That's Food and Drink: Dragon Stout: Jamaica’s Bold and Legendary Beer

That's Food and Drink: Dragon Stout: Jamaica’s Bold and Legendary Beer: If you’re fascinated by iconic beers with character and history, Dragon Stout from Jamaica deserves a prime spot on your radar.  With its ri...

A New Year’s Toast Without the Fizz: Why Beer Can Be the Perfect Alternative

There’s a powerful expectation that seeing in the New Year must involve a cork popping and a flute of something sparkling held aloft at midnight. 

Champagne, Prosecco, Cava – they’ve become part of the cultural shorthand for celebration. But sometimes life intervenes, plans change, and the shops are simply out of reach.

This New Year’s Eve, with flu firmly keeping us housebound, the traditional sparkling wine run just wasn’t happening. And honestly? That turned out to be no bad thing at all.

Instead, we’re welcoming the New Year with a couple of bottles of Leffe – and it feels like a celebration perfectly suited to the moment.

Letting Go of the Sparkle Myth

There’s nothing magical about bubbles themselves. What matters is the act of pausing, reflecting, and marking the passing of one year into the next. Sparkling wine has simply become the default, not the rule.

When you’re under the weather, overly acidic or highly carbonated drinks can be less appealing anyway. Beer – particularly a well-made Belgian abbey-style beer – offers warmth, depth, and comfort rather than sharpness and fizz.

Why Leffe Works So Well for New Year’s Eve

Leffe is not a “quick pint” beer. It’s a beer that asks to be sipped and appreciated, which makes it ideal for a quieter, more reflective New Year.

Rich, rounded flavours – gentle sweetness, soft spice, and malt warmth

Lower carbonation than sparkling wine, making it easier to drink when you’re not feeling at your best

A sense of occasion – it’s still a bottled, poured, glass-worthy drink

Comforting rather than bracing, perfect for a night in

Whether it’s Leffe Blonde with its honeyed smoothness or Leffe Brune with its deeper, caramel notes, it feels intentional rather than second-best.

Celebrating at Home, on Your Own Terms

There’s something quietly reassuring about seeing the New Year in from the sofa, wrapped in blankets, listening to the distant sound of fireworks through the window. No crowds, no pressure, no forced cheerfulness – just the shared acknowledgement that you made it through another year.

Raising a glass of beer rather than sparkling wine doesn’t diminish the moment. If anything, it makes it more honest. It reflects where you are, how you’re feeling, and what you actually want rather than what tradition says you should want.

A Gentle Toast to the Year Ahead

So tonight, our toast isn’t loud or extravagant. It’s a simple clink of beer glasses, a shared smile, and a quiet hope that the coming year brings better health, calmer days, and more small moments worth savouring.

If you’re also spending New Year’s Eve unwell, snowed in, or simply choosing comfort over convention, consider this your permission slip: the New Year doesn’t care what’s in your glass.

Sometimes, a good beer is exactly the right way to begin again.

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Even If You’ve Had the Flu Jab: A Winter Warning About This Year’s Severe Flu

For many of us, having the flu vaccination feels like ticking an important winter health box. 

You do the sensible thing, protect yourself and others, and expect that if flu does strike, it will at least be mild.

This winter, that expectation has not always been met.

Despite vaccination, a significant number of people across the UK are still contracting an unusually aggressive strain of influenza, often referred to in everyday language as “super flu”. My wife and I both caught it while attending a funeral shortly before Christmas. 

I have been unwell, but my wife has been particularly badly affected, with symptoms that have lingered and hit far harder than a typical seasonal illness.

This experience has prompted us to share a warning, not to discourage vaccination, but to encourage realistic expectations, vigilance, and early self-care.

Are This Year’s Flu Vaccines “Not Working”?

It’s important to be clear and factual.

Flu vaccines are not failing outright, but this season they appear to be less effective at preventing infection for some people. This can happen when:

Circulating flu strains mutate after vaccines are produced

Multiple influenza strains circulate at once

Individual immune responses vary

Protection reduces over time, particularly in winter peaks

Vaccination still reduces the risk of hospitalisation, pneumonia, and death, which is why the NHS continues to recommend it, especially for older adults, carers, and those with underlying conditions.

However, this year has shown clearly that being vaccinated does not guarantee you won’t get flu — or that it will be mild.

How This “Super Flu” Is Presenting

Many people report symptoms that are stronger, longer-lasting, and more debilitating than a standard cold or flu, including:

Severe exhaustion that doesn’t lift with rest

Persistent chesty or dry cough

High fever and chills lasting several days

Headaches and muscle pain

Loss of appetite and nausea

Chest tightness or breathlessness

Lingering weakness well into recovery

For some, symptoms are lasting two to three weeks, even in otherwise healthy adults.

What You Can Do at Home If You Catch It

If symptoms are manageable and you’re not in a high-risk group, home care is often appropriate — but it needs to be taken seriously.

1. Rest Properly (Not “Pushing Through”)

This is not a flu to power through. Rest is not optional.

Stay in bed or on the sofa

Avoid physical exertion

Reduce screen time if headaches worsen

Returning to normal activity too soon can prolong recovery.

2. Hydration Is Critical

Flu dehydrates you quickly.

Sip water regularly

Warm drinks can ease coughing

Oral rehydration drinks can help if appetite is low

Dark urine or dizziness are signs you’re not drinking enough.

3. Fever and Pain Relief

Paracetamol can help reduce fever and aches

Ibuprofen may help with inflammation if suitable for you

Avoid combining medicines unnecessarily

Always follow UK dosage guidance.

4. Ease Chest and Breathing Symptoms

Steam inhalation or warm showers may ease congestion

Keep rooms well-ventilated but warm

Sleep slightly propped up if coughing worsens at night

If breathing becomes laboured or painful, seek medical advice immediately.

5. Support the Immune System

While not cures, the following may help recovery:

Light, nourishing foods (soups, broths)

Honey and lemon or orange for sore throats (not for children under one)

Adequate vitamin intake through diet

Avoid alcohol — it can worsen dehydration and fatigue.

When to Seek Medical Help

Do not rely solely on home care if any of the following occur:

Difficulty breathing or chest pain

Fever lasting more than 5 days

Blue lips or extreme drowsiness

Confusion or collapse

Symptoms worsening after initial improvement

Contact NHS 111, your GP, or emergency services as appropriate.

A Final Word of Caution

This winter’s flu is not something to dismiss as “just a bad cold” — even if you’ve done everything right and had your jab.

Vaccination still matters. Hygiene still matters. But listening to your body, resting properly, and acting early matter just as much.

If you’re attending gatherings, funerals, or crowded indoor events, be aware that flu is circulating widely — and hitting harder than many expect.

Please take care of yourselves — and each other.

Making Your Own Christmas Mincemeat from Scratch. Because Christmas baking should smell like Christmas

There’s something deeply comforting about making your own Christmas mincemeat from scratch. 

It’s one of those quietly magical kitchen rituals that instantly makes the house smell like Christmas itself, citrus, spice, fruit, and a hint of festive indulgence drifting through the air.

At That’s Christmas 365, we’re firm believers Christmas isn’t just a date in December, it’s a feeling you can summon at any time of year. And homemade mincemeat is one of the simplest ways to do exactly that.

Forget the idea that mincemeat is fiddly or old-fashioned. In reality, it’s straightforward, endlessly adaptable, and once you’ve made it yourself, shop-bought versions rarely compare.

What Is Christmas Mincemeat, Really?

Despite the name, modern Christmas mincemeat no longer contains no meat at all. It’s a rich mixture of dried fruits, sugar, spice, citrus zest, fat (traditionally suet), and alcohol. Historically it did include meat, but today’s version is all about flavour, texture, and festive warmth.

It’s the heart of mince pies, but it’s also wonderful spooned into pastries, stirred through cake batter, or layered into festive desserts.

Why Make Your Own?

Making your own mincemeat gives you:

Complete control over sweetness and spice

Freedom to adjust alcohol levels (or skip it entirely)

Better texture and fresher flavour

A deeply festive kitchen experience

It also makes a lovely homemade gift when spooned into a jar, tied with ribbon, and labelled with the year.

A Classic Homemade Christmas Mincemeat Recipe

This recipe is traditional, reliable, and easy to adapt.

Ingredients

300g raisins

300g sultanas

200g currants

100g mixed peel

1 large cooking apple, grated (skin on)

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

Zest and juice of 1 orange

150g dark brown sugar, or maple sugar

100g shredded suet (vegetable suet works perfectly)

2 tsp mixed spice

1 tsp cinnamon

½ tsp nutmeg

A pinch of salt

100ml brandy, rum, or whisky (to taste)

Method

Mix everything except the alcohol in a large bowl until well combined.

Cover and leave overnight so the flavours can begin to mingle.

The next day, stir through the alcohol.

Spoon into sterilised jars, seal, and store in a cool, dark place.

Your mincemeat will be usable almost immediately, but it improves dramatically after two to four weeks.

Customising Your Mincemeat

One of the joys of making mincemeat from scratch is making it yours.

You might like to try:

A splash of orange liqueur instead of brandy

Chopped dried cherries or cranberries for sharpness

A little grated fresh ginger for warmth

Vanilla or almond extract for depth

Replacing some sugar with maple syrup or honey,or use sugar alternatives

There’s no single “correct” version – just the one that tastes like Christmas to you.

How Long Does Homemade Mincemeat Keep?

Properly jarred and stored, homemade mincemeat will keep for up to a year thanks to the sugar and alcohol. Always use a clean spoon when serving, and keep it refrigerated once opened.

If you’re making it well ahead of Christmas, give the jars an occasional gentle shake to redistribute the flavours.

Beyond Mince Pies

Yes, mince pies are the classic, but don’t stop there. Homemade mincemeat is brilliant in:

Festive traybakes

Christmas muffins

Puff pastry pinwheels

Sponge puddings

Layered trifles

It’s one of those ingredients that quietly elevates almost any bake into something unmistakably Christmassy.

A Christmas Tradition Worth Keeping

In a world of convenience, making your own Christmas mincemeat is a gentle reminder that some traditions are worth slowing down for. It doesn’t require fancy equipment or specialist skills – just time, care, and a love of Christmas flavours.

Whether you make it in July or late November, it’s a small act that brings the spirit of Christmas into your kitchen, one fragrant spoonful at a time.

And that, to us at That’s Christmas 365, is what Christmas is all about.

Broken Presents, Wrong Sizes & Christmas Let-Downs: How to Deal with Gift Mishaps Gracefully

Christmas morning is meant to be magical. The kettle’s on, wrapping paper is everywhere, and for a brief moment everything feels perfect. 

Then it happens: a present is broken straight out of the box, the jumper is two sizes too small, or the gadget simply isn’t what you hoped for.

If you’ve ever sat there smiling politely while thinking “Oh no…”, you’re not alone. 

At That’s Christmas 365, we believe that even the wobbly, disappointing bits of Christmas deserve kindness, perspective, and a practical plan.

Here’s how to deal with broken presents, wrong sizes, and festive mishaps—without spoiling the season.

First Things First: Pause Before You Panic

It’s completely normal to feel disappointed, frustrated, or awkward—especially if the gift came from someone who clearly meant well. Before reacting:

Take a breath

Remind yourself that Christmas is about people, not perfection

Avoid reacting in the heat of the moment

A calm response now makes everything easier later.

Dealing with Broken or Faulty Gifts

If a present arrives damaged or doesn’t work properly, don’t assume all is lost.

What to Do Straight Away

Keep all packaging – boxes, receipts, and labels matter

Take photos of damage or faults as soon as possible

Check the retailer’s returns policy – many extend returns over Christmas

In the UK, consumer rights usually protect you if an item is faulty, even if it was a gift. Retailers are often far more accommodating in the festive period than at any other time of year.

If the Gift Was Bought Online

Online purchases are often easier to resolve. Many retailers allow:

Gift returns without the purchaser present

Exchanges rather than refunds

Extended January return windows

If you don’t have the receipt, ask the giver discreetly later—most people would much rather you have something usable than suffer in silence.

When the Size Is Wrong (Clothes, Shoes & Wearables)

Ah yes, the festive sizing lottery.

How to Handle It Politely

Thank the giver genuinely—it’s the thought that counts

Avoid trying things on publicly if you already know it won’t fit

Check the tag before removing it

Most clothing retailers allow size exchanges without fuss, especially around Christmas.

If You’re Unsure About an Exchange

Some people worry about offending the gift giver. Remember:

They chose the item because they care

Exchanging it ensures it’s actually worn and enjoyed

Keeping something that doesn’t fit helps no one

Kind honesty, handled gently, is rarely taken badly.

When the Gift Just Isn’t “You”

Not every present is broken or the wrong size—sometimes it’s simply… not your thing.

Before rushing to return it, consider:

Could it be re-gifted thoughtfully later?

Would a charity shop donation do genuine good?

Could it be repurposed or used creatively?

If you do return it, many shops will offer store credit—sometimes leading you to something you’d never have chosen yourself but end up loving.

What If You’re the One Who Gave the Problem Gift?

It happens to everyone at some point.

If someone tells you a present is broken or doesn’t fit:

Thank them for telling you

Reassure them it’s absolutely fine

Offer the receipt or help with an exchange

Grace goes both ways at Christmas.

Keeping Christmas in Perspective

A broken ornament, a faulty gadget, or a too-tight jumper can feel upsetting in the moment—but they don’t define the day.

Christmas memories are built from:

Shared meals

Familiar films

Quiet conversations

Laughter over small mishaps

Often, it’s the imperfect moments that become the stories we laugh about year after year.

A That’s Christmas 365 Thought

Christmas doesn’t need to be flawless to be meaningful.

If a present breaks, doesn’t fit, or misses the mark entirely, it’s not a failure—it’s just part of real life woven into the festive season. Handle it kindly, fix what you can, and let go of the rest.

After all, Christmas lasts far longer in the heart than it does under the tree.

Why We Chose to Celebrate Christmas for 365 Days a Year

For many years, That’s Christmas 365 followed a familiar and well-worn rhythm. 

We would pour our hearts into the season, celebrate Advent, revel in Christmas Day, enjoy the gentle lull of Twelfth Night… and then, quietly and contentedly, we would put Christmas to bed. 

The decorations would come down, the notebooks would close, and the blog would rest until late the following year.

And for a long time, that felt exactly right.

But something changed.

Christmas Was Never Really “Over”

As a married couple who live and breathe Christmas, we began to notice something we could no longer ignore: Christmas never truly leaves us. 

Even in February, there are moments of generosity that feel unmistakably Christmassy. In spring, there is hope and renewal. In summer, there are gatherings, shared meals, and kindness between neighbours. In autumn, anticipation quietly begins to build again.

The spirit of Christmas kept showing up — long after the tree was boxed away.

We realised that while the season of Christmas has a beginning and an end, the miracle of Christmas does not.

Readers Were Still With Us

Another turning point came from you.

Messages, emails, comments, and quiet interactions continued throughout the year. People weren’t just visiting us in December — they were returning in March, July, and October. They were reading reflections, revisiting traditions, seeking comfort, and looking for meaning that extended beyond a single month.

It became clear that That’s Christmas 365 wasn’t just a festive countdown site. It had become something gentler, deeper, and more enduring.

Christmas as a Way of Living

At its heart, Christmas is not only about one extraordinary day. It is about:

hope in dark moments

generosity without expectation

welcoming others

comfort, warmth, and reflection

love made practical

Those values do not expire on 26 December.

By expanding the remit to cover Christmas all year round, we gave ourselves permission to explore Christmas as a way of living — not just an annual event. That meant writing about kindness in January, gratitude in April, traditions in August, and preparation without pressure in October.

It meant allowing Christmas to breathe.

A Healthier Relationship with the Season

Ironically, celebrating Christmas all year has made December calmer.

Instead of cramming everything into a few frantic weeks, we can spread the joy, the planning, the memories, and the meaning across the year. There is less rush, less stress, and far more room for reflection.

Christmas becomes something we walk with — not something that overwhelms us and then disappears.

Staying True to What Christmas Means to Us

This decision was never about commercialising Christmas endlessly or pretending it is December every day of the year. It was about honouring what Christmas truly represents to us as a couple: continuity, faith, warmth, and shared humanity.

By keeping That’s Christmas 365 alive throughout the year, we are not extending the noise of Christmas — we are preserving its quiet miracle.

Christmas Lives Here, All Year Long

So this is why we no longer “put Christmas to bed”.

Because Christmas still speaks in January.

Because hope still matters in June.

Because kindness is always in season.

And because the miracle of Christmas was never meant to last for just a few weeks.

Welcome to Christmas — all year round.

Independent Cardiff pub North Star to close on New Year’s Eve

North Star, the be-loved independent community pub located at 131 North Road, Cardiff, CF14 3AE, has today announced it will close its doors permanently on New Year’s Eve, 31 December 2025. 

The closure brings to an end more than five years of trading under the North Star name, following its opening in August 2020, and marks the end of a pub site that has served Cardiff for well over a century. 

Despite extensive efforts to continue trading, rising costs and cost-of-living pressures have forced the closure of a much-loved independent Cardiff pub. The owners describe the decision as unavoidable in the current economic climate. 

Owner Tom Edwards told That's Christmas 365: “This is without question the hardest decision we’ve ever had to make, and it’s not what we wanted. We’ve explored every possible option to keep North Star going, but in the current climate we feel this is the only responsible choice left to us.” 

North Star has been one of the few truly independent pubs in the area, not owned or leased by a brewery. Since opening, it has built a reputation as a strong community pub and a safe, welcoming space for all, particularly for students, local residents, creatives and musicians. 

“North Star has never just been a pub, it’s been a community,” Tom Edwards added. 

The venue became best known for its Sunday roasts and food offering, quiz nights, karaoke, and for supporting local independent music, while also providing a consistent, inclusive space for people to gather. 

Manager David Rowlands said: “We’re immensely proud of what this pub has stood for. This place meant something to people, and that’s what hurts the most.”

A historic pub site on North Road 

The building at 131 North Road has a long and continuous history as a public house. 

Originally established as the Maindy Hotel, the site received its first provisional licence in October 1888, meaning it has operated as a pub for over 135 years. 

Over the decades, the venue has been known by several names, including the Maindy Hotel and later The College Tavern, before becoming North Star in 2020. 

“From the Maindy Hotel to the College Tavern to North Star, this building has always been a place for people.” 

The site’s longstanding role as a community gathering place — spanning generations of locals, students and visitors — underscores why its closure is more than the loss of a single business; it marks the end of a century-plus chapter in Cardiff’s social history. 

“This isn’t just the loss of a business,  it’s the end of a pub site that’s served Cardiff for more than a century.” 

Recognition and local profile 

North Star has consistently been recognised for its role within Cardiff’s social and hospitality scene: 

● WalesOnline has previously described North Star as a “Cardiff institution adored by students and locals alike.” 

● The Cardiff Tab has reported on North Star’s financial pressures, highlighting the venue’s importance to the student and local community. 

● The pub holds a 4.9/5 rating on Tripadvisor from over one hundred reviews, with consistent praise for its food, atmosphere and Sunday roasts. 

● North Star has been name-checked in wider Cardiff food commentary connected to coverage by respected food critic Jay Rayner, placing it among the city’s notable independent venues. 

● The venue was also highlighted in national press such as the Mirror, in coverage of broader hospitality challenges, demonstrating its relevance and resonance beyond Cardiff. 

The pub will continue trading through the festive period, with New Year’s Eve marking its final night of service. Customers are invited to join the team for a final send-off. 

The Cat's Nativity. A Story for Our Readers

It was Spring. While the days were getting warmer, it was still cold at night when you could see the stars, bright and twinkly in the sky. 

When I was a kitten I used to try and catch them. But now I am an adult cat I know I would have to jump very high to catch them, perhaps even twenty times my length- far too high for a cat!

I am not usually allowed in the part of the house where my people lived. Though I am sometimes allowed in, but I can see no reason why sometimes I am allowed in, but other times not. It is hard to work out what human people do. With cat people, it is easy.

My special human friend lives there with her parents. Usually we play together, sometimes we both cuddle up and sleep in front of the oven in the back room.

She is usually kind. Sometimes she oversteps the mark, but a thump with a paw or -occasionally- a slap with one claw across the back of her hand is enough to re-establish the limits. Well, you have to keep kittens in their place (even human ones) or very soon you would not know where you are!

The lady -the mistress- is kind enough to me and gets me food and water. Still, as she says, it's my job to kill any mice and rats that dare to enter her territory. It's an easy job for me, really.

The master is different. Although he swears about me, he is really secretly very fond of me, making a fuss of me when he thinks nobody is watching. Although he tells the mistress off for feeding me too much, he secretly feeds me much more tasty morsels than she EVER does!

The master always talks to me, as he paces up and down in the back room. But recently he began to become more and more angry. I don’t mind this, but I do have to be very wary of his legs and feet and try to keep out of his way, whilst doing my best to look attentive.

"It's a disgrace, cat!" he shouted. "How can we be expected to house all the hundreds of people who will be coming back to Bethlehem, just so they can be counted? The people know they exist, we know they exist, so what is the problem?"

"Don't tell me! -Its because a stupid Roman official thought up the idea. Mind you, cat, that’s all the Romans know about anything. Building straight roads through things, not round them like good, God fearing people, worshipping false idols and counting people for tax reasons, as if they were wine sponges to be squeezed!"

I sat watching him and listening attentively. I know my job!

He suddenly bent down and ruffled my fur and gave me a piece of meat. I purred as I eat it, just to show how much I appreciate his acts of kindness. In a way, I suppose I like him best of all my humans.

I was normally indifferent to the strangers who come. -I remember when I was a kitten I did not like them, but quickly I realised that humans kick you or tread on your tail usually because as their heads and eyes are in such a funny position they can't see anything in front of them properly! I Laughed when 

I worked this out. It seems such a sad deformity for them to be burdened with. So I do not laugh when they can see me. That would have been cruel.

Also, I realised that there was a link between the people staying and how much food would be bought. The strangers came with money that the mistress used to go to the market and exchange for food in the market.

I used to follow her there every morning when I was a kitten, but I soon found that not everyone liked cats, so I decided to stay at home and wait for her, instead.

I began not to like the place so much as more and more people began to come and stay. There was so many of them that they even slept in the back room where mistress prepared the food -and that had NEVER happened before!

To stay out of harm's way I began spending more and more of my time in the stable across the back of the yard with the sheep, goats and cattle. The masters cousin and uncle had just taken the sheep up into the hills as they do every Spring.

I was in the house late one evening -just waiting for an opportunity to retreat to the stable in a huff!- when someone -it was a man from some place in the North -wherever THAT is!- said; "This is strange -its light outside, yet there’s no moon tonight. Must be an omen of some kind. Should we get a Rabbi, do you think?"

"If he can fit in here," said a young man with a gruff voice. "Anyway, what would you do, hide beneath his beard?!" Everyone laughed, but I could tell they were all a bit nervous, which made me worried, too.

As the laughing died down, there was a thumping on the door.

"No! We cant fit anyone else in. -Can't they read the notice you put on the door?" said the mistress.

The master said; "Maybe not. Not all can read. I'll deal with it. Shouldn’t take me too long." I followed him to the door. -After all, I am a cat and it is in our nature to need to know what is happening. Besides, I like to greet and inspect our guests!

As he stood before the door I could see that he was working himself up to turn the latecomer away. As he opened the door the words seemed to die in his throat as we were met by a pitiful sight.

On the doorstep was a man who looked so tired that he lent on his staff, nearly ready to drop. He looked like a well-to-do craftsman, but he was covered with the dirt of many days travel.

But he was not really what caught our attention, for he was not alone. With him, a little way back in the road, was a young girl on a very, very tired donkey. As I looked at the woman I could see that she looked as worn out as the man and was very heavily in kitten.

"Please," the man sounded tired beyond endurance. "I know you are full, but my wife is pregnant and we have come from Nazareth for the Roman Census."

The master looked upset, for all his gruff ways he is a very kindly man.

"I'm sorry, but there really is no room at the inn. -Why not try Zac's place further down on the market street?"

"We did. He sent us to you."

The girl gave a little gasp. "Joseph. -Please. Just take me to the edge of town. I think I must be very near to my time. You’ll have to build me a little tent with your cloak at the side of the road."

"You will do no such thing!" Shouted the master. "I am sure we can find a corner or..." Suddenly he stopped. "What am I thinking of? We have as much room as you could want and more, besides! -Come with me!"

He went outside and if I hadn’t nimbly jumped to one side, he would have kicked me as he hurried round to the side gate which led to the yard.

He pointed to the stable; "When I first started the inn, that was it. Guests and us upstairs, animals downstairs. We built our new place six years ago."

"Its not too bad. -The upper floors are too dangerous for anyone but Cat, here- otherwise you could have gone upstairs and used that. But there’s plenty of room downstairs, so long as you don’t mind sharing with the animals. -Still, the lads collected the sheep a week or two back to take them up to the hills, so there’s more room than there would have been.

"Get your belongings sorted out and whilst you do that, I'll go and get the wife to bring you some blankets and some food. -I thought she was mad when she and some lad she’d hired to help her turned up with so much food from the market this morning. Told me she had a feeling that she should. Maybe she was right?"

The man and the woman looked at each other and a smile passed between them as if they were sharing some secret joke.

As he strode across the yard the master said; "Normally we can't see a thing at night when the moon isn't out, without a lantern, but there’s a big star or something up there, right above us. 

"I suppose King Herrod's wise men will be trying to work out what it means. -Much good it will do them. He's not a patch on his Father, the old king, that one!"

He left the couple in the stables and as he returned to the house I waited and watched the couple as they settled in.

There was something strange about the woman. -Strange but sort of beautiful. It was odd, but she was almost as beautiful as a cat.

Her husband and my mistress helped put her down on a bed of straw my master had hurriedly put together. He apologised for how rough it was, but she said it felt as if she was in a palace. She smiled at him and he went bright red, and coughed.

Not long after that, she gave birth. Now, I have seen my mistress drop a litter of human kittens –well, I say litter, but she only ever has one at a time!- and normally there is a lot of shouting and yelling, but the woman was very quiet and almost peaceful.

But when her kitten was born, he looked at me! I know he did. And he smiled at me. I stared at him and I felt all weak in my legs, like I had never felt before. But it was a good, warm feeling. Like when your mother cuddles you and kicks you all over. That kind of feeling.

They wrapped him up –I expect it was because all human children lose their fur, somehow- and laid him in a little box thing, called a manger. He seemed a lot more quiet than most human kittens, I thought.

All the while, through the night there was that funny bright light in the sky. It did not make much difference to me (I can get by in the day or night with my sharp eyes) but it upset and intrigued the humans.

The man sorted out the Roman Census for him and his wife. Though there was a bit of confusion as the child had been born here in Bethlehem and not where they came from. But that was sorted out.

Soon, everyone had gone back to their homes, everyone except our regular guests, a travelling salesman and our family in the stables. Master and mistress begged them to come in –their names were Joseph and Mary- but they said they were very comfortable where they were and did not wish to move again so soon!

Mistress was worried she would look like a bad landlady, but I told her it would be alright, as I would look after them and keep an eye on them. 

The lads with the sheep came down to see the baby, they even bought a lamb with them. They said it could not have lived outside, but it wasn’t that cold out there. I think the boy with them just wanted to introduce his favourite lamb to the special human kitten!

It was one of these occasions when I was watching over them that I saw three very important looking humans on camels. In case you have never seen a camel they are like horses, but not quite. They were dressed in fine robes and they gave presents to the baby, but the mother and the father seemed anxious.

Then, as quickly as they came, the family went away again. Some important person came looking for them, a messenger from the King, but my humans were only able to say they had gone to Egypt and had not said if they would be back...

***

I am an old cat now, my whiskers are drooping a bit, my fur is going grey, my bones ache sometimes and me and master do not do very much now, but sit by the fire and we both purr, but I still miss that woman and her human kitten, the one they called Jesus.

I wrote this story several years ago as a present for my nieces and nephews. I'm sharing it with you, for this Christmas. 

A Merry Christmas from us both

To all our wonderful readers,

As Christmas Day arrives, we wanted to take a quiet moment to wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas from both of us here at That’s Christmas 365.

What began as a shared love of Christmas – its traditions, its stories, its food, its history, and its heart – has grown into something far bigger than we ever imagined. 

This site exists because of you: your visits, your messages, your shared memories, and your willingness to keep the spirit of Christmas alive all year round.

Whether you are celebrating today surrounded by family and friends, enjoying a peaceful Christmas for two, working through the festivities, or spending the day quietly on your own, please know this: you are not forgotten, and you are part of our Christmas community.

Christmas is not about perfection. It is about kindness, warmth, reflection, and those small, human moments that mean far more than any perfectly wrapped gift. If today is joyful, we hope it is full of laughter and good food. If today is difficult, we hope it brings you moments of comfort and reassurance.

Thank you for walking this Christmas journey with us throughout the year. Thank you for reading, sharing, and supporting what we do. Running That’s Christmas 365 together is a joy, and being able to share it with such a thoughtful and engaged readership is something we never take for granted.

From our home to yours, from our family to yours, we wish you peace, warmth, and a very Merry Christmas.

With heartfelt thanks and festive wishes,

The husband and wife team behind That’s Christmas 365. 

Man Utd players kick off Christmas with festive visit to Francis House Children's Hospice

Manchester United goalkeepers Tom Heaton and Senne Lammens spread some Christmas joy on a visit to Francis House Children’s Hospice.

The Manchester United first-team players visited seriously ill young people and their families at the hospice in Didsbury, handing out an array of United-themed presents, including scarves, hats and calendars.

Heaton and Lammens met with a group of children, their parents and siblings in the home from home surroundings of the family lounge at Francis House and heard how the hospice supports them with respite care and a range of palliative care services.

Bertille Chuipa, mum of Anderson who receives regular respite at Francis House  said: “For the players to find the time to come and see people like Anderson I think that is really important. Having met them today, it’s a nice kick off for the Christmas period.”

Senne enjoyed spending time with fans at Francis House. He said: "We are grateful for what we do and the life we have and it’s really nice to see all the happy faces. It’s nice to give back to them as well because we also have a lot of support from them. It’s been an honour to be here."

The players then moved onto Francis Lodge, the teenage and young adult wing at the hospice, where they were greeted by more than a dozen young people and hospice staff.

Josh, who receives respite care at Francis House, said: “It was a privilege to meet Senne and Tom. I’ve watched Manchester United from being a little boy so it means a lot. It feels like an early Christmas present at this time of year. They gave us a bag with some gifts in and I’m looking forward to opening it!”

After the visit Tom Heaton said: "These visits are a great reminder of how much football can impact people’s lives, and as a player, the responsibility to be a role model and to have an affect on people in a positive way. Francis House does an incredible job supporting these families, so for us, we just came to meet some of the families and try to bring some festive cheer. There's been an incredible atmosphere here and it's been an honour to be a part of."

The visit organised annually by the Manchester United Foundation is enjoyed by Francis House families in addition to children receiving treatment at nearby Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital and The Christie Palatine Treatment Centre.

Sharon Doodson, director of care at Francis House, thanked the Club for the visit. She said: “It’s always such a joy when United come to visit. Seeing our children, young people and families light up with smiles and laughter, sharing their love of football with people they admire, is truly magical. Moments like these fill the hospice with warmth and leave memories that stay with them long after the day has ended.”

Francis House supports over 435 families from across Greater Manchester. The hospice services are all given completely free of charge and include respite care, homecare, sibling support, end of life care, emotional and bereavement support.

The hospice needs to raise £15,900 a day in donations to continue to provide long-term support to the children, young people and their families.

For more information on Francis House or to give a donation visit www.francishouse.org.uk

Why Advantage and Loyalty Cards Are Brilliant at Christmas

Christmas has a habit of creeping up on both our diaries and our bank balances. Between gifts, food, decorations, travel, and those all-important festive treats, the costs add up quickly.

That’s where Advantage cards and loyalty cards quietly come into their own, and why they deserve a place in every Christmas planner.

One of the most familiar examples in the UK is the Boots Advantage Card, but the festive benefits apply to loyalty schemes right across the high street.

Turning Everyday Shopping into Christmas Savings

The real magic of an Advantage card is that it rewards spending you’re already doing.

Toiletries, skincare, vitamins, cold remedies, baby essentials, these are year-round necessities. 

By using an Advantage card throughout the year, you’re effectively building a Christmas fund without even noticing.

Come December, those points can:

Knock money off gifts

Cover stocking fillers

Pay for festive self-care treats

It’s one of the easiest ways to soften the financial impact of Christmas.

Christmas Is Peak Points Season

Retailers know Christmas is busy, and Advantage card holders are often rewarded accordingly. In the run-up to Christmas, it’s common to see:

Extra points on gift ranges

Bonus points when you spend over a certain amount

Seasonal points boosters

Targeted festive offers

This is when points really snowball, especially if you’re buying gifts anyway.

Ideal for Stocking Fillers and Small Gifts

Advantage cards are particularly powerful when it comes to:

Beauty gifts

Mini gift sets

Toiletries for hampers

Teacher, neighbour, and colleague presents

By redeeming points, you can pick up thoughtful gifts without dipping further into the Christmas budget — and without it feeling like you’re cutting corners.

A Quiet Way to Budget Without Feeling Mean

Not everyone enjoys strict Christmas budgeting. Advantage points offer a gentler alternative.

Because the money is already “spent” earlier in the year, using points in December doesn’t feel like sacrificing anything. It feels like a bonus — or even a little Christmas gift to yourself.

That psychological lift matters, especially during an already expensive and emotionally charged season.

Perfect for Last-Minute Christmas Emergencies

We’ve all been there:

A forgotten gift

An unexpected visitor

A stocking that suddenly looks empty

Having Advantage points ready to go can save the day. Whether it’s a quick beauty gift, festive treats, or practical essentials, points give you flexibility when Christmas throws a curveball.

Digital Cards Make Festive Shopping Easier

With most Advantage cards now stored in apps, there’s no rummaging through wallets at busy tills. Your offers, points balance, and festive promotions are all there on your phone — ideal when shops are crowded and queues are long.

It’s one less thing to think about during an already hectic time of year.

A Small Christmas Habit with Big Rewards

Using an Advantage card is one of those quiet Christmas wins:

No cost to join

No obligation to spend more

No downside

It simply rewards loyalty and planning — two things that make Christmas calmer, kinder, and a little more affordable.

If you’re shopping regularly and not collecting points towards Christmas, you’re making the festive season harder than it needs to be.

And at That’s Christmas 365, we’re always in favour of Christmas magic that doesn’t break the bank. And if you are over 65, there are even more perks and more points! 

If Your Christmas Food Delivery Doesn't Arrive... Don't Panic!

Sometimes things go awry, despite the best planning 

We’ve all seen it – or heard it. Christmas Eve, packed shop, frazzled nerves… and suddenly someone realises their carefully planned Christmas food delivery hasn’t arrived. Panic sets in. Voices rise. Festive goodwill wobbles.

If that happens to you, here’s what to do next – calmly, practically, and without letting Christmas be ruined.

First things first: pause and breathe

It’s easy to feel that Christmas has been “cancelled”, but it hasn’t. Food delivery problems are stressful, yes – but they are fixable. Take a moment, breathe, and switch from panic mode to problem-solving mode.

Check the basics (before assuming the worst)

Before heading into meltdown territory, quickly check:

Delivery confirmation emails or texts – wrong date, missed slot, or a reschedule?

Neighbours – many deliveries are left with someone nearby.

Safe places – sheds, porches, garages and bins (yes, really).

You’d be surprised how often the food has arrived… just not where expected.

Contact the retailer – calmly but firmly

Customer services will be overwhelmed on Christmas Eve, but it’s still worth contacting them.

Ask specifically:

Has the order been marked as delivered?

Is there a partial delivery?

Can a refund or emergency credit be issued immediately?

Even if nothing else, you’ll usually get your money back – and that gives you options.

Switch plans: Christmas is flexible

This is the most important mindset shift. Christmas dinner does not have to look like the advert.

If the big shop hasn’t arrived:

Buy what’s available, not what was planned

Scale down – fewer courses, simpler dishes

Swap the “centre-piece roast” for something quicker

A roast chicken, gammon joint, sausages, salmon, cheese boards or party food can all save the day.

Use what’s already in your kitchen

Before heading back out into the crowds, check what you already have:

Freezer staples

Tins and jars

Pasta, rice, potatoes

Frozen veg

Cheese, crackers, chutneys

A “make-do” Christmas made with what you have often becomes the one people remember most fondly.

Shop smarter, not harder

If you do need to shop:

Try smaller local shops, petrol stations, or corner stores

Avoid chasing “perfect” – aim for “good enough”

Look for ready-to-eat or minimal-prep options

Christmas Eve is not the day for culinary ambition.

Let go of the guilt

This is crucial.

A missed delivery is not your fault.

Your Christmas is not ruined.

Your value as a host, partner, or parent is not measured by roast potatoes.

What people remember is warmth, kindness, laughter – not whether the pigs in blankets were artisanal.

Turn it into a story, not a disaster

Years from now, no one will recall the delivery slot number – but they will remember:

“That year everything went wrong…”

“…and we ended up eating whatever we could find”

“…and it was actually brilliant.”

Those are the stories that last.

One final thought

If Christmas food doesn’t arrive, Christmas itself hasn’t gone anywhere.

Lower the bar. Keep the people. Put the kettle on.

Everything else is just trimmings.

Why Sprouts Are the Underrated Heroes of the Christmas Feast

And how to choose and cook them to true brassica perfection!

Few Christmas foods divide opinion quite like the humble sprout. Mention them at the dinner table and you’ll often hear groans, jokes, or exaggerated childhood trauma stories. 

Yet sprouts are not the villain of the Christmas feast — they are, in fact, its most underrated heroes.

Cooked properly, sprouts bring freshness, balance, texture, and a welcome bitterness that cuts through rich roast meats, stuffing, gravy, and all the trimmings. When mistreated, they become sulphurous, soggy, and unfairly blamed. The problem has never been the sprout. The problem has always been how we treat it.

At That’s Christmas 365, we believe it’s time to give sprouts the respect they deserve.

Why Sprouts Belong on the Christmas Table

Sprouts are part of the brassica family, alongside cabbage, broccoli, and kale, vegetables that thrive in cold weather and are at their very best in winter. Christmas is their season.

They earn their place on the plate because they:

Balance rich and fatty foods

Add colour and texture to the meal

Work beautifully with festive flavours like bacon, chestnuts, garlic, butter, and nutmeg

Are packed with fibre and nutrients (a quiet win during a heavy meal)

A Christmas dinner without sprouts is like a tree without lights — technically fine, but missing something traditional and grounding.

How to Choose the Best Sprouts

Perfect sprouts start at the shop, market, or greengrocer.

What to Look For

Firm and tight: The leaves should be compact, not loose or floppy

Bright green: Avoid yellowing or brown edges

Small to medium size: These are sweeter and cook more evenly

Heavy for their size: A sign of freshness

If you can find sprouts still on the stalk, grab them. They stay fresher for longer and look wonderfully festive in the kitchen.

What to Avoid

Strong cabbage smells (a warning sign)

Soft or spongy sprouts

Black spots or excessive leaf damage

Preparing Sprouts Properly (This Matters)

Before cooking, take a few simple steps that make all the difference:

Trim the very base of the stalk

Remove any damaged outer leaves

Rinse briefly in cold water

For larger sprouts, cut a shallow cross in the base or halve them for even cooking

This helps heat penetrate quickly and evenly — which is key to avoiding bitterness.

How to Cook Sprouts to Brassica Perfection

1. Boiling (Yes, But Briefly)

Boiling isn’t the enemy — overboiling is.

Use well-salted water

Cook for 4–6 minutes max

Drain immediately

Steam-dry for a moment before serving or finishing in butter

They should be tender with a slight bite, not army-green and collapsing.

2. Steaming (Clean and Reliable)

Steaming keeps flavour and colour intact.

Steam for 6–8 minutes

Finish with butter, seasoning, and perhaps a pinch of nutmeg or black pepper

Perfect if you want sprouts to taste like sprouts — but at their best.

3. Roasting (The Crowd-Pleaser)

If you’re converting sceptics, this is the method.

Halve sprouts

Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper

Roast at 200°C (fan) for 25–30 minutes

Add bacon lardons, garlic, or chestnuts halfway through

Roasting brings sweetness, crisp edges, and deep flavour.

4. Pan-Frying or Sautéing (Luxurious and Festive)

Ideal for Boxing Day or smaller Christmas dinners.

Parboil sprouts briefly first

Fry in butter with shallots, pancetta, or nuts

Finish with lemon zest or a splash of stock

This method gives sprouts a rich, glossy finish that feels properly celebratory.

Classic Christmas Pairings That Always Work

Sprouts with bacon and chestnuts

Sprouts with butter and nutmeg

Sprouts with garlic and Parmesan

Sprouts with honey and mustard glaze

These combinations don’t hide the sprout — they elevate it.

The Final Word: Respect the Sprout

Sprouts don’t deserve their bad reputation. They deserve timing, care, and a little love. When treated properly, they’re not just an acceptable side dish they’re essential to the balance and tradition of the Christmas feast.

So this Christmas, don’t apologise for serving sprouts. Cook them well, serve them proudly, and let them shine as the underrated heroes they truly are.

Because Christmas dinner wouldn’t be Christmas without them.

Watch Seymour Hicks’ A Christmas Carol (1935): A Theatrical Scrooge for a New Era

Explore Seymour Hicks’ 1935 A Christmas Carol, a theatrical and historically rich film adaptation that captures a lifetime of Scrooge performances and early British sound cinema.

At That’s Christmas 365, we love revisiting the many screen versions of A Christmas Carol, especially those that sit slightly outside the usual festive spotlight. 

One such adaptation is the 1935 British film starring Seymour Hicks, a version that beautifully bridges the gap between Victorian stage tradition and modern cinema.

While later adaptations — particularly those from the 1950s onwards — are more widely known today, Seymour Hicks’ 1935 A Christmas Carol deserves recognition as the culmination of a lifetime spent portraying Ebenezer Scrooge.

Seymour Hicks: A Scrooge for the Ages

By 1935, Seymour Hicks was already legendary. Actor, playwright, producer, and theatre manager, Hicks had been performing A Christmas Carol on stage since the late 19th century, playing Scrooge hundreds — possibly thousands — of times.

This was not a role he stepped into for a single film; it was one he had lived with for decades. By the time cameras rolled on the 1935 adaptation, Hicks’ Scrooge was fully formed, deeply considered, and instinctive.

The 1935 Film: Sound, Cinema, and Stage Combined

Unlike his earlier silent-film version, the 1935 A Christmas Carol fully embraces the possibilities of sound cinema, allowing Hicks to combine his expressive physical performance with vocal delivery.

This Scrooge is:

Sharp-tongued and intimidating in the opening scenes

Commanding and theatrical, rooted firmly in stage tradition

Gradually softened through fear, reflection, and moral reckoning

Hicks’ performance is unmistakably theatrical, but that is very much part of its charm. Rather than aiming for realism, the film leans into Dickensian storytelling, heightened, moral, and emotionally clear.

A Film Steeped in Tradition

What makes the 1935 version especially interesting is how faithful it feels to Victorian and Edwardian interpretations of Dickens. This is not yet the restrained, psychologically complex Scrooge popularised later; instead, it reflects how audiences had understood the character for generations.

The ghosts are overtly symbolic, the moral lessons clearly stated, and Christmas itself is presented as a transformative force, not merely a seasonal backdrop.

For viewers interested in Christmas history, this makes the film an invaluable cultural artefact.

Overshadowed, But Not Forgotten

The 1935 A Christmas Carol is often overshadowed by the hugely influential A Christmas Carol, released just over a decade later. That later version redefined Scrooge for post-war audiences and remains a festive staple.

However, Seymour Hicks’ film represents the end of an era, the last great screen Scrooge rooted in Victorian stage performance and 19th-century moral storytelling.

Without it, the evolution of A Christmas Carol on screen would be incomplete.

Why It Still Matters at Christmas

At That’s Christmas 365, we believe Christmas is as much about remembering as it is about celebrating. The 1935 Seymour Hicks version reminds us that:

A Christmas Carol has always evolved with its audience

Christmas storytelling reflects its time and culture

Every familiar tradition once had a beginning

Watching this version today offers a rare chance to see how earlier generations experienced Dickens’ most famous Christmas tale.

That’s Christmas 365 Final Thoughts

Seymour Hicks’ 1935 A Christmas Carol is not just another adaptation, it is the final screen statement of a man who dedicated much of his life to bringing Scrooge to the public.

It may not be the most famous, nor the most frequently broadcast, but it holds a special place in Christmas film history. For those willing to step back into an earlier style of storytelling, it remains a richly rewarding and deeply festive watch.

Sometimes, the heart of Christmas is best found in the versions that time almost forgot.

Reset Your Pantry in With New Launches from Seggiano

If you thought gluten free meant dull and boring, or you were bewildered about what Veganuary might hold for you besides some weird looking vegetable things in the super market; you should rethink your entire approach because the chefs at Seggiano have been working hard to bring some new and very exciting products to their already impressive range. 

NEW! Corn & Rice Spaghetti: New to the Seggiano Gluten Free Pasta Range 

Crafted in the artisan tradition, this organic gluten free spaghetti is made from a carefully balanced blend of corn and rice flour. Bronze drawn and slow dried at low temperatures, the process preserves flavour and delivers a satisfying bite that challenges expectations of gluten free pasta. 

The subtle sweetness of rice complements the robust structure of corn, creating a well-balanced texture that holds sauces beautifully. Certified gluten free and plant-based, it is a versatile cupboard staple that works just as well with a classic tomato and basil sauce as it does with a simple drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. 

A reminder that gluten free pasta does not have to compromise on flavour, texture or pleasure. 

Size: 250g 

Price: £5.10 

NEW! Corn & Rice Spaghetti: Corn & Rice Tagliatelle  

This organic gluten free tagliatelle is crafted from a simple blend of corn and rice flour, made using traditional pasta-making methods. Bronze drawn and slow dried at the better, low temperatures, the process delivers a firm, well-defined ribbon with a clean, balanced flavour. 

The gentle sweetness of rice softens the robust structure of corn, creating a satisfying texture that holds richer sauces with ease. Certified gluten free and plant-based, this tagliatelle is ideal for everything from a silky olive oil finish to slow-cooked ragùs. 

Proof that gluten free pasta can be every bit as indulgent, structured and versatile as the classic. 

Size: 250g 

Price: £5.10 

NEW! Chickpea & Rice Tagliatelle: New to the Seggiano Gluten Free Pasta Range 

This organic gluten free ribbon pasta is crafted from a blend of chickpea and rice flour, offering a naturally warm, gently nutty flavour profile. Made using traditional methods, it is bronze drawn and again is slow dried at low temperatures to preserve both texture and taste. 

Chickpeas bring depth, plant-based protein and fibre, while rice adds balance and subtle sweetness. The result is a firm, satisfying pasta that holds its shape and pairs effortlessly with everything from light olive oil dressings to richer, layered sauces. 

A distinctive, artisan alternative that proves gluten free pasta can be flavour-led, nourishing and deeply satisfying. 

Size: 250g 

Price: £5.10 

NEW! Amaranth, Teff & Quinoa Conchiglie: New to the Seggiano Gluten Free Pasta Range 

This organic gluten free shell pasta is crafted from a considered blend of ancient grains, amaranth, teff and quinoa, bringing depth and character to a classic shape. Made using traditional methods, it is bronze drawn and slow dried at low temperatures to protect flavour and achieve a satisfying bite. 

The naturally earthy, gently nutty qualities of these grains create a pasta with real complexity. The shell shape is designed to cradle sauces, making it equally suited to simple olive oil dressings or more generous, layered recipes. 

A flavour-led gluten free pasta that celebrates ancient grains, craftsmanship and versatility. 

Size: 250g 

Price: £5.10 

NEW! Corn & Rice Maccheroni: New to the Seggiano Gluten Free Pasta Range 

This organic gluten free maccheroni is crafted from a balanced blend of corn and rice flour, made using time-honoured artisan techniques. Bronze drawn and slow dried at low temperatures, the process protects flavour while delivering a firm, reliable bite. 

The subtle sweetness of rice works in harmony with the robust structure of corn, resulting in a pasta that holds its shape and performs exceptionally well with sauce. Its traditional tubular form is designed for heartier, fuller-bodied recipes. 

A dependable gluten free staple that brings structure, flavour and versatility to everyday cooking. 

Size: 375g 

Price: £5.10 

NEW! Pistachio Pesto 

This pistachio pesto is bold, indulgent and unapologetically rich, made with over 50% pistachios for a luxuriously creamy texture. Blended with extra virgin olive oil, chilli and salt, it delivers buttery sweetness up front, followed by a gentle, warming heat. 

It is the kind of condiment that instantly transforms a dish. Toss it through hot pasta and it melts into the strands, spoon it over roasted vegetables for depth, or spread it thickly onto crostini for an effortless yet impressive bite. A small amount goes a long way. 

Naturally gluten free and vegan, this is a pesto designed to bring flavour, confidence and a little drama to everyday cooking. 

Size: 190g 

Price: £9.75 

NEW! Tomato & Almond Trapanese Pesto 

This vibrant Sicilian pesto captures the sun-soaked flavours of western Sicily, inspired by the coastal town of Trapani where ripe tomatoes and almonds are celebrated ingredients. Fresh, savoury and gently warming, it offers a regional twist on the classic green pesto. 

Made with sun-ripened tomato pulp and paste, Sicilian almonds, basil, garlic and oregano, the flavour is bright and rounded, with a subtle hint of chilli adding depth. Crafted by the same artisan producer behind our Wild Fennel & Tomato Pesto, it delivers freshness and character in every spoonful. 

Stir it through pasta for an instant taste of southern Italy, spoon it over grilled vegetables, or use it to lift simple dishes with colour and confidence. Made without fillers or preservatives, just real ingredients and unmistakable Sicilian flair. 

Size: 190g 

Price: £5.85 

Images:  Pestos & Sauces new for 2026 

NEW! Artichoke & Garlic Sauce 

This velvety artichoke and garlic blend is crafted in the hills of Piemonte by a small-scale producer working the traditional way. Made using freshly harvested artichokes rather than preserved ones, it delivers a clean, rounded flavour and a naturally creamy texture. 

Blended simply with olive oil, garlic and a touch of sea salt, the result is elegant yet comforting, with the gentle sweetness of artichoke balanced by savoury depth. It is equally at home stirred through warm pasta, spooned onto bruschetta or served cold as part of an antipasti spread. 

Naturally vegan and gluten free, with no fillers, preservatives or artificial flavourings, this is a quietly luxurious pantry staple that celebrates regional craft and honest ingredients. 

Size: 190g 

Price: £6.15 

https://seggiano.com

 

Let That's Christmas 365 Take You Through The Final Christmas Countdown

As Christmas 2025 hurtles towards us, the pressure can feel very real. 

Lists get longer, time feels shorter, and suddenly everything seems essential. But here’s the truth: not everything actually is.

If you’re in the final countdown, this is your moment to focus on what truly matters, deal with what’s still outstanding, and let go of the rest without guilt.

What You Still Need to Do (The Real Essentials)

These are the things that genuinely make Christmas work rather than just look perfect.

1. Food Basics

You don’t need a gourmet spread, but you do need:

A main meal plan (even if it’s simple)

Key ingredients bought or ordered

A rough idea of timings on the day

Shortcut wins:

Frozen veg is absolutely fine

Shop-bought desserts are still Christmas desserts

A smaller menu beats an over-ambitious one every time

2. Gifts That Are Already Covered

If gifts aren’t all wrapped or lavish, that’s OK. What matters is:

Everyone has something thoughtful

Digital gift cards and IOUs are valid and practical

Experiences beat objects when time runs out

Remember: late wrapping is not a moral failure.

3. A Tidy, Not Perfect, Home

You are not hosting a photoshoot.

Clear floors and surfaces

Clean loo and sink

Enough seating and crockery

That’s it. Nobody cares if a cupboard is chaos behind a closed door.

What Can Wait (Or Be Skipped Entirely)

This is where the pressure can ease.

1. Over-the-Top Decorations

If the tree is up and the lights work, you’ve done Christmas.

You don’t need themed rooms

You don’t need matching colour schemes

You definitely don’t need to replace decorations “just because”

2. Homemade Everything

Homemade is lovely.

Store-bought is still festive.

If baking, crafting, or DIY decorating is stressing you out:

Drop it

Nobody will miss it

Your sanity matters more

3. Trying to Please Everyone

You are allowed to:

Say no to visits

Keep plans small

Change arrangements if health, energy, or money demands it

Christmas is not a performance review.

If Push Comes to Shove: What Actually Matters

When everything is stripped back, Christmas comes down to:

Being fed

Being safe

Feeling connected (even quietly or briefly)

Getting through the day without burning yourself out

Everything else is optional.

A quieter Christmas, a simpler table, fewer presents, less rushing — none of these mean you’ve failed. In many homes, they’re the reason Christmas actually feels better.

A Gentle Final Thought

You don’t need to do everything for Christmas to arrive.

It will come whether the wrapping paper matches, the gravy is homemade, or the decorations are Instagram-ready.

Do what you reasonably can.

Let the rest go.

Christmas doesn’t need perfection... it just needs people. 

Why Maple Syrup Works So Well at Christmas

Maple syrup pairs beautifully with traditional Christmas flavours such as cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, orange, cranberry, and vanilla. 

Unlike white sugar, it brings complexity rather than just sweetness, making it especially suited to darker spirits like bourbon, rum, and brandy.

It also dissolves easily in cold drinks, which makes it far more cocktail-friendly than granulated sugar during the festive rush.

Maple Old Fashioned (A Christmas Classic)

A seasonal twist on a timeless favourite.

You’ll need:

50ml bourbon or rye whisky

1 tsp pure maple syrup

2 dashes Angostura bitters

Orange peel and cinnamon stick (to garnish)

How to make it:

Stir the bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters with ice until well chilled. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Express the orange peel over the glass and drop it in. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for a festive aroma.

Why it works at Christmas:

Rich, warming, and quietly luxurious, perfect after a big festive meal.

Maple Spiced Rum Punch

Ideal for parties and easy to scale up.

You’ll need (per glass):

40ml dark spiced rum

15ml maple syrup

60ml cloudy apple juice

A squeeze of fresh lime

Grated nutmeg (to finish)

How to make it:

Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a glass filled with fresh ice. Dust lightly with nutmeg.

Festive tip:

Serve in a heat-resistant glass and gently warm it for a winter punch version.

Cranberry Maple Gin Fizz

Bright, festive, and not too sweet.

You’ll need:

40ml gin

20ml cranberry juice

10–15ml maple syrup

Soda water

Fresh cranberries and rosemary (to garnish)

How to make it:

Shake the gin, cranberry juice, and maple syrup with ice. Strain into a tall glass and top with soda. Garnish with cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for a Christmas look.

Why it’s great for Christmas:

The sharp cranberry balances the maple perfectly, making this ideal as a pre-dinner drink.

Maple Espresso Martini (Festive After-Dinner Treat)

A cosy Christmas dessert in a glass.

You’ll need:

40ml vodka

20ml freshly brewed espresso (cooled)

15ml coffee liqueur

10ml maple syrup

How to make it:

Shake everything hard with ice until frothy. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with coffee beans or a light dusting of cocoa.

Christmas pairing:

Perfect with mince pies, chocolate truffles, or a slice of Christmas cake.

Hot Maple Buttered Bourbon

For cold nights and quiet evenings.

You’ll need:

40ml bourbon

1 tsp maple syrup

Small knob of butter

Hot water

Pinch of cinnamon or mixed spice

How to make it:

Add bourbon, maple syrup, butter, and spice to a mug. Top with hot water and stir gently until melted.

Why you’ll love it:

Comforting, soothing, and wonderfully indulgent—this is Christmas in a mug.

Choosing the Right Maple Syrup

For cocktails, always use pure maple syrup, not pancake syrup. Grade A amber or dark maple syrup works best, as it has enough flavour to stand up to spirits and spices.

A small bottle goes a long way and makes a thoughtful Christmas pantry staple too.

A Final Festive Stir

Maple syrup brings warmth, richness, and a gentle sweetness that feels tailor-made for Christmas cocktails. Whether you’re hosting friends, planning a festive date night, or simply enjoying a quiet drink after a long December day, these maple-based cocktails add something a little special to the season.

Pour carefully, sip slowly, and enjoy the glow of Christmas—one maple-sweetened cocktail at a time.

That's Christmas 365 would like to thank Maple From Canada for their incredible support in creating this feature. https://www.maplefromcanada.co.uk

The Three Wise Men of the Nativity: Who Were They and Where Did They Come From?

At That’s Christmas 365, we love exploring the stories and traditions that sit just beneath the surface of Christmas. 

Few figures are as fascinating, or as widely misunderstood, as the Three Wise Men, also known as the Magi.

They appear briefly in the Nativity story, yet their journey has echoed through art, music, and Christmas tradition for nearly two thousand years. 

So who were they, where did they come from, and why do they still matter to Christmas today?

What the Bible Tells Us (and What It Doesn’t)

The Wise Men appear only in the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 2:1–12). The text tells us that Magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, seeking a newborn king after observing a remarkable star.

What may surprise many people is this:

The Bible never says there were three Wise Men

They are never described as kings

Their names are not mentioned

The tradition of “three” comes entirely from the fact that three gifts were presented.

Who Were the Magi?

The word Magi refers to a respected class of learned men in the ancient world. They were often associated with:

Astronomy and the study of the stars

Interpreting dreams and signs

Religious and philosophical scholarship

These were not entertainers or magicians in the modern sense, but serious thinkers, advisers whose insights were sought by rulers and courts.

Historically, Magi are most commonly linked with Persia, though some scholars suggest origins in Babylon or neighbouring regions.

Where Did They Come From?

Matthew simply says they came “from the east”, which in the ancient world could mean hundreds or even thousands of miles away.

Likely regions include:

Persia (modern-day Iran)

Babylon (modern Iraq)

Parts of the Arabian Peninsula

What is beyond doubt is that their journey would have taken weeks or months, guided by what became known as the Star of Bethlehem, until they reached Bethlehem.

This long journey speaks volumes about their determination and belief that the sign they saw truly mattered.

Why Are They Called Kings?

The idea of the Wise Men as kings developed later in Christian tradition, influenced by Old Testament passages such as Psalm 72 and Isaiah 60, which speak of kings bringing gifts and honour to God’s chosen one.

By medieval times, the Magi were firmly portrayed as crowned monarchs, reinforcing a powerful Christmas message: that Christ was recognised not only by shepherds and ordinary people, but by figures of wealth, learning, and authority from far beyond Judea.

The Meaning Behind the Gifts

The gifts of the Wise Men are among the most symbol-rich elements of the Nativity:

Gold – symbolising kingship and royalty

Frankincense – used in worship, representing divinity

Myrrh – associated with burial, hinting at suffering and sacrifice

Together, they reflect the Christian belief in who Jesus was — and what his life would mean.

Why the Wise Men Still Matter at Christmas

At That’s Christmas 365, we see the Wise Men as a reminder that Christmas is not just a cosy, local story. It is a global one.

They represent:

Faith that crosses borders

Curiosity and courage to follow the unknown

Recognition that Christmas is for everyone, everywhere

Their presence in the Nativity reminds us that Christmas reaches far beyond Bethlehem — and far beyond one day in December.

A Christmas Reflection

Whether you imagine the Wise Men as richly robed kings or thoughtful scholars beneath a winter sky, their story is one of patience, belief, and hope. They followed a sign they did not fully understand, trusting it would lead them somewhere extraordinary.

That spirit, of seeking light in the darkness, sits at the very heart of Christmas.

How to Cut Your Christmas Food Bill This Year (Without Cutting the Joy)

Christmas doesn’t have to come with a credit-card hangover. With a little planning, a few smart swaps, and a willingness to ignore the pressure to “overbuy just in case”, you can enjoy a generous, traditional Christmas while keeping your food bill firmly under control.

Here’s how to do it — calmly, practically, and without feeling deprived.

1. Plan First, Shop Second

Impulse buying is the single biggest reason Christmas food bills spiral. Before you step foot in a supermarket (or open a shopping app):

Write a realistic menu for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and the days immediately after

Count exactly how many people you’re feeding — not how many you might feed

Decide which meals actually need to be special and which can be simple

Christmas doesn’t require luxury ingredients for every single meal. Save the splurge for where it truly matters.

2. Be Honest About How Much You Actually Eat

Most households massively overestimate Christmas consumption.

Ask yourself:

How much of last year’s cheese board went untouched?

Did anyone really want pudding after a full roast?

How much party food ended up forgotten in the fridge?

Buying slightly less is not being mean — it’s being realistic.

3. Don’t Fear Frozen (It’s Your Secret Weapon)

Frozen food has an unfair reputation at Christmas, but it’s one of the best ways to save money.

Frozen veg is often cheaper, just as nutritious, and never wasted

Frozen desserts can be portioned exactly

Bread, rolls, and pastry freeze beautifully and defrost quickly

Freezer space is worth more than gold in December — use it wisely.

4. Shop Little and Often Instead of One Big Panic Shop

A single massive Christmas shop encourages excess “just in case” purchases.

Instead:

Do one early essentials shop (tins, flour, sugar, long-life items)

Add fresh items closer to Christmas

Keep receipts and review what you’re actually using

This spreads the cost and reduces waste.

5. Supermarket Own Brands Are Your Friend

At Christmas especially, supermarket own-brand ranges often match branded products in quality — sometimes surpassing them.

Items where own brand makes little difference:

Flour, sugar, rice, pasta

Tinned tomatoes, beans, pulses

Stock cubes, sauces, condiments

Mince pies and biscuits (many are made by the same bakeries)

Reserve premium brands for the things you genuinely taste and appreciate.

6. Be Strategic With Meat

Meat is usually the most expensive part of Christmas dinner — but it doesn’t have to be.

Choose joints that stretch (turkey crowns, rolled pork, gammon)

Ask your butcher about smaller joints or half portions

Remember leftovers are only useful if you actually enjoy eating them

A perfectly cooked smaller joint beats a huge, dried-out one every time.

7. Reduce the “Nibble Creep”

It’s not the main meals that quietly drain your budget — it’s the constant grazing.

Instead of endless tubs of snacks:

Choose one savoury nibble and one sweet treat

Plate snacks rather than leaving bags open

Replace some nibbles with popcorn, nuts, or homemade dips

Less out means less eaten — and less wasted.

8. Batch Cook Once, Relax Later

Pre-Christmas batch cooking saves money and stress.

Make soups, stews, or curries for the days after Christmas

Use cheaper cuts of meat or plant-based proteins

Freeze portions so you’re not tempted by takeaway menus

Future-you will be very grateful.

9. Alcohol Is an Easy Place to Save

Festive drinks add up frighteningly fast.

Ways to cut back without feeling deprived:

Pick one “special” bottle and keep the rest simple

Add soft-drink mixers to stretch wine and spirits

Remember not everyone drinks, don’t buy for 'imaginary' guests

A smaller selection, enjoyed properly, costs far less than overflowing cupboards.

10. Accept That “Enough” Is Enough

Christmas marketing is designed to make you feel like you’re never doing quite enough.

But:

Enough food is enough

Enough choice is enough

Enough generosity is enough

A warm, relaxed Christmas table matters far more than excess.

Cutting your Christmas food bill isn’t about penny-pinching or denying yourself joy. It’s about spending intentionally, wasting less, and putting your money where it actually enhances your Christmas, whether that’s one lovely meal, a bottle you’ll truly enjoy, or simply the peace of mind that January won’t start with regret.

A calmer Christmas starts in the kitchen — and often, in the shopping list.

Lidl Offers Best Deals on Christmas Vegetables

With other retailers on the market offering this with loyalty scheme prices, it makes Lidl’s one of the most lucrative options for all shoppers this festive season.

To offer the best value, Lidl works on long-term agreements with producers and growers, ensuring that promotional prices do not affect the price paid to the farmer.

The full range will be available in stores nationwide from today (18th December 2025) until 24th December 2025, whilst stocks last.

Our Christmas Tradition: A Christmas Carol (1951), Mince Pies and a Bottle of Port

At That’s Christmas 365, everything we do is rooted in genuine love for Christmas, not just the lights, the food, or the shopping, but the traditions that quietly anchor the season and give it meaning.

 And for us, the driving forces behind the site, there is one tradition that has never wavered.

Every single Christmas season, without fail, we sit down together to watch the 1951 film version of A Christmas Carol, accompanied by mince pies and a bottle of port wine.

It is non-negotiable. Christmas simply doesn’t feel complete without it.

Why the 1951 Version Matters

There are many adaptations of Dickens’ timeless story, but for us, A Christmas Carol stands head and shoulders above the rest.

Alastair Sim’s portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge is, in our view, definitive. He captures every layer of the character — the bitterness, the pain, the sharp wit, and ultimately the profound humanity that emerges by the film’s end. This is not a pantomime villain or a cartoon miser. This Scrooge feels real.

There is something deeply comforting about the film’s pace, its shadowed Victorian streets, and its quiet moral certainty. It doesn’t rush. It doesn’t shout. It allows the story to breathe, and to sink in.

Each year, no matter how many times we’ve seen it, we still find new details to notice, new lines that resonate, and new moments that land just that little bit harder.

Mince Pies: A Christmas Essential

No screening would be complete without mince pies.

Freshly opened, dusted with icing sugar, still carrying that unmistakable Christmas aroma, fruit, spice, and nostalgia. They are not just a snack; they are part of the ritual. The moment the pies come out, Christmas feels official.

They sit beside us as Scrooge is visited by Marley’s ghost, disappear during the Ghost of Christmas Present, and are long gone by the time Tiny Tim speaks his famous words.

And the Bottle of Port

Alongside the mince pies is a bottle of port wine, rich, warming, and quietly festive.

Port feels like a Christmas drink that belongs to another era, which somehow makes it perfect for a Victorian story. It slows the evening down. It encourages conversation, reflection, and that gentle sense of indulgence that Christmas does so well.

A small glass poured, the lights low, the film beginning — it’s not about excess. It’s about atmosphere.

A Moment of Stillness in a Busy Season

Christmas can be loud. Busy. Overwhelming.

This tradition gives us a pause — a moment to sit together, switch off from the outside world, and reconnect with why Christmas matters to us in the first place. Kindness. Reflection. Change. Hope.

Those themes are at the very heart of A Christmas Carol, and they align perfectly with what we try to promote through That’s Christmas 365 all year round.

Why We Share This With You

That’s Christmas 365 isn’t just a website, it’s a reflection of how we live Christmas ourselves. The traditions we write about are the ones we genuinely treasure, and this is one of the most important.

If you’ve never watched the 1951 version, we wholeheartedly recommend making it part of your own festive season. Pour yourself something warming, grab a mince pie (or two), and give it your full attention. Sometimes we even add an artisan pork pie or a nice chunk of Stilton cheese to the menu!

You might just find, like we have, that it becomes a tradition you return to every single year.

Because sometimes, Christmas isn’t about doing more, it’s about doing the same beautiful thing, again and again.

And here, for your viewing pleasure, is the 1951 version of A Christmas Carol. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do.