It’s the first Monday in December & it’s sunny!

This Morning Feels Nothing Like December!

This morning, looking out of the window, it looks nothing like December in the UK! The sky is blue, the birds are singing, and the temperature is almost 10°C (50°F).

Many of you will be getting into full Christmas mode now, with presents to buy, menus to plan, parties to attend, school nativities and carols to fit in, Santa to see, cards to send, relatives and friends to visit, and everything else that goes towards preparing for the 24th and 25th of December.

Planning

To help everything go as smoothly as possible and ensure nothing is forgotten, I recommend starting with a list. A generic list can be a helpful starting point, which you can then customise by:

• Adding your specific tasks or events.
• Organising it chronologically or by priority.

Here’s a suggested starting point for your Christmas list:

• Decorations: Tree, lights, baubles, wreaths, candles.
• Cards: Write, address, and send by mid-December. (Royal Mail 2nd class last date Wed 18th December, First Class Fri 20th December), or use Scout post if you have local cards to send.
• Presents: Shopping list, wrapping paper, tape, gift tags.
• Food: Menu planning, shopping list, book delivery slots and ordering items in advance.
• Events: Diary of school plays, parties, carol services, and Santa visits.
• Household Tasks: Cleaning, guest room prep, table settings.
• Charity & Donations: Identify local appeals to support.
• Visiting Friends & Family: Plan travel and stays, and ensure you have gifts, cards, and any special items needed for visits or gatherings.
• Activities: Book tickets or plan trips for festive activities such as light trails, ice skating, sledging, Christmas markets, pantomimes, and other seasonal attractions.

Feel free to print this as a guide to tailor to your needs!

Christmas Bakes

One of the joys of the festive season is filling the house with the comforting aroma of Christmas bakes. In the UK, we have a rich tradition of festive sweet treats that are perfect for bringing people together—or as a thoughtful gift for someone special.

Some of the most popular Christmas bakes include:

• Mince Pies: These buttery, fruity favourites are a Christmas essential.
• Yule Log: A decadent chocolate sponge rolled and decorated to resemble a log.
• Gingerbread: Perfect for creating shapes, houses, or just enjoying with a cup of tea.
• Christmas Pudding: A rich, steamed dessert packed with dried fruits and spices.
• Chocolate Rum Truffles: Bite-sized chocolates great for gifting.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, these recipes will add a touch of festive cheer to your celebrations.

A Season for Giving

In all the hustle and bustle, it’s so easy to forget everyone who is not in your immediate circle. But Christmas is a time for kindness and community, and we must give a thought to those less fortunate than ourselves. Wherever you look, there are adverts and requests for support, from supermarket toy appeals to national charities fundraising for Christmas meals.

If you can afford to, please consider finding a local charity that needs your support. Many charities provide a wish list of items they need, specifying who they are for. Your help can make a real difference.

For those in Suffolk, UK, The Hygiene Bank Ipswich is one such organisation that would love your support. They currently support 10 other local charities and organisations, including those aiding the homeless, a women’s refuge, and individuals in need. They accept:

• Physical donations into their boxes around the county.
• Monetary donations via JustGiving.
• Purchases from their wish list.
• Sign-ups to EasyFundraising, which lets you support them at no cost to you when you shop at your favourite stores online.

It’s a small effort that can make a big difference to someone this Christmas.

Mindful Celebrations

While Christmas is a cherished time for many, it’s important to remember that not everyone celebrates it. Being mindful of this can help make the season more inclusive and respectful for everyone around us.

Here are a few thoughtful ways to approach the festive period:

• Greeting Choices: Instead of “Merry Christmas,” consider saying “Season’s Greetings” or “Happy Holidays,” particularly in diverse workplaces or when unsure of someone’s preferences.
• Cards & Wrapping: Opt for neutral, seasonal designs for cards and wrapping paper—think snowflakes, stars, or winter scenes rather than overtly Christmas-themed prints.
• Gifts: Choose gifts that are seasonal or generic rather than specifically Christmas-themed, ensuring they can be enjoyed by everyone regardless of traditions or beliefs.
• Office Celebrations: Be sensitive when planning workplace events, such as Christmas parties. Consider naming them “end-of-year celebrations” and offering food and activities that accommodate different dietary requirements and traditions.

Being inclusive in these small but meaningful ways fosters goodwill and ensures everyone feels considered during the festive period. After all, the heart of the season is about kindness and connection!

Wrapping It All Up

Christmas, and the festive season as a whole, is a whirlwind of planning, baking, shopping, and giving. It’s a time to spread joy, not just to our loved ones, but also to the wider community and those in need.

Let’s also remember to be mindful of others, respecting diverse traditions and celebrating in a way that includes everyone. Whether you’re perfecting your Christmas bakes, organising seasonal gifts, or supporting a good cause, there are so many ways to make this season special for everyone.

If you’ve a recipe you’re struggling to veganise or something else you need help with, just drop me a note in the comments, I’m happy to help if I can. Season’s Greetings, and here’s to a kind and festive season!

Speak soon

Laurena x