Festive films for older children.
Friday, 15 December 2023
Hey readers,
The holiday season is a magical time for families to come together, and watching festive films is one of the best ways to get into the spirit.
However, there are several classic and contemporary festive films perfect for older children that celebrate the season
through warmth, humour, and positive themes.
1. A Christmas story.
Following the misadventures of young Ralphie in 1940s Indiana as he schemes to get his dream Christmas gift of a Red Ryder BB gun, this comic film captures the childhood excitement of Christmas mixed with hilarious mishaps.
From getting his tongue stuck to a frozen flagpole to dealing with the neighbourhood bullies, older children will relate to Ralphie’s adventures and find the exaggerated humour thoroughly entertaining.
The film also reminds viewers old and young to focus on family and finding joy in simple gifts rather than commercialism during the holidays.
2. The nightmare before Christmas.
This clever stop-motion musical tells the story of Jack Skellington, the king of Halloween Town who accidentally stumbles into Christmas Town and tries to bring his ghoulish flair to Christmas celebrations with chaotic results.
Older kids will appreciate the creativity of the film’s world and characters, the catchy musical numbers, and the ultimately warm-hearted message about finding the right balance between two different holidays.
It also provides some lighter scares for children who enjoy thrills and chills.
3. Arthur Christmas.
This humorous take on how Santa Claus delivers presents across the world in one night focuses on Santa’s younger son Arthur as he strives to complete an urgent Christmas mission.
Older kids will laugh at Arthur’s antics, enjoy the high-tech Santa’s S-1 sleigh, and appreciate the themes of family togetherness and believing in each other.
Fast-paced with gorgeous animation and plenty of heart, Arthur Christmas captures the excitement leading up to the holidays.
4. Miracle on 34th Street.
It focuses on a department store Santa who claims to be the real Santa Claus, befriending a young, skeptical girl.
The intelligent dialogue, memorable characters, and charming romance make it thoroughly engaging for tweens and teens.
It highlights the wonder of believing in Santa while teaching valuable lessons about faith and cynicism.
5. Jingle Jangle.
A musical fantasy in the style of a Broadway show, it follows legendary toymaker Jeronicus Jangle, his resourceful granddaughter, and a magical invention just before Christmas in the lively town of Cobbleton.
The film celebrates imagination, perseverance, family bonds, and reconciliation through catchy songs and splendid visuals. With its messages of hope and vibrant sense of fun, Jingle Jangle is a new festive favourite.
The holiday season offers the perfect opportunity for families to cosy up with hot cocoa and watch uplifting seasonal films together.
For older children, movies like A Christmas Story, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Arthur Christmas, Miracle on 34th Street, and Jingle Jangle tell stories that will make them laugh, dream, and reflect on what matters most during the holidays - hope, family, and love.
Cheers for reading X
Coping with holiday sluggishness.
Monday, 11 December 2023
Hey readers,
As the holiday season unfurls its magic, adorned with twinkling lights and the promise of joy, it's not uncommon to find oneself caught in the paradox of feeling sluggish amidst the festive cheer.
The whirlwind of preparations, coupled with the winter chill, can often cast a lethargic spell over the most spirited revellers.
If you're finding it challenging to shake off the sluggishness and fully embrace the merriment, fear not—here are some strategies to reignite your festive spark.
1. Embrace the Power of Restful Moments.
The hustle and bustle of the season can leave us drained, both mentally and physically.
Amidst the chaotic preparations, make room for intentional restful moments.
Whether it's curling up with a blanket and a good book or taking a stroll through a winter wonderland, these pauses can rejuvenate your spirit and help combat sluggishness.
2. Prioritise Sleep.
The holiday season often disrupts our regular sleep patterns.
Late-night wrapping sessions, social gatherings, and the excitement of the season can lead to insufficient rest.
Make a conscious effort to prioritize sleep, ensuring you get the recommended hours each night. Quality sleep is a potent antidote to sluggishness, revitalizing both body and mind.
3. Stay Hydrated.
With the winter chill, it's easy to forget to stay adequately hydrated. Dehydration can contribute to feelings of lethargy.
Keep a water bottle handy and sip throughout the day.
Consider infusing your water with seasonal fruits for a festive twist, making hydration both refreshing and enjoyable.
4. Mindful Nutrition.
While indulging in festive treats is a hallmark of the season, it's crucial to maintain a balanced diet.
Ensure your meals include a mix of nourishing foods, providing sustained energy.
Incorporate seasonal fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your meals to fuel your body and combat the sluggishness that may arise from consuming too many sugary treats.
5. Incorporate Energising Activities.
Combat the sluggish feeling by incorporating activities that get your blood flowing and invigorate your senses.
Whether it's a brisk walk, a short workout, or even a dance session to your favourite holiday tunes, these activities can elevate your energy levels and infuse a sense of vitality into your day.
6. Create a Cosy Sanctuary.
The winter blues can amplify feelings of sluggishness. Combat this by creating a cosy sanctuary in your home.
Soft blankets, warm lighting, and a soothing ambience can make your space a haven of comfort, providing a retreat when you need a break from the bustling holiday preparations.
7. Practice Mindfulness.
The holiday season often comes with a flurry of activities that can overwhelm the mind.
Incorporate mindfulness practices into your routine, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises.
These techniques can help reduce stress, increase mental clarity, and alleviate feelings of sluggishness.
8. Set Realistic Expectations.
The pressure to create a perfect holiday experience can contribute to feelings of fatigue.
Set realistic expectations for yourself and acknowledge that it's okay not to do everything.
Prioritise activities that bring you genuine joy, and don't be afraid to delegate tasks or seek support when needed.
9. Connect with Loved Ones.
The festive season is about shared moments and connection. Reach out to loved ones, whether through in-person gatherings or virtual celebrations.
The warmth of connection can uplift your spirits and provide a welcome break from any sluggish feelings.
10. Reflect and Reset.
Take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of the holiday season.
Amidst the flurry of activities, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters.
Whether through journaling, meditation, or quiet contemplation, use this time to reset your intentions and rekindle the festive spark within.
In the tapestry of holiday celebrations, it's normal to encounter moments of sluggishness.
However, by incorporating these strategies into your routine, you can navigate through the lethargy and rediscover the joy that defines the Christmas season.
Embrace the opportunity to slow down, recharge, and savour the magic of the holidays with a renewed sense of energy and enthusiasm.
Cheers for reading x
My Sunday photo 10/12/2023
Sunday, 10 December 2023
Last night we saw the Christmas tractor parade. Cold but fabulous and even better didn't cost a penny for this festive activity ☺
A Guide to Overcoming Mum Guilt During Christmas
Friday, 8 December 2023
Hey readers,
As the festive season approaches, the air is filled with the scent of cinnamon, the warmth of twinkling lights, and the promise of joyous family gatherings.
However, for many mothers, the holiday season can also bring a heavy dose of guilt.
The pressure to create magical moments, bake Pinterest-perfect cookies, and orchestrate flawless celebrations often leaves moms feeling like they fall short.
It's time to cast aside the guilt and embrace the imperfect beauty of a real, authentic Christmas.
Here's a guide on how to stop feeling guilty as a mom during the most wonderful time of the year.
1. Let Go of Unrealistic Expectations.
The glossy images of picture-perfect holiday celebrations portrayed in the media can set unrealistic expectations.
Understand that perfection is an illusion, and it's okay if your holiday doesn't resemble a scene from a holiday movie.
Embrace the imperfections and cherish the genuine moments that make your family unique.
2. Prioritise Self-Care.
Amidst the hustle and bustle, moms often neglect their well-being. Remember that self-care is not a luxury but a necessity.
Take moments for yourself, whether it's a quiet cup of tea, a brisk walk, or a few minutes with a good book.
By recharging your batteries, you'll be better equipped to handle the challenges and enjoy the festive season with your loved ones.
3. Learn to Say No.
The holiday season comes with a barrage of invitations, events, and commitments.
It's essential to recognize your limits and learn to say no without guilt.
Focus on the activities and gatherings that truly matter to you and your family.
Quality time is more valuable than quantity, and a well-rested and present mom is the best gift you can give to your loved ones.
4. Embrace Imperfection in Traditions.
Traditions can bring immense joy, but they can also become stressors when they don't go as planned.
Be flexible and willing to adapt traditions to fit the current circumstances.
Whether it's a simpler version of a cherished activity or a new tradition altogether, the essence of the holiday lies in the shared moments, not the perfection of the event.
5. Involve the Family.
The burden of holiday preparations doesn't have to rest solely on a mother's shoulders.
Involve your family in the planning and execution of holiday activities. Whether it's decorating the tree, baking cookies, or wrapping gifts, creating a sense of shared responsibility not only lightens the load but also fosters a collaborative and festive atmosphere.
6. Focus on Presence Over Presents.
In the frenzy of gift shopping and holiday preparations, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters.
Remind yourself that the essence of Christmas lies in spending quality time with loved ones, not the number or expense of gifts.
Be present at the moment, savouring the laughter, shared stories, and the joy of togetherness.
Remember, being a mom during the holiday season doesn't require perfection; it demands authenticity and love.
Embracing imperfection and letting go of unnecessary guilt allows you to create a Christmas filled with genuine joy and cherished memories.
So, this holiday season, give yourself the gift of self-compassion and celebrate the imperfect beauty of your unique family festivities.
Cheers for reading x
My disdain for chrismas markets.
Monday, 4 December 2023
Hey readers,
In the heart of winter, cities transform into enchanting wonderlands adorned with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the nostalgic melodies of seasonal tunes.
However, as the markets set up their stalls and the air fills with the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, I find myself grappling with an unexpected aversion to these festive gatherings.
Here's a closer look at why I harbour a distinct disdain for Christmas markets.
1. Overwhelming Crowds.
The allure of Christmas markets is undeniable, drawing hordes of visitors seeking a taste of holiday magic.
Yet, the overwhelming crowds that characterise these events create an atmosphere that is more chaotic than festive.
Navigating through the masses becomes a cumbersome task, robbing the experience of the anticipated joy and tranquillity.
2. Commercial Overload.
What was once a celebration of craftsmanship and local artisans has, in many cases, transformed into a commercial extravaganza.
The onslaught of mass-produced trinkets, generic holiday merchandise, and overpriced goods eclipses the charm of supporting local businesses.
The emphasis on consumerism dampens the spirit of authenticity that I yearn for during the holiday season.
3. Repetitive Offerings.
While each Christmas market aims to offer a unique experience, the reality often falls short.
The prevalence of similar vendors peddling generic holiday wares and uninspired decorations leads to a sense of déjà vu.
It's disheartening to witness a lack of innovation and diversity in the offerings, turning the market experience into a monotonous affair.
4. Weather Woes.
Winter weather can be unforgiving, and the prospect of wandering through an open-air market in freezing temperatures is less than appealing.
The biting cold, coupled with the potential for rain or snow, can turn what should be a festive outing into an uncomfortable and chilly ordeal.
5. Exorbitant Prices.
The charm of Christmas markets often comes with a hefty price tag.
Whether it's the cost of admission, inflated prices for festive treats, or overpriced souvenirs, the financial burden associated with these markets can leave a bitter aftertaste.
The pursuit of profit takes precedence over the spirit of goodwill and community that the season should embody.
6. Clichéd Entertainment.
Christmas markets often feature a lineup of clichéd entertainment from repetitive carol singers to predictable street performers.
The lack of creativity in the festive offerings contributes to a sense of boredom rather than the anticipated enjoyment of unique and engaging experiences.
7. Environmental Impact.
The environmental toll of Christmas markets, with their disposable packaging, excess waste, and energy consumption, adds another layer to my discontent.
It's disheartening to witness the ecological impact of what should be a celebration of joy and togetherness.
While my perspective on Christmas markets may lean towards the negative, it's essential to recognize that many people cherish these events as an integral part of their holiday traditions.
In acknowledging diverse viewpoints, we can foster understanding and perhaps work towards creating more inclusive and sustainable celebrations that resonate with a broader audience.
As for me, I'll be seeking my festive joy in the quieter, more intimate corners of the holiday season.
Cheers for reading X
My Sunday photo 03/12/2023
Sunday, 3 December 2023
One minute your painfully having to participate in pretend play then the next your enjoying bonding over games with your son :)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
