CHRISTMAS
Christmas COMES EARLY
Hush! Surely not a mention of the ‘C’ word in September; we are barely out of summer and Adele Trathan has the audacity to start talking about Christmas
W
ell, it may seem a little premature but, as we all know, the months roll around quickly, and some of us like to be super organised and have our Christmas shopping all wrapped up well in advance. This can mean less stress and a feeling of smug satisfaction as everyone else runs around like frantic madmen buying anything and everything in the days running up to the 25th December. Some advance planning can mean there is more time to put thought and creativity into present ideas for family members and friends. Also, some presents can take time and effort to create. Many people have turned their hand to arts and crafts since lockdown and handmade gifts are treasured for the love, attention and time invested in them. A hand-
knitted scarf or a set of lovingly embroidered napkins will be cherished forever. If you are artistic why not gift a drawing or painting from your own fair hand? Even if you are not creative, but want to give something personal, consider commissioning a local artist or craftsperson to make something bespoke for your loved ones. Other ideas for thoughtful and unique gifts could include photobooks or scrapbooks containing pictures and mementos. It might be time to finally organise all those digital photos on your phone and get them printed out and laid up in a beautiful personalised album. As technology advances, old cine films and video tapes of family celebrations have become increasingly redundant without the equipment to play them, so having them transferred to DVD or another digital format means they can be watched and enjoyed once again. What a great way to spend some time with family this Christmas, sharing treasured memories together. At last, events are finally taking place again, and over the next few months there should be plenty of opportunity to visit craft and gift fairs and be inspired for Christmas ideas. Many local artisans exhibit and sell their products at these events. Supporting them helps the local economy, as well as creating the opportunity to enjoy browsing a wide selection of arts, crafts, produce,
Whether you are organised and ahead of the game or a last minute manic shopper, you can still make a difference to the local economy drinks and more. You could create a bespoke hamper of personally selected delicious local food and drink or find the perfect handcrafted jewellery for your best friend. Whether you are organised and ahead of the game or a last minute manic shopper, you can still make a difference to the local economy and this year, more than ever, it’s good to shop local and support your high street. By choosing to shop at independent stores across the county, everyone benefits, and it really helps promote a sense of community. Keep it quiet but I am really excited about Christmas this year, I think we might be heading for a time of celebration – it’s been a long time coming – so let’s enjoy it! l September 2021 | SUSSEX LIVING 117
