Christmas Is Coming !

Yes, Christmas is coming and it's definitely starting to look and feel Christmassy! In the UK many cities, towns and villages are busy preparing for Christmas, and the shop windows are looking nice and Christmassy 🎄 🎅 🎄

With the death of my beloved husband Eddie back in August, these past months have not been easy as I adjust to life without him. I am very fortunate to have wonderful family and special friends who have been, and continue to be, very supportive through this time. To my blogland friends I say thank you. We may never meet but over time we do seem to have what I can only describe as a blogland-bond between us. Your thoughts and continued good wishes as we exchange our posts, our thoughts and comments continue to mean a lot to me and are very special. 

So on I go, and I am pleased to say I have started to write my Christmas Cards, and have bought a few gifts ready for wrapping. There is already some 'Christmas' food in the freezer, so I am not doing too badly. How are you doing with your Christmas preparations? Do please share your thoughts in the comments section.

"Firstchristmascard". Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons

Did you know that the custom of sending Christmas cards didn't start until there was a postal service to deliver them! The first were sent in 1843 by Sir Henry Cole, boss of the Victoria and Albert Museum. He was far too busy to write letters so had an artist design 1,000 cards, illustrated with a festive family scene on the front and printed with the greeting, "A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to You". Horrified at being caught out, all his friends sent him one back the next year. In 1880 cards had become so popular that the public were warned for the first time to post early for Christmas.

Fast forward to 2024 and we are still being encouraged to post early for Christmas, although postage costs have increased I still think Royal Mail will be busy!

You can read more about the history of Christmas Cards here

Finally, in the midst of all the Christmas preparations, please take time to sit down and enjoy a refreshing cuppa - will it be tea or coffee?

Readers - you will find a variety of articles and recipe ideas, within this blog. It is important to note, not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e., use a reliable meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan