"A sense of curiosity is nature's original school of education.": The count down has begun

We started our Christmas holidays by holding a party yesterday afternoon (and well into the evening) for relatives, friends and neighbours. It was great having so many under one roof to chat to and share a few laughs. The family who previously owned the house came along too, very brave of them I must say, and we were pleased to hear that they felt our home to be a happy and much loved one, which of course it is.

A fabulous wintery day today with thick frost (Ben ran into our bedroom first thing saying it had been snowing) and a very heavy fog which didn't lift all day. Pretty icy outside so it feels very Christmassy.

A friend stayed over after the party so we went for a "clear the head" walk - took some photos. There's also a photo of Katie with the little Shetland she sometimes rides, he grazes in the pub garden close to our home. Looks so sweet with this plaited forlock. He was so excited to be out in the field this morning we watched him cantering and bucking around the place! Seems the excitement of Christmas gets to everyone some way or another.

Presents wrapped, turkey ready and everyone feeling fit and well (phew) and looking forward to the big day.