BEING THRIFTY NOVEMBER 2024

Bring thrifty this month has included a few freebies, some charity shop bargains, making money selling some bits we don't use on Vinted and more. So read on to find out what we've managed to do this month.



Vinted selling
I've managed to make over £100 on Vinted this month selling bits we no longer need such as clothing B has out grown, toys and bits that will make great Christmas gifts which we have no use for.


Vinted buying
I used some of my vinted funds on a few bits as well. These prices all include the postage costs.

- Spotty Dress - £7.04 
- book bundle- £15 for 6 books I've been wanting
- Presents for Stuart for Christmas - £14
- Fleece Minecraft pj's for B - £8.19


Donations
As well as selling things on vinted as we've been having our pre Christmas clear out we have also taken a fair few bags to a few local charity shops.

CHRISTMAS AT POLKERRAN POINT BY CASS GRAFTON


Ad – review. I was sent a copy of this book for review purposes and all thoughts are my own.


Today I am involved in the book tour for Christmas at Polkerran Point. Cass began her writing life in Regency England, enlisted Jane Austen's help to time travel between then and the present day and is now happily ensconced in 21 st century Cornwall. Well, in her imagination and soul; her heart and physical presence reside in northern England with her ever patient husband and Tig and Tag, their cute but exceptionaly demanding moggies.

A bit of a nomad, Cass has called three countries home, as well as six different English counties, but her aspiration is to one day reunite with her beloved West Country. In the meantime, she writes feel good contemporary romances set in Cornwall and, in doing so, manages to live there vicariously through her characters and settings. An Ambassador for the Jane Austen Literacy Foundation, Cass is also a member of the Romantic Novelists ’ Association, the Jane Austen Society UK and the Society of Authors.



 F
ate may have brought them together, but secrets seem destined to keep them apart...

An accident and a lost passport mean
Gemma's six month sabbatical to go travelling is not off to a strong start. She heads to Polkerran Point to stay at her aunt's while her new passport is processed.and to find temporary work in the meantime.

Enter musician Matt. Newly moved into a secluded, renovated mill complete with a recording studio. Matt is preparing for his band's big reunion tour. Focused on writing new music for the album, he needs a live-in housekeeper. Even as sparks fly, Gemma can sense Matt's keeping secrets and with her role ending once Christmas.is over, will there be anything to keep her in Polkerran?

A cosy, festive Cornish romance for fans of Phillipa Ashley and Cressida McLaughlin.

CREATE A DAZZLING CHRISTMAS LIGHT DISPLAY WITH WERCHRISTMAS

 Ad – review. I was sent the Merry Christmas rope light in return for featuring however all thoughts are my own.


Bringing the festive spirit to our home at the most magical time of the year with our decorations is one of our favourite things to do. Lights that can be used either indoors or outdoors are great way to enhance the atmosphere of your home this holiday season. 

When it comes to finding all your Christmas decorations and light needs in one place WeRChristmas is the online leading retailer to go to. WeRChristmas is a family oriented business with a passion for all things festive. Their wide range of decorations and lighting products will make your Christmas truly memorable.




We were recently sent the Animated Merry Christmas Rope Light from WeRChristmas. This captivating light measures 185cm in length and adorned with 756 multi-coloured LED lights, creating a dazzling display. 

Designed with an 8-speed memory controller, the lighting settings can be adjusted to suit your taste. Featuring a memory function that allows you to automatically select your preferred mode when it's switched on, so you'll only have to do it once!

British Christmas traditions

The mere thought of Christmas evokes images of magical twinkling lights, mulled wine, carollers wrapped in scarves, and perhaps a mince pie (or three). But have you ever stopped to wonder about the origins of these much-loved British Christmas traditions? Pour yourself a festive drink and let's journey back in time to unearth the roots of our cherished Yuletide traditions.

 




Deck the Halls with Boughs of Holly

Before the birth of Christ, ancient Celts and Druids used evergreen plants in winter solstice celebrations. They believed that these greens represented everlasting life. As Christianity spread, such customs were adapted and incorporated. Holly, Ivy, and mistletoe became synonymous with Christmas, with Holly often symbolising the crown of thorns that were worn by Jesus and the berries representing the drops of his blood.

 

British Christmas traditions - Mince Pies

The mince pie, is an absolute festive staple with a curious history. Originally, these pies were filled with actual meat (often mutton), fruits, and spices, symbolising the gifts the Magi (three kings/wise men) brought to baby Jesus. Over time, the meat was phased out, and the mince pies we know and love today are sweet, spiced, and utterly moreish. They aren't everyone's cup of tea but they are one of my favourite festive treats to enjoy.

 

Stir-Up Sunday and the Christmas Pudding

Dating back to Victorian times, the tradition of 'Stir-up Sunday' sees families gathering to mix and steam their Christmas pudding five weeks before Christmas. While stirring the pudding, each member makes a wish. Lucky silver coins are added to the mix, promising wealth to whoever discovers them in their slice – so do be careful when eating yours.

 

British Christmas traditions - Hanging Stockings by the Fireplace

This tradition can be traced back to the legend of St. Nicholas, who was known for his generosity. It's believed that he once dropped gold coins down the chimney of a poor man's house, which landed in stockings hung up to dry. Today, British children hang stockings, hoping to find them filled with small presents on Christmas morning. 

 

Decorating For Christmas: How To Spruce Up Your Festive Decor

The holiday season in the UK is a magical time of year that's filled with twinkling lights, glistening baubles, and homes radiating warmth and festivity. Whether you prefer a minimalist approach to your decor or love going all out with your decorations, there are numerous ways to infuse your home with the festive spirit. Let's explore some valuable tips for elevating your Christmas decor, from your tree ornaments to the enchanting glow of your lights.




Starting with the Tree

When it comes to the Christmas tree, you're first step is choosing the right one. Whether you opt for a real tree with its natural charm or a reusable artificial tree, you need to ensure it fits well within your space. Make sure to measure the ceiling height and leave enough room for your chosen star or angel tree topper.

 

Layering the Lights is the next step. Begin by wrapping the lights around the tree from the base, moving upward. You can opt for classic white lights for a timeless look, or add a dash of vibrancy with colored ones. Consider energy-efficient LED lights to brighten up your tree while conserving energy.

 

As for Ornament Arrangement, begin with the larger baubles at the base of the tree, gradually moving to smaller ones as you ascend. This arrangement creates a harmonious and balanced look. Don't forget to place heirloom or special ornaments in prominent positions to make them shine.

 

To add a touch of natural beauty, consider incorporating pinecones, dried orange slices, or cinnamon sticks into your tree decor. These earthy elements can infuse your tree with rustic charm.

 

Beyond the Tree: Room Decor

Festive Centrepieces are an elegant addition to your dining table. Craft a centerpiece using candles, holly branches, and pine sprigs. For an extra touch of glamour, scatter baubles and ribbons among the greenery.

 

For a festive living space, consider Window Dressing. Hang a festive wreath, use window stickers to create delightful scenes, or drape fairy lights to cast a magical glow.

 

Your Mantelpiece is another canvas for creativity. Adorn it with garlands, stockings, and candles to create a warm and inviting focal point. If you have an unused fireplace, fill it with logs, fairy lights, or beautifully wrapped presents to give it a cozy, festive makeover.

 

Decorating for Christmas - Let There Be Light

 

Illuminate the exterior of your home with Outdoor Sparkle. Use net lights to adorn bushes, icicle lights to drape along the eaves, and pathway lights to lead the way to your front door. This outdoor illumination enhances the overall holiday atmosphere.

 

Consider setting up a timer for your lights, ensuring they come to life as dusk settles in. This not only saves energy but also ensures your home is beautifully aglow when it matters most.

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE FOR ADULTS 2024

PR Samples – I received the items featured in this post for consideration on my blog.


*This post also includes affiliate links – if you buy anything via these links I will receive a small payment from the company, this does not affect the price you pay.


Now it's time to share my Christmas 2024 gift guide for adults. I've shared my kids Gift Guide for Christmas 2024 which you can find here. There are a great mix of items featured in this guide to help you out. As usual don't forget to use cashback such as Jamdonut and look out for any sales to save you some extra ££s.






Prezzee Gift Card | £5 - £500

Prezzee is a digital eGift card which can be redeemed at over 190 retail and hospitality outlets including M&S, Lego, Primark, Argos, Netflix, Bella Italia, to name a few. With just a few clicks, you can send a heartfelt gift that lets your recipient choose exactly what brings them joy, with the option of adding a personalised video that's sure to bring a smile to their face. The Prezzee eGift card makes a great gift for those long distance relatives or for those you are unsure what to get for.

Clean Co non-alcoholic spirits | £16

Clean Co are a great brand of non-alcoholic spirit alternatives, ideal for those that don't drink. CleanCo offer alcohol-free gins, whisky, rum and tequila. Their spirits are all sugar free and low in calories. We have been a fan of their range over the past few years.

Clean G Rhubarb is a pink gin offering a refreshing blend of fruity rhubarb, juniper, and red berries. Expertly crafted by a master distiller in small copper pot stills, resulting in a premium non-alcoholic pink gin. 


Double Dutch Premium Mixers |  Exploration Pack £20.15

Double Dutch sell a wide selection of premium mixers. Their mixers come in a bold range of flavour combinations. These mixers go well with a range of spirits. Their Exploration pack gives you or your recipient the chance to discover  10 varieties of the different flavours available. Mix with gin, rum, tequila or whisky for delicious cocktail creations in minutes – or simply sip solo. 



 Buffalo Hot Sauce Flavour Mix | £24.99

Sauce Shop® , is the place to shop for sauce lovers. They are also winners of 39 Great Taste Awards! This Christmas they have got you covered with their flavour-packed gifting collections to suit all tastes and budgets this festive season.

The Sauce Shop Buffalo Hot Sauce Flavour collection features Original and other flavours to excite any true Buffalo lover. All five of these hot sauces are crafted with Sauce Shop's very own fermented jalapeño and habanero chillies, bringing layers and layers of flavour.



Sakuraco Japanese Snack Box | Price Varies 

Sakuraco is a subscription snack box where you can discover authentic Japanese foods. Every month you get to experience a new area of Japan through authentic flavors and learn about Japanese culture through food and tea. 

Sakuraco works with many Japanese family-owned businesses who dedicate their lives to the art of snack making. Sakuraco is a great gift this Christmas for foodies wanting to try something new. In the box for this month, Sakuraco have partnered with Ishikawa Prefecture to curate an exclusive box that directly supports the ongoing earthquake recovery efforts of Noto Peninsula and affected communities.

Catalogue of Desire and Disappearance by Ana Cruz | £11.99

‘*Catalog of Desire and Disappearance' is a mesmerizing tale of passion, intrigue and self-discovery that will leave readers breathless.

When Ana, a socially awkward 28-year old, finds a discarded diary on the streets of Berlin, she unwittingly uncovers a hidden world of desire,
danger and disappearance. The diary belongs to Gabriella Meyer, a daring sex therapist living in the communist East Berlin during the 80s, where pleasure was a scarce commodity and danger lurked around every corner. As Ana delves deeper into Gabriella's life and work, she discovers that her own sexual awakening and Gabriella's sudden disappearance may be more intertwined than she ever could have imagined. With each page of the diary revealing new secrets, Ana becomes increasingly obsessed with the enigmatic Gabriella and the dark truths that she may have hidden.


Someone to Blame by J.J.Green | £8.92

*Someone to Blame is the second novel from author J. J. Green. Following Shay Dunne who is a poison pen. Not that she wants to be one. But a recent tragedy in her life has left her hell-bent on dishing out some punishment to the two people she blames. Sending them a letter containing a vague accusation will do the trick.

Only the letters set in motion a series of unintended consequences, and Shay soon discovers that in the close-knit Irish village she calls home, a community still reeling from Covid, there are sinister secrets everywhere.

The Wilds by Sarah Pearse

The Wilds by Sarah Pearse is her third book in her popular Detective Elin Warner series. Following on from *The Sanatorium and *The Retreat, *The Wilds takes you deep into the woods.

After the dark events that scarred her childhood, Kier Templer escaped her hometown and twin to live her life on the road. They've never lost contact until, on a trip to a Portuguese national park, Kier vanishes without a trace.

Detective Elin Warner arrives in the same park ready to immerse herself in its vast wilderness - onl2y to hear about Kier's disappearance, and discover a disturbing map she left behind. The few strangers at the isolated camp close ranks against her questions, and the park's wild beauty starts to turn sinister.

Elin must untangle the clues to find out what really happened to Kier. But when you follow a trail, you have to be careful to watch your back...




Your Last Gift by Matthew Hutton | £19.99

*Your Last Gift is a practical gift for someone who likes to be organised. Your Last Gift is a comprehensive guide in getting your affairs in order. Endorsed by Stephen Fry & Rupert Everett, this book, written by retired Tax lawyer Matthew Hutton, comes with downloadable forms for you to fill in and store yourself. 


925 Sterling Silver Moonstone Teardrop Necklace | £55

This stunning Moonstone Teardrop Necklace is lovingly handmade by  Xander Kostroma's in-house jewellery makers. This luxurious necklace features a 925-sterling silver ball chain with a polished Moonstone semi-precious stone pendant in a silver tone to finish. Each necklace is unique due to the natural materials and form used.  Moonstone is a beautiful and mystical gemstone that has been used for centuries as a symbol of intuition, femininity, and healing. It is said to enhance creativity, calm emotions, and balance the energies of the body and mind. Moonstone jewellery is perfect for anyone who wants to connect with their inner wisdom and express their unique style.

This necklace comes beautifully gift-wrapped as standard, ready to gift to a loved one or to keep as a little treat for yourself.


Black skull bracelet  | £11
SunburstVoid is the dream creation of Twig (aka Cooper) started in Oct 2023 following a medical diagnosis that left them unable to safely work in their EMT career.

If you need a gift for someone with eclectic tastes or looking for something witchy or mystical, you're in the right place! Twig designs and creates products that capture the space where nature and witchcraft coexist.

Show off your gothic vibes with this black skull bracelet! With Obsidian & Stone Beads on an elastic string this spooky bracelet is available in sizes 5.5 to 8 inches. The best practice for wearing your bracelet is to roll the bracelet onto your wrist rather than pulling to prevent breakage.



Disney Family Calender | £9.99

Know someone who is always super busy then the range of family calenders from Danilo is sure to help them stay on top of their daily activities. These square wall calenders are designed to help busy families to juggle their hectic lives. Each family organiser comes with 5 handy columns for each family member, along with handy pockets for keeping coupons and appointment cards in. The *Disney Family Calender is ideal for families who love all things Disney.  They are available from retailers such as Amazon, WHSmith, Clintons, Card Factory, Tesco etc.

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE FOR THE KIDS 2024

PR Samples – I received the majority of the items in this post for consideration on my blog.


*This post also includes affiliate links – if you buy anything via these links I will receive a small payment from the company, this does not affect the price you pay.


Welcome to my first Christmas 2024 gift guide! This one is for the kids and I've searched the Internet for ideas of things that are bound to be a hit this coming holiday season.The first 4 items in this year's gift guide are items I've picked out myself whilst the rest are items sent to me for inclusion in this post.  Don't forget to also keep an eye out for any sales that are on to help you save some extra £s and use cashback such as *Everup too. 






Wow Stuff FX Disney Stitch | £69.99 

Disney Stitch is still pretty popular at the moment. The Wow Stuff FX Disney Stitch Puppet is one of many Stitch themed toys that is sure to be popular among Stitch fans this Christmas. The interactive puppet has over 100 action and sound combos to bring Stitch to life. With blinking eyes, a moving mouth, touch and movement sensors, and soft, cuddly fur, Stitch responds to your voice and touch, making this captivating little alien the perfect friend for any Stitch fan! 3x AAA batteries are required.


Minecraft Exploding RC Creeper | £49.99

The Minecraft Exploding RC Creeper is sure to be on Minecraft fans Christmas wishlist this year! B has it on his list so we need to get our hands on it fast. The Exploding RC Creeper is the ultimate remote-control figure with game authentic movement! You load the 10 explosion particles into the Exploding RC Creeper and press the button on the controller for lights and sounds -- then, press and hold to explode and launch the particles into the air! 3x AA and x2 AAA batteries are required.


Get ready for the ultimate prehistoric play experience the GrossMos Flying Dino toy! Watch out for its magic unboxing - touch the sleeping dino's jaw three times and see it shake and rock as it wakes up. When the dino's jaws open with a mighty roar, kids will love the surprise of a second smaller dinosaur which escapes from its giant jaws and takes flight. Simply hold your hand underneath the mini dinosaur to guide him as high as you can. Batteries required: 1x rechargeable 3.7V Li-Po battery (included) and 3x AAA batteries.




Experience the thrill of the next generation of Beyblade tops, Beyblade X. The Beyblade X Xtreme Battle Set has all you need to begin your quest for Beymastery. The Xtreme Beystadium (17.2 x 14 inches; 43.8 x 35.5 cm) and 2 Beyblade X right-spin tops feature the X-Celerator Gear System to level up your game and prove it in battle! When the gear of the top engages the stadiums X-Celerator Rail, it can super-accelerate into an Xtreme Dash rocketing it around the arena for crushing collisions. It's set to be on lots of children's Christmas lists this year so grab one fast before they sell out! 


Stretch 'N' Smash Pig | £9.99
Meet the Stretch 'N' Smash Pig that's exclusive to Wicked Uncle. The Stretch 'N' Smash Pig is the newest squishy must-have that is sure to be the latest craze! Measuring 13cm from head to trotter, he is filled with a fascinating tactile sand that holds its shape. Pinch, squeeze and stretch him to change his form and create some hilarious expressions. Even better, toss him on the floor and he lies flat like a pancake! Simply poke him back into shape to play again. Lots of silly fun which I'm sure adults will enjoy too.


Enuff Splat Red/Blue Complete Skateboard £29.95 

Skateboarding is currently one of the most popular extreme sports on the market. If you are wanting to get going straight away a complete skateboard from skates.co.uk is right choice for you! They stock all of the major brands such as Real, Flip, Element, Enuff and many more. With a wide range of designs, colours and deck sizes to choose from, there’s a complete set-up for everyone.

The Enuff Splat skateboard (above)  is ideal for beginners to intermediate riders. This bright and colourful skateboard makes the perfect gift this Christmas whether you are just starting your skateboarding journey, or you're looking to advance your skills. With high quality components to ensure that you get the most of the board. Featuring a 7-Ply maple deck, mounted on the ever popular 129mm Enuff Decade trucks. The 54mm high rebound 90A wheels with ABEC 9 carbon bearings offer a smooth, comfortable ride. 



Plus-Plus Builds sets | Various prices

Step into a world of endless creative possibilities with Plus-Plus. With its unique design in a single shape, Plus-Plus offers boundless opportunities for creativity. With a wide range of sets available such as the build and glow (above), transportation, animals and dinosaurs, Christmas themed sets (below) and more you are spoilt for choice. They make the ideal creative building gift this Christmas for children of ages 3 and up.

The build and glow set is part of the plus-plus glow in the dark range. Build stars, moons, space creatures, ghosts or whatever your imagination can come up with and watch them glow in an enchanting radiance, bringing extra fun and creativity to your building adventures.
 

The Plus-Plus Christmas range make great stocking fillers or a fun addition to your children's Christmas Eve Box. Build your very own Santa, Christmas tree, candy cane, stars and more with a range of  beautiful traditional Christmas colours. 




Stink Bug | £11.99

Stink Bug, available from Wicked Uncle is a colourful  matching game for early learners.  This fun and engaging game is suitable for ages 4 + and played with 2-4 players. The aim is all about finding leafy pairs. Flip tiles over to discover shapes and colours, then keep the pairs you find - but look out for sneaky insects! Some are helpful, some not so much... From Stink Bugs to Butterflies, each has a different function. The sturdy cardboard pieces measure a generous 10cm long so are perfect for small hands.




Walk like a chicken | £16.99

Walk like a chicken is a hilarious hide and seek game. Get the whole family involved in completing funny walks. Race to find tokens in this totally wacky game for preschoolers that's  for 2 or more players. Have an adult hide the pieces around the house or yard, then start the scavenger hunt. But there's a clever catch - whatever token you're looking for, that's the way you have to move! From hopping like a kangaroo to zooming like an airplane, you've never looked so silly! With 18 funny cards, this smart game is a great way to get little ones active, with guaranteed giggles.

Umbilical Cord Blood: A Vital Resource for Your Child's Long-Term Health

 *This is a collaborative post with Cells4Life.

Umbilical cord blood, often overlooked, holds immense potential for medical advancements that could benefit not only the child it’s collected from but also potentially their family members. Found in the umbilical cord and placenta immediately after childbirth, this blood is a rich source of stem cells—a valuable resource for parents considering their child’s long-term health. But what exactly is cord blood, and why is it so important?



Cord blood is an especially potent source of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), which are the fundamental building blocks for the formation of blood and immune cells. These HSCs are unique because they offer a perfect match to the baby from whom they are collected, as well as a high probability of matching other family members. Specifically, cord blood stem cells offer up to a 75% chance of a partial match and up to a 25% chance of a perfect match for siblings, which is considerably higher than the matching potential of bone marrow or peripheral blood stem cells. This makes cord blood highly versatile in medical applications, as it’s often easier to match with recipients than other types of stem cells.


Cord blood’s value is underscored by its role in treating a wide range of medical conditions. Currently, HSCs from cord blood are approved for treating over 80 serious conditions, including certain types of cancers, immune system disorders, and blood disorders. As research progresses, the scope of these treatments is expanding, with ongoing clinical trials investigating potential applications for conditions such as cerebral palsy, Type 1 diabetes, and even some neurological disorders. While these applications are still under study, they signal an exciting future for regenerative medicine.


Stem cells are central to the field of regenerative medicine, which aims to repair or replace damaged tissues and organs. The unique ability of stem cells to transform into various cell types means they hold the potential for groundbreaking therapies. Scientists envision a future where stem cells may be used to grow replacement organs and tissues tailored to a patient’s own genetic makeup, greatly reducing the risk of rejection and enhancing treatment outcomes. The cord blood stem cells collected at birth could become invaluable in personalised medicine, offering possibilities for future therapies that may not yet be available.

Handmade Christmas Gifts: Gifts that wont Break the Bank

The festive season is upon us, and with it comes the annual challenge of finding the perfect gift/s for loved ones. While it's easy to get swept up in the commercial side of Christmas, there's something genuinely heartwarming about gifting a handmade present instead. Not only do DIY gifts add a personal touch, but they can also be incredibly cost-effective. Let's explore five delightful DIY gift ideas that can help you to show off your creativity while saving those pennies.

 


Personalised Recipe Book

In the spirit of thoughtful gifting and the warmth of the holiday season, a Personalized Recipe Book makes a heartfelt and handmade present that can bring joy to the hearts and kitchens of your loved ones. Crafting a unique collection of cherished family recipes or those shared by friends, this personalized recipe book becomes not just a gift but is a keepsake for years to come.

 

To create this meaningful gift, start by gathering those treasured recipes that have either been passed down through generations or are culinary creations that hold a special place in your heart. Then, find a blank notebook or use craft paper that can be easily bound together to form the foundation of your recipe book.

 

The real magic happens when you turn your attention to decorating the cover. Let your creativity shine by embellishing it with scrapbooking supplies or using the art of decoupage to craft a cover that's as unique as the recipes within. Personalize it further with a thoughtful title, perhaps the recipient's name followed by "Family Recipes" or any other personal touch that will make it truly theirs.

 

Handmade Christmas Gifts - Bath Bombs

Bath time just got a whole lot more luxurious with the addition of handmade Bath Bombs. These delightful, fizzing spheres of relaxation are not only a treat for the senses but also a thoughtful, budget-friendly gift idea for the holiday season or any special occasion.

 

Crafting your own Bath Bombs is  straightforward and a rewarding process. Start by gathering your ingredients: 1 cup of baking soda, ½ cup of citric acid, ½ cup of Epsom salts, 1 tsp. of water, 2 tsp of your favorite essential oil for fragrance, and 3 tsp of oil, such as olive or coconut, to add moisture to your bath and a few drops of soap dye to add some colour. 

 

Once you have your ingredients assembled, the real fun begins. Mix them together thoroughly to create a uniform mixture. Then, mold the mixture into shapes of your choice, whether they be classic spheres, playful hearts, or any creative design that appeals to you. Allow your bath bombs to dry and harden, this usually takes a day or two, before storing them in an airtight container. For an extra special touch you could decorate the container as well to express your creativity.

 

While store-bought bath bombs can be a delightful indulgence, their price tags are often quite steep. By opting to make these luxurious bath-time treats at home, you can substantially reduce your expenses. In fact, the cost of crafting your own bath bombs can be half or even less than what you'd pay for commercial alternatives, particularly when you make them in bulk. This not only saves you money but also allows you to customize fragrances and shapes to suit your personal preferences or those of the lucky recipients. 

 

Creating Bath Bombs at home is not just about the savings, but also about adding a personal touch to self-care and gift-giving. They transform an ordinary bath into a spa-like experience and can be a wonderful expression of your creativity and care for yourself or the special people in your life.

Cosy DIY Projects and Indoor Activities for Winter

Winter's chill, while a perfect excuse to snuggle up indoors, can sometimes lead to a bout of cabin fever. Winter wellness is important so fear not! With a sprinkle of creativity, your winter indoors can be a heartwarming, fulfilling season without breaking the bank. Here are some low-cost or free activities and DIY projects to ensure your winter is as cosy as it is memorable. 

 


Warm Beverage Bar

Set up a small nook in your kitchen that's dedicated to warm drinks. Stock up on hot chocolate, teas, and coffee. Get creative by adding cinnamon or peppermint sticks, syrups, whipped cream, and marshmallows. On cold evenings, a personalised warm drink is just the hug you need. Hot chocolate is my favourite.

 

Indoor Activities For Winter - Winter Reading Nook

Create a cosy corner with cushions, blankets, and fairy lights. Dive into that book you've meant to read; explore the world of eBooks from your local library or try out audiobooks. If you are like me and prefer a good old fashioned book than the library is your best way to read on a budget.

 

DIY Chunky Knit Blanket

You don't need to be a knitting expert. Arm knitting is a fun and easy way to create chunky blankets. Plenty of online tutorials can guide you, and all you need is some bulky yarn.

 

Indoor Herb Garden

Bring some green indoors! Using small pots or recycled containers, plant herbs like basil, mint, or chives. They'll thrive on a windowsill, ensuring you have fresh herbs all winter long. We've been doing this for awhile and rarely need to buy  herbs from the shop now.

 

Handmade Winter Cards

Craft personalised winter or holiday cards using paper, glitter, ribbons, or even dried leaves. Send them to friends or family for a touch of handmade love. This is also a great activity to do with kids.