6 Must Dos Before Christmas

Bambi Mug: ASDA

How is Christmas a week a way, when did this happen. Saying that I'm so ready for Christmas day to happen already, this month has been one thing after another for me and it's tested my levels of sanity. But dispute the fact our washing machine broke, having two massive unexpected bills to pay and that my poor grandad has been laid up in hospital the last few weeks I'm still hanging on to my Christmas spirit. I'm determined to make this Christmas a fun filled fest for our boys. 

I'm trying to look too what I do have, and that these bumps in the road are just that. I'm lucky and thankful to have a loving family, a piece to rest my head and food on my table. That my grandad isn't alone, and that while being in hospital over Christmas isn't very nice, his still here being looked after and that all my family are supporting him and one another. So I'm just holding on to hope that he will be home soon.

On a brighter note apart from the boys both being ill, they have been so lovely to each other. Maybe it's more to do with Santas list, but they have been fighting less and doing more for each other which has been one of the things I've really needed this month. They made Christmas cards for their great grandad, and even been more helpful around the house without the help of a creepy Elf on the shelf. Soz but they freak us all out. 

So with gifts all wrapped, I'm finally ready to settle down and get into Christmas.  I know that Christmas isn't all fun and games for you either, so here are my fail safes things to do to help you get ready for this festive season. 

One

Wash a few bedding sets, I think one of the easiest things to help you relax on Christmas week is having clean sheets to climb into. Granted you will have to get them washed and dry, but once you have future you will thank you. Maybe if you have a festival set from last year, or even treated yourself to a new one then get it on. I usually wash two sets, so come a few days if my kids have spread festive bed crumbs I can grab out my other clean set and throw it on. 

Two

It's time to bust out all that saved stuff, be it an outfit or bath goodies, fragrance anything that you put off wearing or using now is the time. I mean when is this special fantasy event happening, rather then going all lord of the rings about it. Know that all you have is now, and enjoy it rather then regretting never have done.Even if your not going anywhere special, why shouldn't you feel special. Sequins to the supermarket hell yeah!

Three

Cozy up and watch all the cheese films you want, because as silly as a movie night may seem it's always a winner. Cozy up on the sofa with a hot chocolate by yourself or with others, turn off the lights put on your Christmas lights and put down your phone. Have a full Christmas movie marathon, and quote them like your life depends on it.  

Four

Don't underestimate the power of pyjamas, don't feel like dressing up for Christmas then why not treat yourself to a new set of pyjamas. If you can't afford a new set, then take the ones you have and make sure they are all clean and ready for you to cozy up in. Another thing is cozy socks, these are pretty cheap and everyone and their cat sells them. So even if your pyjamas are not giving you life, a cozy pair of fluffy socks will give you all the toasty vibes. 

Five

Take a night off from social media, break out the board games,  play cards or read a  book. If you prefer to craft, maybe indulge into making something for yourself. Anything so long as your not glued to a screen. If your with family or friends it's nice to have a  real life conversation, have a laugh. If your on your own, reading a book with a well earned glass of wine or if you don't drink make your favourite hot beverage. Christmas is a stressful time, so it's nice to take some time out and away and let your brain unwind. 

Six 

Get your bake on. You don't have to be the best this isn't GBBO, and it doesn't have to be perfect but making a Christmas cake or even cookies can be something fun and different to do. This one is great for any little ones in the family, it's something they will remember.    

Things To Remember 

• Don't stress about there being enough food and drink. It's literally two days, it's going to be enough. There seems to be an unwritten rule that we have to buy all the food and drink the shops have to offer. When in real life, most of the festival things you may not even really enjoy. So if you fancy a cheese board get it,  but if no one eats the mince pies then leave them don't buy stuff for the sake of being festive.  Get what you usually would, and then just some extra bits for your Christmas meal and some snack and treats that you do enjoy. Unless your feeding an army of people, you don't need three months worth of stuff.  

• A gift is a gift, and if someone is ungrateful that's their problem not yours. Focus your energy on those that appreciate your gesture, because nobody has time for negative Nelly's. Wrapping or gift bag, stick to whatever you find less stressful. But honestly whatever you have given this year give it and don't stress over it being 'enough'. There are some great D.I.Y gifts out there to try, if your on a tight budget. If you haven't been able to give gifts, don't under value your time. Maybe make someone a cup of tea, or you could always help them with something and personal I just love a good chat. Seeing family or friends is more important, and if someone can't understand your situation again don't feel bad. 

• A trees a tree, and no matter how big or small decorate it how you want and it can be fabulous. I make a lot of my decorations. So if you don't have heaps of money to spend on  new decorations have a look on YouTube and have crafting session with what you do have. Again it can be great for making with family, or a way to pass time if your on your own. 

If your feeling more then a little down about Christmas, or just life in general then PLEASE KNOW YOU ARE NOT ALONE. You can contact the Samaritans, and there are also a heap of hotlines there, no matter what your struggle  If you think someone else may need help or you see someone homeless. Then please check your local area for who to call, a quick search in google could make the different to that persons day as there are food kitchens that can provide them with a hot meal and possible a place to stay. 

I hope these help in any small way, and I would love to know what your top tips for getting settled for Christmas are. No matter how big or small your Christmas, or even if you don't celebrate I hope you all have a lovely week. But don't forget to let me know how your unwinding this week.