2021 has been somewhat of a continuation of the rollercoaster of the previous year.
However, as things return to some normality, you should start that planning for Christmas. With that in mind here are some suggestions of things you should be doing this November.
Travel Plans
If you are planning on visiting relatives or travelling abroad, now is the time to make sure plans are in place, that the company you are using for transport is Covid-safe and that your tickets are refundable should arrangements change.
Christmas Shopping
If you haven’t started yours, begin by making a list of people you need to buy for. It’s been a tough time for small local independents, so aim to buy at least a few of your gifts from them.
If you are buying anything personalised, you should also make sure you order that now too so that it arrives in time for Christmas.
Don’t forget about Black Friday and plan to buy any larger goods online to save yourself some money.
You should also buy your Christmas cards, write and address them ready to post and make sure any that are going abroad are posted in good time. The same applies to the shipping of any presents you are likely to be sending.
Get the room ready for the tree
The start of November is the time to finish any last minutes decorating or jobs in the room where you have your Christmas tree.
Move the furniture now if you need to and give everywhere a good clean, because once the tree is in place and the presents start to grow under it, you’ll find it difficult to get to those hard to reach places to dust. Get the throws out and make sure your home is comfy for the season too.
Advent Calendar
Make sure you’ve got yours! There are so many to choose from nowadays, ranging from chocolate to high-end make-up, jewellery, homeware and food.
Plan a Calendar of Activities
Take a look through local ‘What’s On’ Guides and get any activities booked to ensure you and your family don’t miss out.
Baking Ingredients
If you like to bake for Christmas, now is the time to make sure you are stocked up on your ingredients. There’s no need to panic buy, but making sure you have enough flour, butter and essential ingredients now will save you queuing later.
Buy and Freeze Snacks
Keep a few bits and pieces in the freezer ready should people decide to drop round without much notice. Again, it’s not a reason to panic buy, just be prepared with a few bits to save unnecessary last-minute dashes to the supermarket.
Sort your Wardrobe
By now you should have put your summer clothes into storage. I know the weather can be unpredictable, but it’s unlikely you’ll be needing shorts for the foreseeable. Make sure you have plenty of room for fluffy jumpers, cosy loungewear and warm pyjamas.
Exercise
Just because it’s cold or you’re busy, it doesn’t mean you should stop exercising. Keeping your body active and healthy actually boosts your immune system which we all need to do this time of year, and let’s face it, we don’t feel so bad about stuffing our faces with the Christmas goodies either if we’ve managed to get some exercise.
Country Walks, Rides and Drives
Autumn is undoubtedly one of the most colourful times of the year when it comes to our trees and countryside. Make sure you get out into nature, either on foot, bike or even a short drive in the car, to fully appreciate the rich and vibrant colours of the leaves.
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