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The Best Time to Sell Your Home
You don’t need me to say that selling your home is an extremely emotional and very exhausting time. It’s described as being one of the most stressful moments of our lives, alongside death and divorce! Amongst this cocktail of highly charged human emotions, the house seller will have spent a considerable amount of time thinking through their plans to sell, when to put their house on the market and what they plan to do next.
So when is the best time to sell?
The commonly held view is the beginning of Spring. However if everybody followed this same notion and vast armies of sellers all descend on the market at the same time, your house risks being crowded out as there are only a limited number of buyers.
Another question people ask is “should I wait until the housing market goes up?” This often occurs when the market is going through a period of rising prices fuelled with salacious newspaper headlines promising untold riches from the next housing boom. However, in most cases the seller will also be a buyer so the new home will also have gone up in price and, generally speaking, there’ll be no significant gain to be had by waiting. The housing market can change quite dramatically and a potential seller should always move when the time is right for them.
This also applies to the time of year. I’ve already suggested a counter argument to marketing in spring but the reality is, if you look at any time of year, there are pros and cons. Long summer days give an opportunity for early evening viewings, the autumn is generally seen as the last good opportunity to sell before Christmas, and January picks up many buyers with ‘New Year & New House’ plans.
So find out now what your house is worth in readiness for when you do decide to sell. The EweMove website features a free online valuation tool that provides an instant valuation report or use the QR code below.
To have a chat about your moving plans please contact me 24/7 on 01761 252389 or visit www.EweMove.com/MidsomerNorton
A busy December in your garden
Fine days might be few and far between in December but when they do arrive head out into the garden because there is lots to do.
New projects
December is a busy month in the garden. The cooler weather offers the opportunity to undertake some serious projects, there is tidying up, jobs in the greenhouse, and preparation for spring.
The days might be short and the weather cold, but if you want to undertake a garden landscaping project, December could be the perfect month to get it done.
Build raised beds – they can be built using kits of wood, metal or other materials, using specially sourced timber, using offcuts of wood that you might already have, or you could utilise the services of a gardening professional who will design, source and construct them for you.
Raised beds do not have to be lined but this will reduce the emergence of weeds. Liners can be designed specially for raised beds, or you could perhaps use cardboard. But sourcing good quality topsoil is a must.
Construct a new greenhouse or cold frame – again you could do this yourself or get a professional to do it for you, and the choices are from home made and reasonably priced to high quality top of the range bespoke models.
Out in the garden
Protect - if the weather is fair get into the garden prioritising protection of pots and plants against potentially severe weather. Terracotta pots should either be wrapped or moved to a frost-free area.
Shield - in the vegetable plot parsnips should be shielded from frost with straw and over in the flower garden pile some more straw around the base of tender shrubs and climbing plants.
Prune - any overgrown shrubs and hedges while they are in their dormant state. Also prune climbing roses.
Tidy up - raspberry and blackberry plants and prune large apple and pear trees as this will increase the amount they will crop next autumn.
In the greenhouse or potting shed
Even if the weather is poor, there is plenty to do in the greenhouse or potting shed beginning with
a good spring clean and tidy up. Clean the glass regularly and renew any insulation. On fine days wash the glass outside and ventilate.
Rhubarb – cover your potted rhubarb plants perhaps with a bucket or bin depending on the size of the plant to force your rhubarb so you can enjoy succulent sweet fruit in a month or two.
Hyacinth plants – these should be ready to bring out of your greenhouse and inside your home so that they flower for Christmas and the New Year. Overwintering plants – check for any pests or problems – water sparingly over winter.
Prune vines – if you are lucky enough to have a greenhouse large enough to grow vines December is the perfect time to give them a good prune because, as with the outside fruit bushes and trees, they are currently in their dormant state. December is a great time to enjoy your botanical achievements and then plan ahead for the next gardening year.
By Rob Bullock
LOCALREACH COMMUNITY NOTICES
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Then simply go to our web site www.localreach.co.uk and click on the Community Notices page, then fill in the form before the deadline shown on page 3. You can also upload a photo or logo. We will then publish in our LocalReach Community Magazines delivered by Royal Mail each month.
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Small and large screen entertainment this December
Winter is when small and large screen entertainment is most popular as we flock to cinemas and enjoy the best of the telly. Here are some highlights this December.
December is when the biggest and best movies are released because it is the month when many of us have a regular night out at the cinema, and as Christmas approaches festive telly has been a highlight for families around the country for generations.
Large screen
Three mega movies stand out this Christmas, the sequel to Disney’s The Lion King, Mufasa, The Lion King, the festive Red One and Sonic the Hedgehog 3.
Mufasa, The Lion King
The eagerly awaited Disney epic hits cinema screens this December and is bound to delight cinemagoers young and old. The story introduces Mufasa who is an orphaned cub. Mufasa is alone and lost until he meets a sympathetic lion named Taka, who is the heir to a royal bloodline.
Red One
A Christmas movie but not as we know it, Red One features a stellar cast headed by Dwayne Johnson (who plays Callum Drift, Head of North Pole security for St Nicholas) and Chris Evans (who plays hacker and bounty hunter Jack O’Malley).
When Santa Claus is kidnapped, Drift teams up with Jack O’Malley to rescue him in this daring ecapade.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3
The third instalment of this highly popular animated caper features amongst others the voices of Jim Carey, once again, and Keanu Reeves and is bound to be a hit amongst younger audiences.
This movie sees Knuckles and Tails reunite with Sonic to battle Reeves’ character Shadow who is a formidable enemy with astonishing powers.
TV highlights
Christmas is all about great telly. Traditionally it is a time when families come together, before during and after the holidays to enjoy classic repeats of the wonderful sitcoms and dramas we remember from our childhood to share them with the next generation but there are some new, original shows to enjoy this year.
Call the Midwife Christmas Special
The Christmas day festive edition of this muchloved medical drama heralds the start of Season 14 and is one of the most watched TV shows. We begin with Christmas 1969 as viewers enjoy the stories of the much-loved characters from Nonnatus House and Dr Turner’s surgery as they care for their East End community.
Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl
A treat for young and old the latest instalment from Nick Park’s Aardman Animations premiers on BBC One and iPlayer this Christmas and introduces Norbot the Smart Gnome and the return of the supervillain Feathers McGraw to battle our heroes, Wallace and Gromit.
Gavin and Stacey
A long-awaited return for the much-loved comedy premieres this Christmas with the final ever episode in which we hope writers and stars Ruth Jones and James Corden tie up the loose ends that fans have been waiting for since 2019.
Whether you go out or stay in there is plenty to entertain all the family this December.
By Rob Bullock
It’s the Christmas big one
It’s back again this year, so make sure you don’t miss the bumper worldfamous Wells Christmas Bazaar. Saturday 30th November from 9:30am to 3:00pm in Wells Town Hall. It’s been in Father Christmas’s diary since January.
There’s something for everyone: jewellery, crafts, toys and more bottles than you could dream of. Plus books, games, music, the stunning silent auction and the grand raffle with its £500 top prize.
Lunch and drinks will be served all day.
All brought to you by the Catholic parish of Ss Joseph and Teresa.
Jump feet first into Christmas with the annual St Margaret’s Santa Abseil!
Are you ready for an unforgettable festive adventure? Join us on Sunday, 1st December for a
Burns ‘n’ Bumps
A well-stocked first aid kit is a Christmas essential
Whether it’s a minor burn while removing the mince pies from the oven, a slip on an icy doorstep, or a holiday hangover, a well-stocked first aid kit is as important as the festive turkey.
Bandages and Plasters - Have a variety on hand, from small adhesive strips for minor cuts to larger bandages for bigger scrapes. With all the present wrapping, tree decorating, and vegetable chopping, small nicks and cuts are common.
Antiseptic Cream and Wipes - For any cuts or scrapes, antiseptic cream and wipes help clean the area and prevent infection.
Santa Abseil, where you’ll descend 60 feet down the breathtaking Cheddar Gorge, all in support of St Margaret’s Hospice.
Sponsored by Blackdown Finance, this event is your chance to make this Christmas truly special—whether it’s for the thrill, the views, or the cause. Suit up in your Santa gear, gather your courage, and abseil down one of Somerset’s most iconic locations. After completing the abseil, you’ll be greeted at the bottom with a well-earned medal and a festive mince pie. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking for a fun way to raise funds for a great cause, the Santa Abseil is an event for everyone.
Don’t wait - spots are limited! Head to www. st-margarets-hospice.org.uk/santa-abseil to register for just £35. For group bookings or questions, email events@st-margarets-hospice. org.uk
Make this Christmas one to remember by supporting St Margaret’s Hospice. Feel the festive cheer, conquer the cliffs, and make a difference!
and chestnuts roasting on an open fire, come with burn risks. Burn gel soothes minor burns quickly, and special sterile burn dressings provide a useful protective barrier.
Pain Relievers - Stock up on ibuprofen or paracetamol for those inevitable holiday headaches, sore backs, and muscle strains.
Cold Pack - An instant cold pack is great for bumps and bruises and is especially helpful for kids.
Tweezers – For removing splinters from the Christmas tree, yule logs and kindling.
Antacids – For the inevitable indigestion suffered by someone’s overtaxed digestive system.
With these essentials in your Christmas first aid kit, you’ll be ready to handle any small holiday emergencies, so you can focus on enjoying the season with peace of mind.
01749 329 011
Burn Gel and Dressing - Candlelight, cookery
By Louise Addison
Crossword Across
Word Search
1 Contribute, give (6)
4 Demise, end (5)
8 Jeopardy (5)
9 Sank the Titanic (7)
10 Distinctly (7)
11 Indian dress (4)
12 Deceive (3)
14 Sung in church (4)
15 Reveal, display (4)
18 Fasten, attach (3)
21 Idol, venerated image (4)
23 Wander aimlessly (7)
25 Gift (7)
26 Modify (5)
27 Appoint, nominate (5)
28 Affluence, riches (6)
Down
1 Portray, illustrate (6)
2 Baby’s room (7)
3 Forgiving, lenient (8)
4 Means of losing weight (4)
5 Stadium, amphitheatre (5)
6 Scottish meat pudding (6)
7 Resin used to make gramophone records (5)
13 Heighten, intensify (8)
16 Weirdo, eccentric (7)
17 Small alcoholic drink (6)
19 Barren, deserted (5)
20 Walking aid (6)
22 Very overweight (5)
24 Loaned (4)
Mindbenders
Solutions: Turn to page 18
He’s Behind You!
The hybrid history of British pantomime
Nothing screams “Christmas” like a man in a dress, a villain with a twirly moustache, buckets of glitter and two hundred primary school kids yelling, “He’s behind you!” at the top of their lungs. But how did this strange blend of slapstick comedy, fairytales, and audience participation come to be such a beloved British institution?
The story begins with a touch of Italian flair. Back in the 16th century, traveling Italian performers introduced commedia dell’arte to Britain - a form of street theatre featuring exaggerated characters, physical comedy, and chaotic plots. These Italian performers laid the groundwork for what would later become the pantomime.
Fast-forward to the 18th century, when British pantomime took a lively turn with the introduction of the harlequinade. This French tradition starred the mischievous Harlequin, along with a host of other quirky characters, like Columbine, and a clumsy clown. This genre was all about the absurd, which naturally appealed to our British sense of humour and soon, a cross-dressing, slapstick holiday extravaganza was born. It didn’t take long before British pantomime became inseparable from the festive season. Classic tales like Cinderella, Aladdin, and Jack and the Beanstalk were given the pantomime treatment, which usually meant taking a folk tale and lacing it with terrible puns, some highly questionable costumes, and a lot of shouting. Oh, and the pantomime Dame - a role famously played by a man in full makeup and flamboyant frock - became a comic staple. In fact, if you attend a panto and don’t see a man dressed as an outrageously bejewelled matron, were you even at a pantomime?
Audience participation is, of course, the heartbeat of any panto. British pantomimes invite everyone to get involved. Is the villain skulking on stage? Everyone shout, “Boooooo!” Has the hero lost something? Cue the audience yelling, “It’s behind you!” And if there’s a “ghost scene,” all the cast and audience members have to collectively attempt to rid the stage of the spooky intruder, usually by screaming and laughing.
Add to this the tradition of peppering shows with minor celebs, contemporary jokes, local shoutouts, political quips, and a dollop of satire, and you have a show that feels both timeless and wonderfully ridiculous. Every British child will remember their first panto, an event that’s equal parts festive cheer and complete mayhem.
So there you have it! Pantomime is part dash of Italian influence, with a soupçon of Gallic panache, a splash of British slapstick, and a whole lot of nonsense - a tradition where laughter, cross-dressing, and heckling from the audience are actively encouraged. No wonder it’s become such a hit; it’s everything British culture loves, rolled into one chaotic, uproarious holiday spectacle.
Have you bought your panto tickets yet?.
By Sarah Davey
LOCALREACH COMMUNITY NOTICES
Are you a local, club, group, association, charity, school or church?
Would you like to publicise your, news, events and information to your community free of charge?
Then simply go to our web site www.localreach.co.uk and click on the Community Notices page, then fill in the form before the deadline shown on page 3. You can also upload a photo or logo. We will then publish in our LocalReach Community Magazines delivered by Royal Mail each month.
Your Community Notice will also appear on our Facebook pages.
Join our growing army of LocalReach Community Editors.
Welcome Christmas with u3a!
If you are no longer working full time, you may be looking around for interesting things to do, with the possibility of making new friends. u3a is a national organisation with a branch in Shepton Mallet. Our website, where you can see what we do and how to join, is www.sheptonmalletu3a.org.uk
On Thursday 5th December there will be Christmas Singalong and quiz instead of a speaker this month. 10:00am - 12:00pm at the Salvation Army Hall in Shepton Mallet centre. £3 for non-members, to include refreshments.
Globe Carnival Club Christmas Bingo!
Please come to our annual Christmas bingo. Lots of prizes to be won and a jackpot of £100 cash. Raffle prizes also.
Tea. Coffee and mince pies!
Thursday 12th December at Croscombe Village Hall, Wells.
Doors open 6:45pm. Eyes down 7:30pm.
Bring your family and friends and come and have some fun.
LOCALREACH COMMUNITY NOTICES
Are you a local, club, group, association, charity, school or church?
Would you like to publicise your, news, events and information to your community free of charge?
Then simply go to our web site www.localreach.co.uk and click on the Community Notices page, then fill in the form before the deadline shown on page 3. You can also upload a photo or logo. We will then publish in our LocalReach Community Magazines delivered by Royal Mail each month. Your Community Notice will also appear on our Facebook pages.
Join our growing army of LocalReach Community Editors.
Come and buy something unique at our Christmas Craft Market
Saturday 14th December 11:00am - 3:00pm, Wells Museum.
Beautiful handmade gifts, decorations and treats from local artisans. Plus raffle & tombola. Festive decoration making workshop (by donation). Book signing by local crime writer. Refreshments available. Free entry to museum all day.
For more info: admin@wellsmuseum.org.uk, 01749 673477.
RAFA Mid-Somerset Branch (MSB)
Annual Christmas Lunch Saturday 14th December
RAFA-MSB Christmas Lunch will be on Saturday 14th December at 12:15pm in Wells Golf Club, Blackheath Lane, Wells, BA5 3DS. This will be a Formal Christmas Lunch with drinks on arrival, a two/three Course lunch with choices, coffee, port for Loyal Toast.
RAFA Members, Current and Ex-RAF Personnel and Reserves, Current and Ex-Commonwealth Air Forces Personnel, Members of the RAF Family and Members of public supporting RAFA welcome.
E-mail rafa.midsomerset@gmail.com or tel 01458 224057 for more information.
Glastonbury Armed Forces &
Veterans Breakfast Club
We are a group of Veterans & Serving Members of His Majesties Armed Forces from Glastonbury, Wells, Street and surrounding areas, who get together at 08:30 on Wednesday mornings to enjoy a Breakfast with like-minded people at “Mamf’s” Cafe in Glastonbury.
For further details of when and where we meet e-mail: GlastonburyAFVBC@gmail.com or telephone: 07929 087260
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Staying healthy over Christmas
Many of us eat and drink too much during the festive season. But once a year, why worry about a little overindulgence? Here are some easy tips to help you stay healthy and still enjoy Christmas
Worrying about overindulging often makes Christmas extra stressful, but Christmas is all about indulgence. It comes but once a year and there is always that New Years’ resolution to adopt a healthy lifestyle come January. And with a few simple changes the festive season need not be as bad for you as you might think.
Relax and enjoy
First and foremost. It’s Christmas. Give yourself a break. Instead of worrying about calories or your waistline at Christmas why not just relax and try to enjoy yourself. Worrying too much is bad for you anyway. Don’t stress about a holiday that is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year. And by excluding yourself from socialising because you might have too much to drink and eat some unhealthy foods you might lose out on having a really great and memorable time.
Hydrate
Many of us forget to drink water over the festive season at a time when you really need to hydrate. Make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you are intending to drink alcohol in an evening because alcohol can dehydrate you and lower your system’s immunity.
Start your day with a big glass of water. Drinking water in the morning helps get rid of brain fog and headaches and sets you up for the day.
Smaller portions
Most of us enjoy larger portions at Christmas but if you choose to make the portions you are eating a little bit smaller you can eat all the goodies that make Christmas so special!
Eat your veggies
If you are lucky enough to be invited out to dinner over Christmas, think about having the meal with a few less trimmings! Instead, fill up on the delicious veggies! So what if roast potatoes and roast vegetables are high in calories! They are scrumptious and make up part of your five a day!
Start your day with a good breakfast
The tendency over the festive season is to forget about breakfast because you might still be full or feeling the effects from the night before. But don’t! Make sure you start your day with a healthy breakfast, perhaps porridge or cereal, eggs on toast, some fruit juice, and not too much coffee.
Drink savvy
Many of us enjoy a drink at Christmas but a good rule of thumb is to try to avoid mixing your drinks and remember that lighter coloured drinks tend to cause less of a hangover. And, if you are having a drink, remember to enjoy eating a festive nibble or two.
The wonderful thing about the holidays is that we can all overindulge a little and need not feel bad about it. Don’t worry, enjoy and have a wonderful time.
By Rob Bullock
LOCALREACH COMMUNITY NOTICES
Are you a local, club, group, association, charity, school or church?
Would you like to publicise your, news, events and information to your community free of charge?
Then simply go to our web site www.localreach.co.uk and click on the Community Notices page, then fill in the form before the deadline shown on page 3. You can also upload a photo or logo. We will then publish in our LocalReach Community Magazines delivered by Royal Mail each month. Your Community Notice will also appear on our Facebook pages. Join our growing army of LocalReach Community Editors.
Christmas: Helping loved ones with hearing loss
By Simon Swindells, Director and Clinical Lead Audiologist at South West Hearing Care
Christmas is a time for family, friends and festivities. However, for those with hearing loss, it can sometimes be a challenging experience. The noise and bustle of Christmas gatherings can make it difficult to hear conversations and fully enjoy the festivities.
Here are some helpful tips to help your loved ones:
Create a Calm Environment: Turn down any music or televisions that are playing and avoid crowded, noisy areas. Try and opt for smaller, quieter locations when choosing somewhere like a restaurant, or find a quiet corner within a larger gathering.
Communicate Clearly: When talking, ensure that you face your loved one. Make good eye contact and speak directly and clearly to them, avoiding where possible covering your mouth or face. Lip reading is a vital communication skill for many people with hearing loss. It’s the ability to recognise the lip shapes, gestures and facial movements of a person when they are speaking, to gain a better understanding of what they are saying. Also, try and position yourself somewhere with good lighting so that they can see your face.
Involve Them in Conversations: It is a good idea to ask open-ended questions encouraging them to participate and share their thoughts. Also, try and summarise what others have said to help ensure that your loved one is following the conversation.
Be Patient and Understanding: Remember, hearing loss can be frustrating and disconcerting. Be supportive and understanding of their challenges and try to avoid becoming impatient. If your loved one has difficulty hearing, be patient and take the time to repeat yourself or rephrase your sentence.
If your nearest and dearest have experienced difficulties due to hearing loss over the festive period, encourage them to seek professional audiology help and book a hearing test. An Audiologist can provide guidance, support and personalised solutions to address and maximise their hearing potential. Street: 01458 55 55 33 | Westbury: 01373 82 30 76 | swhearingcare.co.uk
We are friendly, welcoming, enthusiastic gardeners. Come and join us
We meet on first Wednesday of the month at 7.00pm in West Pennard Village Hall, BA6 8NL.
We have informative speakers, and organise exciting trips.
We offer annual membership or pay at the door for individual meetings. There are refreshments and a raffle. New members always welcome.
For more details: www.westpennardvillagehall.co.uk/ gardeningclub or email karenrussell53@icloud.com
Shepton Mallet Carers Support and Information Group
Shepton Carers Group, part of Somerset Carers Service is a free, informal gathering for people who regularly offer a helping hand to a friend, family member or loved one. We socialise, share ideas and to talk about our experiences. Professional speakers and service providers also visit to offer support and information.
We meet every Second Wednesday of the month from 2:00pm in Shepton Brasserie. Call Cath on 07535279359 before attending for the first time in case of schedule changes.
The Somerset Carers Service Advice Line: 0800 3168600 carers@somersetrcc.org.uk www.somersetcarers.org
‘Companionship through socialising and sharing experiences with likeminded
people’
Street Branch Royal Naval Association covers all areas of Somerset and meets monthly in the Wessex Hotel, 15 High St. Street, Somerset BA16 0EF. Current and ex RN, RM, WRNS, RFA, Reserves and Commonwealth personnel are welcome. Associate membership is also available to relatives of current and former serving personnel, Sea/Marine Cadet staff and civilians. Monthly meetings include a raffle and end with the option of staying for lunch at the hotel.
Contact Chairman Mike Jayes, Tel: 07805 516946. Email: streetrnachair@gmail.com for details of the next meeting.
SPA Singles Social Group – South West, Est. 1979
We are a member led group, aiming to help you make new friends and improve your social life. Welcoming active, 40+ singles throughout the South West. Your local branch is Wells & Mendip. Events include meals, walks, music, holidays, day trips, social evenings, theatre, etc. and whatever members wish to organize.
Find us on the meetup website at www.meetup.com/spa-social-group
or use the meetup app and search for “SPA singles group south west”
Volunteer Drivers Urgently Needed
Volunteers are desperately needed for our Community Transport Service that enables vulnerable people to attend medical appointments out of their local area when they don’t have any other form of transport. We are looking for people with their own car, a full driving licence and spare time on their hands to join our friendly team. We would be happy to chat with anyone interested and answer any questions.
Please ask them to give us a call here at Mendip Community Transport on 01749 880613 or via email at chantel.difford@mendipct.co.uk
LOCALREACH COMMUNITY NOTICES
Are you a local, club, group, association, charity, school or church?
Would you like to publicise your, news, events and information to your community free of charge?
Then simply go to our web site www.localreach.co.uk and click on the Community Notices page, then fill in the form before the deadline shown on page 3.
A Good Read
A Cornish Christmas Murder
By Fiona Leitch
A Cornish Christmas Murder is a delightful seasonal mystery that transports readers to the cozy, scenic village of Penstowan. In this latest instalment of the Jodie Parker Mystery series, we find the former detective turned amateur sleuth, Jodie “Nosey” Parker, knee-deep in yuletide festivities, only to have the holiday spirit interrupted by a gruesome murder.
The novel begins with Jodie hoping for a quiet Christmas with her family, but things take an unexpected turn when a high-profile celebrity chef is found dead at the local holiday festival. With the charming Cornish landscape covered in snow, the idyllic setting makes for a perfect contrast to the sinister crime that unfolds. As Jodie steps in to help the local police unravel the mystery, readers are treated to an engaging plot full of twists, red herrings, and quirky village characters.
Leitch’s storytelling is full of warmth and humour. This is not a novel for lovers of gruesome gritty city crime set in the real world. Here the cozy atmosphere, mixed with an array of delicious Christmas treats, makes for a festive, pageturning experience. Jodie’s wit and determination make her an endearing protagonist who feels like an old friend, and her dynamic with the colourful cast brings the village to life.
A Cornish Christmas Murder is a satisfying blend of mystery and holiday charm, perfect for readers to curl up with during the festive season. Just add a roaring fire and a glass of mulled wine.
The Miracle on Ebenezer Street
By Catherine Doyle
This heartwarming and enchanting children’s novel reimagines the spirit of Christmas in a way that will captivate readers young and old. Inspired by Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the hero of the story is 9-year-old George, whose life is overshadowed by sadness since his mother dies. Three years later, George’s father has lost all enthusiasm for Christmas, banning any festive celebrations in their home. However, everything changes when George stumbles upon a mysterious Christmas shop and discovers a magical snow globe. This seemingly ordinary item transports George, his father, and his mischievous grandmother on an extraordinary adventure through time and alternate versions of Christmases past, present, and what might be in the future. Each stop on their journey reveals a little more magic, hope, the possibility of healing and rediscovery of joy.
Doyle’s storytelling is woven with vivid imagery, humour, and emotion, making it a real holiday treat. The characters are relatable and full of warmth, especially George, whose longing for Christmas captures the spirit of the season. Doyle blends themes of grief, love, and the importance of family into a story full of whimsy and wonder. This is a delightful and touching read that will become a much-loved Christmas classic. A great stocking-filler.
By Tash Donovan
Why Santa needed sunglasses?
No, this isn’t a bad Christmas cracker joke… However, if it was, the answer would be something like: Because he heard the elves were working on their “bright” ideas!
But really, why would anyone need sunglasses at this time of the year?
As we travel round the Sun every year; in the winter we receive the Sun’s rays at a more acute angle, which can be a big problem, especially whilst driving. Direct, or almost direct sunlight can be very disturbing, debilitating even, and it’s just not possible to look away when at the steering wheel.
And let’s not forget about UV radiation. UV rays are still strong in winter, especially at higher altitudes or on sunny days. Good quality sunglasses can protect your eyes from harmful UV radiation.
If we are lucky enough to get some snow (or unlucky, if you aren’t into that sort of thing), that’s another thing to consider. Fresh snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, causing significant glare. This can strain your eyes and reduce visibility.
All things considered, it’s not only the elves’ bright ideas to shield Father Christmas’ eyes from!
If he visits Eyetech Opticians during his journey through Street, we will recommend he puts a pair of Maui Jim sunglasses on his wish list, which feature the most advanced PolarizedPlus2 technology for 99.9% glare reduction and the elimination of 100% UV radiation. They also contain rare-earth elements for contrast enhancement and beautiful colours. If this still wasn’t enough to convince Santa, they have also earned the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Recommendation as an effective UV filter for the eyes and surrounding skin.
Would you also like to put Maui Jims on your Christmas list? Visit us to view the collection.
Merry Christmas from Eyetech Opticians
Christmas Gifts
With a twist
With Christmas approaching, finding the perfect gift can be a challenge, especially when you want to avoid the ubiquitous bubble bath and socks. Here are some unusual but meaningful Christmas gift ideas that are sure to delight and surprise your loved ones this holiday season.
Personalized Star Maps - These maps show the exact alignment of the stars on a significant date in the recipient’s life, whether it’s their birthday, an anniversary, or another special occasion. Star maps make for stunning wall art but also carry deep sentimental value. They serve as a reminder of a cherished moment, making them both thoughtful and unique.
Experience Gifts - Experience-based gifts have become increasingly popular as most of us concede we own too much ‘stuff.’ They can be tailored to the recipient’s interests, whether they’re adventure seekers or food lovers. For someone who values experiences over material possessions, this type of gift shows that you’ve thought carefully about what would make them happiest, whether that’s a cooking class, hot air balloon ride, or a wine tasting tour.
Subscription Boxes - For a gift that keeps giving beyond Christmas Day these curated boxes can cater to all kinds of hobbies and tastes. Whether your recipient enjoys gourmet snacks, skincare products, books, or gardening, there’s a subscription service for them. Subscription boxes add an element of surprise, as the recipient gets to enjoy their gift over time, reminding them of you with each delivery.
Charity Donations in Their Name - For those who value giving back, consider making a charitable donation in their name. This gift is both thoughtful and impactful, as it helps a cause that’s meaningful to them. Many organizations offer the option to send a personalized card or certificate, informing the recipient of the donation. Whether it’s supporting animal welfare, environmental initiatives, or community projects, this is a great way to make a difference while honouring someone’s values.
Customized Art Pieces – This could be anything from a hand-drawn portrait of their pet, a family illustration, or a map of their favourite city. With many artists offering bespoke services online, you can find a style that perfectly suits the recipient’s taste. This kind of art is not only beautiful but also deeply personal, ensuring it will be a cherished keepsake for years to come.
DIY Gift Kits - These allow the recipient to make something themselves. These kits come in a variety of options, from making candles or soap to brewing their own beer or planting a mini herb garden. DIY kits are interactive, engaging, and give the recipient a sense of accomplishment. Plus, they can enjoy the finished product long after the holidays have passed.
Finding a gift that’s both unusual and thoughtful doesn’t have to be difficult. The key is to select something that reflects the recipient’s personality and interests. These gift ideas go beyond the ordinary, offering a unique way to show your loved ones how much you care this Christmas.
By Sharon Newman
Winter-Spiced Hot Chocolate
You will be the hit of the festive season with this chai-inspired twist on a winter favourite.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Serve s: 2
Ingredients:
Spice Hot Chocolate
2 cups milk (full fat or semi-skimmed work well, but you can experiment with soy, oat etc)
4 tablespoons high quality drinking chocolate
2 cinnamon sticks
2 star anise
6 cloves
6 green cardamom pods
½ teaspoon nutmeg freshly grated
Cardamom and Vanilla Whipped Cream
½ cup whipping cream
½ teaspoon ground cardamom
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 teaspoons sugar optional (if you don’t have a sweet tooth, leave this out)
Method:
Spiced Hot Chocolate
Place the milk and all of the whole spices into a small, heavy-bottomed saucepan and bring to a simmer (don’t let it boil). Allow to simmer for about 3 minutes, whisking or stirring gently to stop the milk being scorched.
Mix the drinking chocolate with a small amount of cold milk to make a runny paste and add this to the milk in the pan, stirring all the time.
Simmer the hot chocolate for a few minutes, whisking or stirring occasionally. Strain into mugs (to catch the whole spices). Top with the cardamom and vanilla whipped cream.
Cardamom and Vanilla Whipped Cream
Chill a mixing bowl for 30 minutes. Then Into the bowl, combine the whipping cream, sugar (if using), vanilla and cardamom. Whip the mixture, until you get soft peaks, a light and airy topping. When whipping aim for soft clouds of cream. Stop before the cream gets too thick.
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Surviving Christmas!
Tips for managing ‘trickier’ guests this festive season.
Whether its Uncle Gary, who prides himself on his radical honesty, or Aunty Sally who makes passive aggressive digs at your cooking, handling poorly behaved relatives at Christmas is challenging. It’s helpful to have a few strategies in your back pocket so you can navigate the festive season without strangling anyone.
Set Boundaries Early - Before the event set clear boundaries with relatives who may be troublesome. Politely express your desire for a peaceful holiday and outline any behaviours that might disrupt this. For example, let them know you’d prefer to avoid controversial topics like politics or conspiracy theories at the dinner table.
Redirect the Conversation - If things start to veer into uncomfortable territory, try steering the conversation towards safer, light-hearted topics. Ask about holiday plans, recent hobbies, or festive film recommendations. Anything to keep the mood light and avoid potential landmines.
Enlist Support - Team up with another family member. Take turns handling the troublemaker or set up a signal when it’s time to step in and divert attention.
Take a Break - Don’t be frightened to excuse yourself if things get overwhelming. A quick step outside, a walk around the block, or a few deep breaths can help reset your patience and provide a much-needed break.
Stay Positive - Focus on the enjoyable parts of the gathering and people who make you feel happy and relaxed. Sometimes laughter really is the best medicine, and a little holiday cheer can go a long way in smoothing out those tricky family moments.
And if all else fails, tell yourself it’s just one day, and next year you can always ‘forget’ to invite them!
By Sharon Newman
LOCAL HOME CARE
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