Christmas Day

We awake too early, outside the sky is still inky black and the birds remained silent. We hear the others stirring, coffee is ground and brewed; its bitter nutty fragrance reaching our nostrils and calling us downstairs.  Platters of lemony smoked salmon and creamy scrambled eggs are laid on the table. We drink ice cold furiously fizzing Prosecco in elegant glasses and toast Christmas in our pyjama's.

We pass presents around, gasp, laugh, cringe, smile. Christmas outfits are proudly shown off and the champers flows.

Then; Arbroath smokey fish cakes to start, followed by a divine three bird roast with sweet braised fennel,  crunchy roast potatoes and sprouts with pancetta and chestnuts. We sit, chins propped, and talk of past and present plans. We play a surprisingly competitive game of Extreme Uno, toast a flaming pudding, then heave ourselves onto the sofa's to watch Dr Who. Perfecto.

The presents under the tree

The chef

A very busy Kitchen

Rays cranberry relish

Arbroath Smokey Fish cakes- gorgeous.

The birds! Duck, Goose and Turkey. So so good.

Christmas dress!

Sprouts with pancetta and chestnuts

Braised Fennel

And a gratuitous cheesy Christmas day bump photo...