YOUR perfect Christmas
This blog is not about creating a perfect Christmas; it’s about enjoying your perfect Christmas. One which may seem completely imperfect to others.
There’s so much pressure to make this one day of the year exceptional, and follow certain traditions, but why? For me Christmas should be about enjoying what we have and who we are with. Taking time out of our busy schedules to relax and enjoy one another’s company (and preferably enjoy good food too!)
We all have different interests, different talents and tastes so embrace these and create a Christmas where you’ll feel relaxed and happy.
Forget tradition
Unless a traditional Christmas is what you love, ignore the ‘rule book’ and have a think about what you enjoy. Also consider what feels stressful to you at this time of year. Plan your festive time based on relieving this pressure, and playing to your strengths.
Decorate to suit your style
There’s no need to stick to traditional colour; if you love hot pink; choose this for your Christmas scheme. If a tree’s not to your taste; choose garlands or flower arrangements, or just use fairy lights. Nurture your talent: make a floral or pompom wreath; knit your own decorations; paint a snowy scene; cross-stitch a Christmas sampler, pour your own candles. Display your creativity.
Free festive fun
Christmas is a spendy time and this can be a worry. Instead of paying to attend a concert, visit your local church and enjoy singing along with carols, which is especially magical if it’s by candlelight. Take a walk (or short drive) rather than visiting an expensive lights display – many people really go to town with their own lighting and it’s fun to marvel at the local lights (take a flask of hot chocolate with you too!)
Dining
If a formal sit-down 3-course meal fills you with dread, or you don’t have enough space to seat everyone, make it casual. Serve a buffet and ask everyone to bring a dish to relieve the pressure on you. Or, make it really fun and host an afternoon tea party with a selection of Festive Christmas Bakes and mulled wine or hot chocolate. Little ones in particular will find this great fun!
Turkey is optional!
It’s not set in stone that we must all eat a traditional turkey dinner, if you prefer roast beef or maybe duck; cook that. And for dessert, there are lots of people who force down Christmas pudding every year even though they are really not that keen. Try one of our twists on a traditional pudding; my favourite is the Frozen Christmas Pudding, which is delicious and can be made well in advance. There are plenty more alternatives to choose from in this month’s recipe collection.
Location, location, location
And Christmas doesn’t have to be spent at home. If it’s a large gathering, hire the local village hall or cricket club and take a buffet lunch. Or take flasks of tea and coffee (possibly with a tot of something) and mince pies to your local beach or forest for a bracing and beautiful winter walk. For those who are really brave, opt for a wild swim! And if you really want to ‘escape it all’ book yourself a weekend away somewhere remote and gorgeous and simply relax.
Head of Dairy Diary; I’m passionate about producing high quality products that our customers will cherish. I’m also a mum of three and I enjoy cooking, walking, gardening and art with my family, as well as lino printing (if I find time!)
