2020 will go down in history there is no doubt about that as the year when, because of Covid-19,  we were told to work from home for a period of time in order to manage the virus. Steadily things improved but sadly the R rate has risen again. Like many others throughout the country I am wondering what Christmas will bring. but of course, things are what they are, and everyone is doing their best. So what can we do to cut the effort and cost?

So here are some very successful prompts I have used in the past :

1. Set a budget per person and stick to it. You will have to apply a lot of self discipline here because it is so easy to choose something that you know someone would love but which may not be in your price range. If this is the case put it back, or if shopping on line, move on .
2. Make your own Christmas cards. This is a great fun and such a lovely festive activity and one that the children can help with. I like to let my children draw a festive picture and I then scan it and print onto card. My relatives love getting a little work of art far more than a generic store bought card.
3. Secret Santa: I have a sister, a brother in law, a brother and a sister in law. Instead of buying presents for everyone we like to arrange a Secret Santa which is great fun, we set a price to stick to and exchange our gifts on boxing day, if we can meet up under these strange circumstances of course. It is great fun to participate in and no one is left out.
4. Frozen food. Let’s start with the big bird – the turkey. For the past few years I have substituted a frozen turkey crown in place of a fresh turkey. I have done this because they are so much cheaper, there is no waste and they are easier to cook as you can pick up a pre basted one – so no more dry turkey. Then there are the trimmings. Frozen vegetables are cheaper and you do not have to worry about doing the last minute dash to get the fresh sprouts. Additionally  you only cook what you need and can chuck the rest back in the freezer for another day. However I prefer not to  buy frozen Yorkshire puddings or roast potatoes, as I prefer to make the my own.
5. Start stocking up now. Put on that mask, use the hand wash and pick up extra non perishables to store away for the big day. I like to stock up on wine, biscuits, crackers, sweets, chocolates and pop. Of course, online outlets have been wonderful at delivering gifts and food over the past few months, so explore all the  options available.
6. Make your own presents. This isn’t for everyone but I find that homemade gifts are a lot more personal than bought ones. And this can vary from homemade jam, chutneys, cakes and pickles to bath bombs, face masks and wax melts. And for those who are crafty a homemade bookmark or notebook will always come in useful and for the ultimate wow factor you could try making jewellery.

I hope that you can find some help and reassurance from some of these tips that I have used in the past and will certainly use again this year –  depending on circumstances . As we slide into November, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a merry, and safe Christmas.