WILL WE KNOW IT’S CHRISTMAS? Because back in the Dark Ages - before the internet or even Channel 4 Christmases were localised, family-centric and far less commercialised with the countdown starting this month rather than early September when the tubs of biscuits and chocolates start appearing on supermarket shelves. So, how do you rekindle the atmosphere of those quaint mid-20th Century Yuletides? For a start, make your own Christmas cake instead of buying one. Set aside a Sunday afternoon and get baking, as early in November as possible because every consumer knows a good cake needs feeding regularly – as in a liberal dousing of brandy every week – before it is iced. And while you’re at it, get to work on your own Christmas pud (once again, nice and early to let it mature, more brandy etc) or a gingerbread house. The aroma alone will get you longing for Christmas Day. As for the not insignificant issue of decorating the house, leave it as late as
possible, do it together and make it an occasion not a chore with a “yeh, that’ll do” end product. Make it better by designing your own decorations… and cards. Set aside a good few hours, devise a festive playlist, and finish the day with hot chocolate or mulled wine. Or, as we are likely to be advised to spend more time at home, wind down with a night of Christmas films … and no, Die Hard doesn’t count. It’s not a proper Christmas film is it? As for the day itself, you can still FaceTime the relatives before settling in for games and quality time after lunch; admittedly, Exploding Kittens will never replace Kerplunk and Find Out Who is no Charades, but they’re still a lot of fun and will get you in the mood for a Morecambe and Wise Special on UK Gold. And if you still feel it’s the season for giving, donate to charity. After all, you could have saved a small fortune by not buying enough food and drink to feed a small army for a week.
How do you rekindle the atmosphere of those quaint mid-20th Century Yuletides?
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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