MERRY CHRISTMAS | BLOGMAS DAY 24

Hello You Lovely Bunch!

How's your christmas eve going?
I've got the food shop out the way, just got a couple of other gifts to wrap up tonight.  But other than that my plan for tonight is to get my favourite pyjamas on have some quality chill out time with some shortbread biscuits. I'm trying to get Alex into the christmas spirit and excited that Santa's coming but he's just not having any of it at them moment- will keep persevering!

Currently watching The Muppet's Christmas Carol, I cannot remember the last time I saw this but I remember not being a fan. However, I am really enjoying it now I'm older! What a classic how could I not enjoy this!

I want to take a little moment to say THANK YOU

for all the incredible support and encouragement throughout the year and more recently during blogmas. Those of you who have read, liked, commented, share you really don't know how much I appreciate it. I cannot believe its coming to an end, I've thoroughly enjoyed it more than I thought I would. I think 21/24 isn't bad considering I didn't pre-write all of them (only 5 were pre-written), have been going to work and being a mummy and all other bits inbetween😀 I'm proud of myself.
 I'm really motivated to write more frequently in the new year. 

I hope you all have an amazing Christmas whatever you may be doing, spend quality time with your friends and family and get everything you wish for!

Merry Christmas Everyone!
💓

No7 BEAUTY ADVENT CALENDAR ROUNDUP | BLOGMAS DAY 23

As you can see it contained so many beauty bits, from creams, to body was and make up bits and bobs, I can't wait to use them all! I've only had chance to use a few of these. Out of the two mascaras I definitely prefer the Midnight Lash Black it gives my lashes a little more volume and the Pillarbox Red lippy is also a fave. I tried out the Eye makeup Remover last night, wow can't believe I've never used something like this before- its so much easier the trying to rub your face with wipes. The gold nail varnish is incredible, such a beautiful colour; thats what I'll be wearing on christmas day. I really love the goldy/red/nude colour scheme this was so Christmas and perfect colours for the season.

Heres a list of everything i the advent calendar...

• Protect and Perfect Intense Day Cream
• Protect and Perfect Advanced Night Cream
• Protect and Perfect Advanced Eye Cream
• Protect and Perfect Intense Day Hand Cream
• Protect and Perfect Lip Cream 
• Airbrush Away Primer
• Beautiful Skin Eye Make-up Remover
• Beautiful Skin Blissful Body Wash
• Beautiful Skin Completely Quenched Body Milk
• Midnight Lash Mascara - black
• Lovely Lashes Mascara - black 
• Stay Perfect Eyeshadow in Truffle, Wheatsheaf and Starry Lights
• High Shine Lip Crayon in Day Dreamer
• Lovely Lips lip balm in Parisian Pink
• Moisture Drench Lipstick in Pillarbox (special edition)
• Limited Edition Nail Colour in Nude, Red and Gold. 
• Eyelash Curlers
• Mini Blusher Brush, Mini Eyeshadow Brush and Mini Eye Contour Brush
• No7 Match Made Blusher gift invitation. 

This is the first year I've had a beauty advent calendar and I really recommend it! Its great way to try out a new brand to see if you like it etc but you also get so many useful products. Theres also the added bonus of if you don't like something can always see if a family member/friend does. 

.I'll be choosing a different brand next year and I already can't wait!

Is there anything in this calendar you've tried and recommend? 

Did you have an beauty advent calendar? What did I miss out on? 

xx

PARTY MAKEUP | BLOGMAS DAY 21

Ahhh nothing better than getting yourself dolled up for a christmas party amongst family, friends or even a works do; getting abit more sparkly and a little more out there with your colours, contouring and highlighting. For me,thats the most exciting part, getting my face together. This is a glittery smokeyish eye with a dark red lip-love it! Realistically, its not that much different to my everyday makeup just a few different products and my eyes are a little more glittery haha
What's your favourite part about getting ready?

Foundation - Revlon Colorstay (normal/dry) in Fresh Beige
Concealer - Collection in Fair
Revlon PhotoReady Eye Primer

Glitter Dust - Barry M No15
Eyeshadow - Maybelline The Nudes- Black (also used to fill in eyebrows)

Bronzer - Collection shimmering light
Eyeliner - Collection fast stroke Black
Mascara - No7 Lovely Lashes in Black

Lipstick - Revlon Black Cherry
Highlight and Contour- Collection highlight and sculpt palette 

(ps - please note that the Barry M glitter dust states not to use around the eyes- I didn't realise till after! oops! haha)

I'd love to see your December party makeup? or even your makeup favourites?

Have Fun whatever your doing in the final days before Christmas! xx

QUICK CHRISTMAS Q&A | BLOGMAS DAY 19

I took to Twitter and Facebook for you guys to give me some Christmassy questions to answer - maybe you'll find out something you didn't already know :)
I only picked a couple out as with my unintentional lie-in this morning, everything I had planned to do I haven't done, and I have work to soon (what an inconvenience haha) so here we go...

1.My perfect christmas gift would probably be being treated to christmas away from home, however if were talking about things I'm always happy with perfume.

2. No, I don't believe in Santa, however I have no problems with pretending for my little boy.

3.This changes every year, last year I loved the foil looking silver, this year I quite like the brown paper with patterns, but shiny is always a winner for me.

4. Sometimes, I like to give a good shake or feel to see if i can guess what it is before opening it. I've been resisting opening gifts I've already been given.

Yes! The what I think is reindeer is my favourite.

Erm, if I was out celebrating it'd more than likely be a cocktail. At home with christmas dinner a rose wine. I also like a cheeky bit of bucks fizz around christmas mainly with my breakfast.

The peeping Santa bubble bar by far, how cute is that little guy? The smell and colour is great too, sweet and festive. I haven't used it yet this year but I can't wait to; feeling all cosy and festive in the bath haha

To be honest with you, I had to do a small bit research into this as I hadn't heard this story and still don't know the full story. But being someone who avoids the news around this time of year I'm not surprised I missed it- I don't think its a suitable news story as what about those parents that are struggling and feel bad that there children may have nothing?

My thoughts are that if she can afford it and its not going to leave her bankrupt or unable to feed/look after her children then why not? But personally I do think there is a point where you think enough is enough. Christmas shouldn't be about how many gifts you receive it should be about being grateful for what you have and teaching your children to spend time with the family as sometimes at this time of year is the only time you get to see some of your family.

Every parent does things differently and thats okay😀

Thanks to all those who sent me questions and all your continued support!
I'd love to see your answers to these questions below....

WHAT I'VE DONE DIFFERENT THIS DECEMBER | BLOGMAS DAY 18

I MADE AN EFFORT to change the bad memories of last year!

Lets have a little chat...

This year I made a conscious decision that this December was not going to be the same as the last, my main motivation was now Alex is at an impressional age I didn't want him growing up thinking Christmas is an unhappy time and to be honest I'm so proud with how well its turned out so far just by making an effort with changing tiny little things. 

- I've decorated my house that little bit more, with an extra tree for Alex to decorate and homey christmassy bits. I mean, its not lights and decorations everywhere and the outside isn't done just a few little extra touches- some that we can keep for years but its more than just having a tree up.

- I've baked a little more, last year I gave just mince pies a go, this year I've attempted a couple of bits and bobs, not all of them made it to blogmas, because well...lets just say I'm not the best baker of the bunch

- Santa Visit, last year I really really wanted to take Alex to see Santa but with a mix of him being so poorly and me not wanting to go alone we never did it. I was so disappointed in myself! So this year I did made the effort and took him- read about it here and by christmas he will have seen Santa 3 times and each time he gets a little more confident!

- I've made plans and actually KEPT to them (nights out, sleepovers, shopping trips, attending christmas get togethers) - this is a huge step for me and I tell you what? Its been great, christmas is about being with family and friends after-all! 

- I have my own mini christmas party to host - I mean, its totally out of my comfort zone, but why not? getting family and friends together to celebrate, throw around some of that christmas spirit I'm quite excited!

and I've got to say this year I'm so much more content this, so pleased with myself but also have the confidence that some great memories and traditions are being made this year. My attitude has also rubbed off and Alex and hes enjoying learning about christmas and loves dancing around to the christmas songs. Its a pretty site to see😀

Have you done anything different this December? anything your proud of?

xx

CRUNCHY GINGER AND CHOCOLATE SLAB | BLOGMAS DAY 17

Ginger and chocolate can be the perfect for christmas time, I love them both so why not try them together! Perfect for parties or little chocolatey nibbles for kiddies or yourself when your sweet tooth hits and lets be honest thats most of the time in December....

To make this crunchy ginger chocolate slab you will need;
- huge spoonful of butter
- 300g of dark or milk chocolate
- half a pack of ginger nut biscuits
- honey to drizzle
- Fruit for decoration (optional)

Get the kiddies involved - Alex loved smashing up the biscuits!

What To Do

- I started by popping the biscuits into the sandwich bag and crushing them up by giving them a good wallop with with a rolling pin
- Add the butter to a pan to melt
- Add the chocolate to the pan little by little to melt 

- Use foil to line your chose dish and add the crushed biscuits
- Add the melted chocolate to the biscuits and mix together

- Tap down until flat and drizzle your honey on top, add your fruit for decoration.

- Place in the fridge for 2+ hours, take out and slice.

I love this recipe and would definitely make again but this time I used far too much chocolate 450g making the slab too thick to cut so had to leave it out over night to make it eatable and easy to cut. 

Why not try it with cheeky bit of whipped cream on top?

Heres the recipes I used for inspiration -Recipe

See you tomorrow for more blogmas😀

EVERYDAY DECEMBER MAKEUP | BLOGMAS DAY 15

I quite liked my makeup today, it turned out really well after abit of a fight with eyeliner in my eye and eyeshadow everywhere. I was having one of those mornings haha, but I wanted to share with you the main sort of makeup I have been reaching for on an everyday basis for December, its sort of a smoky brown eye with a bright lip.

Nothing like divulging into someones make up bag and seeing what there favourites are and what they use to paint there face, in my case to look more presentable😇

Looks like some of this need repurchasing!!

Foundation - Revlon Colorstay (normal/dry) in Fresh Beige
Concealer - Collection in Fair

Bronzer - Collection Bronze Glow shimmering light
Contour and Highlight- Collection highlight & sculpt 

Eyeshadow - Makeup Revolution Flawless Palette.

1. Highlite as base, 

Brew allover lid, 

Darkest shimmer on outer corner of lid and a sweep of 

Gold Digger in the middle of the lid to add a gold touch and extra shimmer

Eyebrows - Maybelline The Nude pallette colour Black (yep I use eyeshadow, I personally prefer it) 

Liquid Eyeliner - Sleek dip it in Black

Mascara - Sleek n Black

Lipstick - Rimmel 107

Whats been your go-to makeup for December? I'm looking for recommendations😀 

See you again in a couple of days for my Christmas party look!

xx

HAVE IT ALL HOT CHOCOLATE | BLOGMAS DAY 14

This is incredible!

You will need:- 

- Your favourite hot chocolate
- Milk/Hot water
- Aerosol Cream
- Your favourite ice cream (I think cookie dough would be pretty tasty) i went for neopolitan chocolate and vanilla
- Decorative chocolates, sprinkles - anything you fancy. If your like me and have forgot to open your advent calendar these are a perfect chocolatey treat.

At christmas time, its not often we sit down to treat ourselves with being so busy being mummies, working or getting organised for the big day and so on. I recently indulged in a cheeky hot chocolate on Sunday evening, my sweet tooth had hit and I just kept adding its and bobs to it.

  This is easy peasy lemon squeezy to make.

Make a hot chocolate the way you normally would.

Add aerosol cream
Pop your ice cream on top
Add your extra chocolatey bits 

relax and enjoy....

xx

MY MUST WATCH CHRISTMAS FILMS | BLOGMAS DAY 13

Don't you just love a Christmas film, getting all cosy in your pjs, under the blankets with some festive snacks and having a good old binge watch or even as background noise whilst your wrapping presents is just as good. I love being able to circle the TV guide for all the thins I want to watch
Heres a few of my favourites and must watches for every year!

1. Elf -  A super christmassy comedy, The first christmas I've watched this year, I love it - its so comical but touching and exciting at the same time at how Buddy the Elf is adapting to life without the north pole

2. Home Alone - it has to be watched at least once, doesn't it! We all love little Kevin saving his home and taking on those burglars hardcore style. And them house decorations goals...

3. Rise of the Guardians - Not your typical christmas film but I love how the retro characters ( Santa, Easter Bunny, tooth fairy, the little dream guy and Jack frost) come together in full force to ensure children still believe in them and take on Pitch Black.

4. The Grinch - Another comedy, isn't Jim Carey just hilarious? I love how he refers to and hates christmas with hi quips and quirks, but by the end he's getting back into the spirit that was stuck deep inside for all those years.

5. An all year round fave, I can watch this anytime. I would love to do a house exchange at christmas time! Who wouldn't? It gives me such a warm cosy feeling inside, the storyline is beautiful and how love and friendship is found along the way of troubled paths.

I need to get watching - I haven't seen that many films yet this year as I just haven't had th time or just fall asleep 10 minutes into it haha

What films do you enjoy getting all snuggled up for or have on over and over again?

See you all again tomorrow for another Blogmas post 😀

MINI LUSH HAUL | BLOGMAS DAY 12

Can I start by saying how CUTE these bags are? Just look at them...

When I went on my little birthday shopping spree, I just had to pop into Lush to top up my collection as we all know this year I have become a huge fan of the bath bombs and bubble bars. I definately had to have a look at the Christmas range and I think I spent quite some time smelling them all. I'll be honest with you, I'm very particular when it comes to smells- so most of them wasn't for me😲 but I did come out with 2 christmassy ones. 

So White bath bomb and Peeping Santa bubble bar, my favourite of the two.

I'd probably say these are near enough very opposite to each other. So White is very crisp apple scent whereas Peeping Santa is a sweet fruity smell. But it's aways good to mix it up :) This is my second Peeping Santa since they've been launched this year- I just love it and the orangy-red water and just knowing its Christmassy related, makes the bath instantly more festive. Really looking forward to giving So White a go soon.

I also got some of my other favourites that I've grown to love this year. 

Sex Bomb a nice calming floral smell, always a go to if I'm feeling a little stressed and want to have a proper chill out and just look how pretty it is with the rose shape.
Now, The Comforter bubble bar - I cannot rave about this enough. This is a staple in my house and has been repurchased so many times. Its mine and Alex's favourite, he always asks to use it  'pink bubbly bath?' he'll ask. I've actually used lush products to teach him colours haha, an excuse to buy maybe? I usually get between 4 and 6 baths from this.
 Another fruity one, more berry toned. I'm starting to see a pattern here and my preferred tastes haha

Whats your favourite Christmas Lush product? and your everyday staple?
I'd love to know maybe its something I haven't seen or tried!

xx

ALTERNATIVE CHRISTMAS DINNER IDEAS | BLOGMAS DAY 11

Theres nothing better than a good old Christmas Roast with all the extra trimmings compared to a normal roast, however it isn't for everyone. To be honest with you ever since moving out my childhood home 4 years ago, I've only cooked one Christmas Roast but that was only because I had a guest with us haha, otherwise it'd have been something different

I thought I'd pop together a little list of simple ideas for an alternative Christmas Dinner for those who may not like, have the time or don't need/want to cook a traditional dinner.

• Toad in the Hole, an even better adaption of this.; Wrap bacon around your sausages making a pigs in blankets toad in the hole = delish!
• Sausage and mash
• Meatloaf - Jamie Oliver has an amazing recipe I like to use
• Beef/Chicken Casserole
• Shepherds Pie
• Turkey and Cranberry puff pastry 
• Pork and apple puff pastry
• Broccoli and Tomato tart
• Roasted Red Pepper rice bake (chorizo optional)
• Have a mini buffet spread of all your favourite things 

Have whatever takes your fancy, what do you like to cook for Christmas Dinner? I'm still yet to decide what I'm doing this year

See you tomorrow :)

FESTIVE LIP PICKS | BLOGMAS DAY 10

Since becoming such an obsessive over lipsticks and products it'd only feel wrong to not share with you my favourites I've been wearing this month. 

RIMMEL KATE 107
This will come as no shock to you, its been a fave for a while (probably like most of the world). But the deep rich wine red shade is just perfect for this season whether its being worn casually or your dressing it up.

L'OREAL GOLD OBSESSION PLUM GOLD
I couldn't wait to get my hands on this, a little birthday treat to myself and I've worn it a fair bit since. Its not too dark and not too light with a cheeky hint of gold running through it. Who doesn't love some shimmer in there lipstick? I most certainly do! Perfect for a night out or for some shimmer on a dull day.

SLEEK MATTE ME in RIOJA RED

Wow, Wow, Wow - if you want to make a statement this is the one, and sometimes we want to do that. So bright and cheerful and very Red! but also christmassy looking if you've got a cosy jumper on. This is the first matte lipstick I've ever worn and got to say I was pleasantly surprised with how amazing it is. Stays all day and doesn't dry out your lips at all!
Theres a picture up on my instagram if you want to see how bright it is @_gracie92

Whats been your go-to lip products this December? I'd love to see...

Tweet me @_gracie92

DECEMBERS CHILD | BLOGMAS DAY 8

It was my birthday on the 4th and this year is probably the first one I've really done any 'celebrating' since I was 18! I'll leave you to guess how many years ago that possibly was haha. I absolutely had a ball and got to say its been one of my favourite birthdays.

I kicked off my actual birthday with an early morning travelling to MeadowHall for a girly shopping day with my friend :) I really enjoyed the day, being able to try things on, have a gander at all the products and shop till I dropped child-free for a little change! My plan was to pick things up for myself and get a few extra christmas gifts - but just ended up treating myself...oops! So more shopping trips for christmas prezzies needed.

These pictures sum up my favourite things at the moment, cosy clothes and makeup.
New Look - Skinny Jeans and a Jumper because you just can't have enough
Primark - Pjs are always my favourite
The Body Shop British Rose Eau De Toilette
Barry M Fine Glitter Dust - No15 
L'oreal Sexybalm - Bold 202 Adventure (my first ever pink purchase and I'm so pleased with it)

I also received lots of lovely other gifts from my family and friends😀 and I cannot wait to use everything

I also allowed myself to a rare night out which was so fun! I was so nervous beforehand but I'm so pleased I didn't cancel. But, it was great to just chat, be silly and catch up with friends I don't see very often 

One of my fave pictures from the night out, I don't know why as you can't see our faces but hey! its fun to take pictures in the mirror. I made sure I got lots of other photos so I can always have a look back on them.

Thanks to Everyone who made it so special for me!

What have you been up to this December?

THE CHRISTMAS TAG | BLOGMAS DAY 7

Well, as if its Blogmas Day 7 already!!
Hows it going?

I've seen the Christmas Tag floating around this last week and thought why not give it a go, you might find out something you don't know?
`Thanks to Hayley at lifethroughtsg for letting me read and steal it 😉

What is your favourite Christmas Film?
I'd have to say its The Holiday, it gives me such a warm fuzzy feeling inside. The storyline line is just perfect and The Grinch coming a close second 

Have you ever had a White Christmas?
Not that I can remember, it did briefly snow on Boxing day 2 years ago which was magical but didn't last long before it got slushy. I'd love to be somewhere at Christmas where your garenteed a white Christmas

Where do you usually spend your holiday?
Usually I spend the whole of December at my house and work. This year I'm going to friends and families houses o the weekends building up to Christmas. On Christmas Day I'll be at home mainly chilling on the sofa and cooking some sort of dinner.
That reminds me, Really need to think about what we'll be having

Whats your favourite Christmas song?This year its Rocking around the Christmas Tree (Brenda Lee) really love a good bop around to it!

Do you open any presents on Christmas Eve?
Nope, all on Christmas morning.

Can you name all of Santa's reindeer?Ermmmm.... Rudolph, Prancer, Dasher, Blitzen...
Nope, oops!

What holiday traditions are you looking forward to most of all?This year is probably the year for setting traditions, I'm hoping to host an annual Christmas party every year- if this year goes well. I also look forward to attending a friends annual Christmas Party. But also not a tradition but just to see my little one understanding Christmas more and enjoying himself.

Is your christmas tree real or fake?Its fake as I can only fit a slimline one in my home, but next year I really really hope to have a real one.

What is your all time favourite Christmas food/sweet treat?A Terry's chocolate orange is just delish! I try only to buy one through the season though. But also pigs in blankets- who doesn't love those on there Christmas dinner or to snack on?

Be honest: do you like gift giving or git recieving?Gift giving all the way, its nice to see people enjoy your gifts (if they like them of course) I also love the shopping part if I'm organised.

Whats the best christmas gift you've ever received? I don't have a best gift, I really love most of the ones I've received over the years.

What would your dream place to visit for the holiday season?See, this is a toughie. In one sense I'd love to go to Australia and have christmas in warmth and a million miles away from home. In another sense I'd love to go somewhere really snowy and stay in a log cabin or a cosy home. The choices are endless.

Are you a pro-present wrapper, or do you fail miserably?
Probably somewhere in between, I'm not great at it, but most of the time it doesn't look too bad. But hey? whats wrong with using gift bags to make it all nice and neat if you do struggle😀

Most memorable holiday moment?To be honest with you, its not a very good one, little downer moment here (sorry!)
Last year I was hoping for a really good christmas for Alex with him being more aware. Unfortunately, Alex was so poorly we ended up in hospital overnight with him on oxygen. We came home christmas afternoon to my gas turning itself off and I was so tired and worked up I couldn't figure out how to get it back on. All the fun had been taken out of it!However, this year I'm hoping it won't be the same. 

What made you realise the truth about Santa?I have no idea.... I literally cannot remember! 

Do you make New Years Resolutions? Do you stick to them?I don't make resolutions as I know I won't stick to them, but I make goals that try to achieve throughout the year.


What makes the holidays special for you?Being able to share moments with friends and family that you see often or not but also seeing my little boy happy. 

I really enjoyed writing this post, makes me think more about Christmas. If you take part I'd love to see :) you can tag me on Twitter @_gracie92

MINI CHRISTMASSY HAUL | BLOGMAS DAY 6

Helloooooo, its me again, 

This year I've been abit more christmassy than usual, its so exciting especially now Alex is at an age where he's recognising Christmas, time to create some of our own personal traditions. I've also bought a few things to add that extra festive feeling into my home for this year and hopefully many other so thought I'd share them with you.

Look at these cute little guys,

I'll be honest I bought the Santa last year and it is a doorstop but...I like to use it as an ornament type thing haha. I got the countdown reindeer from a pop up Christmas shop, I think its sooo cute, but its also gonna be great for Alex as when he gets older and learns to write he can do the countdown himself. 

Nothing better than christmassy tea towels, I love these. 

An extra mini christmas tree that I got for Alex to decorate himself, it now has place on my kitchen work top with some pretty red and gold decorations from Primark,  making the whole downstairs so festive

I also have some Christmas bedding in a grey and white patchwork style with christmas patterns that I don't have on yet, but won' be long till I get it on. 

What Christmassy bits have you got to add that festive touch to your home?

CHRISTMAS PLAYLIST | BLOGMAS DAY 5

Its Blogmassssss Day 5! Its going by so so fast, 

Who doesn't love a good old cheesy Christmas Song playlist - I created mine before Halloween haha and have played it everyday since the 1st of this month.

I'm a huge fan of all the old classics, the ones that are played over and over again. Although I'm really not into the slower ballads this year, not sure why. I'm also not too keen on remakes, there's only a good few I've heard.

Other songs on my playlist include:

- Merry Christmas Everyone - Shakin' Stevens
- Fairytale of New York - The Pogues, probably the one slow one, but its such a classic
- All I want for Christmas is You - Mariah Carey
- Jingle Bell Rock - Bobby Helms
- Let it Go, Frozen. Not a Christmas song but winter themed film that Alex loves and he loves singing along so why not? haha

I like to listen to Christmas songs when I'm getting ready in the morning on full blast, bopping and dancing around with the little one. This year Rocking around the Christmas Tree is my fave! Next year I bet it'll be something different.

Hows our playlist looking? Whats your favourite tune?

See you tomorrowwww...

QUICK CRUMBLE MINCE PIES | BLOGMAS DAY 4

I never used to be a fan of Mince Pies until I started baking my own, I'm not sure what it is about shop bought but homemade have my vote all the way. So, its become sort of a thing for me now to bake mince pies whether thats to nibble on at home, leave for Santa or take along to parties- either way I really enjoy it! This year I thought I'd try them out with a crumble topping, as crumble is just delish and rather cosy, don't you think? brings abit of sweet to the savoury. Got to say these are my favourite I've made so far!

Just to put this out there, these are very quick mince pies and not too time consuming if your a busy bee, as I haven't made my own pastry or mincemeat. To be honest, I've never really tried and I'm too scared haha. I buy it in and get straight to it, However, if you want to make your own pastry I admire you and I bet they'll be yummy.

For 12 Mince Pies; you will need

• Shortcrust Pastry, ready rolled or homemade
• Mincemeat - I like Robertson's Classic 
• 250g plain flour
• 150g caster sugar
• 2 table spoon of butter (room temperature)
• Cupcakes cases (optional)

Steps to Follow :-

• Preheat the oven to 180oC
• Unroll your pastry onto your work space and leave it to 'air' for 10 minutes
• Using your round cutter (or in my case a plastic cup😂) cut out circles into your baking tin/cupcake cases
• Add a tablespoon of our mincemeat to your pastry shells
• Pop into the oven to warm whilst you make the crumble topping
• Add plain flour, caster sugar and butter to a mixing bowl
• Using your hands mix together the ingredients until you have a breadcrumb like texture. Don't be afraid to get dirty! Why not get your kiddies involved? Alex couldn't wait to dig in
• Take your mince pies out the oven and add your crumble topping
• Bake in the oven for around 20-30minutes and leave to cool

Don't forget it doesn't matter if they look a little messy, thats what homemade is all about.

Best served with your favourite christmas drinks, or perhaps try it with some custard, yum yum.

Happy Eating!