freedom of choice

I remember one of the pieces of advice that stuck in my head while raising a toddler was "Choose your battles". Rather than thinking everything was uber-important, realise what really matters and make sure you fight hard for that.

If your child wants to go to the shops dressed in mis-matched shirt and skirt, with fairywings and gumboots - does it matter - or is it dead-cute?

I've decided to apply this advice to getting through Christmas relatively unscathed. Today I went to David Jones with my fluffy hair pulled back into a scruffy ponytail because I really should have washed it yesterday. Luckily a set of beads, lashings of mascara and some pretty lipstick made up for my crowning glory's sins.

After the photos two sister-in-law, one brother-in-law, one mother-in-law and four nieces came back for afternoon tea. Rather than knocking myself out baking I called in at a patisserie, bought gingerbread stars, christmas rocky road and a pack of choc and pecan chip biscuits {oooh, and I found confit duck in their fridge - score!}. Combined with chocolate baby biscuits from the pantry, chips and some leftover blue drink from Saturday everyone was adequately fed and watered and happy. We enjoyed the company and that's the main thing.

So now, before I do anything I'm going to ask myself, "Will anyone die or cry if I don't do this?" If the answer's no I'm going for the easy option - or I'll opt out all-together. This'll leave me free to focus on what really matters - giggling with family and friends - my favourite activity!