Are you ready for Giving Tuesday this year?

Giving Tuesday is observed on the Tuesday after American Thanksgiving. 

The day occurs at a time when people are starting their Chirstmas shopping. 

Exclusive deals and sales are in stores everywhere. This year it's on Tuesday Third December.

Giving Tuesday reminds us to stop and think about those less fortunate than ourselves, and raises awareness about the importance of charity and helping people in need.

Giving Tuesday is a day about community. It unites people of all backgrounds from all over the world in doing something good for others, such as volunteering, donating to charity, and lifting each other's spirits during a time of year that is more difficult for some. 

Giving Tuesday Background

Giving Tuesday stands in vivid contrast to days such as Cyber Monday and Black Friday, which are days that allow stores to sell more of their products. 

Giving Tuesday was created to inspire and encourage people to give and do good deeds. Every year millions of dollars are raised and given to those who are less fortunate.

Giving Tuesday was created back in 2012 by Henry Timms at the 92nd Street Y, a cultural and community centre in New York City. 

It was first celebrated on November 27, 2012. The announcement for this day was made one month before its commemoration by the website Mashable, a founding partner of Giving Tuesday.

That same year, Giving Tuesday was widely covered and announced by many international news sources such as The Huffington Post and ABC News, which helped spread the word about this observance. 

Throughout the years Giving Tuesday has been covered by hundreds of media outlets. It has won the support of tech giants like Google, Skype, Facebook, and Microsoft, plus the backing and support of several philanthropic and charitable foundations and organisations.

Every year, announcements about the day are shared on social media with the hashtag #GivingTuesday to help spread the word about the movement even faster and wider through the internet, encouraging people to donate. 

Celebrate Giving Tuesday

One of the most important things we can do on Giving Tuesday is to donate to charities that we like or that are important to us.

We can donate our time by volunteering, or our money by donating a sum to Giving Tuesday. You can also set up a recurring donation if you can.

If you do not have the time to volunteer or can't donate money at the minute, you can always donate clothes that you and your family no longer wear, or donate toys that your children have outgrown.

Help spread the word and inspire others to follow your lead by sharing information about #GivingTuesday on your Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and even on your family and friends’ group chats. 

The important thing on Giving Tuesday is to do something good for others in any way we can, and even a little bit of help will have a huge impact on the world. 

Parcelhero predicts that Black Friday will dazzle this year

Parcelhero predicts that Black Friday will dazzle this year as people look for ways to save some money on Christmas presents and more.

Following last year’s rather lacklustre Black Friday – dubbed ‘Beige Friday’ after sales actually fell by -1.9% – the event is set to regain its sparkle this year. 

We Brits, declares home delivery expert Parcelhero, have been tightening our belts for so long that we've run out of notches! Expect them to loosen up for a dazzling £7.5bn Black Friday weekend bonanza.

Parcelhero is forecasting a sparkling return to form for Black Friday sales following last year’s colourless results. 

It dubbed Black Friday 2023 ‘Beige Friday’ after a -1.9% slump in sales. This year, Parcelhero predicts UK sales will reach £7.5bn over the Black Friday/Cyber Monday long weekend.

ParcelHero’s Head of Consumer Research, David Jinks M.I.L.T., says: "Black Friday was in danger of becoming a bloated, overlong anticlimax. The consumer organisation Which? reported that only 2% of products in the 2022 Black Friday sales were genuinely cheaper than at other times of the year. According to Which?, 98% of sale items were the same price or less and 45% were cheaper at other times of the year."

He went on to say: "It seems retailers learned their lesson, though. Moneysaving Expert reports 70% of the sale items it monitored were cheaper on Black Friday last year than at any other time, with an average discount of 29%.

‘If these genuine deals continue, we’re predicting consumers will flock back to Black Friday to get the most from the hefty discounts. In fact, major retailers like Boots, Amazon, Argos and John Lewis have been running early bird special offers throughout November and these are reportedly getting a strong response.

"It’s true sales stuttered somewhat last month: volumes fell by -0.7% and the amount we spent also tumbled by -0.6%. However, all the signs are November is already enjoying a big uptick. Brits have been tightening their belts for so long that they have run out of notches. They clearly feel it’s time to loosen up to make the most of some genuine discounts.

"It’s likely many Brits were wary of splashing the cash before the Budget, which finally arrived right at the end of October. While it can hardly be said to have lifted the economic gloom, at least shoppers now know the worst and are budgeting accordingly.

"Last year, clothing sales in particular tumbled in the Black Friday sale. However, it’s likely fashion will fare much better this time as people splurge on party season outfits and winterwear. Nonetheless, it will be electrical and tech items that will once again dominate sales. These will be a mix of gifts for others and a bit of self-indulgence.

"While the e-commerce association IMRG confirms sales tumbled by -1.9% last year (a fall which was forecast by Parcelhero), the industry analyst PWC predicts a £7.1bn Black Friday spend this year. This is very close to our own £7.5bn figure. In fact, some forecasts look even rosier. One respected research company, Statista, is predicting a whopping £9bn UK spend this time round. It sounds optimistic but such a result would certainly restore Black Friday’s sparkle.

"As ever, Amazon is likely to be the big winner. Parcelhero believes Brits will spend a whopping 41% more online than on the High Street this Black Friday weekend, with Amazon set to earn the lion’s share.

"While many shoppers are expected to jump back aboard Black Friday to buy the bulk of this year’s Christmas presents, there are always those who leave everything until much later. Parcelhero’s continually updated Christmas deadlines tool is invaluable for keeping shoppers in the know with their favourite retailers’ final online order dates.

‘To check the easy-to-use retailers’ final order and final mailing dates tool, see: https://www.parcelhero.com/events/christmas-gifts-delivery"

Give the Gift of Stories: Join the That's Christmas "Buy a Child Books for Christmas" Campaign

The Christmas season is upon us—a time of joy, warmth, and giving. 

But for many children, the festive cheer doesn’t include a pile of books to spark their imagination and fuel their dreams. 

This year, That's Christmas is stepping up to make a difference with its "Buy a Child Books for Christmas" campaign, and we’re inviting you to be a part of it.

Why Books Matter More Than Ever

In an increasingly digital world, the simple act of holding a book, turning its pages, and getting lost in its story is more vital than ever. 

Books inspire creativity, build empathy, and improve literacy skills, opening doors to opportunities that every child deserves. For many families, however, tight budgets mean books are a luxury they simply cannot afford.

This campaign aims to ensure that no child misses out on the magic of books, whether it’s a fairy tale that whisks them away to enchanted lands or a science book that answers their burning questions about the world around them.

How the Campaign Works

That’s Christmas is inviting our readers to buy books for their own children and for children in the wider community. 

Here’s how you can help:

Donate: A small contribution can go a long way. Just £5 can buy a paperback book, while £20 can provide a child with a bundle of stories to treasure.

Spread the Word: Share the campaign on social media using the hashtag #BooksForChristmas to encourage others to join the cause.

What Your Contribution Means

Every book you help provide is a step toward creating lifelong readers and learners. Imagine the delight on a child’s face as they unwrap their very first book on Christmas morning, or the pride of a parent who can share bedtime stories thanks to your generosity.

A Gift That Lasts a Lifetime

Books are more than presents; they’re portals to adventure, knowledge, and self-discovery. By supporting the That’s Christmas campaign, you’re not just giving a child a book; you’re giving them a gift that will last long after the Christmas decorations have been packed away.

Get Involved Today

Together, let’s bring the gift of reading to as many children as possible this Christmas.

This Christmas season, let’s turn the page on inequality and write a story of hope and joy. Join the That's Christmas "Buy a Child Books for Christmas" campaign—because every child deserves a story.

Some exciting news with gorgeous advent calendars from Drinks by the Dram!

Back in 2010 the innovative Drinks by the Dram company was launched as a new way of allowing lovers of whisky to sample new releases of single malt Scotch whisky at a fraction of the cost of buying a full bottle. A very good use of the "try before you buy" system, we at That's Christmas believe! 

Over the years the range has grown and now includes in excess of 6,000 unique spirit drinks, including whiskies, rum, gin, tequila, mezcal and more besides.

What advent calendars are they offering this Christmas? This is just a part of their absolutely stunning range:-

Drinks by the Dram World of Whisky Advent Calendar – £129.95

A globetrotting whisky adventure awaits! The World of Whisky Advent Calendar showcases 25 different 30ml samples from 12 whisk(e)y-producing nations, inviting you to explore a diverse array of styles and flavours. 

Featuring exceptional drams from both traditional regions like Scotland and exciting emerging markets such as India and New Zealand, this calendar is a journey in a glass.

 Highlights include Paul John Classic Select Cask, Jameson 18 Year Old, and The Cardrona – The Falcon. It’s a remarkable way to discover the world of whisky, making it the ideal gift for any whisky enthusiast.

Drinks by the Dram Dadvent Calendar – £54.95

Celebrate the countdown to Christmas in a totally new way with the Dadvent Calendar, a 12-day whisky-filled delight! Behind each window lies a 30ml dram carefully curated to warm the heart and toast the season. 

This selection includes whiskies from renowned producers such as Loch Lomond, Hatozaki, and Tullamore D.E.W. Whether you’re treating your dad or any whisky-loving friend, this is the perfect way to show appreciation with a gift that says, “Cheers!”

Drinks by the Dram Sherry Cask Whisky Advent Calendar - £129.95

Sherry cask whiskies have captivated palates with their rich, complex flavours, and this Advent calendar brings you 25 exquisite drams matured in these prized casks. 

With notes of dried fruit, nuts, and spices, these whiskies deliver warmth and depth, making them the perfect winter companion. Sourced from top producers and distilleries, the Sherry Cask Whisky Advent Calendar is a wonderful gift for anyone who appreciates the finer things – especially when it comes to sherried whisky.

Drinks By The Dram Rum - 12 Day Advent - £69.95

Brighten up your festive countdown with Drinks by the Dram's Rum 12 Dram Advent Calendar! 

There's a different wax-sealed 30ml sample of rum hidden behind each of the 12 doors, sourced from some of the most impressive producers across the globe.

If a full-blown 24-day Advent countdown feels like too much of a voyage this December, this calendar offers the perfect mini-cruise into the world of rum and would make a cracking gift for a rum fan.

Drinks by the Dram Peaty Whisky Advent Calendar – £129.95

A roaring fire paired with a warming Whisky is a rite of passage during the colder months, and peated Whiskies embody this sentiment perfectly. But being sourced from different locations, not all peat imparts the same flavours.

From powerful peat monsters packing in plenty of medicinal, earthy notes, to lightly smoked sippers with just a whisper of those flavours, this calendar is just the place to learn all about the magic of peat. 

That Boutique-y Gin Company Advent Calendar - £64.95

Known for their experimental flavours and commitment to craftsmanship, That Boutique-y Gin Company’s Advent Calendar is a gin lover's dream with a flavorful delight hidden behind each window. 

Expect to discover flavours such as Neroli, Chocolate Orange, Spit-Roasted Pineapple and Rhubarb. The perfect way to jazz up your G&Ts this festive season. 

All of Drinks By The Dram’s Advent Calendars are available to buy from Master of Malt https://www.masterofmalt.com/advent-calendars and they'll make an absolutely perfect Christmas gift for the discerning people in your life. Or why not buy one for yourself, too? 

How Grandparents Can Play a Major Role in Creating a Happy Christmas for Everyone

Christmas is a magical time filled with traditions, family gatherings, and the joy of giving. Grandparents, with their unique position in the family, have a wealth of opportunities to contribute to making the holiday season truly special. 

Their experience, wisdom, and unconditional love can bring warmth and connection to Christmas celebrations. Here's how grandparents can help ensure everyone has a happy Christmas.

1. Keep Family Traditions Alive

Grandparents often serve as the custodians of family traditions. Whether it’s baking mince pies, reading a favourite Christmas story, or decorating the tree with vintage ornaments, these traditions provide a comforting sense of continuity. Sharing stories about past Christmases or explaining the origins of certain customs can deepen the family’s appreciation of the holiday.

Tip: Involve grandchildren in these activities. Teaching them how to make a family recipe or sharing memories can create a meaningful bond.

2. Offer Practical Help

The holiday season can be hectic for parents juggling work, shopping, and hosting. Grandparents can step in to lighten the load, whether by babysitting, helping with gift wrapping, or preparing dishes for the Christmas feast.

Tip: Communicate with family members to see where help is most needed. Small acts of kindness can ease the stress for everyone.

3. Create New Traditions

While honouring old customs is wonderful, grandparents can also introduce new ones. These might include organising a family Christmas movie night, leading a singalong, or planning a Christmas craft activity with the grandchildren.

Tip: Choose activities that cater to all ages, so everyone can join in the fun.

4. Be the Bridge Between Generations

Grandparents have the special ability to connect different generations within the family. This could mean mediating family disagreements, ensuring that everyone feels included, or simply being a source of wisdom and calm during the hustle and bustle.

Tip: During family gatherings, make an effort to engage with both younger and older relatives, encouraging conversations and laughter.

5. Share the Gift of Time

Sometimes, the greatest gift isn’t under the tree—it’s the time spent together. Grandparents can plan activities that focus on togetherness, like going for a wintry walk, playing board games, or enjoying a quiet moment with a grandchild.

Tip: Make it a priority to spend quality one-on-one time with each family member where possible. These moments will be cherished long after the Christmas season ends.

6. Focus on the True Spirit of Christmas

Amidst the commercial hustle, grandparents can remind the family of the deeper meanings of Christmas: kindness, gratitude, and love. Whether through storytelling, volunteering together, or encouraging thoughtful gift-giving, grandparents can help ground the celebrations in what truly matters.

Tip: Organise a family charitable activity, such as donating to a local food bank or crafting cards for a care home.

7. Spoil (but Not Overwhelm) the Grandkids

Grandparents are often seen as the ultimate gift-givers, and their generosity can make Christmas magical for the little ones. However, balance is key—too many presents can be overwhelming and dilute their value.

Tip: Instead of focusing solely on material gifts, consider giving experiences, such as tickets to a pantomime, a cooking day together, or a personalised book about their Christmas adventures.

8. Lead by Example

Grandparents can model the joy of giving, gratitude, and inclusivity. When they embody the Christmas spirit, it inspires the whole family to follow suit.

Tip: Share your own stories of meaningful Christmases past, especially those where the focus was on family and giving rather than materialism.

Christmas is about family, and grandparents are often the heart of it. By sharing their time, love, and wisdom, they can ensure that everyone—young and old—feels valued and connected during the festive season. This Christmas, let grandparents shine in their role as the glue that brings the family together for a truly happy celebration.

What are your favourite ways to involve grandparents in Christmas festivities? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

The Magic of Traditional Christmas Festivities in Iceland

Iceland, the land of fire and ice, takes on an enchanting aura during Christmastime. 

The country’s unique blend of ancient folklore, wintery landscapes, and warm community spirit makes Christmas in Iceland a truly magical experience. 

Here’s a closer look at how Icelanders celebrate this cherished season, filled with traditions that reflect their rich cultural heritage.

Advent and Festive Preparations

The Icelandic Christmas season begins with Advent, marked by the lighting of candles on an Advent wreath. Each Sunday leading up to Christmas, one more candle is lit, symbolising hope and the anticipation of brighter days during the long winter nights.

Icelanders also take great pride in decorating their homes with twinkling lights, stars, and Christmas ornaments. These adornments bring warmth and cheer to the dark December days. Traditional Christmas plants, like poinsettias and amaryllis, are popular decorations. Families often bake Christmas biscuits and cakes, filling their homes with the comforting aroma of cinnamon, cloves, and ginger.

The Yule Lads: Mischievous and Magical

One of the most beloved aspects of Icelandic Christmas folklore is the Yule Lads, a group of 13 mischievous characters who visit children in the 13 days leading up to Christmas. Each night, children leave a shoe on their windowsill. If they’ve been good, the Yule Lad of the day leaves a small gift, such as sweets or toys. If they’ve been naughty, they might find a potato instead!

The Yule Lads, with names like Spoon-Licker, Door-Slammer, and Candle-Stealer, have their origins in Iceland’s pagan past. Today, they bring a sense of whimsy and excitement to the season.

Jólaöldur and Christmas Eve

As Christmas Eve approaches, the festivities ramp up. On 23 December, Icelanders celebrate Þorláksmessa (St. Þorlákur’s Mass), honouring the country’s patron saint. It’s traditional to eat fermented skate on this day—a delicacy that has a strong smell but is a favourite for many.

Christmas Eve, or Aðfangadagur, is the heart of the Christmas season. Families gather in the evening for a grand feast, often featuring roast lamb, ptarmigan, or smoked pork. Dessert might include laufabrauð, a crisp, intricately decorated flatbread. 

At 6 pm, the church bells ring across the country, marking the official start of Christmas. After dinner, gifts are exchanged, and families spend the evening together, reading books and enjoying one another’s company.

Books and Cosy Nights: The Joy of Jólabókaflóð

One of Iceland’s most cherished Christmas traditions is the Jólabókaflóð, or “Christmas Book Flood.” Books are a popular gift, and families exchange them on Christmas Eve.

It’s customary to spend the night reading by the fire, often accompanied by a cup of hot chocolate. This tradition reflects Icelanders’ deep love for literature and the cosy spirit of the season.

New Year’s and Epiphany

The festive season doesn’t end with Christmas. Icelanders celebrate New Year’s Eve with spectacular fireworks displays that light up the dark winter skies. Families and friends gather for feasts and festivities, often lasting until the early hours of the morning.

The season concludes on 6 January with Þrettándinn (Epiphany). This day is steeped in folklore, with bonfires, elfin dances, and tales of mythical creatures making an appearance. It’s a fitting end to a season filled with magic and wonder.

Final notes

Iceland’s Christmas traditions are a delightful blend of ancient customs and modern celebrations, infused with warmth and charm. From the playful antics of the Yule Lads to the heartfelt tradition of sharing books, Icelandic Christmas is a time of togetherness, storytelling, and joy. If you ever have the chance to visit during this season, you’ll find yourself enchanted by the country’s festive spirit—and perhaps even leave with a new appreciation for the magic of Christmas.

Let this year’s festive season be an inspiration to embrace a slower, more meaningful celebration, Icelandic style!

How to Get Involved in the Samaritan’s Purse Christmas Shoebox Appeal 2024

The Samaritan’s Purse Christmas Shoebox Appeal, also known as Operation Christmas Child, is a beloved initiative that spreads joy and hope to children around the world during the festive season. 

By filling a shoebox with thoughtful gifts, you can make a difference in a child’s life, sharing love and generosity with those who may otherwise go without. Here’s how you can get involved in the 2024 appeal.

Step 1: Choose Your Shoebox

The first step is to choose a shoebox. You can use an empty shoebox from home or purchase a pre-printed one directly from Samaritan’s Purse. If you’re using your own box, make sure it’s sturdy and cover it with festive wrapping paper, keeping the lid separate so it can be opened easily.

You’ll also need to decide whether your box will be for a boy or girl and select an age category: 2–4 years, 5–9 years, or 10–14 years.

Step 2: Fill Your Shoebox

Fill your shoebox with a selection of gifts that will bring joy and practical help to a child. Samaritan’s Purse suggests including:

Toys: A cuddly toy, a skipping rope, a small puzzle, or a deflated football with a pump.

School Supplies: Pens, pencils, notebooks, colouring books, or crayons.

Hygiene Items: A toothbrush, a bar of soap (in a sealed bag), a comb, or a flannel.

Accessories: Hats, gloves, socks, or hair accessories.

Avoid items that could be harmful or unsuitable, such as chocolate, food, liquids, breakable items, or war-related toys. Check the official website for a detailed list of prohibited items.

Step 3: Add a Personal Touch

Include a personal note or photo in your shoebox to connect with the child who receives it. Many recipients cherish these messages as much as the gifts themselves. You might even hear back from the child, as some choose to write a thank-you letter in return.

Step 4: Donate £5 and Track Your Box

Samaritan’s Purse requests a £5 donation per shoebox to cover shipping and distribution costs. You can donate online and print a label that allows you to track your box to its final destination. If you’re unable to donate online, you can include the money in an envelope inside your shoebox.

Step 5: Drop Off Your Shoebox

Once your shoebox is ready, find your nearest drop-off point using the Samaritan’s Purse website. Drop-off points are typically open during National Collection Week, which will take place in mid-November 2024.

If you’re part of a church, school, or community group, consider organising a collection to bring in multiple shoeboxes at once.

Alternative Ways to Participate

If you’re short on time or unable to shop for items, you can still participate. Samaritan’s Purse offers an online Build a Shoebox option, where you can choose gifts and personalise a box digitally.

You can also spread the word by encouraging friends, family, and colleagues to join in. Share the joy on social media and invite others to participate in this meaningful cause.

Why It Matters

The Samaritan’s Purse Christmas Shoebox Appeal is about more than just gifts—it’s about hope. Many of the children who receive these boxes live in poverty, conflict zones, or areas affected by natural disasters. Your act of kindness reminds them that they are loved and not forgotten.

This year, make your Christmas season even brighter by giving to a child in need. Together, we can share love, generosity, and the true spirit of the holiday season.

Visit the official Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child website for more details and to get started on your shoebox today. https://occ.samaritans-purse.org.uk

Ready to pack a shoebox? Start now and make 2024 a year of giving!

Kickstart Christmas at Wembley Park

Winter in Wembley Park Chris Winter / Wembley Park

Wembley Park, North West London’s renowned culture and entertainment hub, transforms into a global festive celebration this winter. 

Winter in Wembley Park 2024 will showcase how cultures worldwide unite through festive music, traditions and vibrant markets.

Kickstarting the winter celebrations on December 7th, Wembley Park’s open-air Sound Shell presents A Global Christmas: A Thousand Years of Festive Music Through Cultures and Time. This unique concert bridges continents and traditions, showcasing the universal spirit of Christmas through music. Starting on the same day, the Wembley Park Festive Market will be a global treasure trove of artisan and festive products. For three weekends in December, visitors can discover unique gifts, international flavours and seasonal treats, from German sausages and Italian Panettone to South American Alpaca crafts and African textiles.

Returning due to popular demand, the From Saint to Santa outdoor exhibition delves into the fascinating evolution of one of the world’s most enduring festive figures. Located in Arena Square from 3rd December, this unique display takes visitors on a journey through centuries of history, exploring how the image of Santa Claus has been shaped by diverse cultures and traditions from across the globe. Meanwhile, younger visitors will be delighted by Festive Fun: A Merry Celebration for Young Ones, a special, free children’s event designed to bring joy and creativity to the season.

With a stunning 15 metre tall, traditional Christmas Tree in Market Square setting the festive scene from 4th December and the launch of Trialogue, a new audio-visual 3D art installation on 27th November as part of the public Art Trail, Wembley Park offers a wealth of free attractions for residents and visitors of all ages to explore.

A Global Christmas: A Thousand Years of Festive Music Through Cultures and Time

Saturday 7th December – Free to attend concert

Kicking off the wintery celebrations, Wembley Park's open-air Sound Shell will host A Global Christmas: A Thousand Years of Festive Music Through Cultures and Time, a one-of-a-kind Christmas concert that brings together festive musical traditions from across the world. Taking place on Saturday, 7th December from 1pm – 6pm, A Global Christmas will be a free, open-air musical journey into global Christmas music traditions on iconic Olympic Way, right in front of Wembley Stadium. 

For more information, visit wembleypark.com

Winter Gardening Tasks to Tackle Over the Festive Period

The festive period is often associated with cosy evenings by the fire, indulging in seasonal treats, and spending time with loved ones. 

However, it’s also an excellent time to prepare your garden for the coming year. While your garden may appear dormant, there’s plenty to be done to ensure it flourishes when spring arrives. 

Here’s a guide to winter gardening tasks that will keep your green spaces in prime condition over the holiday season.

1. Tidy Up and Clear Debris

Start with a good garden tidy-up. Fallen leaves, twigs, and other debris can harbour pests and diseases over winter. Clear these away, adding healthy material to your compost heap. If you’ve got a lawn, keep it free of leaves to prevent it from suffocating or becoming patchy.

2. Prune Trees and Shrubs

Winter is the perfect time to prune dormant trees and shrubs. Focus on removing dead, damaged, or diseased branches to improve the plant’s health and shape. Be sure to check what’s safe to prune now – some plants, such as spring-flowering shrubs, are better left until after they’ve bloomed.

3. Protect Delicate Plants

Frost-sensitive plants need extra care during the colder months. Use horticultural fleece, cloches, or mulch to insulate them. Move potted plants to sheltered spots or indoors if possible. Pay particular attention to tender herbs, such as rosemary or bay, which might need some extra protection.

4. Feed the Soil

Winter is an excellent time to enrich your soil. Spread well-rotted manure, compost, or other organic matter over your beds. The nutrients will slowly leach into the soil, ready to give your plants a boost come spring. Mulching also helps suppress weeds and insulate the ground.

5. Plan for Next Year

Use the quieter gardening season to plan your garden for the year ahead. Whether it’s redesigning a flower bed, starting a vegetable patch, or introducing new plants, this is your chance to dream big. Sketch out layouts, research planting schedules, and order seeds or bulbs.

6. Maintain Tools and Equipment

Take advantage of the slower season to clean, sharpen, and oil your gardening tools. Check your lawnmower and other equipment to ensure they’re in good working order. Organising your shed or greenhouse now will save you time and hassle later.

7. Support Wildlife

Winter can be tough on garden wildlife. Keep bird feeders topped up with seeds, fat balls, and fresh water. Consider building log piles or installing insect hotels to provide shelter for small creatures. A garden rich in biodiversity will repay you in the growing season.

8. Plant Winter Interest 

If your garden feels a bit bare, consider planting shrubs and flowers that thrive in winter, such as hellebores, winter jasmine, or dogwood. Evergreens and plants with striking bark or berries can add structure and colour to your outdoor space.

9. Check Fences and Structures

Inspect fences, gates, and garden structures for damage caused by wind or frost. Tighten loose screws, treat wood with preservative, and make any necessary repairs to ensure everything is secure before the worst of the winter weather sets in.

10. Embrace the Season

Finally, don’t forget to enjoy your garden over the festive period. Decorate outdoor trees with fairy lights, bring in sprigs of holly and ivy for natural décor, or create a cosy corner with a fire pit and blankets. Your garden is an extension of your home – celebrate it!

By taking care of these tasks during the festive season, you’ll not only keep your garden in great shape but also enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you’re ahead of the game for spring. So, wrap up warm, grab a pair of gloves, and make the most of the crisp winter days!

Fantastic Christmas Presents for the Pet Parrots in Your Life

As Christmas approaches, it’s not just the humans who deserve a special treat under the tree. 

Your feathered companions bring so much joy and character to your home, so why not include them in the festive celebrations? 

Our little bird has her own advent calendar, her own nativity scene, her own Christmas village and her own gifts under the tree!

Parrots are intelligent, social creatures who thrive on stimulation and interaction, making Christmas the perfect time to spoil them. Here’s a guide to some fantastic Christmas presents for your pet parrot.

1. Festive-Themed Toys

Parrots love to chew, shred, and explore, so why not gift them some holiday-themed toys? Look for bird-safe toys in the shapes of Christmas trees, stars, or bells. Toys with natural fibres, colourful wooden pieces, and bells are perfect for keeping your parrot entertained while also satisfying their natural instincts.

2. Foraging Treats and Puzzles

Parrots adore foraging—it mimics their natural behaviour in the wild. For Christmas, treat them to a new foraging toy or puzzle feeder. Fill it with their favourite treats, such as nuts or dried fruit (free from sugar and preservatives). Not only does this keep them busy, but it also promotes mental stimulation.

3. Natural Perches

A new natural wood perch can be both a practical and enriching gift. Opt for perches made from bird-safe wood like manzanita, apple, or java wood. Natural shapes encourage better foot health and add a touch of variety to their habitat.

4. Customised Parrot Playground

Consider creating a dedicated play area for your parrot. You can purchase a parrot gym or DIY one with ladders, swings, and ropes. Add some festive touches with red and green elements to make it feel Christmassy.

5. Edible Christmas Wreaths

Treat your parrot to an edible Christmas wreath made from bird-safe materials. You can find pre-made ones or craft your own with willow branches, dried fruit, and vegetables. Just be sure to avoid toxic foods like avocado, chocolate, and onion.

6. Cosy Snuggle Hut

For smaller parrots like budgies or conures, a cosy snuggle hut makes a great present. These little hideaways offer warmth and security, ideal for the colder months. Ensure it’s made from non-toxic materials and is easy to clean.

7. Parrot-Safe Christmas Crackers

Make your parrot their own Christmas crackers filled with surprises! Use untreated cardboard tubes and stuff them with paper shreddings, small toys, and treats. Watching your parrot tear into their "cracker" is bound to bring a smile to your face.

8. Parrot Training Kit

Christmas is a wonderful time to bond with your feathered friend. A parrot training kit with clickers, target sticks, or rings can make for a fun, interactive gift. Use it to teach them tricks or encourage positive behaviours.

9. Parrot-Themed Christmas Decorations

Why not involve your parrot in decorating the house? Purchase or craft ornaments shaped like parrots or featuring feathers and bright colours. Your pet might not use these directly, but it’s a lovely way to celebrate their place in your family.

10. Homemade Parrot Treats

If you enjoy baking, whip up some homemade parrot treats. Use bird-safe ingredients like oats, wholemeal flour, and fresh fruit to create festive-shaped biscuits. Wrap them up in colourful, parrot-safe paper for an extra special presentation.

Final Tips for a Parrot-Safe Christmas

While it’s lovely to indulge your parrot during the holidays, remember to prioritise their safety. Avoid toys with small parts they could swallow, and steer clear of decorations or materials coated in paint or glue. Keep your parrot away from Christmas trees and lights unless supervised, as they can be hazardous.

By treating your parrot to one or more of these gifts, you’ll not only make their Christmas merry but also enrich their everyday life. So, as you deck the halls and wrap the presents, don’t forget the feathered members of your family!

Merry Christmas to you and your parrots!