Gosh this feels like a funny thing to write, having just spent the last few hours making the website look a lot more festive. But sometimes you have to wear your heart on your sleeve and spout a little bit of your truth. And where better to do that then on your own website, for the whole world to see - if they wish.
I have always loved Christmas, from early memories of my parents making magic happen, to recent years of creating my own rituals and celebrations. In the darkest of months, the coming together and breaking bread is core to what I believe in. I am not a Christian, and therefore the traditions and my lack of religious belief can make me feel a bit of a hypocrite. Whilst the consumerism associated with this holiday conflicts with my personal ethos of only using what we need, and trying not to lean heavily on a planet on the brink of collapse. This is all at loggerheads with being a small business owner, and historically making nearly 40% of our yearly sales in the October to December period.
However, I do believe gift giving is a language of love. But there are rules! Presents should not be used as bargaining chips, or stretch you beyond your means. Think of them as shiny tokens of appreciation for those you hold dear. With every item you bestow you have the opportunity to make a choice for a fairer world, a future that’s more sustainable, or a lesson in treading lighter. I don’t want this to sound trite or condescending, because I truly do love to spoil those around me, but I make clear choices. I will only give people things I think they will genuinely like or use - I don’t buy things that give me the, “oh that will do feeling.” I set a clear budget, and willingly buy second hand, recycled, or from independent businesses. It does mean that you have to be a little bit more organised, but I think this is a fair sacrifice to stay true to my core beliefs.
As a couple, Jim and I generally try to make a few tasty treats, to bolster our gift giving, and spread a little love. This year I will be making Butter Tablet and Crispy Chilli and he is making Spiced Candied Nuts - which went down a storm last year. Other years offerings have been chocolate orange pretzels - which are ludicrously easy and utterly moreish and Marmalade. Perhaps I can share some of these recipes in the coming weeks, let me know if they might be of interest.
However you feel about Christmas, I think am firmly in the camp of celebrating and being with your nearest and dearest in the depths of Winter. To acknowledge the journeys you’ve been on through the past year, and letting them know that you love them. And to bring a little warmth and candlelight when the nights are long, is never a bad thing.