We customarily begin Christmas Day by
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opening Santa’s sacks, each image of which is titled in the gallery.
The next step was to browse on Jackie’s lunch spread of cold meats, cheeses, and salads for lunch, after which we played League of the Lexicon, an excellent present Santa had brought Flo, interrupted by a break to watch the King’s speech in which he had focussed on themes of the natural world and preservation which reflected his life’s work during his long years as Prince of Wales.
Later we all opened our main presents, by which time I thought I had enough photographs of the event.
As I write, Jackie is still working on finishing touches to her splendid roast turkey meal with all the trimmings you can think of. I know that afterwards I will be in no fit state to produce any more, so I will leave it to your imaginations.
It looks a lovely family time. Best wishes!
Thank you very much, Donnalee
A lovely gathering of Christmas made all the more special by having a young child present! This looks like a wonderfully cosy scene … our Christmas is behind us now as I head for bed after a delightfully peaceful day. Enjoy your dinner!
Thank you very much, Anne
What beautiful images!
They tell all the joy of a special day
Thank you so much, Luisa
You’re highly welcome, dear Derrick
Wow, so many wonderful family photos, Derrick! Dinner sounds delicious as always. I would like to have seen the King’s speech. Not sure if he is on any channel here except BBC America. Happy Christmas!
Thank you very much, John
Thank you for sharing your family Christmas with us, Derrick!
Much appreciated, Liz
It sounds and looks just like what the day should be. Merry Christmas to you and your family!
Thank you so much, Merril
Gorgeous pictures of a perfectly lovely Christmas Day. As the photographer, your in front of the camera presence was distinctly missing. Dinner sounds great, as usual.
Thank you so much, Pat
Beautiful celebration, beautiful presents, beautiful family. Each one of Ellie’s photos could make a holiday calendar cover; this child is so yummy!
Thank you so much, Dolly. I don’t remember any child being so fully involved and understanding at Ellie’s age – not quite 16 months until 29th.
I get this impression from yur photos, Derrick. She is aware beyond her age. This is a very special child you have there.
🙂
An excellent family day. We had a quiet one by ourselves.
Thanks very much, Andrew
I’m always drawn to the tiniest person in the room. Her open curiosity is engaging. I momentarily startled at your “king’s speech” comment, forgetting momentarily that Queen Elizabeth has passed. We just finished watching the conclusion of The Crown earlier this week. Merry Christmas. I know you enjoyed Jackie’s wonderful faire.
Thank you so much, Alys
What a wonderful set of photographs! And a magical start to the day. 🙂
Seven grandchildren brought some of their gifts to open here after lunch, two more grandchildren arrived later to see their cousins and I completely forgot to take photographs!
Sometimes it is better to stay in the moment than to be the photographer. That is what I felt after this set of photographs, Sue. Thank you very much
Yes, I agree. I think the enjoyment of the large family lunch, and seeing the older grandchildren catching up with each other far outweighed any thoughts of cameras.
The little one had a good time and all the adults around her enjoyed watching her. I watched the Queen’s Christmas and New Year’s speech every year and missed it this year. She was a part of my life for such a long time.
Jackie’s facial expression is priceless. I think Santa did good. 🙂
Thank you so much, Bridget
Merry Christmas, Derrick, Jackie and family! Thank you for sharing precious time with family with readers. Little Ellie looks very pleased at having opened her package. 🙂
Thank you so much, Lavinia. Much appreciated
I love the Christmas stockings best, Our stockings are a only big enough to where as a long slipper. 😉 I always know what’s in mine. 🙂 because I’m always asked. LOL! It’s fun. It’s the best way to start Christmas Day. Merry Christmas Derrick, Jackie and to all the family.
Thank you so much, Chrissy. Our stockings have morphed into black bin liners
Christmas is a little kid enjoying opening her Christmas gifts.
Christmas is so much fun with family and children. Thank you for sharing these sweet photos!
Much appreciated, JoAnna
That’s a lovely family day!
Thank you so much, John
You must have been a very bad boy this year as I don’t see you opening any presents!!!!!
As you would expect, Judy, I had my share 🙂
So show us what Santa brought you. I hope not books…
A new shaving brush to replace one rather bald from 50 years wear; and my DNA checking kit are two that come to mind.
Your shaving brush was 50 years old? Sounds like my toothbrush. (kidding.)
🙂
Ellie’s joy (and the joy of all the children in our lives) is what Christmas is all about! 🙂 She’s got such focus and determination in that presents-opening part of the holiday! Ha!
(((HUGS))) ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Quite so. Thank you very much, Carolyn XX
So much joy on all the faces, and special photographic memories that Ellie will treasure. Merry Christmas to you all.
Thank you so much, Gwen
Lovely photos of such a happy family!
Thank you so much, Kim
Sorry I’m late getting to see your Christmas…
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No problem. If you were at the beach that is a good reason. Thanks very much, GP
Such a nice gallery, almost like a freeze frame video or so… in real time, with warm and cozy winter holidays air 🙂
Thanks very much, Nicole. I prefer still pics so you can take your time over them.
What a beautiful Christmas day, Derrick, proven by lovely family photos.
Thank you so much, Eugi
You’re welcome, Derrick.
I love your family.
Jackie makes me think of my mom.
Thank you so much, Mimi
Looks like a fun day.
Thanks very much, Andy
You’re welcome.
What a lovely day surrounded by your loved ones!
Thank you so much, Riba
You all clearly had a wonderful day. The expressions on Ellie’s face in particular are priceless. Belated Merry Christmas Derrick!
Thank you so much, Sandra
Looks like your Christmas was most Merry and Bright!
Thanks very much, Dale
Looks like a wonderful Christmas Family meal.
Thanks very much, Gary