We have travelled hundreds of miles this Christmas time, packed up the car with two boys and two dogs nearly 10 times and stayed in 9 different beds. We packed up 12 bags for life, 3 suitcases, four holdalls, 2 backpacks, 2 handbags, 1 changing bag and 2 dog beds! As you can imagine even our Nissan Pathfinder with roof box was beaten by this amount of luggage, so my dear Mum will be driving down to us next time with a boot load of Christmas presents. I am sure the boys will have forgotten some of their gifts (as there was so many) and be overjoyed when Mum arrives! For once I wasn't a slave to my camera (although my husband probably thinks I had my nose glued to it). I realised when I looked through our photos that there isn't one photo of the four of us because we were all too busy enjoying ripping apart wrapping paper and the boys were tearing around like lunatic super heroes! Although I am of course sad I don't have that perfect picture I have some wonderful memories. (I might just have to set one up in front of the tree before the decorations come down!)

Thank you to all our hosts for their generosity and hospitality. We know that we shall be in Surrey again next year (yes my family plan 364 days in advance) as it shall be our first Christmas with my new nephew or niece who will be welcomed into the family in April. But I promise to return the festive favour in 2014!

I did snap away with my Fuji Instax and found in amongst some old card making bits and bobs, this paper flip book. Perfect for the 22 instant pictures I took! A handy book of memories I can flip through as often as I want. Next year I have one of these cute accordion albums on my wish list.

We visited my husband's 98 and 3/4 year old Grandma on Christmas morning at the nursing home she moved into only a few months ago. I took some great photos which we left with her so she had us with her. I am guilty of not printing as many photos as I would like (note to self New Years resolution) and that is why I love these little instant ones. The picture quality may not be as good but I really like the look they give.

Here are a few snaps from our Christmas time.

Now it's on to New Year! Ours is going to be about tapas and cava! I will be posting our menu and cocktail ideas this week so check back in if you are sick of turkey and party food and fancy something different at New Year!

I suppose this is my Christmas message, just like the Queen! Creating this blog has been a wonderful experience this year.

Sometimes it has caused a few arguments ... blog rather than bed ... but overall everyone has been really supportive of my new creative outlet.

It will be a beautiful memory for my boys, almost like a digital journal of their childhood.

Thank you so much for everyone who has read a post, commented or is kind enough to subscribe and read it every day!

My New Years Resolutions for the blog:

1. Stop calling it the bliggety blog. It drives my husband insane.
2. Take 99% of the photos for posts in natural light, even if it means waiting a day for better weather! The difference between a perfectly naturally light photo and one taken in harsh overhead kitchen spot lights with a flash is amazing.
3. Be braver. I have played it safe on the whole, which is silly. There are a few parenting issues, including gender selection, that I would have loved to post about, but worry about offending readers. When in fact informed debate is far more interesting sometimes.
4. Stick to a schedule. I plan out my posts each week on a chalkboard in my office but often get sidetracked creating more work for myself! I love posting everyday but it is a pressure. However, sticking to a schedule enables me to finish posts a couple of nights in advance which takes away all the pressure! One click and publish!
5. Use automated functions. I need to use my Facebook page better. At the moment I post in one place then another instead of taking advantage of the automated options. Time savers!
6. Join in more linky posts. I have become loyal to several weekly links including Magpie Monday, Do Something Crafty Friday, Silent Sunday and Tot School Tuesday. I have found some great blogs to read by the others who join in, but it would be great to join in some others. Perhaps start a collaborative one of my own .... watch this space!
7. Spread the word. I am really proud of how this blog is evolving and there is nothing wrong with a little self promotion! I am going to be part of something exciting next year ....

I am going to take a little break over the next few days to enjoy the magic of Christmas with my family. Wishing everyone a happy and healthy new year. Have wonderful Christmas times where ever you are!

Much love, Lucy xxx

Last year I found this great wall chart and we measured every member of the family and all the friends we saw over Christmas.

I have got it ready for this year, and am going to bring it our every year to see how my boys are growing!

Last year Sammy was as tall as a newborn elephant! He is so tall for his age, but with me being the shortest in my family at 5' 9" he was never going to be petite!

Ollie was a red fox! Cute!

And I was the height of an average British Man! Great!

How tall are you and I will let you know where you feature on the chart!

Do you play games at Christmas? I remember as a child we never watched an television on Christmas day it was just endless games! My poor Mum must have been exhausted! She always makes up a Famous Faces Quiz and this year I am going to do a children's version with faces of the famous characters!