(French) Boxing Day

Today's trip was to the in-laws for Boxing Day. Audrey woke early (but went to bed late - weird!) so we decided to make the most of it and head up early.

I was quite stressed about spending the day at the in-laws and got myself in a bit of a state last night. But it was OK in the end. My mother-in-law is making a fantastic recovery and there wasn't an atmosphere following our row so I'm feeling more hopeful for the future.

Audrey was unsettled though. She just screamed when either of them tried to communicate with her. To her they are strangers and I could see the hurt in their eyes, even though they pretended it didn't matter. It was her second day on tour and I think she'd had enough and just wanted to be at home (the look in her eyes when we finally brought her home tonight said it all - pure relief!)

My mother-in-law had gone to great lengths despite her condition on our Christmas present (pictured). It was a box wrapped in French newspaper and contained French food treats. I'm a completely obsessed Francophile so it was a wonderful gift and I felt very touched all considered. I think I need to move on from our fight. She is clearly making such an effort.

We got back late again so I slung Audrey in the bath and calmed her down before bed with her new sensory pillow (my sister Jo bought it her for Christmas and it is amazing).

Then my husband and I ate far too much cheese and I drank half a bottle of Montepulciano (I blame the stress of today) whilst watching Coronation Street.

I've come to bed and he's watching a movie on our new bluray DVD player downstairs (generously bought by my parents for Christmas). It's a war movie and it literally sounds like Chinook helicopters are landing in my front room.

Off for afternoon tea with my sisters in a posh hotel tomorrow. The eating and drinking tour continues...eek!