Friday, 25 April 2025
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Thursday, 24 April 2025
Mid-Year Check on Your Christmas Wishlist: Are You On Track?
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| Even Santa checks his lists! |
While the sun might be shining (or trying to) and summer holidays are on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to pour yourself an iced gingerbread latte and revisit that festive wishlist you started, or meant to start, back in January.
Whether you’re a full-on Christmas planner or just someone who likes to avoid the last-minute rush, a mid-year wishlist check-in can save time, money, and stress when December finally rolls around.
Why Do a Mid-Year Wishlist Review?
1. Prices Change
That must-have gadget or perfect gift set might be on sale during summer promotions like Amazon Prime Day or high street mid-season sales. Planning ahead lets you pounce on deals now instead of paying premium prices in December.
2. Tastes Evolve
You or your loved ones might have new hobbies, obsessions, or needs that weren’t on the radar in January. Mid-year is the sweet spot to update those ideas before things get hectic.
3. Stock Availability
Some popular items sell out by November. If you already know what you're after, you can keep an eye out early or even pre-order where possible.
How to Do a Mid-Year Wishlist Review
1. Pull Out Your Original List
If you created a wishlist in January (or during last year’s festive comedown), dig it out. Review what’s still relevant, what’s been bought, and what you’re no longer fussed about.
2. Update with New Finds
Add any new items you’ve discovered over the last few months—this might include that candle you fell in love with, the board game you played at Easter, or the skincare set you spotted on Instagram.
3. Think Beyond Things
Consider experiences, subscriptions, or even charitable donations in someone’s name. These often take more planning, so it's good to get them on your radar early.
4. Set a Budget Goal
Use this time to check how your Christmas budget is shaping up. If you’re saving monthly, are you on track? A little mid-year adjustment can go a long way.
5. Use a Wishlist App or Spreadsheet
If you haven’t already, move your wishlist to a digital tracker or app like Elfster, Giftster, or a simple Google Sheet. This makes it easy to update on the go and share when the time comes.
🎄 Bonus: Ideas to Add to Your Wishlist This Year
Handcrafted Christmas decorations from UK artisans
Personalised festive pyjamas
A Christmas Eve box subscription
Winter skincare sets
Tea and biscuit hampers (yes, we see you!)
A festive photoshoot voucher
Tickets to a Christmas market or light trail
Final Thoughts
Checking in on your Christmas wishlist in the middle of the year might seem overly organised—but future you will thank present you when December is less about panic-buying and more about soaking up the season.
So go ahead, update that list, sip something cinnamon-spiced, and bask in the warm glow of your early planning. Christmas isn’t just a season—it’s a mindset, and at That's Christmas 365, we’re living it all year long.
Creating a Seasonal Scrapbook from Christmas Memories
What better way to capture those memories than with a seasonal scrapbook?
A Christmas scrapbook is more than just a craft project — it's a time capsule of joy, tradition, and love. Whether you're an experienced scrapbooker or a complete beginner, here’s how to create a festive keepsake you’ll cherish for years to come.
1. Gather Your Christmas Memories
Start with a little trip down memory lane. Collect:
Photos: Print your favourites from Christmas morning, festive outings, or family dinners.
Keepsakes: Save gift tags, Christmas cards, wrapping paper scraps, ticket stubs, and handwritten notes.
Journaling Notes: Jot down memories like “the year we burnt the roast potatoes” or “snow on Boxing Day for the first time in a decade.”
These snippets are the heart of your scrapbook.
2. Choose Your Scrapbook Style
You don’t need a fancy or expensive setup to get started. Pick a format that suits your style:
A traditional ring-bound scrapbook or photo album
A DIY bullet journal
A digital scrapbook (great if you’re tech-savvy or want to share online)
Tip: Opt for acid-free pages and photo-safe glue if you're preserving physical memories long-term.
3. Create Sections for Each Year or Theme
If you want to create an ongoing Christmas scrapbook, divide it by year. Alternatively, theme your pages around topics such as:
Decorating the tree
Christmas baking traditions
Festive outfits
Favourite Christmas films
Letters to Santa from the kids (or grown-ups!)
This structure makes your scrapbook feel more like a storybook and less like a random collage.
4. Add Creative Touches
Get crafty! Decorate your pages with:
Washi tape in festive patterns
Stickers and stamps
Ribbons, lace, or fabric from old Christmas jumpers
Hand-drawn doodles or calligraphy titles
Mix textures and layers for a tactile, cosy feel. Remember, it’s not about perfection — it’s about personality.
5. Use It as a Christmas Tradition
Why not make scrapbooking part of your annual Christmas routine? Set aside a quiet afternoon during the lull between Boxing Day and New Year’s Day to reflect, scrapbook, and enjoy some mulled wine or hot chocolate.
Invite the whole family to contribute — children can draw pictures or add their own notes, while grandparents might share stories from their Christmases past.
6. Display or Store with Care
Once completed, your Christmas scrapbook deserves pride of place. Display it on a coffee table during December, or store it with your decorations to rediscover each year as part of the festive tradition.
Final Thoughts
In our fast-paced digital world, there’s something deeply comforting about sitting down with a scrapbook full of tangible memories. It reminds us that Christmas is not just about gifts or glitter, but about the moments — big and small — that make the season meaningful.
So this year, start capturing those festive flickers.
Easter Decorations with a Christmas Twist: Hop Into a Festive Fusion!
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With spring in the air, why not add a touch of Christmas cheer to your Easter décor?
Whether you’re a holiday enthusiast or just love the cosy charm of twinkling lights and nostalgic trimmings, here’s how to bring a little yuletide magic to your Easter celebrations.
1. Easter Tree with a Yuletide Vibe
Just like a Christmas tree—but bunny approved! Start with a small artificial tree or some blossoming branches (think pussy willow or forsythia) arranged in a vase. Decorate with:
Mini pastel baubles
Glittery eggs
Tiny wooden ornaments shaped like rabbits, chicks, or lambs
A star topper (why not? It’s a Christmas/Easter fusion!)
Wrap the base in soft faux snow or a floral-patterned cloth for that perfect blend of seasons.
2. Twinkling Lights, All Year Bright
Fairy lights aren’t just for December! String warm white or pastel-hued lights around windows, wreaths, or your Easter centrepiece. Bunny-shaped lights or egg-inspired bulbs bring that spring feel, while still capturing Christmas sparkle.
3. Festive Table Settings
Combine seasonal colours with traditional Christmas elegance:
Use gold or silver chargers under plates decorated with florals or bunnies.
Napkin rings shaped like tiny wreaths or holly, but in pastel tones.
Name cards shaped like Easter eggs with a dusting of glitter.
Add a few baubles or mini pinecones (sprayed pink, lilac or yellow) scattered among the daffodils and hot cross buns for a magical effect.
4. Christmas Stockings… for the Easter Bunny
Yes, really! Hang pastel stockings or miniature gift bags on your mantel, filled with Easter treats. Label each with a family member’s name and let the Easter Bunny do a little festive delivery of chocolate eggs, small toys, or spring-themed trinkets.
5. Crossover Wreaths
Mix evergreen sprigs with faux spring florals to create a door wreath that feels both fresh and festive. Tuck in some small Easter eggs, ribbon bows in Christmas red and mint green, and perhaps a little wooden cross or bunny silhouette.
6. Holiday Scents and Sounds
Why not play instrumental versions of carols alongside fresh spring tunes? Light candles in vanilla, pine, or cinnamon scents and mix with florals like lavender or peony to create a comforting seasonal blend. You’ll be surprised how seamlessly they work together.
Why Mix Christmas with Easter?
Blending these two joyful seasons brings together family, tradition, and creativity. It’s a reminder that the warmth, kindness, and fun of Christmas doesn’t need to be limited to the coldest time of year. Plus, your guests will love the unexpected charm of your Easter wonderland with a North Pole twist!
Are you planning to try any of these ideas? Or do you already celebrate Easter the Christmas 365 way? Share your photos and tag us on Instagram @ThatsChristmas365 – we’d love to see how you’re making spirits bright all year long!
Tuesday, 22 April 2025
Discover the Crocky Trail: Cheshire’s Ultimate Outdoor Adventure
With over 60 attractions spread across a mile-long trail, it's a haven for those seeking an active and memorable day out.
What Awaits You at the Crocky Trail?
The Adventure Trail
The heart of the park is its namesake trail—a winding path filled with challenges and surprises. As you traverse the trail, you'll encounter:
Wobbly bridges: Test your balance as you cross these shaky structures.
Rope swings: Swing across streams and ditches like a real Indiana Jones
Underground tunnels: Crawl through dark passages and emerge the underworld's conquering hero.
Balancing beams: Navigate narrow beams that test your coordination.
The trail is designed to be both fun and challenging, encouraging visitors to push their limits while enjoying the great outdoors.
The Family Holiday Guide
Thrilling Rides and Attractions
Beyond the trail, the park boasts a variety of rides and attractions that cater to all ages:
The Titanic Slide: A towering slide that offers an adrenaline-pumping descent.
The Spinning Disk: Hold on tight as you spin around at dizzying speeds.
The Flusher: A ride that will leave you laughing and possibly a bit wet!
These attractions are designed to provide thrills and laughter, ensuring that every visitor leaves with unforgettable memories.
Family-Friendly Facilities
The Crocky Trail is committed to providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all guests:
Free parking: Ample space to accommodate all visitors.
Picnic areas: Bring your own food if you wish, or enjoy offerings from their on-site café.
Dog-friendly: Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome to join the fun.
Cashless payments: All transactions within the park are cashless for your convenience.
Location: Cotton Abbotts, Waverton, Chester, CH3 7PH
Opening Hours: Typically open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's advisable to check the official website for any seasonal variations or special events.
Tickets: Admission includes access to all rides and attractions. Food and refreshments are available at an additional cost. Tickets can be purchased online, often with discounts for group bookings.
Attire: Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear, as the activities can be physically demanding.
Final Thoughts
The Crocky Trail offers a unique blend of adventure, fun, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Cheshire. Whether you're navigating the challenging trail, enjoying the exhilarating rides, or simply soaking in the scenic surroundings, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your sense of adventure and head to the Crocky Trail for an unforgettable day out!
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