ThereaTears. The ideal Christmas gift for the officer workers in your life

If you have officer workers in your life, poor souls who spend their working lives stuck in front of a computer monitor, That's Christmas has found the best Christmas stocking filler for them. It's TheraTears 5 in 1 Eyecare Screen Eyes Eye Drops.

I started using computers in the workplace in the mid-1980s and after 8 to 16 hours a day of staring at computer monitors caused sore eyes and tired eyes over 35+ years, I was very pleased to find out about TheraTears 5 in 1 Eyecare Screen Eyes Eye Drops. 

They are specially formulated for reducing eye strain, relieving irritation of the eyes and also refreshing and hydrating eyes when they feel dry, are red or irritated caused by eye dryness and extended computer screen use.

What do they do for you? They are lubricating, protective, biocompatible, isotonic. They are a preserved, buffered solution and contain Hyaluronic Acid (at 0.10%) and Euphrasia.

They are ideal for helping people who have eye stress or strain due to extended use of computers, mobile phone screens, tablets, video game systems or TV viewing.

Also pretty nifty for use in people suffering from poor lighting conditions night driving or the prolonged use of contact lenses. They are even suitable for use with contact lenses inserted.

What is Euphrasia? You might know it by its botanical name, Eyebright a plant long known for supporting the natural whitening of eyes in cases of redness due to irritation and tiredness of the eyes.

thera eyes have a range of products for eye care and you can sort out a Christmas eyecare pack for the office workers or computer users in your life. 

You can check them out here:- https://www.theratears-eu.com/where-to-buy

Do they work? They most certainly do! Why not buy some for yourself, too?

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How to Create Your Own Unique Christmas Baubles and Decorations

The festive season is a time for joy, celebration, and creativity. One of the best ways to add a personal touch to your Christmas decor is by crafting your own baubles and decorations. 

Not only does this allow you to infuse your home with personality and charm, but it’s also a fun and rewarding activity that the whole family can enjoy.

 Here's how you can make your own unique Christmas baubles and decorations to give your tree a bespoke, heartfelt flair.

1. Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, you’ll need to gather a few basic materials. Depending on the type of baubles and decorations you want to create, here are some useful supplies:

Clear plastic or glass baubles (available at most craft shops)

Acrylic paint or spray paint

Glitter, sequins, or beads

Ribbons, twine, and fabric scraps

Craft glue, glue gun, or double-sided tape

Paper, felt, or fabric for cut-out designs

Small paintbrushes or sponges

A steady hand and a dash of creativity!

2. Hand-Painted Baubles

Hand-painting baubles is a simple yet effective way to add a personal touch. Start with plain baubles, either glass or plastic, in any size or colour. Here's how to get started:

Step 1: Clean the surface of the bauble to ensure the paint adheres properly.

Step 2: Use acrylic paints to create your designs. You can paint snowflakes, stars, holly, or even initials or names. Metallic paints, such as gold and silver, can give your baubles a luxurious, festive feel.

Step 3: Allow your baubles to dry thoroughly. You can add a layer of glitter or a glossy sealant to give them extra shine.

Pro tip: If you're unsure about freehand painting, use stencils or masking tape to create crisp, professional-looking designs.

3. Fillable Baubles

For a fun and customisable option, try using clear baubles that can be filled with festive elements. This is an excellent project for kids and can be tailored to fit your holiday theme.

Step 1: Remove the top of the bauble and fill it with items of your choice. You can use fake snow, small pinecones, cinnamon sticks, or dried orange slices for a rustic look.

Step 2: For a glittery effect, mix glitter and small beads. For a more natural style, you can use twigs, berries, or even fabric scraps.

Step 3: Replace the top and finish the bauble with a festive ribbon tied in a bow.

These baubles make for charming keepsakes and can even be personalised with tiny notes or photos.

4. Fabric and Felt Decorations

Fabric and felt are fantastic for crafting soft, vintage-style ornaments. From simple stars to intricate embroidered snowflakes, the possibilities are endless.

Step 1: Cut out festive shapes from felt or fabric, such as stars, hearts, or Christmas trees.

Step 2: Sew two identical shapes together, leaving a small gap to stuff them with cotton or fabric scraps for a 3D effect.

Step 3: Decorate the shapes with embroidery, beads, sequins, or buttons to give them personality. Add a loop of ribbon or twine at the top so you can hang them from your tree.

These handmade decorations have a nostalgic, cosy feel and are perfect for a traditional Christmas theme.

5. Recycled Christmas Decorations

One of the most sustainable ways to decorate your tree is by upcycling materials you already have at home. Here's how you can create eco-friendly Christmas ornaments:

Step 1: Use old wrapping paper or magazines to create paper ornaments like stars, paper chains, or folded origami shapes.

Step 2: Repurpose items such as corks, bottle caps, or fabric scraps to craft quirky, unique decorations.

Step 3: Use old yarn or twine to wrap around Styrofoam balls or to create rustic stars and snowflakes.

Recycling materials for your decorations not only reduces waste but also adds a one-of-a-kind charm to your festive decor.

6. Personalised Photo Ornaments

Nothing brings a personal touch to your tree like photo ornaments. These are perfect as gifts or to commemorate special moments.

Step 1: Print small photos of family members, pets, or special holiday moments.

Step 2: Place the photos inside clear baubles, or attach them to wooden ornaments using glue or decoupage techniques.

Step 3: Embellish the ornaments with ribbon, glitter, or paint, and hang them from your tree for a personal touch.

7. Nature-Inspired Decorations

Incorporating natural elements into your Christmas decorations adds a rustic, organic vibe to your tree. These natural ornaments are easy to make and look beautiful in any setting.

Step 1: Gather pinecones, twigs, and dried leaves from outside. Pinecones can be spray-painted in gold or silver for a glamorous touch or left natural for a woodland theme.

Step 2: Attach small bells, berries, or miniature bows to the twigs or pinecones with glue. You can also use twine or raffia to hang them from your tree.

Step 3: Dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and star anise not only look beautiful but also give off a lovely Christmassy scent.

Final Thoughts

Crafting your own Christmas baubles and decorations is a brilliant way to make your holiday decor stand out. Whether you prefer rustic, traditional, or modern styles, there’s no limit to the creativity you can infuse into your ornaments. Plus, handmade decorations make wonderful gifts for friends and family. This Christmas, why not skip the shop-bought baubles and create something truly special?

Happy crafting, and have a Merry Christmas!

The Perfect Beer Pairings for Every Course of a Traditional Christmas Meal

The festive season brings not only joy and togetherness but also a feast to remember. 

While wine is often the go-to pairing for Christmas meals, beer offers a delightful and versatile alternative that complements each course beautifully. 

From rich roasts to indulgent desserts, the right beer can enhance every bite. Here’s a guide to pairing beer with a traditional Christmas meal, ensuring your celebration is as flavourful as it is festive.

Starters: Light and Zesty

Christmas dinner often kicks off with lighter dishes, perhaps a smoked salmon canapé, a prawn cocktail, or even a creamy soup. These starters require a beer that’s crisp and refreshing to cleanse the palate, without overwhelming the delicate flavours of the food.

Beer Pairing: Pilsner or Wheat Beer

A pilsner, with its clean, slightly hoppy finish, is the perfect match for lighter starters. Its effervescence works well with seafood, cutting through any oiliness. Alternatively, a wheat beer, with its fruity and slightly spicy notes, can complement the subtlety of a creamy soup or vegetable-based dishes. Both styles add a refreshing brightness that prepares the palate for the heartier dishes to come.

Main Course: Rich and Robust

The star of the Christmas table is typically a roast—whether it’s turkey, goose, or beef, served alongside rich trimmings like stuffing, roast potatoes, and gravy. For this course, you’ll want a beer with depth, one that can stand up to the robust flavours and textures of the traditional Christmas roast.

Beer Pairing: English Bitter or Belgian Dubbel

An English bitter, with its malty backbone and slight bitterness, is a fantastic choice for roast meats. It complements the savoury flavours of the meal while its moderate strength keeps the pairing balanced. A Belgian dubbel, with its caramel, dark fruit, and slight spice notes, offers a richer alternative, particularly for roasted beef or goose. The dubbel’s sweetness cuts through the richness of the meat, enhancing the flavours of the sides like cranberry sauce or spiced stuffing.

Vegetarian or Vegan Mains: Complex and Balanced

If your main course is a vegetarian wellington, nut roast, or a plant-based feast, the beer pairing needs to enhance the earthy, wholesome flavours of the dish.

Beer Pairing: Amber Ale or Saison

An amber ale, with its toasty malt profile and gentle bitterness, complements the nutty, umami flavours of vegetarian mains. For more adventurous palates, a saison brings peppery, fruity, and earthy notes that can elevate dishes featuring mushrooms, nuts, and roasted vegetables. Its light effervescence also helps balance the richness of sauces or gravies often served with vegan dishes. Incidentally you should source vegan beers for pairing with vegan foods.

Pudding: Sweet and Decadent

Christmas pudding, mince pies, and other festive desserts call for something indulgent yet balanced. You’ll want a beer that can either match the sweetness of the dessert or cut through it with a complementary contrast.

Beer Pairing: Imperial Stout or Barleywine

For a truly indulgent finish, an imperial stout with its rich, roasted malt character and notes of chocolate, coffee, and dried fruits is ideal for pairing with Christmas pudding or mince pies. The stout’s creamy texture mirrors the richness of the dessert while the roasted bitterness prevents it from becoming too sweet. Alternatively, a barleywine, with its intense malt sweetness and high alcohol content, can serve as a dessert on its own or as a companion to fruit cakes and puddings. Its complex flavours of toffee, caramel, and dried fruit create a harmonious match with the spiced and fruity Christmas sweets.

Cheese Course: Bold and Balanced

If you’re serving a cheese board after the main meal, consider a beer that can cut through the richness of creamy cheeses while standing up to the strength of blue varieties.

Beer Pairing: Belgian Tripel or Porter

A Belgian tripel, with its fruity esters, subtle spice, and effervescence, pairs wonderfully with hard cheeses like Cheddar or Comté, while its sweetness complements blue cheese without overpowering it. For creamier, buttery cheeses like Brie or Camembert, a porter’s roasted malt and subtle chocolate notes provide a delightful contrast, adding depth without overwhelming the cheese’s mild flavour.

Conclusion: A Festive Toast to Beer

This Christmas, consider swapping out the wine and raising a glass of carefully selected beer with each course. Beer’s vast range of flavours, from light and crisp to dark and intense, offers the perfect pairing for every dish on your festive table. Whether you prefer traditional British ales or more adventurous Belgian brews, there’s a beer to suit every palate and enhance the joys of the Christmas feast.

Cheers to a merry Christmas filled with good food, great company, and, of course, exceptional beer!

The Perfect Christmas Cheeseboard: A Selection of Cheeses, Crackers, Biscuits, Fruits, and Nuts

Christmas is a time for indulgence, and no festive feast would be complete without a beautifully curated cheeseboard to round off the meal. 

A well-balanced cheeseboard is a celebration of different flavours and textures, creating the perfect harmony between savoury and sweet, creamy and crunchy. 

Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying a cosy family gathering, here's a guide to crafting the perfect traditional Christmas cheeseboard.

The Cheeses: A Variety of Flavours and Textures

The foundation of any cheeseboard is, of course, the cheese. A perfect selection offers a variety of styles to suit all palates, from mild and creamy to strong and tangy. Here are five essential cheese types to include:

Soft Cheese – Think brie or camembert for a luxuriously creamy option. The rich, buttery flavour of these cheeses works well with fruit and nuts. A baked brie with a drizzle of honey and sprigs of rosemary can be a showstopper.

Blue Cheese – Stilton is a classic British Christmas cheese, known for its strong, tangy flavour and crumbly texture. Pair it with something sweet like ripe pears or fig jam for the perfect balance.

Hard Cheese – A well-aged cheddar, such as a mature farmhouse cheddar, brings a sharp, nutty flavour. You could also opt for Red Leicester or Double Gloucester for a softer, more mellow option.

Goat’s Cheese – For something lighter, a fresh goat’s cheese adds a tangy, earthy note. You might choose a mild, soft chèvre, or go for an aged goat’s cheese with a firmer texture and stronger flavour.

Washed Rind Cheese – For the adventurous, a washed-rind cheese like Époisses or Taleggio can provide a punch of flavour. These cheeses are pungent but mellow, often developing complex fruity notes.

The Crackers and Biscuits: A Mix of Crunch and Flavour

Crackers and biscuits are the perfect vehicles for cheese, and it's important to offer a variety that complements your selection.

Water Crackers – Simple and neutral, these crackers allow the cheese to shine, providing a crisp texture without overwhelming the flavours.

Oatcakes – A traditional Scottish addition, oatcakes bring a rustic, nutty flavour that pairs especially well with cheddar and blue cheeses.

Seeded Crackers – These add an extra layer of flavour and texture, with the seeds offering a delightful crunch. They’re perfect for soft cheeses like brie or camembert.

Digestive Biscuits – A slightly sweeter option, digestive biscuits work surprisingly well with tangy blue cheeses or a sharp cheddar. They add a touch of sweetness that balances out stronger flavours.

Sourdough Crispbread – For something a little more artisanal, sourdough crispbreads bring a unique, tangy crunch that works well with creamy and soft cheeses.

Fruits: Sweet Complements to Savoury Cheese

Fruits are a must for adding sweetness and balancing out the richness of the cheese. Here’s a mix of fresh and dried options:

Grapes – A classic pairing, grapes bring a refreshing sweetness and juiciness that works with almost any cheese, particularly soft and blue varieties. For an added zing, try freezing the grapes beforehand.

Figs – Fresh or dried, figs add a rich sweetness that complements tangy blue cheeses like Stilton or Roquefort. Their earthy flavour also pairs beautifully with goat’s cheese.

Apples and Pears – Crisp and sweet, apples and pears offer a refreshing contrast to creamy cheeses. A tart Granny Smith or a sweet Conference pear are great choices.

Dried Apricots – Their chewy texture and intense sweetness pair well with sharp cheddar or an aged gouda, providing a delightful contrast.

Quince Paste – Also known as membrillo, quince paste is a traditional accompaniment to cheese. Its sweet, floral flavour works particularly well with manchego or any hard, aged cheese.

Nuts: A Crunchy Finishing Touch

Nuts provide a crunchy texture and earthy flavour that elevates the cheeseboard experience. Be sure to include a variety:

Walnuts – Their slightly bitter flavour pairs perfectly with blue cheese and goat’s cheese, enhancing the tangy notes.

Almonds – Roasted or raw, almonds add a mild, nutty crunch that goes well with almost any cheese, particularly creamy varieties.

Hazelnuts – Their sweet, buttery flavour is a natural fit for hard cheeses like cheddar or gouda.

Pistachios – These add a lovely pop of colour and a rich, slightly sweet flavour, perfect for soft and creamy cheeses.

Pecan Nuts – With their sweet, buttery flavour, pecans are a great match for blue cheeses, balancing the tang with their natural sweetness.

Finishing Touches: Jams, Chutneys, and Honey

A cheeseboard isn’t complete without a few sweet or savoury accompaniments. Jams and chutneys help balance the flavours, and honey can add a luxurious sweetness to the overall experience.

Fig Jam – A must-have with blue cheese, its sweetness offsets the tanginess of the cheese beautifully.

Onion Chutney – A rich, caramelised onion chutney adds a savoury, slightly sweet element that pairs well with hard cheeses like cheddar.

Honey – Drizzle over soft cheeses like brie or goat’s cheese for an indulgent touch of sweetness. You could also serve a pot of honeycomb for a visually stunning addition.

Bringing It All Together

Arranging your cheeseboard is an art in itself. Place the cheeses first, ensuring each has enough room to be sliced easily, and arrange the crackers and biscuits around them. Scatter fruits and nuts throughout the board, filling any gaps with bursts of colour and texture. Be sure to include small bowls or dishes for chutneys, jams, and honey, and don’t forget to provide separate knives for each cheese to avoid mixing flavours.

With the right selection of cheeses, crackers, fruits, and nuts, your traditional Christmas cheeseboard will be the star of your festive spread. Enjoy the mix of sweet, savoury, crunchy, and creamy flavours as you celebrate the holiday season in style.

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Make your Christmas shopping count with Cards For Good Causes

Annual charity pop-ups return to the heart of local communities next month.

As Christmas approaches, why not make your Christmas shopping count for more this year? Cards For Good Causes is returning for 2024, offering you the opportunity to support charities and your local community with every card or gift you purchase.

Save the date for Friday 27th September at 10am, for the grand opening of the Cards For Good Causes flagship shop at Holy Trinity Church 146 Sloane Street, London. 

The pop-up will be buzzing with holiday spirit and welcoming visitors until 21st December. This marks the start of a wave of pop-up shops rolling out across the UK throughout October. Each purchase will generate vital funds for charities which strive hard to make a real difference, transforming your Christmas shopping into an act of kindness.

Why visit Cards For Good Causes? The pop-ups are about more than just beautiful cards and Christmas essentials, they’re a chance to support meaningful causes.

Every purchase supports national charities and your local community. Over the last decade, Cards For Good Causes has raised over £22.5 million for a network of in excess of 100 charities, including NSPCC, RSPA, WaterAid, Shelter, Carers UK and The Ramblers. 

Also, they’ve contributed more than £2.7 million to local churches, libraries and community projects, thus ensuring your purchases make a difference close to home, too.

Step into a world of festive magic at your local Cards For Good Causes pop-up shop, and discover an enchanting array of greeting cards, advent calendars and a wider range of gifts than ever before, which are sure to ignite your Christmas spirit. 

But the experience doesn’t end there - explore a stunning selection of gift wrap, decorations, stationery and homeware, all while making a meaningful difference to the causes and communities you care about. To find your nearest shop visit: https://cardsforcharity.co.uk/product-category/find-a-card-shop

Can’t make it to your local pop-up? The full range is available online with same-day dispatch and free shipping on orders over £40: https://www.cardsforcharity.co.uk.

Christine Ansell, CEO of Cards For Good Causes says: “In these times when every penny counts, we’re delighted to offer shoppers a truly unique opportunity to support charities that are changing lives while also strengthening local communities. 

"Thanks to our committed partners, seasonal staff and local volunteers, we’re returning to the hearts of neighbourhoods across the country, providing a meaningful way for people to give this Christmas.”

As the UK's largest multi-charity Christmas card organisation, Cards For Good Causes has opened shops around the UK each year since 1959, making it a cornerstone of festive charitable giving. This year, your support is needed more than ever. As you deck the halls and fill your stockings, keep in mind that every card or gift you choose helps fund vital charities and support local communities. Together, we can make a lasting impact this Christmas.

That's Christmas covered Cards For Good Causes last year. We're genuinely pleased to be able to promote them again.