a day off work today and went shopping with my 18 year old daughter, really enjoyed it as it is not often that just the two of us go out together.

First stop was M & S for coffee and of course we had to have lunch out too[msntongue]

[mizzy]

well done Sally [clap]

i'm nearly done, just stocking fillers now and wrapping [msnsmile]

[Sally D]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by mizzy
well done Sally [clap]

i'm nearly done, just stocking fillers now and wrapping [msnsmile]
[/quote]


All wrapped as well[msnsmile2]

Spent this evening doing that[clap][clap][clap]

[Solana]

I always think I am done then decide to go out and get more, then have to even it out amongst the kids and so it goes on.
Only answer is to not go out shopping.... but then there is the internet, aagghh.
Must get on with the cards then can focus on pressies and celebrating.

[Cruella DeVilla]

My Christmas prep!:(

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/topic_42251.asp

[Susan J]

I have got next to nothing and feel stressed out- and I usually love Xmas- been stuck at home with workmen coming/ not.

[taylona]

Christmas shopping all done - then daughter comes home with a birthday party invitation for the weekend .... another present to buy! [msnscared]

[mizzy]

i'm getting to a stressed out stage now, i've done all the buying (mainly oline) and now it's just the wrapping and hiding of the goodies

i have lots to wrap all to be done whilst the kiddies are in school, they don't even get to see the wrapping paper or any cuts off bits in this house [msnwink] as my two still believe in father christmas, they know mum and dad buy the main bulk of present but still think the stocking comes from the big man himself [xmas2]

[stabard]

Well I have been ill for the last few days and have not felt like going out, so have taken the oppotunity to wrap all the prezzies and finish the card writing. So I think ( fingers crossed) that we are all done on the xmas front. Now it is time to start the washing, ironing and packing ready for the trip to Florida [msncool]

[Cruella DeVilla]

Well finished the UK side of things after a last trip to Birmingham and Manchester at the weekend. All wrapped and delivered. Just Mr CDV and the Floridian side to do when I get there any day now[8D]

[CarolAnn]

Are you on your way now CDV[msnwink] Glad you are all up and about.

[mizzy]

only 5 more sleeps now [msneek] is anyone else begining to panic when faced with what's still to do [msnembarrased]

i need some help and i hope no one minds but i'm asking here rather than create another topic (my dd uses the forum so i'm hiding this request for help here)[msnwink]

right here goes

how do i present a gift of 2 concert tickets that will not arrive til after christmas to a child who's 11? they are x factor tickets, ideas anyone?

please help [xmas2]

[blott]

Make up and print out on the PC a 'certificate' type of thing giving the details on it? Sort of 'you have been specially selected to win the award of xxx to xxxx on xxxxx at xxxx'. Kids kinda like to be made to feel a bit special or 'chosen' IMHO.

Marie I have an idea and have DM'd you[msnwink]

[Kazzie]

I have bought tickets for Avril Levigne as a Christmas present for my daughter. They are E-Tickets so I do actually have them but since I am frightened that they may get thrown away with all of the christmas wrappings I have printed a picture of Avril and used a similar idea as Blott has suggested.

If you are any good with photoshop you can super impose thier names on images of tickets like this.........



http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/Mach 2/20071220204358_zlivetourlogomain2.jpg

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/Mach 2/20071220204542_ticket_avrillavigne_22-05-2005.jpg


http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/Mach 2/20071220204739_ticket_a-ha_06-12-2005.jpg

I have just done one for Marie[msnsmile2] The good thing is you can change any of the details to the time and dates of your tickets - great way of presenting tickets just don't try to use them[msneek]

[mizzy]

i've dm'd you julie

ohh the photoshop idea is fab and my little chap is going to be so surprised, it will be his first ever concert and i know he'll love it just to see same difference [msnsmile2] Roger is going to take earplugs just in case the noise level is too high for the little one but i think he really intends taking them for himself [msnwink]

your Chris is a star Julie [high5]

Thanks Marie I will tell Chris you think he's a star[msnwink]

[Kazzie]

Thanks for the tip Julie, thats a great idea and much better than I have done.

[KarenScott]

Gosh, glad I looked on here, I've got some tickets to give and that has given me an idea too:D

Brilliant:D

Excited? Yes! Family arrangements[msnoo]

[taylona]

[clap] Just broken up from school today - it has been a long term! Took my daughters (who broke up before me!)to London West End yesterday, around China Town and Leicester Square and then to see Les Miserables. We bought tickets from a well known website (not sure I can mention the name) who sent me an email for half price tickets so I took advantage of these. I didn't know where we'd be sitting until we could pick up the tickets an hour before the show - couldn't believe it when we got front row - and the theatre was full! Great night out for all of us and feel Christmas is on its way.:D

[mizzy]

i've had another tip for the tickets

once they have been printed or if using the originals it's been suggested that i carefully place them inside a cracker for a extra special surprise during the christmas meal

worth thinking about for those of us with tickets to give [xmas1]

[Paula D-S]

I was well into last minute shopping today when I got a call from Eve's school to come and collect her as she had been ill. I will be going into the city centre tomorrow then should hopefully be finished.

4 more sleeps[xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2]

[mizzy]

hope Eve is feeling better soon Paula [grouphug] and you finally get that shopping finished mrs [msneek]

i only need two gift boxes now to finish everything but i'm having no luck so far finding ones i like, i mean how hard can it be?

[taylona]

Hope she is feeling better soon. I sent a boy home today and have another two off sick - our other Y2 class has 6 off. Hope all these young ones will be better for Santa's visit. [xmas2]

[Paula D-S]

Thanks Denise and Marie, Eve, who is five was asking for chocolate an hour after arriving at home[msneek] she is fine one minute then a little down the next. I'd have thought all the very cold weather we have at the moment would have killed off all the germs flying around.

I am beginning to wish I had taken a pen and paper to bed with me last night as I kept waking up and remembering bits I need, I have now been up since 5.30[msnoo] and can't remember all these items now. I still need to go for food shopping, I promised myself I would do this online this year but when I came to do it all the delivery slots were taken.

So excited......3 more sleeps[xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2]

I have had gastroenteritis for the last 36 hours an feel dreadful, can't see an end to it at the moment[sick][sick][sick] I am in bed or the bathroom not had anything like this since I had food poisoning - just hope I am OK for the big day[msnsmile]

[Sue and Jere]

Hope you feel better soon Julie [grouphug]

[mizzy]

Julie, hope you start to feel a little better today [grouphug]

Paula, good to hear that Eve is on the mend, it's a sign of old age you know not remembering things, i suffer from that too but it's not my age, honest [msneek] i blame the medication [msnwink]

[taylona]

I've felt unwell today with earache- must have caught the same thing as my class [msnscared]. Hope I will feel better tomorrow and be ready for Santa's visit in a few days time. [msnsmile] Hope all those who are under the weather feel better soon [grouphug]

Denise I hope you feel better soon[grouphug]

Thanks for all you kind wishes girls, still can't eat but managing to keep fluids down now[msnsmile]

[Cruella DeVilla]

Must be something in the air as I am floored with an infection as well!:( So much for best Christams ever!

[Sally D]

Hope everyone who is feeling poorly is better soon.

We had a lovely day yesterday we took the girls to London and enjoyed the whole day. As I have finished all my shopping we could just walk around watching everyone else charge around.

Went to Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park, Covent Garden, Oxford, Regent and Bond Streets for the lights. Spent time in the apple store and even though my girls are 18, 15 and 13 we still had to go into Hamleys. Went to Harrods just to soak up the atmosphere.

Didn't buy one thing apart from food and drink[msnsmile2]

[KarenScott]

Sounds lovely Sally:D

We had a family day watching Bristol Rugby draw (they should have won) against London Wasps:D enjoyed it[clap] Best game of the season[clap]

Got back home in time for our grocery home delivery, only too be called to say their van had broken down [msnsad] we could go and collect from not our nearest store[msneek] and have a £25 refund[msntongue] or delivery tomorrow so I said we didn't want to do that as my husband and I had both had a drink (slight embellishment as we hadn't but were going to[msnwink]) and would they delivery tomorrow and we would still like the £25 refund. They said yes[clap]

They've just called and they will be here for 9 - perfect it doesn't disrupt our Sunday now either[clap]

Hope everyone who is under the weather begins to feel better for the big arrivals:D

Have a Happy and Holy Christmas to all of the OV family. Ho, Ho, Ho, Merry Christmas.

[mizzy]

hope you are all feeling a lot better today, Jacqueline, Julie and Denise [grouphug] and little Eve too Paula [grouphug]

Sally your day sounded wonderfull, i like the didn't buy a thing in harrods bit, except food and drink :D

Karen i would have held out too, i've had the same happen with tesco home delivery but i only got a £15 store gift card, they must be more generous this time of year and rightly so [clap]

on the christmas front i have little left to do, just the gift boxes to buy and i'm being very brave and sending dh to find them, i dread to think what he will come home with but it will have to do as i cannot cope with the crowds

we have guests coming and a birthday later for my nephew and neice so busy busy

tomorrow we have the mil [msnscared] her visits are never pleasant but i live in hope after all tis the season of goodwill?

[Paula D-S]

I think I am finished. I was at Asda this morning for 9.30 (browse time) and I was second in the queue when the tills opened at 10.00. The queues waiting to get in as I was driving out where massive. I will be better organized next year and shop online.

Going to finish wrapping presents while the girls at at MIL's later and tomorrow will be spent watching Christmas films, as I'm cooking a ham joint today we will be having ham and lentil soup for tea tomorrow.

<div align="center"><span style="color:red"><div align="center">I am soooooooo excited. </div id="center"></span id="red">
[xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2][xmas2]</div id="center">

[mprince]

Well I have to say here in Florida it is very quiet ........ went to Altamonte yesterday and no queues anywhere. Drove down the I4 about 3pm, no traffic either.
No need to worry about the supermarket shopping as we are off to the Peabody Christmas Day.

[Cruella DeVilla]

Still feeling cack but we need to get over to Mall of Millenia to pick up my presents either today or tomorrow. I haven't really been able to do much but Mr CDV has been running around after me again this week, poor soul[msneek].

He picked a really nice real tree this year and had it set up before I arrived, the front of the house and garden is decorated and it's very festive, wish I could be well enough to enjoy it. Still on meds from the op but it is almost a distant memory apart from one wound I am really healing well.

So going to have a bit of PMA and get on with it with gusto!

[taylona]

Feeling a bit better today. Thanks for the wishes and hope everyone else is feeling better (and no one else comes down with any of these miserable bugs). Two in my family are doing readings at our candle lit Nine Lessons and Carol Service tonight and both girls are taking part in our Family Service tomorrow at 4pm - there's a play and they use puppets which are usually very amusing. It's a lovely service for children and families - our little church will be packed out for this weekend's services.

I'm hitting M&S and Tesco tomorrow (8am to collect the turkey). Like Paula our house is getting very excited. [xmas2] [xmas2]

[Cruella DeVilla]

Oh yes, Denise you have just reminded me I have to fit in buying our Turkey before the 25th ...lol!.

Hi all, glad to hear some of us feeling a bit better, I like CDV still feel awful [sick]

We did get out today, quick visit to the Trafford Centre which at 1130 am was fine but much busier when we left then hit Sainsburys for the last minute bits - DH had done most of it on Friday when I was in bed totally out of it!!

I even tried to stomach my skinny latte from Starbys but could not drink it[msneek] so far I can only manage a few dry crackers and fizzy water and have lost 8.5lbs!!![msneek][msneek][msneek]

Everything is done now though except DH has to put together a digital drum kit for YS[msnoo] see below[msneek] now how do you wrap on of these????

http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/Data/Mach 2/20071223161921_large_1.1.13.3.2-200-13.jpg

Happy Christmas everyone[cheers][cheers][cheers][cheers]

[taylona]

Sorry you're not feeling great Julie - amazing weight loss!

Have you got a red piece of material to cover the drums with and add a large Christmas bow? Alternatively you could make a sort of tent covering with cheap wrapping paper? We bought some wrapping paper for 16p for a couple of metres to cover the box, covering a 2nd box (not environmentally friendly, eh?) containing my daughter's guitar.

Thanks Denise, good idea I have a red table cloth which could do the trick[msnwink]

My son is into guitars too and currently has 4 in his room, plus a keyboard in another room so with the drums its going to look like a music shop!!

[Cruella DeVilla]

Well just back from Publix and finished the grocery shopping, although it's literally 5 minutes away it was a real effort but managed to get eveything in a oner so nothing to worry about on the food score now. (Just hoping I can taste it especially the chocolate lovers cake with Big strawberries I have just put into the fridge)![^]

It was absolutely glorious outside, in the high 70s but I am almost blind with congestion so I was like a Vampire shying away form the sun[8D]. Back indoors in the shade now and off to "dose up":(.

Hoping I will be upto my trip to MofM tomorrow!

[mizzy]

Julie, if you pop into a friendly florist they will also make you a huge bow to attach to the tablecloth and then it'll looked wrapped, we did this with James for his pirate chocolate treasure chest last year with some trailing curly ribbon and sprinkly sparkly dust it looked great [clap]

Jacqueline, hope you begin to feel better soon so you can enjoy that cake[msntongue]

[Cruella DeVilla]

Thanks Marie, I'll pop a bit in the freezer for you;)

[Cruella DeVilla]

Still feeling absolutely dreadful but I have forced myself to get up and go out, Mr CDV aint very happy as he thinks I should be in bed (and of course he is right) but I have lost so much time recently and still have one or two wee things to do.

I am quite down in the dumps as I have been poorly since the 29th November between the op and one thing and another so all I want for Christmas (well maybe one or two more things) this year is to wake up tomorrow feeling a bit more lively:(