Things to do with the children...

So, the last posting dates have passed, so while your little ones are waiting for Father Christmas to come, why not keep them busy with these festive activities?

We love this idea from Babyccino, hands and feet reindeer! We're sure Rudolph would love to see a garland of these along the fireplace this Christmas morning! Click on the link for a how-to.

And how about something delicious to leave on the hearth for Father Christmas this Christmas Eve? These star biscuits are yummy and are great to make together. You could also make a hole in the top, thread them with ribbon and hang some from the tree... (with thanks to BBC Good Food Magazine for recipe inspiration and picture!)

Sugar Cookie dough:

• 200g unsalted butter , at room temperature
• 150g caster sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 egg
• 300g plain flour , sifted 

Cream together the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. Add the egg and the vanilla extract, beat until smooth, add the flour and bring together to make a smooth dough. Roll into a ball, flatten and chill in the fridge for about half an hour. Then roll it out to about 5mm thick, use a star cutter, or any other shaped cutter you like, and if you want to hang them on the tree pierce a hole in one point of the star with a skewer (not too near the edge, or it will break when you hang it). Place on a baking sheet and chill for about 15 mins before baking at 180 degrees for about 10-12 mins.

A simple and pretty way to decorate these is to brush with a little beaten egg white and sprinkle with silver balls, crystal sugar or edible glitter! Santa will LOVE them!

Enjoy your holiday break, and don't forget our sale starts on Boxing day, 26th December.

Merry Christmas, with love from all at ilovegorgeous! x