For some, particularly children, Christmas is magical, exciting and a time when wishes (hopefully!) come true. For others, much as they’d like to enjoy Christmas, it’s often taken over with ‘to do’ lists that’s as long as your arm!
Mind you, with the current cost of living crisis, rising inflation and not to mention the threat of strikes that could severely hamper Christmas travel this year, you’d be forgiven if the run up to this festive time of the year had passed you by.
But don’t worry; the wonder of traditional Christmas adverts on TV has started to bring the festive cheer back into our living rooms. I mean, come on, what would Christmas be without the magical charm of M&S, Disney, John Lewis and, of course, Coca-Cola.
But (feet back on the ground), let’s ask the dreaded question – are you Christmas ready?
If you are, well done! If not, and we suspect many of you aren’t, here are some great tips and words of advice to help you get ready for an amazing Christmas in 4 weeks’ time – yes, just 4 weeks’ to go!
Preparation, preparation, preparation
It really is all in the preparation; when it comes to the Christmas meal, the more you can get done before the big day, the less stressful it will be. Not forgetting the fewer pots and pans that need to be juggled!
Sauces and stuffing can be prepared well in advanced and popped in the freezer, as long as it doesn’t include egg. Pigs in Blankets – mini sausages wrapped in bacon – and many other appetisers can also be cooked and frozen. Everyday supplies, like bread and milk, can also go in the freezer
Get ready for your guests early by setting up the guest room, making space in the living room, planning the seating at the dinner table and don’t forget to make sure there’s enough places for everyone to sit during the evening, too. It’s ok for the kids to sit on the floor with some cushions and give up their space on the settee, too.
A Christmas clean
Before you put the Christmas decorations up, take the time to have a good clean around first. Once they’re up and the tree’s in place, you won’t be moving them for a few weeks. The same goes for the rest of the home; when you’ve got a house full over the festive period, housework isn’t going to be high on the list of jobs.
Discuss with your immediate family and enlist their help. Share out the chores; make it a family affair and you’ll soon have the whole place as clean as a whistle and ready for Christmas
A Christmas list
Kids love Christmas and an old tradition is children writing their Christmas wish list to send to Santa. This year, the cut off date for sending letters to Santa is 9th December. So, if your children haven’t written their Christmas list yet, they’d better be quick! If you get a chance to have a sneak peak at the list before it gets sent off, you’ll pick up some great gift ideas, too.
Plan your budget
Christmas is an expensive time of year and for many families, this year is going to be harder than ever. Everyone has a budget so make a list of what you’d like to get in terms of food, gifts and other supplies. Calculate the cost and if it doesn’t match your budget, you can adjust it accordingly. Don’t be tempted to go over your budget. It’s important to remember that it’s the thought that counts, not the value of the gift or how much food is on the table. It’s being with your loved ones, your friends and neighbours that matters.Not sure where to turn for help and support? Don’t worry; Really Helpful Club’s Members Directory is the place to turn to where you will be able to find the answer to a wide range of questions about Wellbeing, Home and Leisure, and Prosperity.
