Harvey the Elf Returns: The Plot Thickens on the Shelf

Harvey the Elf on the Shelf is back, bringing festive mischief, quiet judgement and a reminder of Christmas magic as December antics escalate.

Just when we thought things might calm down, Harvey – our resident Elf on the Shelf – has reminded us all that Christmas mischief is a marathon, not a sprint.

If you’ve been following Harvey’s antics so far, you’ll know he’s already established himself as a keen observer of household routines, a questionable interior decorator, and someone with a slightly worrying interest in cupboards, snacks, and anything left unattended overnight. 

This week, however, Harvey seems to have entered what can only be described as his creative phase.

Escalation, Elf-Style

Gone are the gentle “oh look, he’s moved again” moments. Harvey has clearly decided that subtlety is overrated.

One morning he was discovered perched far higher than any elf has a right to be, gazing down like a festive gargoyle.

 On another, he appeared to have attempted some sort of administrative role, leaving notes that strongly implied he was “reporting back to the North Pole”. No explanation was offered. None was needed. The implication alone was enough.

There is, of course, something uniquely unsettling about being silently judged by a felt figure before you’ve had your first cup of tea.

The Elf Who Watches

What makes Harvey particularly effective is not just what he does, but what he might do next. Every evening now ends with a cautious glance around the room.

Is he watching? Is he planning? Has he learned too much?

This is, arguably, the true genius of the Elf on the Shelf tradition. It isn’t about elaborate set-ups or Pinterest-perfect scenes. It’s about anticipation, imagination, and that delicious moment of discovery first thing in the morning.

Harvey doesn’t need to cause chaos. He merely needs to exist in a slightly different place each day and let the human brain do the rest.

A Gentle Reminder of Christmas Magic

In the middle of all the planning, shopping, cooking, and general December exhaustion, Harvey’s reappearances have provided something genuinely valuable: a pause.

A laugh.

A shared moment.

A reminder that Christmas is allowed to be a bit daft.

That’s easy to forget when the to-do lists are long and the calendar feels unforgiving. An elf turning up somewhere unexpected can be surprisingly effective at cutting through the noise.

What’s Next for Harvey?

At this point, predicting Harvey’s next move would be foolish. He’s proven himself unpredictable, observant, and far too comfortable with heights.

All we know is this: Harvey is very much settled in for the season, and December will not be passing quietly.

We’ll keep you posted.

Assuming, of course, that Harvey allows us to.

After all… he’s watching. 

And you can order your own Elf on the Shelf from the That's Christmas 365 shop here https://amzn.to/4skvAdk

A Christmas Warning: Preventing Food Poisoning at Home and in Catering Kitchens

A warning for homes and businesses on food safety, highlighting how food poisoning outbreaks can cause ill health and misery at Christmastime.

Christmas is a time of abundance. Packed fridges, overflowing ovens, buffet tables groaning under the weight of turkey, stuffing, pigs in blankets and trifle. It’s also, unfortunately, a time when cases of food poisoning spike sharply across the UK.

Whether you’re cooking at home for family and friends, or serving food professionally in a pub, restaurant, care home or events venue, Christmas meals must be prepared with care. One poorly handled dish can turn festive cheer into days of illness – or worse.

Why Christmas Is a High-Risk Time for Food Poisoning

The festive period creates a perfect storm for food safety problems:

Large volumes of food prepared in advance

Fridges overfilled and struggling to stay cold

Cooked food left out for long periods

People reheating leftovers multiple times

Temporary or seasonal catering staff under pressure

Add alcohol, distractions, late nights and “it’ll be fine” attitudes, and mistakes become far more likely.

Common Christmas-related outbreaks are linked to salmonella, campylobacter, E. coli, and listeria – all of which can cause serious illness, particularly in older people, young children, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems.

At Home: Festive Food Safety Essentials

1. Turkey Must Be Fully Cooked

Undercooked poultry is one of the biggest Christmas dangers.

Ensure the thickest part of the bird reaches at least 75°C

Juices should run clear, not pink

If in doubt, cook longer – resting time does not finish cooking

Stuffing should ideally be cooked separately to reduce risk.

2. Don’t Overcrowd the Fridge

A packed fridge cannot cool properly.

Raw meat must be kept on the bottom shelf

Leftovers should cool quickly and be refrigerated within two hours

Fridge temperature should be 5°C or below

If necessary, prioritise food safety over drinks storage.

3. Reheating Means Piping Hot

Leftovers are a Christmas joy – but only if handled correctly.

Reheat food once only

Ensure it’s piping hot all the way through

Never reheat turkey more than once

If something smells off or looks questionable, it’s not worth the risk.

4. Hands, Surfaces and Utensils Matter

Festive cooking often involves multiple people in the kitchen.

Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling food

Use separate boards for raw meat and ready-to-eat foods

Clean surfaces regularly, especially during long cooking sessions

“Christmas germs” are not festive – they spread fast.

For Catering Establishments: No Festive Exceptions

Professional kitchens carry a legal and moral responsibility to protect customers.

1. Pressure Is Not an Excuse

Busy Christmas services increase risk, but safety standards must never slip.

HACCP procedures must be followed at all times

Temperature logs must be accurate and up to date

Hot holding and cold storage must remain within safe limits

2. Temporary Staff Need Proper Training

Seasonal workers are common in December.

Food hygiene training must be provided

Supervision is essential, especially during peak services

“Learning on the job” is not acceptable where safety is concerned

3. Vulnerable Diners Must Be Protected

Care homes, hospitals, schools and Christmas community meals must take extra care.

Avoid high-risk foods such as unpasteurised cheeses

Ensure allergen information is clear and accurate

Maintain strict hygiene during buffet and self-service meals

An outbreak linked to a Christmas event can have devastating consequences.

Food Poisoning Isn’t “Just a Stomach Bug”

Foodborne illness can lead to:

Severe dehydration

Hospitalisation

Long-term digestive problems

In extreme cases, death

At Christmas, when NHS services are already stretched, preventable illness places additional strain on an already pressured system.

A Safer Christmas Is Everyone’s Responsibility

Christmas food should bring people together, not send them home ill.

By taking simple, sensible precautions, at home and professionally, too, we can ensure that festive meals are remembered for the right reasons: laughter, warmth, and good food safely enjoyed.

Because no one wants their Christmas story to include food poisoning.

Why Staying Home With the Super Flu Is a Moral Duty at Christmastime

Protect loved ones this festive season by staying home when ill with a super flu virus. Discover why it’s a moral duty that helps keep Christmas safe for everyone.

Christmas should be a season of warmth, joy and celebration, not a time when families worry about picking up a dangerous “super flu” virus from someone who felt obliged to soldier on despite being clearly unwell.

When a particularly aggressive winter virus is circulating, one simple act becomes both practical and profoundly moral: if you’re ill, you stay at home.

Christmas Is for Caring. And That Includes Protecting Others

At this time of year, our diaries fill up with parties, carol services, lunches, last-minute shopping trips and festive gatherings with friends. 

It’s understandable to want to take part in every moment. But a super flu virus spreads with ease in crowded shops, bustling markets and warm rooms filled with people.

Turning up to a Christmas event while coughing or feverish doesn’t just affect you — it endangers others, especially:

Older relatives

People with asthma or chronic conditions

Children

Anyone whose immunity is low during winter

NHS staff who are already stretched throughout December

Christmas is built on kindness, and protecting others from illness is one of the simplest forms of kindness we can offer.

A Few Days at Home Can Save Someone Else’s Christmas

No one wants to be the reason a grandparent ends up in hospital on Christmas Eve or a family’s plans are cancelled because everyone caught a virus from the office party.

By staying at home when you’re unwell:

You slow the spread of the virus across the community

You give the NHS crucial breathing space

You help workplaces and schools avoid disruptive outbreaks

You stop the domino effect that ruins festive plans for others

It’s an act of goodwill that costs you very little but protects countless people around you.

Resting Helps You Enjoy Christmas More

There’s also a very practical benefit: proper rest speeds recovery. Rather than dragging yourself through December feeling dreadful, a couple of days wrapped in a blanket with a hot drink can get you back on your feet in time for the big moments.

Your body heals faster when you respect its limits.

A Moral Choice That Embodies the Spirit of the Season

Christmas is full of traditions about giving, caring and thinking of others. Staying home when you’re carrying a super flu virus is one of the most meaningful modern acts of festive goodwill.

It takes no gifts, no money and no grand gesture, just the simple decision to protect those around you.

So this Christmas, if the aches, fever or heavy cough strike, remember:

Staying home isn’t missing out. It’s giving others the chance to enjoy a healthy, happy Christmas too.

My wife and I have caught this super flu and have taken the decision to stay at home and not spread it.

The Best Teas to Buy In for Christmastime

Discover the best teas to buy for Christmastime, from classic black blends and festive spiced teas to soothing herbals and indulgent dessert-inspired brews for cosy winter moments.

As the nights draw in and the days start to sparkle with fairy lights, there are few things more comforting than wrapping your hands around a hot mug of tea. 

Christmastime all but invites you to slow down, breathe in deep, and enjoy flavours that feel nostalgic, cosy, and just a little bit indulgent. 

Whether you’re planning to host guests, stock a festive drinks trolley, or simply savour quiet moments by the tree, having the right teas on hand makes all the difference.

Here’s a guide to the teas worth buying in for a truly comforting Christmas season.

1. Classic Black Teas: The Heart of Winter Warmth

Black tea is the backbone of British winter drinking. Reliable, strong, and endlessly versatile, it’s essential for Christmastime.

Great options to stock up on:

Assam – Rich, malty, warming, perfect for bracing mornings or powering through Christmas preparations.

Darjeeling – Lighter and more floral, ideal for afternoon guests.

English Breakfast or Scottish Breakfast blends – Dependable crowd-pleasers that pair perfectly with mince pies or a slice of Christmas cake.

If you’re serving visitors, a large tin of quality loose leaf always looks impressive.

2. Festive Spiced Teas: Christmas in a Cup

No December tea selection is complete without something infused with spice.

Look for blends that feature:

Cinnamon

Clove

Nutmeg

Orange peel

Star anise

These warming flavours instantly evoke mulled wine, gingerbread, and cosy evenings. Popular choices include chai blends, spiced black teas, or more delicate spiced rooibos for a caffeine-free option.

3. Herbal Teas for Evenings or Guests Avoiding Caffeine

Late December nights are made for soothing cups before bed. Herbal infusions are also ideal when entertaining guests with varied preferences.

Top picks include:

Peppermint – Bright and refreshing after a big festive meal.

Chamomile – Calming and floral; a lovely pre-sleep ritual.

Lemon & Ginger – Helpful for winter sniffles and indulgent days.

Rooibos – Naturally sweet and earthy; blends beautifully with festive spices.

Herbals also make great after-dinner alternatives to liqueurs.

4. Green Teas: A Fresh Balance Amid Festive Indulgence

For those moments when you crave something lighter, green tea offers a gentle lift without overwhelming richness.

Consider:

Sencha – Clean, fresh, vibrant.

Jasmine green tea – Perfumed and calming.

Gunpowder – Stronger, slightly smoky, excellent for chilly afternoons.

Green teas are particularly popular around Boxing Day when people fancy something revitalising.

5. Decadent Dessert-Inspired Teas

A festive treat that won’t spoil your appetite! Many companies release limited-edition blends in December inspired by puddings and Christmas bakes.

Look for flavours such as:

Gingerbread

Sticky toffee pudding

Mince pie

Chocolate orange

Vanilla and almond

These make brilliant stocking fillers or secret Santa gifts, too.

6. Fruit Teas for Winter Brightness

Fruit infusions bring colour and cheer, especially for younger family members or those avoiding caffeine.

Try blends with:

Berry mixes

Apple and cinnamon

Cranberry and orange

Hibiscus (lovely and tart, with a stunning red hue)

These are delicious served piping hot—or even as a festive iced tea for parties.

7. Something Special for Guests: Festive Loose Leaf Blends

Many tea merchants release Christmas-themed loose-leaf blends each year. These often contain beautiful ingredients like:

Whole cloves

Orange slices

Rose petals

Cardamom pods

Real vanilla pieces

A pretty jar of loose tea not only tastes wonderful but also looks decorative on your kitchen counter.

8. Don’t Forget: A Good Teapot and Festive Mugs

The ritual is part of the pleasure. A seasonal teapot, a couple of Christmassy mugs, or a little infuser ball shaped like a bauble all help set the mood.

Stocking up on a variety of teas at Christmastime ensures you’re ready for every moment—from quiet early mornings to bustling family visits, cosy evenings by the fire, and everything in between. 

Whether you lean traditional, spiced, herbal, or adventurous, building a festive tea cupboard is one of December’s greatest joys.

Planning a Winter Wonderland Wedding During the Summer: Get Ahead of the Chill with Style and Sparkle

When the sun is high and the days are long, planning a winter wedding might seem a little counterintuitive. 

But if you're dreaming of frosted pinecones, candlelit ceremonies, and snow-dusted scenery, summer is actually the perfect time to start crafting your Winter Wonderland wedding. 

But if you're dreaming of frosted pinecones, candlelit ceremonies, and snow-dusted scenery, summer is actually the perfect time to start crafting your Winter Wonderland wedding.

Here’s why planning your magical cold-weather celebration during the warmest months of the year can be a savvy—and even joyful—choice.

1. Venue Availability & Better Deals

Winter weddings are still less popular than summer ones, which means many venues offer off-season rates. Planning in summer gives you the pick of the bunch and first dibs on prime winter dates—especially around Christmas and New Year, when venues can book up for festive events. If you’ve got your heart set on a romantic country manor or a castle surrounded by snow, booking early ensures your fairytale setting.

2. Dream Team Bookings

Photographers, florists, bands, and caterers often have more availability and flexibility in winter. By planning ahead in summer, you’ll have your pick of top-notch suppliers. Bonus: vendors are likely to have more time to work creatively with you during their quieter season, which can mean more personalised touches.

3. Fashion Forward Planning

Bridal fashion takes time—especially for winter weddings. Think long-sleeved gowns, velvet shawls, faux fur capes, and warm boots hidden under your dress. Starting early gives you time to track down the perfect seasonal pieces, or even have something bespoke made. And don’t forget your bridesmaids! Rich tones like deep emerald, burgundy, and navy look stunning against a snowy backdrop.

4. Décor & Seasonal Styling

Winter weddings are all about ambience—think twinkling lights, evergreens, warm metallics, and flickering candles. By planning in summer, you’ll have time to source décor thoughtfully (and potentially at lower prices, especially if you're buying during summer clearance sales). Planning ahead also gives you time to DIY any crafty winter touches like personalised baubles or pinecone centrepieces.

5. Save the Date Magic

Winter calendars fill up fast with Christmas parties, holidays, and family commitments. Sending out your save-the-dates early means your guests can plan accordingly and you’re more likely to have everyone you love gathered together on your big day.

6. Menu Magic

Winter weddings are a chance to indulge in comfort food with an elegant twist—think roast dinners, mulled wine, seasonal canapés, and hot chocolate bars. Starting your planning early lets you experiment with caterers, plan tasting menus, and ensure your winter fare is every bit as festive as it is filling.

7. Travel & Accommodation Logistics

Planning ahead allows you to help guests with travel arrangements and lodging, especially if your venue is in a remote or wintry location. You can negotiate group rates, organise shuttles if necessary, and give people time to budget for a winter getaway.

Final Thoughts

A Winter Wonderland wedding can be utterly enchanting—from glistening snow and cosy candlelight to rich seasonal colours and festive cheer. By beginning your planning journey in summer, you’ll give yourself the time and space to craft a celebration that feels effortless and unforgettable.

So, while the sun blazes outside, pour yourself a cool drink, and start dreaming of your warmest day in the coldest season.

Ready to plan your winter wedding? Let your imagination drift into snow-covered landscapes and start turning that frosty fantasy into a beautiful reality.

What Would You Like to See on That's Christmas Between Now and Christmas?

As the festive season approaches, the team at That’s Christmas is busy preparing to bring you the best tips, ideas, and inspiration to make your holiday season magical. But this year, we want to hear directly from you – our cherished readers.

What would you like us to cover between now and Christmas? Whether it’s gift ideas, recipes, home décor tips, family activities, or festive travel suggestions, we want to know what will make your Christmas even more special.

Gift Ideas

Are you looking for thoughtful presents for your loved ones? Let us know if you need help with unique gift guides, whether it's for that hard-to-buy-for friend or the perfect stocking fillers. We’re happy to seek out new products and create lists that suit all tastes and budgets.

Recipes & Christmas Feasts

If you're dreaming of a show-stopping Christmas dinner or mouth-watering treats to bake with the family, tell us what kind of recipes you’re after. From traditional festive favourites to modern twists, we’d love to help you impress in the kitchen.

Decorating Inspiration

Want to transform your home into a winter wonderland? Or perhaps you’re after minimalist, chic decorating ideas? Whether it's the latest trends or timeless looks, we can explore a variety of styles to suit your Christmas vision.

Family Fun & Activities

The holiday season is a time to create unforgettable memories. If you need ideas for fun activities that will keep the whole family entertained or ways to embrace the festive spirit locally, let us know!

Sustainable Celebrations

More and more people are seeking ways to make their Christmas celebrations eco-friendly. If you’d like tips on sustainable gift wrapping, green Christmas decorations, or environmentally-conscious gifting, we’d love to dive into this topic.

Local Christmas Events & Markets

Do you enjoy attending Christmas markets, festive fairs, or events? Let us know if you'd like us to highlight some of the best seasonal happenings in your area, whether it's for families, foodies, or those looking to experience the magic of Christmas markets.

Travel & Getaways

Thinking about taking a Christmas trip? If you’re interested in festive travel guides – from winter wonderlands to sunny escapes – let us know where you'd like to go and we can provide ideas for unforgettable holiday experiences.

How to Share Your Thoughts

We invite you to share your ideas and requests in the comments below, or feel free to send us a message through our contact information. 

We’ll take your feedback into account as we plan our upcoming features, ensuring that That’s Christmas brings you the content you most want to see this festive season.

Together, let’s make this Christmas the most wonderful time of the year!