In the blink of an eye and the twinkle of the Christmas lights the festive season, for the most part, is over. Whilst December in some ways was much more low key than in previous years. In doesn’t mean that the days didn’t pass us by as quickly. Although instead of a month of festive memories I am left with the guilt of feeling as though we didn’t accomplish anything. Will December 2020 be the Christmas the children remember because of life in lockdown or will it be forgotten?
The month that was… December 2020
Christmas schooldays
The month of December often feels like a marathon navigating all the different Christmas events and activities from the children’s schools. Whilst we haven’t been able to see the activities and join in the fun in person but it is clear the teachers have worked hard to still ensure that the children continue with some of the Christmas milestones. With nativities recorded and uploaded for families to watch at home together. Christmas lunch enjoyed plus fun and games in their classrooms.
Christmas restrictions
Days before Christmas there was a change in the COVID-19 restrictions leaving many peoples plans up in the air. For us, the restriction changes didn’t affect our plans for a small family Christmas at home with just the five of us. Quality time enjoying each others company, opening gifts, eating too much food and watching Christmas TV. A chance to recharge, reconnect and relax – and wear our new pyjamas for two days!
Underneath the Christmas tree
The gifts and treats underneath the Christmas tree were stepped back this year, both from a financial point of view but also feeling the need to have less ‘stuff’ in our lives. Each of the children gaining gifts from their Amazon wish lists, with books, toys, technology and pyjamas amongst the items they received.
What The Dad Said had the usual haul of LEGO, Nespresso accessories and PJ’s. Whilst I finally got my hands on new GHD straighteners after my blew up on Mother’s Day and having to borrow Roo’s throughout the year – her friends will be pleased not to have to watch me straighten my hair in the background of their conversations.
Turning 29 (again!)
The dislike for my birthday is well known by anyone who knows me or has read my blog over the years. This year I embraced the fact that by being grumpy about my birthday affected nobody but myself. So adopted a much more positive frame of mind, enjoying listening to the children sing happy birthday, opening gifts and cards all before I completed an afternoon shift at work. Followed by a Pizza Hut takeaway for tea when I got home. Not a bad day at all, much better than wallowing in self-pity.
Festive contract
After applying for a host of different positions over the last few months. I was surprised but pleased to hear from a supermarket chain about a festive contract. Interviewing for a role on a Friday, attending an induction on a Saturday and starting my first shift on a Monday. The nine-hour shifts were a shock to the system but after the first few days, I found my groove – albeit achy and exhausted.
Luckily my festive contract went well and I have been offered an additional three-month contract. So I’ll be continuing to help feed the nation for a little while longer. In many ways, it’s lovely to get out of the house as well as being able to leave work behind as I walk away at the end of my shift.
The month that was December is over, here’s to a bright, healthy and safe New Year.
