How to Deal with the Scrooges and Grinches in Your Life This Christmas

Every festive season brings out a glorious mix of personalities: the cheerfully over-excited, the quietly cosy, the organised elves… and then those who seem determined to channel pre-redemption Scrooge or out-Grinch the Grinch himself.

Whether it’s a colleague who grumbles every time someone mentions mince pies, a relative who announces “I’m not doing Christmas this year” for the fifth December running, or a neighbour who insists your outdoor lights are “too sparkly”, these characters can dampen the mood if you let them.

Here’s how to navigate the season with grace, humour, and your festive spirit fully intact.

1. Don’t Take Their Bah-Humbug Personally

Some people simply find Christmas overwhelming, stressful, or emotionally complicated. Others dislike the commercial side, or they’re exhausted, grieving, or feeling isolated. Whatever the reason, their attitude rarely has anything to do with you.

A little empathy goes a long way – even when they’re muttering about “pointless tinsel”.

2. Keep Your Boundaries Bright and Clear

If someone’s negativity starts spilling over into your celebrations, don’t feel obliged to absorb it.

A cheerful:

“I understand you’re not feeling festive, but let’s park that for now and enjoy the moment”

can keep the peace without letting the mood spiral.

3. Offer Gentle Participation — Not Pressure

Invite them to join in, but don’t push. The quickest way to make a Scrooge dig in their heels is by insisting they must partake.

Keep things low-pressure:

Offer a seat at the Christmas film night

Save them a slice of Yule log

Ask if they’d like to help with something small

Often, tiny acts of inclusion can thaw even the hardest festive frost.

4. Choose Festive Activities That Suit Their Personality

Not everyone enjoys singing carols at full volume or wrapping gifts in glittery paper.

Consider alternatives:

A quiet winter walk

A board game

A mellow Christmas cocktail evening

Sometimes it’s not Christmas itself they dislike, but the noise or chaos.

5. Let Humour Light the Way

A bit of gentle teasing works wonders — as long as it’s warm, not sharp.

A playful “Alright, Mr Scrooge, shall I pencil you in for exactly one Christmas cracker?” can break the tension and soften the mood.

6. Share, Don’t Lecture

Telling someone they “should be more festive” rarely works.

But sharing stories, traditions, or memories can help them see why the season matters to you. You’re not persuading — you’re offering connection.

7. Remember: Even Scrooge Came Round Eventually

In A Christmas Carol, Scrooge’s transformation wasn’t forced; it came from real reflection, compassion, and human kindness.

Most real-life Scrooges won’t get a visit from the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future — but kindness, patience, and small gestures can nudge them towards a warmer outlook.

8. Protect Your Own Festive Joy

The most important rule: don’t let anyone else’s attitude steal your sparkle.

If someone refuses to engage, that’s entirely their choice. You’re allowed to enjoy every moment — from the cheesy music to the festive jumpers — without apology.

9. Celebrate with Those Who Do Want the Cheer

Spend time with the people who love Christmas. They’ll boost your mood, strengthen your traditions, and help you keep the season magical, regardless of who’s grumbling in the corner.

Scrooges and Grinches are part of the Christmas landscape — but they don’t have to dim your festive glow. With empathy, humour, and healthy boundaries, you can keep your celebrations joyful while still offering kindness to those who struggle with the season.

After all, Christmas is about goodwill to all… even the grumpy ones.

Cosy Christmas Readings at Home: A Festive Tradition with Carols

As the Christmas season draws near, the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations can sometimes leave us yearning for a moment of peace and togetherness. 

One of the most heartwarming ways to embrace the spirit of the season is to gather your loved ones for a cosy Christmas reading session at home, accompanied by the gentle sounds of carols in the background. 

This simple yet enchanting tradition can fill your home with warmth, joy, and a true sense of Christmas magic.

In this blog post, we'll explore the charm of Christmas readings, share tips on creating the perfect cosy atmosphere, suggest some classic stories, and show how pairing them with carols can elevate the festive mood.

Why Embrace Christmas Readings at Home?

1. Creating a Magical Atmosphere

There’s something truly nostalgic about curling up with a good book on a cold winter’s evening, surrounded by the glow of fairy lights and the scent of pine. By reading Christmas stories aloud with your family, you can create a magical atmosphere that brings everyone closer together. It’s a wonderful way to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of the season.

2. A Break from the Digital World

In today’s digital age, we often find ourselves glued to screens. Cosy Christmas readings are a perfect way to unplug and reconnect with your family. There’s no better way to truly immerse yourself in the festive spirit than through the pages of a well-loved story, with the soft melodies of carols playing in the background.

3. Building Traditions and Memories

Reading Christmas stories aloud can become a cherished tradition that your children will look forward to every year. The joy of gathering around with a warm drink, a crackling fireplace (or a cosy blanket if you don’t have one), and a classic tale can create memories that will last a lifetime.

Setting the Scene for a Cosy Christmas Reading

1. Prepare a Cosy Space

Choose a comfortable spot in your home where everyone can gather. Whether it’s in the living room by the Christmas tree or snuggled up on the sofa with blankets, make sure everyone has a comfy seat. Soft lighting, such as fairy lights or a few scented candles, can add to the festive ambiance.

2. Add Some Comforting Treats

What’s a cosy reading session without some delicious treats? Consider serving hot chocolate topped with whipped cream, mulled cider, or a pot of spiced tea. You could also prepare a plate of mince pies, gingerbread biscuits, or some Christmas shortbread for everyone to nibble on while you read.

3. Play Some Soft Carols

The right background music can enhance the festive mood without being too distracting. Opt for classic carols sung softly or instrumental versions to keep the atmosphere warm and inviting. Songs like "Silent Night", "O Holy Night", or "The First Noel" can provide a soothing backdrop to your reading.

Classic Christmas Stories to Enjoy

Here are some timeless tales to consider for your Christmas reading session. These stories are perfect for readers of all ages and are sure to ignite the holiday spirit.

1. "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens

No Christmas reading list is complete without Charles Dickens’ beloved classic. The tale of Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation from a miserly old man to someone filled with generosity and goodwill is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. The story’s themes of kindness, redemption, and the importance of family make it perfect for the festive season.

2. "The Night Before Christmas" by Clement Clarke Moore

This poem, also known as "’Twas the Night Before Christmas," is a quintessential Christmas favourite. It’s short, rhythmic, and brimming with festive imagery that can captivate children’s imaginations. It’s a lovely choice for reading aloud before bedtime on Christmas Eve.

3. "How the Grinch Stole Christmas!" by Dr Seuss

This charming story of the grumpy Grinch whose heart grows three sizes by the end is perfect for bringing laughter and smiles to your cosy evening. The whimsical language and delightful illustrations (if you have the book) are sure to keep younger children engaged.

4. "The Snowman" by Raymond Briggs

If you’re looking for a quieter, more contemplative story, The Snowman is a beautiful choice. This wordless picture book tells the tale of a boy who builds a snowman that comes to life. The gentle narrative and stunning illustrations pair perfectly with soft carols playing in the background.

5. "Letters from Father Christmas" by J.R.R. Tolkien

For families with older children or book enthusiasts, Tolkien’s Letters from Father Christmas offers a unique blend of fantasy and festive cheer. The letters, written by Tolkien to his own children, are filled with humour, adventures, and heartwarming messages that capture the magic of Christmas.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Reading Session

1. Take Turns Reading

Encourage each family member to take turns reading a passage or chapter. This not only keeps everyone engaged but also makes it a collaborative activity that everyone can enjoy. Even younger children can participate by reading a sentence or two, boosting their confidence.

2. Incorporate Christmas Carols into the Story

To make the evening even more special, pause between stories to sing a few Christmas carols together. Choose songs that complement the theme of the story you’re reading. For instance, after reading A Christmas Carol, singing "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen" can be a lovely touch.

3. Capture the Moment

If you’re making this a new tradition, consider documenting it by taking a few photos or recording a short video. You can even keep a festive journal where each year you note down the stories read, the carols sung, and your favourite memories from the evening.

Bringing the Spirit of Christmas Home

In a world where the festive season can often feel rushed and commercialised, taking the time to slow down and enjoy a cosy Christmas reading session is a beautiful way to reconnect with what truly matters. By combining the timeless joy of storytelling with the serene beauty of carols, you can create a cherished family tradition that embodies the spirit of Christmas.

So, gather your loved ones, brew a pot of hot chocolate, and let the stories and carols transport you to a world filled with wonder and joy. This Christmas, may your home be filled with the warmth of good stories, the sound of music, and the love of those who matter most.

Happy reading and Merry Christmas, one an all!