On Friday 23rd, our friends Pippa, Don and Sacha came over and we all went out to see the lights and window displays around Bagneres. (They weren't intentionally left out of the photos though!) The evening was rounded off with a few rides on the merry-go-round.
On Christmas Eve, we went out to our favourite cafe for lunch and, unbelievably, it was warm enough to sit outside.
Then in the evening, we gave the children a couple of presents each, both to spread things out and take the edge off Sophie's excitement.
Christmas Day didn't start too early, but the opening of presents seemed to go on all morning. Mum and Mike kindly took over the cooking, while we gradually helped Sophie and Thomas open and explore all their presents. Sophie had asked Father Christmas for a doll, painting clothes for the dolls and doll's clothes that stayed done up. He managed with the second and third request, but held off on the doll, as he knew Grandma had already sorted that one out. I should also mention that, just in case, Sophie had actually bought herself a doll, for all of 2 euros 92 cents, a few days before. She's very proud of her doll and doesn't mind having to put the legs or head back on regularly. Grandma's doll, now named Briar Rose, is a real favourite though, as was Father Christmas' Barbie story and sticker book.
We had a very nice traditional lunch followed by a walk through the park and down by the river.
The evening was pretty quiet, with two very sleepy children having a nice early night.
