2011 Review

So as we go into the final hours of 2011, I can't say I am pleased the 2012 is ahead. There's been a lot of bad in the world this year and I feel that will only continue.

2011 has from far been the best year but with every hurdle comes new realisations.

I copied and pasted this from last year so feel free to do the same. x

1. What did you do in 2011 that you had never done before?

Realised just how important family really are. We have had the toughest time as a family this year but we've pulled through. The hard times make the good times better. I never realised just want an emotional person I was until this year. I swear I have cried more tears this year than any other. Sometimes through pain and sadness, other times through love and joy, occassionally through stress. But, yes, I have realised what an emotion woman I really am.

2. Did you keep your new years’ resolutions, and will you make more for next year?

Weightloss. Yes I did do it and I will continue it.
To stop biting my nails. I did on several occassions but whilst we still have nappies within the household, long nails is not a good option.
Next year I will continue to lose weight, to be a better person and to do the very best for my husband, kids and family whatever life throws at us.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
YES!!! My sister in law had her first baby. My boys have a little cousin named Nelson. He's adorable!

Born on November 1st, he shares his birthday with my James, just 3 years apart.

4. Did anyone close to you die?

My Grandad. He passed away very suddenly. He had an aneurysm so it was rather quick and left us all in a state of shock. I can never say I saw him suffer. Hours before he collapsed he'd been having a normal morning with my nan. They tried to operate but couldn't save him. In a way, he went the best way possible. He went to sleep under anaesthetic for an op and never woke up. We saw him 2 days before his death as the man he always was so our memories of him will stay like that forever.

5. What countries did you visit?

We stayed in sunny old England all year round.

6. What would you like to have in 2012 that you lacked in 2011?

A big win on the lottery would be perfect to start the year.

7. What date from 2011 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?

February 13th.  The day we lost my Grandad.
March 11th. The day of his funeral and the day the tsunami hit Japan causing Fukushima nuclear leak. Quite a big day.
May 3rd. Waking up to the news Osama Bin Laden was dead. That came as a HUGE shock. Not so shocking was that he was in Pakistan as I always suspected and was probably protected by their people.
August 8th. On holiday we spent a night in front of the tv watching Britains anarchy! The London riots were unfolding and we watched with sheer horror of what Brits are capable of. The looting was attrocious and we saw on live tv a family business burn to the ground. It was shocking.

8.What was your biggest achievement of the year?

Driving. Who'd have thought I would let my guard down. Stop being so scared and just get out there and do it. I am getting better. I look forward to my lessons and I hope that I pass my test in the next few months.

9. What was your biggest failure?

Nothing, Failure is when you give up! I've given everything my best this year. Sometimes I could have probably done a little more but all in all, I've done what I can.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?

The common cold, tripping in the garden and getting a lovely 4 inch scar down my left leg. 

11. What was the best thing you bought?

Erm.... white goods. New washer dryer. New oven and we have just ordered this years Christmas present for the house. An American style fridge freezer. The BIG one. Yes!!! Now to find out how the heck this is going to get into the house.

12. Whose behaviour merits celebration?

My nan. None of us realised just how good she would be coping with the death of my grandad. She has her medication under control and she tries her best to enjoy life. I am very proud of the strength she's shown us all.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and upset?

My brothers ex. She was not what she seemed at all. Lots of lies were told and she eventually ran off with someone else before making false facebook profiles in my brothers name and stalking him for 6 months. She was a crazy.

14. Where did most of your money go?

The kids. Holidays. Bills. Same old same old.

15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?

Surprisingly, I was addicted to all the Royal Wedding stuff. I've never been much of a Royalist nor Traditionalist but it was great tv, entertaining and lovely to see something good. Wishing Kate and William all the very best along with a few million others was quite a feeling. I am super super excited that so many blog friends are expecting babies in 2012, That is just super exciting.

16. What song will always remind you of 2010?

Lego House - Ed Sheeran
Someone Like You - Adele
Labrinth - Earthquake
David Guetta and Usher - Without You
Life Is Life - Noah and The Whale


 17. Compared to this time last year, are you:

 i.   happier or sadder? A little sadder.
 ii.  thinner or fatter? thinner
 iii.  richer or poorer? poorer

18. What do you wish you’d done more of?

Trusted my instincts. Realised that some people are not worth the effort. 

19. What do you wish you’d done less of?

Wasted my time trying to befriend above person.

20. How did you spend Christmas?

In our little house and visiting and being visited by family. 

21. Did you fall in love in 2010?

More so than ever. My little long awaited nephew, my life as it is and my big and little boys and their daddy.

22. How many one-night stands?

I don't think they are called that when you are married ;o)

23. What was your favorite TV program?

Spooks. The Biggest Loser. Man Vs Food. Sherlock Holmes. Eastenders.

24. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?

Hate is a strong word. I still severely dislike that one person but that is all. No-one new.

25. What was the best book you read?

This year I have read more books than I have in a very long time. Averaging 2 books a week though I have slowed down in the last couple of weeks. I would have to say Dorothy Koomson's "Ice Cream Girls" and "The Woman He Loved Before" are among my favourites. I also loved "The Lovely Bones"  by Alice Sebold.  Rosamund Uptons "Sister" and "Afterwards" were also memorable. I was also introduced to Harlan Coben and Sophie Hannah making crime my new favourite genre.

26. What was your greatest musical discovery?

I'm getting old and boring. Nothing really seemed to strike a chord this year. It seemed to all be about Rihanna.

27. What did you want and get?

I wanted very little. I don't ask for much in life and I do appreciate the little things in life I do have.

28. What was your favorite film of this year?

I watched "Shutter Island" the other night. That was good.

29. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?

I was 31 and hubby and I had a romantic meal for two in a very popular restaurant.  We did a little more for his birthday as it was his 30th and had a night out with a stay in a hotel to celebrate in style.

30. What is one thing that would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?

Not losing my Grandad would have been great. Not falling out with an old friend and losing touch for 6 months would have been too. But in all, I've lived as best as I can under certain circumstances.


31. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2011?

If I like it, I'll wear it.

32. What kept you sane?

Dates with my hubby. Overnight babysitting from family to give me and hubby a little time off for our wedding anniversary weekend.


33. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?

Michael Buble. I am getting old! :0)

34. What political issue stirred you the most?

What didn't? The whole government has the world in a state. So much has changed in the UK this year, unemployment up, spending down, business closures everywhere to the handling of the London riots in August. It's all been so badly managed and dealt with.

35. Who did you miss?

My Grandad

36. Who was the best new person you met?

Pass. I don't think I met so many new people this year.

37. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2011.

Family are precious. We don't know what we take for granted until it's gone or on the brink of going. Love everyone, tell them you love them and stick together. It makes us all stronger in the end.

38. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year:


The day my grandad died was the day Adele got this song to number 1 in the UK, To this day I still can't listen to it:

"Never mind, I'll find someone like you
I wish nothing but the best for you
Don't forget me, I begged, I remember you said
Sometimes it lasts in love, but sometimes it hurts instead"

Christmas 2011

All those weeks of planning. Those weeks of anticipation from the kids. The excitement.  All those weeks out shopping, decorating, organising, wrapping and delivering presents seem to be over.

Christmas in our household is far from a quiet affair as you can imagine. However, we were all poorly on one level or another. I think myself and Liam had it worst. The common cold (not to be confused with Flu, Man Flu Bird Flu or Swine Flu) has had us feeling a little down. The running nose, sore throat, heavy head, watery eyes for Liam and general tired outness has had us a little below our best. I couldn't taste or smell a thing for 3 days. A big disappointment to the Christmas Dinner I was looking forward to.

Liam, my poor little man is only now recovering properly. Here he is on Christmas day with his favourite present. A toy guinea pig. It's always the most simple toys that have the biggest effect!

He was so impressed, it was the first toy out of the boxes.My poor little boy looks so unwell in this photo.

Liam gave it the most loving little cuddles and looked down on it with such pride and love like it was his baby. I have never seen such caring looks from such a young child.

Here's his little "in awe" smile as he finally looks up for a picture. The guinea pigs name is Scratch, just like our own one.

My little Fireman James! James is not into being photographed this year.

Matthews pride and joy was ok course his 3DS. It was the first present opened so that he could later open all the games he'd been bought as gifts. He loved it!!!!

Feeling so poorly over Christmas none of us really enjoyed dinner. We had LOADS leftover and I didn't even eat the same portion size I'd eat on a regular roast. I had a glass of mulled wine but left most of it due to not tasting it so it seemed pointless drinking it. In the evening we visited my parents house and saw them, my nan and brother.  We had some teatime snacks and spent the evening taking it easy. The kids did really well staying up until 10pm then Liam made it clear he had had enough. He said "Go bed! Car!" whilst handing me his coat. For a person of little vocabulary he's a little man that can really communicate! He's such a smart boy.

On boxing day, the tables turned and my family came over for tea. I could have fed 30 with what I cooked and we all enjoyed Indian snacks, french bread, ham, cheese, salads, chicken pieces, pastries, gateaux. It was a great spread. Again I was unable to taste anything and regarding my weightloss aspirations, I look at a tasteless Christmas as a blessing in disguise!  Liam had once again got himself in the mindset for bed. At 6pm, his normal bedtime, he came to me for a cuddle stated "Go bed" so I told him to get his blanket and say bye to everyone. My little dear boy went into the living room, picked up his bed blanket that he had been cuddling and walked out the room giving everyone a big wave. He then proceeded up the stairs. James stayed up another hour or so and once he and Matthew were in bed we played 3 rounds of boardgames. Hubby and I won all 3 games. They weren't even our games! It's what we bought dad for Christmas and we're obviously very good at trivia. We did very well! :o) My family left at 1.30am so we had a good night.

The following day we went to sort an electrical fault at my nans. She repaid us with taking us all out for dinner. I really enjoyed my meal as I could taste it, a good grilled steak with fries and salad knows how to perk me up. Matthew ate the same meal as I did - he didn't have the salad but had a dessert. I was shocked!!! My almost 8 year old son can eat an 8oz rump steak and likes it medium-rare.

Yesterday we caught up with hubbys family and was re-introduced to Nelson. He is such a sweet little baby!!! I love him and want to keep him. He is coming up to 2 months old already and looks like he is growing very very well.

Nelson at around 2 months old. (I love his Hendrix style!)

Compared to James a couple of weeks older at around 3 months old!

I have some lovely photos to come of the boys meeting their little cousin so stay tuned for the next installment. :o)

Merry Christmas Everyone

The house and food are ready. The kids are excited and we have much to do today and tomorrow.

Even my festive flowers look fabulous!

I just wanted to send a quick Christmas Greeting to all my lovely blog friends whom have been great friends and very supportive over the past year.

It hasn't been the best but certain points in life during 2011 have made me ever more value what and who I DO have in my life.

I may do a 2011 review between Christmas and new year, but we'll see.

I have to admit I have been rather emotional this week. It will be the first Christmas without my grandad and he was a big part of our Christmas, especially the day after when we would spend the day at his and my nans. He would do all the food, all the decorating and well, this year, it's all over to ours.

I was writing a card to my nan last night and it didn't feel right writing it to her alone. I got very teary doing so and more so when I was telling hubby I wanted to take the camera to his grandparents today (it's his nans birthday) to get more pictures of them alone and with the kids. This year has taught us not to take people for granted. Things can change in an instant.

It wasn't helped by the fact it would have been my grandparents 60th wedding anniversary this week running up to Christmas. We visited my nan as I didn't like the idea of her being alone all day and she did well under the circumstances. I am just  a big soppy girl deep down and worry about her more than ever these days and I know Christmas is going to be far  from easy for her but we'll get by. We have to. He'd be the last person who wanted us to be feeling down over Christmas so this year I will raise a glass to all those who we have lost this year.

Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas with those that mean the most to you all. It's what Christmas is all about after all. x

All Set For Christmas

In a matter of days we will be celebrating Christmas.

All presents are bought, wrapped and ready to go.

The turkey is in the freezer. The veg are keeping cold in the outhouse.

The remainder of the food shop will be done on Friday when hubby and I can look round the shops without the children.

I have my Christmas dress ready.

The cupboard under the stairs is FULL of nothing but the kids presents and we still have a few more to come.

The smaller the children it appears the bigger the toys. All boxes are rather large.

The kids are getting excited.

So am I!

Today has been a day of catching up on housework and sorting out some toys to go upstairs and making room for presents under the tree.

Our weekend away was fabulous as normal. The kids loved it. We watched many shows but the best was the Christmas one they did. It was the traditional tale of "The Night Before Christmas" and became an extravaganza of Christmas songs. The kids loved it and it became a big Karaoke thing by the end. It was a lot of fun and very magical. Especially when it started snowing in the venue. The tree above was one of the very many decorative trees we saw.

Tonight my friend Kate is coming over for dinner and then we are having a girls night out as we wander up the village for a few festive drinks. I quite fancy some mulled wine!

It's about more than just blood

Last night I was really affected by a tv program. It's not very often that I get upset watching tv but last night I was incredibly tearful watching a documentary.

The topic on this documentary?

Adoption.

The kids in care that they featured seemed so happy and so good that my heart broke for them that they didn't have the normal family life that many of us take for granted. Three sets of foster parents were featured in which there were two sisters. A brother and two sisters and a four year old boy and this program really broke my heart.

If I can do anything worthwhile in my life, I want to help kids like these.

I don't know if I would be strong enough to be a foster parent and actively help in finding such kids a new family. I really wish I could be that good a person to help make a difference and be the stop gap to a better life for them.

Just seeing these 6 kids on tv for an hour has really got me feeling for kids alot less fortunate than my own.

I've always dreamt of having a big family. I'd love more children and I would love to help kids like this along the way. I love the idea of adopting, I love the idea of fostering, I just don't know if I can be tough enough to give kids the love and support they need then let them move on to elsewhere. It must be so rewarding to bring a little stability into some kids lives whether it be short or long term.

My aunt and uncle have been fostering for years. One child they had from a few weeks old and had to give him back to his birth mother last Christmas, just before he turned 4. His mum was a recovering drug addict. The dad was not around. I don't know if I could do that. My personal feelings shouldn't matter if the childs interests are at heart but there will always be a part of me that felt resentful to the parent for letting that child be in the childcare system in the first place.

The 4 year old boy on the tv had been in care since he was a baby and his mum gave him up for adoption. He was in care for 3 years before being adopted. After a few months, his adoptive parents changed their mind and he went back to his foster parents. They then started the process of adopting him themselves along with the two teenage girls they had already adopted.The family were given the go ahead and his "sisters" cried with joy. Midway through the process, his mu who he hadn't met contested it and wants him back. She is now in a new relationship with another child and is on the Social Services Child Protection Register but because she is his mother she has certain rights!

This is where I am disgusted with the system! That poor little boy has a loving family who want to make it official but the mother can try to stop it. This boy has a family, he has a good home, he has a school, he has friends and he could lose it all.

The program ended with the two sisters being adopted to a childless couple. The brother with 2 sisters will find out what their future holds after christmas - with the possibility of them being separated. And the four year old will find out in March if he gets to keep his family or if he will be forced back into the care of his mother.

The whole thing really made me want to do more in the coming years. I've said about it before and I continue to think that this is where I see my life going in future years. I love kids, I love helping others and if I can make a difference to the lives of others when they most need it then that must be SO rewarding as a human.

So the plan remains the same, buy the house, build an extension and apply to do something to help others. Whether it be adopting and giving a child a home for life or fostering and being the step between where they need the most love and affection then I'm in it.

I've never had aspirations for a career. I've only ever wanted a good sized family and to help people. I think I have found my calling and I will be making proper applications when I can.

Another Phase Ended

It's official.

James no longer attends Playgroup and as of January I will be dropping 2 little boys off at the primary school every morning. How did this happen? How did my baby grow so fast?

He enjoyed his last morning at his playgroup and I am glad I no longer have to face that woman any more. Her son may still be at Matthews school but she rarely picks him up and if she does she blanks most people anyway so I no longer have to bite my tongue and paint on a fake smile.

Today is Matthews school Christmas dinner and he was really looking forward to it. He certainly looked good today following his haircut yesterday evening.

My little scruffbag before:

My handsome big man afterwards.

The end of term has come round fast but that's not a bad thing. 2011 has not been the best year for many and I hope that 2012 will bring lots of better news for so many people.

Before and After

Today my little men underwent a bit of a transformation. Instead of getting haircuts Thursday we saw a gap in the barbers and took full advantage.

Yesterday my lovely little twosome looked like this:

Part of me loves Liams long locks, he has the looks and personality to pull it all off.

But 40 minutes of our lovely barber womans time and I have the most handsome little fellas.

James style especially REALLY suits him. He has the same style as Matthew now which is good. This picture isn't actually the tender cuddly moment it appears to be. As soon as I took this photo James started crying as Liam was actually biting his finger!

After school it will be Matthews turn for a haircut and boy does he need it. I will once again get before and after photos and the same with my haircut on Friday.

This is how I looked yesterday BEFORE I dyed my hair a medium brown colour. I preferred the reddish tones but this colour will look better in a couple of days when it's more settled. That's half the job done just need the cut.

I severely need a touch of style again not to mention the hair straighteners. I may be happy with the length, but it's wavy, straggly and shapeless and I look like poo with no make up.  So a mini makeover is certainly due.

New Years Resolution 1 - Trust My Instincts More

It is very rare that I find people I don't like.

It is even more rare that I should take an instant dislike to someone from the moment I meet them.

They say first impressions last and they do. However, I am the type of person to give everyone a chance to prove me wrong. To give them a chance for me to bow my head and admit that I was wrong and that I was wrongfully judgemental.

A few months back I wrote about a certain person who lives in the village that I really did not like. She was very sure of herself, very pushy, persuasive and just annoyed the hell out of me because of her over the top mannerisms. She really was far too self confident for her own good and I really did not feel a connection with her. Yet, despite my misgivings, I gave friendship a go to ignore my gut feelings and get to know her before I judged her. She works at James's playgroup so thought for his sake I should not let my initial feelings bother me and try to get on for HIS sake.

This is where I really wish I had listened to my first instincts.

My first impressions are RARELY wrong. If I think someone seems a bit of bitch, then generally they are!

Last week Liam was supposed to have a hospital appointment and that was booked for a Wednesday. It is the only day James goes to pre-school so I asked if he could go on a different day instead. I didn't even suggest which day and Madam says all days are now full. 2 weeks ago they were struggling for numbers and did not know if they would be re-opening after christmas. Ok, I think to myself - maybe she's having a bad day and gave her the benefit of a doubt. (Incidently that appointment has been put back to January 13th due to being booked in with the wrong consultant)

Now this week, upon leaving nursery this week I ask if the Christmas party is open to all and if I could bring Liam like I did for the summer party. That was an extravagant affair where all kids in the village were invited and it was a lovely day! She was hesitant. So I said that's ok, I just didn't know the set up but would James still be able to go since it wasn't his normal day for going but I assumed that the party was for all the toddlergroup kids since it was mentioned in the newsletter and they had a huge poster outside advertising it. Again, she was hesitant and said probably not. Then she quickly corrected herself and said she would have to check and find out! Surely this should have been her first response and not an afterthought?

I AM taking it very personally. Everything was FINE until we decided to switch schools. Now if she has a problem with me about that then that's fine but I don't expect my 3 year old son to miss out on things like his Christmas party because of MY choices. I am incredibly angry about this and feel that the kids should be treated equally and a Christmas party should be for EVERY child that attends that group. It's his last session at Playgroup on Wednesday and the party is Thursday. Out of principal now, if we are offered a place at the party I will refuse. I don't believe kids should be shunned because of one member of staff who can't be bothered to find out there and then if he can go and makes it clear she really doesn't care!

I understand the toddlergroup is in trouble with getting enough kids to go but it was partially because of that reason that James is getting into Matthews school. I know he'll get in and it won't be a mad rush if the playgroup closes for a number of kids to get into the local school. I am just putting my kids first.

SO..... If I am so unhappy with this member of staff why am I not complaining to her boss? Because her mum is her boss and she's a lovely woman. I feel bad for her mum that her job is at risk but that doesn't excuse the way my child has been victimised in this instance. Plus, like I said there is only 1 more week for him but I thought the party would be a nice way for his time at the playgroup to end on a high. It appears others don't think that way.

So I am really disappointed in James's toddlergroup. I will NOT be recommending it to others and I very much doubt I will be sending Liam there after Easter if this woman still works there. It's not worth the aggro and I'd rather avoid this woman at all costs.

A new year resolution will be to trust my instincts. To not feel bad if I don't like someone. To not try to befriend them and to accept that some people are really not worth the effort.

Simple Things That Make A Mum A Happy Mum

This Christmas the focus is all on the kids. The excitement they feel and show in the run up is proving to be so much fun. James really is understanding so much more than he did last year and Liam is constantly shouting "Issstmas!!!" every time we walk past somewhere decorated with lights or an adorned shop window. Liam doesn't fully understand but he is getting excited. He loves the toy adverts on tv and does a special little dance for Christmas music. He is so funny.

James is taking much more interest than ever before and is able to tell us clearly what he wants for Christmas this year. Mainly the two Fireman Sam toys he hasn't got and some Playmobil which he has recently discovered.

The magic for Matthew really is not there this year. He knows that Santa/Father Christmas is not real. He said he had suspicions last year too. That boy cracks me up. In a way it's better now he knows that we buy and give the go ahead to his presents. He knows that if he's good for us then we will make sure that he gets good presents.  Haha, yes, we are fantastic bribers us parents!

I myself will not be getting much on Christmas day. I have been a tad spoilt this week instead. Hubby has bought me a new winter coat and BOY do I need it. The temperatures have really dropped the past few days but I am holding off wearing it until next week when we go away for the weekend. It's nice to have something smart and new to wear for special occassions.

It is very similar to this and will keep me warm this winter. It ends at mid thigh length so it's a really good length on me.

I have also been given money from my mum and dad to buy myself some clothes. I purchased a new pair of black boots with chunky heels and a black bra and a lovely twinset of vest and pants. Black with red roses! Nothing makes a woman feel better than something sexy but subtle. My style entirely! Sexy and understated! And I like to look at a nice little bit of lingerie as a present for both myself and hubby.

With the remaining money I have booked myself in for a good haircut the morning before we go away. I am only going to get a trim, a few more layers and my hair lightened up from feeling so heavy. I don't want a drastic restyle. I love the length, I just want it easier to work with and to look good! I am going to be rather pampered and I should hope feeling rather good on my mini break! Just what a mummy needs at Christmas.

I may even do something shocking and go for my first ever beauty treatment by getting my eyebrows done professionally! A nice shape and wax may really be good for me.

I can't wait to feel a bit more pampered and feminine. You do NEED to feel it sometimes with a houseful of males and what better a time for a little makeover and feelgood factor than the miserable cold months and the magic of Christmas!

Christmas is Getting Close - Hooray

Even if I didn't have kids, I would still be excited about the prospect of Christmas looming.

This week we've really been into our Christmas crafts.  This is a picture post so I hope you enjoy!

James decorated the pine cones.

 He wore Matthews old plastic apron that has been saviour many a time through the years.

 Then with our pine cones and the basics of white glue, paintbrushes, gold glitter and ribbon we set to work.

 Originally we were both painting on glue but it was a very slow process so I became cheif gluer and James became official glitterer!

James did enjoy playing with the glitter and did a really good job,

That same evening Matthew had a go at doing some crafts. His job was to do the paper chains:

He sat himself down and really got to the task in hand.

As the chain grew, so did his confidence. He really enjoyed doing this and made the full pack of 100 adhesive paper strips.

My job was the cookie baking. I found an old easter chick cutter that in this case became a Christmas robin.

I made a basic water and sugar icing (glaze) and covered the cookies with a layer of the glaze and on one side covered them with some 100's and 1000's sprinkles.

Next I threaded the ribbon throught the cookies and coated the other side with same glaze before adding some star decorations and the remainder sprinkles when the stars ran out.

 Hubbys part in all this was to get the tree. He went to a local tree sales place and bought a lovely 8ft tree for a VERY good price. This is where high ceilings are a real treat!

 We went out and picked our new lights. White flashy ones and James got in the spirit by wearing some paper chains.

This is the finished article. Our Homemade tree decorations. We feel that the Angel on top doesn't quite suit it but it will do for this year.

Of course, I have missed out on one little person and his participation in the Christmassing up of the house. Liam just said "Wow" and "I like Dat!" in all the right places. That's all my little boy needs to do to show me he approves and has enjoyed seeing all the bustle of the house in the past 4 days.

I have enjoyed the experience doing this but I think next year it will save a lot of time and money to buy decorations to reuse. We can still make the paper chains and reuse the cones. This is one of those things I always wanted to do as a kid but never got to do. My kids will never say the same! It may be good to do something similar in a couple of years so Liam can participate more.