Finally my parcel arrived! Approved! I literally pinched myself to make sure it wasn't another dream about receiving a visa, haha.
That was truly the wait from hell.... even though we used a good lawyer, I had spent well over a year researching, and I couldn't think of a single reason for rejection, I was a nervous wreck for five days. Something truly sadistic about that vague "a decision has been made" email. Condolences to those still waiting!!
For posterity, adding my timeline:
Application submitted: Nov 12
Biometrics Submitted: Nov 17
Docs Arrived in Sheffield: Nov 21
Confirmation Email: Nov 21
Confirmation Email (second identical): Nov 24
Decision Made: Nov 25
Docs posted from Sheffield: Nov 25
Visa Received (Approved!): Nov 30
Also, LuvmyBrit, my "decision made" email had only a VAF number, no REF number. but I was approved. So that theory is disproven

Hang in there!
Best of luck to everyone still waiting!