Christmas

Four ways to save money through the year for Christmas

- Stacey 1 Comment

(Yes I know, I’m about to use that word, but…) Christmas can be a really expensive time of year for many people – especially if you have multiple children to buy for. Add to that buying gifts for other family members, it can all add up to a costly amount so I like to save money where I can. I know some people only buy gifts for children, but I’m a self-confessed giver as I just love to see the reactions when somebody opens a present I’ve spent the time researching and wrapping – possibly even making!

During the last few years I’ve become accustomed to a few really easy ways to save money through the year to use for Christmas presents (and sometimes food). I could say that you’ll be earning free money though it’s technically not, as you do need to spend to earn with some of the methods. But you don’t need to spend any more than you normally would, and you’ll see why.  Read more

Get Your Home Ready for Guests This Christmas

- Stacey Leave a comment

a family gathered around a table, eating, with twinkling light in the background; Get Your Home Ready for Guests This ChristmasImage Pexels CC0 License

Are you playing host this Christmas? If so, you will know being in charge of the festive celebrations can get a little tense at times. While Christmas is one of the most enjoyable times of the year, as an adult, it does carry a lot of responsibility and can get hectic. Being a parent adds a whole new dimension of craziness to the festive season, as you need to try and juggle your preparations around the kids’ nativity plays, carol concerts, and a million other festive activities.

After a difficult eighteen months, being reunited with family and friends at Christmas is definitely something to look forward to. Being able to get together and have fun as a family will provide the opportunity to catch up on lost time. But, it can still feel like a lot of pressure to host Christmas dinner in your home. So, starting your preparations early and getting your home ready for your guests ahead of time is a great way to reduce some of the stress of hosting Christmas.

Take a look at these tips to help you get a head start on your preparations and ensure you are the host with the most this Christmas: Read more

How To Survive This COVID Christmas

- Stacey Leave a comment

child stood with hand on rainy window with a Santa hat on, How To Survive This COVID ChristmasImage by PublicDomainPictures from Pixabay

It’s almost Christmas, which for many is usually such a wonderful time of the year, however, this year may be very different for some. Due to the Coronavirus, many people are unable to see their loved ones this year as there are too many of them, and others are unable to see their elderly or vulnerable relatives for fear of infecting them. This Christmas, for many, may be a time of great sadness, loneliness and loss. Suddenly the traditions you have become used to have been turned upside down. And sadly, one of the worst parts of this is that this year, there is nothing you can do about it. So, what can you do to cope this year? Read more