Christmas pressure

Hey readers, 

Christmas can be tough especially when you see how good some people live their life on social media. 

But what you must remember is that it is only what you see in a picture, you don't know the whole story. Remember you are not alone and lots of other people feel similar to the pressure of Christmas and the high expectations you put on yourself.

I don't have all the money in the world but I have learnt that it does not matter. I don't need to be perfect nor do I need to put this big expectation on myself to be something that I can not achieve, it is ok too so what feels right for you. 

Everyone is different and the more I accept myself and my situation the better chance I will of enjoying Christmas without the stress.

I think one of the things about the Christmas stress is expectations to be perfect and provide everything for everyone. why put Yourself under that stress when you know it is not achievable if you haven't got the money. 

No point beating yourself up over it, it is ok to have a budget, it is ok not to buy everything in the Argos Catalogue. You do not have to worry as social services will not be knocking on the door because you have not brought your child enough toys for Christmas or the latest gadget.

However, it is also important to remember that Christmas should not be about the money but getting together and being nice to one other. you don't need a million pounds to have a good time. 

You could go for a walk together and that would be just as wonderful be sure you are doing something together as a family. 

Sometimes just being with the people you love is more important. I have been at times the loneliest with no one and I need to remind myself it is so much better now with having the opportunity to spend Christmas with the people I love and love me back.

You don't always to have money to be happy.. of course, it helps with paying the bill's and keeping a roof over your head. but for materialistic gifts, happiness is only short-lived anyway into you want the next thing.

 Anyone can go out and buy something but not everyone is as lucky as me to have a safe roof over their heads or having people in your life that accept you for who you are.

Who cares about all the stresses of Christmas? The only person is you, most kids really care and just hold on the memories.

Don't spend if you can't afford it is ok to do what is right for you and within your means.

No point getting stressed about money do what feels right for you and remember really it's the only day. Enjoy watching telly, eating too much chocolate and being with the ones you love.

Cheers for reading X

Self care activities for December.

Hey readers,

December can be a busy time of year for us all. We can be swept away by everything else that is happening that we forget to look after ourselves or give ourselves some time out to take self-care. 

So, here are some practical self-care activities you can do this December to help reduce the stress of the Christmas period.

Mindfulness.

Practice some mindfulness - look around and see the lights twinkling from the decorations in the Christmas tree.

Bath.

Have a long soak in the bath and unwind. Let your muscles relax and give your body that time to rest.

Sleep.

Have an early night and switch off the technology, even take a book to bed to read and escape with a story.

Exercise.

Go for an evening walk and get some fresh air. Enjoy not having to rush about but just soak up the scenery.

Drink.

Make a yummy hot chocolate and drink it whilst watching your favourite programme. Just focus on the moment and forget about that to-do list.

 There is something lovely about holding a hot cup of your favourite drink in your hands and feeling all cosy.

Being realistic.

If you are feeling overwhelmed by the business of the festive season create limits to stick to. Instead of doing wrapping in one go do it over two days.

 There is no point rushing about when it will tip you over the edge. It makes you feel stressed and causes tension in the home. It is important to break down goals that are manageable and realistic to achieve.

Ask for help.

If you are struggling then ask for help - it is not a crime and you are not a failure in doing this. 

In actual fact, it takes more courage and strength to know when to stop and give someone else the responsibility. It is better productivity that way.

Remember.

Remind yourself that it is ok to stop and not be busy. It is ok to time out for yourself and your wellbeing. 

It is ok to do nothing even though you feel that the festive period is about constantly being on the go. It is ok to have time out for yourself to rejuvenate and charge your batteries. 

Declutter.

During this period I find that decluttering helps my mind. Sorting out through unwanted toys that boys don't use and passing them on to someone else ready for Christmas when they get tons more to replace the space that once was.

I find it relaxing just putting music on and pottering about. I like to get things in order and get areas tidy. It is a calming and I love the feeling after when you get a sense of satisfaction.

Write.

I find writing relaxing (hence why I blog) though you don't necessarily have to do that if you don't want to. 

You could write a gratitude diary where you write the number of positive things that have happened to you that day. It doesn't have too big it could be simply having a shower, getting out of bed.

 It is the small things and getting into this pattern can really help enhance a more positive mindset over time.

What self care activities do you go to during December to help you relax? Love to hear your thoughts in the comment section down below. 

Cheers for reading X

How to make a homemade hot chocolate in a jar.

 Hey readers, 

If you like making homemade presents or giving something with a personal touch then these cute homemade hot chocolate in a jar might be the one for you. 

I think they look really good and perfect to make for someone as a Christmas present. 

How to make homemade hot chocolate in a jar.

What you will need. 

* Mason jar.

* Cocoa powder.

* Sweets.

* Chocolate drops.

* String.

* Christmas tag.

* Hole punch.

* Straw.

 

Method. 

1. Get a mason jar with a lid.

2. Layer each ingredient.

 - starting with 1 cup of cocoa powder.

- 1 cup of sugar.

- 1/2 a cup of chocolate drops. 

3. Finally add a handful of Smarties (or any chosen sweets).

4. With the hole punch place the Christmas tag in and punch one hole. 

5. Next get some Rippon threat through the hole and wrap it around the neck of the jar. Use the ribbon to tie the straw.

6. Finally place the lid to secure. 

Cheers for reading X

My top 10 christmas songs.

Hey readers,

I have compiled a playlist of my favourite Christmas songs to get you dancing around that Christmas tree. 

I love a bit of everything from Jazz, to hip-hop to even the 80s (of course has to be done doesn’t). So grab a mince pie and enjoy.

Driving Home for Christmas – Chris Rea.

My favourite Christmas song EVER is Driving Home for Christmas by Chris Rea. I just think it is a really beautiful voice and that sense of love to it, makes me smile and feel all googly inside.

Let It Snow – Dean Martin.

I love jazz music when it's Christmas time, it just feels classy and a bit like you got to sh*t together. It just has the right collection of notes. Dean Martin’s voice just captures Christmas for me and it makes me think of fires and all the jazz (excuse the pun there).

Winter Wonderland – Frank Sinatra.

My favourite Jazz singer has to be Frankie baby with this classic of Winter Wonderland. it is a perfect compliment when wrapping presents and decorating the Christmas tree.

Baby, it’s Cold Outside – Tom Jones and Cerys Matthews.

Let’s move along in time to the late ’90s with this amazing duet from Tom Jones and Cerys Matthews. It is cheeky, it is fun what more could you want?

Merry Christmas – Mel and Kim.

I can not miss out on adding an 80’s classic to my Christmas song wish list with this timeless song that you hear. It is, of course, Merry Christmas by Mel and Kim. You know this is a fun pop song and you be guaranteed to want to sing along to it.

It’s the Most Wonderful Time of Year – Andy Williams.

A beaut of a song is this is one of the most popular songs of Andy Williams with it’s the most wonderful time of year. What a credible voice and perfect to add to anyone’s Christmas playlist.

Merry Christmas I Don’t Want to Fight Tonight – The Ramones.

Now I have picked something a little alternative and not such a popular Christmas track. It is a song by The Ramones called Merry Christmas I don’t want to fight tonight. I like this track because it is got a raw edge to it. 

 It is a bit more realistic regards to the pressures of family life at Christmas. Let’s face there is a lot of pressure whether it is financial or whatever it can take its toll.

The Little Drummer Boy (Peace on Earth) – Bing Crosby featuring David Bowie.

A beautiful duet with David Bowie and Bing Crosby. To think a glam rocker and a crooner could work so well but it did and thank goodness it was released because it is brilliant!

Santa Claus Go Straight to the Ghetto – James Brown.

Now we are moving on to a bit of soul with the Godfather of Soul James Brown. If you ain’t tapping along with this one what is wrong with you, it is upbeat and full of funk with a mix of Christmas blended in.

Christmas in Hollies – RUN-DMC.

For fun and one you want to turn the volume up Run DMC with Christmas in hollies, for awesome Christmas raps to get you in the spirit of Christmas.

Cheers for reading X

Christmas punch recipe.

 Hey readers, 

What a festive treat is a Christmas punch and it is so easy to knock up. Below is the recipe which takes minutes to do but packs all the punch in a drink. 

What you need. 

* Ice

* 200ml vodka

* 200ml cranberry juice

* 200ml orange juice  juice

* 6 tsp brown sugar (optional)

* 300ml soda water

How to make it. 

1. Fill a large jug or punch bowl with ice. Add the vodka, cranberry and clementine juice and stir to combine. I

2. If you want to add a little sweetness to this naturally sharp-tasting punch stir in the sugar and mix until dissolved.

Enjoy X

31 blog ideas for December

Hey readers, 

Seaming as we are approaching December I have drawn up 31 blog post ideas perfect for December so don't worry but just write. Enjoy :)

1. What is on your wish list this year?

2. New year's resolutions. 

3. A gift guide.

4. Host a giveaway.

5. A list of books you have read this year.

6. Write your year in a review.

7. Create a fiction story that you have made up.

8. Share a cookie recipe.

9. Things that you have learned this year. 

10. What's on in your local area? 

11. Tips and hacks to survive the winter.

12. Share your favourite holiday activities.

13. What can you think during winter? 

14. How do you conquer cabin fever?

15. Write a winter bucket list.

16. What are the best Christmas markets near you? 

17. How do you get over the Christmas blues? 

18. What are your favourite Christmas movies? 

19. Christmas outfit ideas. 

20. Gift ideas for kids. 

21. Share your holiday decor. 

22. Write a letter to Santa. 

23. Favourite slow cooker recipes. 

24. Write about your Christmas traditions. 

25. Have a day off, it's Christmas day after all. 

26. Best activities to do in Winter. 

27. Share your favourite Pinterest boards and explain why. 

28. How do you organise your blog/time?

29. A guide to Christmas stocking fillers.

30. Your Christmas wishlist.

31. Skincare for the winter.

Will you be using any of these blog post ideas? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comment section below.

Cheers for reading X 

How to deal with post Christmas blues.

Hey readers,

Well, it is officially the end of Christmas and the holiday season but what now? It can be a hard period where you deflated and in a post-slum. These feelings can be hard to shift so let me give you some tips on how to overcome the holiday blues. 

Get outdoors.

It can be easy to sit at home feeling meh, ok you don't have the money, you might have put on a few pounds and just a general feeling of flatness. One way to help lift your mood is to shake off the cobwebs and go out for a walk and breath in the fresh air. Walking in the open can be really beneficial and trust me you feel so much better after choosing to do it.  

Plan. 

With all the fun and games of Christmas end sometimes you need to have a plan on how to move forward and do something constructive like choosing a book of your reading list or sorting out your wardrobe. Anything, that can distract you and do something that can benefit you and make you feel good at doing something that day.  

Have something to look forward to. 

Just because Christmas has ended doesn't mean you can't plan something to look forward to, whether it is going for a coffee somewhere or checking out the local art gallery, you can still get excited about doing something worthy after Christmas.  

Expect some letdown.

They say preparation is key and one way is to expect some letdown after Christmas. Doing this can cause let emotional response to the end of the event meaning it might suck a shock mentally and easier to manage when Christmas has ended.  

Be kind to yourself. 

Sometimes we can be our own worst enemy, it is important to understand that sometimes life can be tough and be gentle with yourself. It takes a little time to adjust from the comedown of Christmas and get back to reality and normality kicks back in. 

Make healthy choices. 

With planning and preparation instead of just eating all the crap food focus on eating healthy as this will have benefits of feeling better in your mood especially in reducing the feelings of sluggishness. Not only that but it will also give you more energy to cope with emotions and get more productive with your day. 

Write about it.

They do say that sometimes the best way of dealing with emotions is to write the feelings down, it can help clear your head and many come with some ways to help overcome the negative feelings of post-Christmas blues. 

Reflection. 

Looking back over the Christmas period and focusing on the positives and the fun times can help you feel better. Knowing that you have created happy memories and there will be many more Christmases in the future to experience the fun times of Christmas again can help with the pain of holidays ending. 

Write thank-you notes. 

Another way to bring on happiness after Christmas is to write out thank you notes to friends and relatives for the presents they have to send you. 

What ways help you overcome the holiday blues? Love to hear your thoughts in the comment section below. 

Cheers for reading X  

My christmas traditions

Hey readers,

Today I want to talk about Christmas traditions that I and my family partake in.

So, where do I Start I guess with Christmas Eve I tend to now tune in to Channel Four's special Christmas movie they air each year.

 I have done this since the boys were little and it is just a lovely way to settle down in the eve before Christmas. Channel four are normally good at picking some really calm films perfect to watch just for bed. The kind of thing is The Snowman and the snowdog or we are going on a bear hunt.

Along with watching the Christmas Eve film, we make a luxury hot chocolate with cream and marshmallows, yummy.

Each year my boys 'help' with putting up the Christmas tree whilst blasting out old classic Jazz Christmas songs, I also prefer that music, and reminds me of my own childhood.

On Christmas day I love to go for a family walk, normally ending up at a park. When we go to the park it is bizarre because it is so eerily quiet when normally it would be buzzing with kids everywhere.

Can't be Christmas without an advent calendar to lead us up to Christmas. Nothing like getting tiny chocolate in the morning, lol.

Every year we go visit Santa locally (it was the same one I went to as a kid so happy memories associated) so it holds happy memories not just for my children but for me as well. It is really fun as there is a Santa sleigh ride where you are still in a sleigh and it moves. It is really pretty with the lights and the kids get all excited to go meet Santa.

My boys are now at that age where they love to write Christmas cards to relatives and friends. They love personalising it with their drawing and stickers - it is a lovely activity to do during Saturday afternoon.

Every Christmas I put up two stockings for the boys to enjoy small little presents and random items, which ironically are some of their favourite things they get over Christmas.

This tradition is more of my husband's thing, which is Christmas crackers at the table. 

Me personally I think they are a waste of money but I am sure I waste money on other things over Christmas. Nonetheless, the boys the surprise by the noise from pulling on crackers and we can have a laugh at the rubbish jokes that come with the crackers.

Going to school play at Christmas is magical to go and see as parents and see your little ones dressed up and singing Christmas songs. I always come away feeling cosy inside and the boys feel proud of all the effort they put into their roles.

Awful cheesy Christmas jumpers that are just glorious to wear during Christmas. My boys love Christmas jumpers especially when one of theirs has lights on it and sings songs, which adds to the excitement of Christmas.

Finally, the last tradition is, of course, leaving a plate out for Santa that consists of a glass of milk, mince pie, and a carrot for the reindeer. My kids after being super happy in the morning to see the plate empty bar a few crumbs, hehe.

Cheers for reading X

  

10 reasons to love Christmas

Hey readers,

It is now less than a month away from the big day of Christmas and what better way to get you in the festive mood than to give you all the good reasons why you should love Christmas.

1. Christmas. 

Christmas is a time where you can relax and you don't have to feel like you have to be doing something because it's a holiday and that means you can be as lazy as you want bliss.

2. Twinkly lights.

Christmas is all about the decorations and twinkly sparkly colours to decorate your home with. I'm partial to twinkly lights because they are not so daring. I like them also because they are relaxing and they just make everything so magical.

3. Hot chocolate.

Hot chocolate is the beverage of the festive season. There are so many varieties now in the coffee shops perfect to take time out from Christmas shopping. Alternatively, hot chocolate is delightful when at home when you want to snuggle down watch a film and feel all cosy hot chocolate is a drink for you.

4. Food.

Christmas is a time to fill up with glorious food that has a million calories but it doesn't matter because it doesn't count because it's Christmas. Food can vary from mince pies to a full roast dinner with all the trimmings followed by trifles. Therefore when you are full-on Christmas day you can sniffle down on the soda and have a nap. so that 

5. Music. 

I am partial to a bit of Christmas music especially from old-time crooners such as Frank Sinatra or Dean Martin. Them jazz notes are perfect to relax in the evening or when you are wrapping Christmas presents with a little drinky poo. 

6. Food containers. 

Isn't it lovely when food comes in something where music plays and lights up? I am such a sucker for this type of product us it also makes a wonderful gift for someone? 

7 TV specials.

For once Christmas is an opportunity to have at least one or more decent programs to watch at Christmas time. For my children, they channel 4 special films aired on Christmas eve. However, for me this year I can not wait for Gavin and Stacey's Christmas special. 

8 Dark nights. 

With winter being dark and cold nothing is better when closing the doors pulling the curtains closed and getting cosy with the family, perfection. 

9. Knitwear. 

Christmas is all about being cosy and happy. What better way to achieve this than wearing coy knitwear perfect for staying warm and snug especially after Christmas Dinner where you can have a checky nana nap in your warm, cosy jumper because it's Christmas and it is socially acceptable. 

10. Booze. 

Booze is lovely especially a glass of Babycham to make you feel merry. What is even better is the fact that is not frowned upon for one day only on Christmas day where you can drink before 10 am without any judgment made, get in! 

What do you love about Christmas? Love to hear your thoughts in the comment section below. 

Cheers for reading X 

The A to Z of Christmas

Hey readers,

Not sure if you are aware that it is the month of December which can only mean one thing..... Christmas! Get ready as I give you the A to Z of Christmas, Ho Ho Ho.

A - Christmas would not be Christmas without an artificial tree to set off the living room decor nicely and place them Christmas presents under.

B - The bells, the bells yep them lovely shiny gold and chiming away in the classic Christmas hit of Wizard's 'I wish it could be Christmas every day. Though personally not sure I would want that as it would be a hell of a chore to do every day.

C- Well as December is the Christmas month that means it is socially acceptable to have chocolate EVERY day and shock horror you can even have it after breakfast, whoop! No guilt is needed, it is all about getting in the spirit of Christmas ok people!

D - Decorations are one of the main features at Christmas time. Some people like traditional plain baubles or glittery baubles but not me, I have a cow, ice cream, and a pink fluffy silhouette. I personally, got more interested in tacky and non-related Christmas decorations when I learned how much my husband hated them, lol you have to get your sh*ts and giggles somewhere.

E - Christmas is all about exchanging gifts, who doesn't like a Lynx gift set or a pair of socks, this is the dream right there.

F - In the UK it is freezing during December, so remember to wrap up warm.

G - Christmas is all about making memories and having a good time. But you need to have at least one argument because you know it is bloody Christmas and it is stressful.

H - The ultimate beverage is no other than the hot chocolate with whipped cream and marshmallows - now your talking!

I - Irrational fear about where you left the Christmas presents that were saved from the January sales. Arghh, they are hidden so well you have forgotten where you have left them, PANIC!

J - Everyone has to be jolly and plaster that fake smile because it is all about having a good time ;)

K - Kris Kringle is the main geezer of this big event, every single year.

L - If you do have an argument you can sit in the room having a sulk and staring at the twinkly lights.

M - Moody me? Not only when my husband decides to lie back and snore and I can't watch The Royal Family (not the real one but the comedy).

N - Nob is my favourite word to mouth at my husband when he is stressing me out and we need to sort out dinner.

O - Organised because that is how I like my life.

P - Panic when you forgot the goose fat, these things matter at Christmas.

Q - queues everywhere, heating whacked up in the shops. I think I might be sick with this overload of chaos. Christmas in the air when you enter a shop so be warned because everyone is on the same mission.

R - Rejoice it is 8 pm on Christmas day and now we can sit back and check out the sales.

S - Must remember to stock their stockings.

T - Trimmings are crucial in the Christmas dinner game.

U - Unwrap and leave your mummy to move around like a ninja with the black bin bag.

V - Visit from Aunt Sue who sits there and moans.

W - Wintery because it is freezing.

X - Is for Xmas in case you might have forgotten.

Y - I blinking love a chocolate yule log just for your information.

Z - ZZZ because this Christmas business is knackering init.

Cheers for reading X

How to reduce food waste at christmas

Hey readers,

How often do we buy too much food over the Christmas period and end up chucking that food away? well, here I am going to tell you ways to help reduce food waste at Christmas time.

Shopping List.

Instead of just going full force when you go food shopping make a list beforehand and plan your meals so you know exactly what to get and use up.

Link up food.

Make food last longer and use up more by putting groups of food that are used in different items.  For example - If you're going to make custard with the yolk of the egg, you can save the yolk-white for making meringues instead of just throwing the used egg away it is going to get used in something else.

Frozen.

Instead of buying fresh food swap it for frozen then you can take out what you need and freeze the rest for a later date. You don't have to worry about going off quickly as it will last longer in the freezer.

Fruit and Vegetables.

Instead of going for the perfect vegetables use the wonky vegetables, not only is it cheaper but also it is not getting wasted win-win.

Buy the exact amount needed.

When you go shopping instead of buying a bag of carrots say go for the desired amount such as three carrots - therefore you know you are going to use them and not have food lying about rotting then end up in the bin.

Buy seasonal produce.

When looking at the seasonal product it is what the farmers are harvesting and are ready to be sold to the supermarket. It is fresh and full of flavour. Depending on the season would equate to what food would be the season.

In season right now the types of food would be Brussel sprouts, goose, potatoes, parsnips, and apples to name but a few.  

This will cost less because it has not been needed to travel to get to supermarkets as far and doesn't come with the premium prices, therefore, saving you money on your shopping.

Supermarket deals.

It can be very tempted to buy the deals that are in the supermarket such as buy two products and get the third three or buy one get one free. 

They are easy to spot in the supermarket as they have bright yellow labels and bold text to stand out and catch your eyes whilst shopping. 

But don't be fooled as you may not actually be saving money as they may be items that are hard to shift or close to their sell-by date. 

Also, check the quantity as you may get as much as you would if you brought the same pack on its own.

 For example, if one pack of digestives is 150g for 50p but you get 75g for buy 2 to get one three. It may be cheaper just to buy one pack and not have an unwanted stock of food at home.

Cheers for reading X

Tips for saving money on your Christmas shopping.

Hey readers, 

Christmas is fast approaching and with lockdown, it can be quite daunting especially as a lot of people are going through financial difficulty. 

Here are some ways to save money on your shopping at Christmas. 

1. Budget. 

It is important to set a budget and stick to it. Not only does it feel like you are in control but it allows you to also enjoy the event without getting flustered. Christmas doesn't have to be OTT with presents because remember it is also about sharing time together with loved ones. 

Don't let finances rule you, take control, and if you can't afford something don't buy it, people will understand if you tell them. Christmas should be a time to relax not get stressed out.

2. Sell. 

A good way to earn some money is to look around your home and sell stuff on eBay or Facebook marketplace. 

I have done this myself and it has helped with my Christmas budget, which again is a great deal of pressure off. 

3. Cashback sites.

If you are shopping online for presents then I recommend using cashback apps such as Quidco and Top Cashback. 

What you so go on the site search a shop you want to buy something from click on the link and it will take you directly to shop. 

Once you have brought something from the shop you get a certain percentage of cashback.  

4. Spread the cost. 

Spread the cost of your shopping so buy x amount each week and then this means it won't be overwhelming if you left it to the last minute. 

5. Research. 

Before hitting the shops, take some time to do your research online with google shopping to find the best deals on the things you want to buy for Christmas. 

6. Planning.

Planning is key and is the one main thing to help you keep within your finances. Write down a list of your budget and the things you want to buy within that budget. Always stick to a list than less likely to impulse buy. 

7. Loyalty cards. 

I really like loyalty cards as they give you money back which will save you money. Shops like Tesco (Tesco rewards), Sainsbury's (nectar card), Boots (Boots advantage card) give you x amount of points when you shop with that store. 

Then once you have accumulated so many points can transfer money from your shopping from the store. 

8. Vouchercodes. 

Check out Vouchercodes where they have a search engine for voucher codes and discounts on a lot of stores such as Tesco, New Look, Debenhams to save some money if you are planning to shop in certain stores. 

9. Supermarkets.

Swap supermarkets when you do shop for budget-friendly ones Lidl and Aldi are so much cheaper and the quality is still very good. 

Remember to write a list before you go as I have been guilty of being caught up in the moment and at least with a list you can stick to it and not buy too much food.

10. Yellow stickers.

In my household, we buy our Christmas meat in the yellow stickers that are reduced at the end of the day and put it in the freezer. Saves an absolute fortune. 

Also nowadays people are braver and don’t all go for turkey – don’t feel pressure if you don’t want, there are so many meats to choose from. Even better if you feel up to it you could go vegetarian and save the pounds there.

11. Courier.

If you are sending presents to relatives or friends don't just rely on Royal Mail as a courier. Have a look around as there can be some services that are much cheaper.

12. Christmas post. 

When sending a Christmas card in the post to someone a cheaper way to do is to use second-class stamps. 

However, it may take longer but make sure you’re earlier, and then it should not be a problem and your purse will be happier for it.

13. Christmas tree.

I know it is tempting to have a fresh tree as they seem to be the fashionable thing to do. But really it is a lot cheaper to opt for a fake tree as this will save you money in the long term. 

Not to mention the positive impact of choosing a more environmentally friendly option as a pose to buying a fresh tree that is chopped down just for Christmas and then checked away in a few weeks’ time.

14. IOU.

We all know items in the shops are cheaper instantly after Christmas Day. One way to save some money is between you and say your friend is doing an IOU (I owe you) meaning instead of handing your friend a present at Christmas do it after.

Hope this helps. Have I missed any tips on saving money that you find helpful? Love to hear your thoughts in the comment section down below.

Cheers for reading X

10 Signs Christmas is coming.

Hey readers,

Ah, the Christmas season... the time of year when the air is filled with the sweet scent of mince pies, Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You" becomes the unofficial anthem, and people suddenly decide it's acceptable to wear reindeer antlers in public.

As the temperature drops, the festive spirit rises, and so do the unmistakable signs that Christmas is just around the corner.

 Here are 10 hilarious indicators that Santa is dusting off his sleigh and checking his list twice:

1. The Ugly Sweater Epidemic.

   You know it's officially the Christmas season when your neighbours start sporting sweaters that look like a collision between a tinsel factory and a snow globe.

 Reindeer with googly eyes, Santa's with sequined beards, nothing is off-limits. Suddenly, looking like an extra from a Christmas-themed fashion disaster is not only acceptable but encouraged.

2. The Battle for Christmas Lights Supremacy.

   Forget about the neighbourhood watch; it's time for the annual battle of the Christmas lights. From houses that can be seen from space to those with synchronized light shows set to the latest Christmas hits, every neighbourhood has that one person determined to outshine the North Star.

It's not about spreading Christmas cheer; it's about asserting your dominance in the world of festive illumination.

3. The Invasion of Tinsel and Ornaments.

   You can't walk into a store without being assaulted by a glittery, tinsel-covered avalanche of Christmas decorations. Suddenly, your shopping cart is filled with items you didn't know you needed, like a life-size inflatable snowman for the front yard or a set of singing ornaments that perform a questionable rendition of "Jingle Bells" every time someone walks by. It's not impulse buying; it's just surrendering to the christmas spirit.

4. The Great Cookie Bake-Off.

   As soon as December hits, kitchens around the world transform into sugar-filled war zones. Flour is flying, cookie cutters are clashing, and the scent of freshly baked gingerbread is wafting through the air. It's a time when even those with the baking skills of a microwave enthusiast suddenly fancy themselves as contestants on "The Great British Bake Off: Christmas Edition."

5. Gift Wrap Wars.

   Forget about sibling rivalries; the real competition begins in the art of gift wrapping. Suddenly, every present is meticulously adorned with perfectly curled ribbons, handmade bows, and gift tags that look like they were written by Santa's own calligrapher. It's not about the gift inside; it's about proving you're the reigning monarch of festive presentation.

6. The Sudden Appearance of Tacky Christmas Sweater Parties.

   As if regular Christmas parties weren't enough, the season brings forth an abundance of invitations to tacky Christmas sweater parties.

Suddenly, you find yourself scouring thrift stores for the gaudiest, most bedazzled sweater you can find, only to discover that everyone else had the same idea. It's a celebration of bad taste, and the more sequins, the better.

7. The Inexplicable Smell of Peppermint Everywhere.

   You walk into your favourite coffee shop, and suddenly the air is thick with the scent of peppermint. Your hand soap, your candles, even your toothpaste, all have been invaded by the refreshing aroma of candy canes.

It's like living in a world where peppermint has declared itself the official fragrance of the season, and resistance is futile.

8. The Annual Tree Struggle.

   Ah, the quest for the perfect Christmas tree, the annual struggle that tests even the strongest of familial bonds.

 Whether you're braving the elements to cut down your own or wrestling with a pre-lit monstrosity that refuses to cooperate, the battle for a tree that satisfies everyone's criteria is an epic saga that plays out in living rooms around the globe.

9. The Relentless Assault of Christmas Music.

   It starts innocently enough, with a classic Bing Crosby tune or a cheerful rendition of "Jingle Bells." But before you know it, you're surrounded by a constant barrage of Christmas music, and even the thought of "Frosty the Snowman" makes you break into a cold sweat. 

Resistance is futile; the earworms have infiltrated, and there's no escape until January.

8. Coffee Shops.

Hello, pretty Coffee cups from the coffee shops that are decorated with some sort of Christmas paraphernalia such as the stag or a snowman. This is enough to get any insta w*anker in and buy that festive hot chocolate from Costa or any other popular coffee chain. The coffee chain bosses must be milking in it, haha.

In conclusion, the signs that Christmas is coming are as unavoidable as tinsel in December. Whether you're a Christmas enthusiast or a certified Grinch, there's no denying that the festive season has a way of making its presence known, with a healthy dose of humour and a twinkle of Christmas magic. 

So, buckle up, folks, because Santa is coming to town, and he's bringing the joy, laughter, and perhaps a few awkward family photos along for the sleigh ride.

Cheers for reading X