Bookish Betsy Wraps up Christmas

Christmas is by far my favourite time of year.

Although my life is a frenzy of activity at the best of times, Christmas is the one occasion when the frenzy really comes through with the goods. Somehow the Christmas spirit of giving allows me to really unleash my creative side. Surrounded by burning festive candles, listening to good music, and sampling the Christmas sherry (just a little), I am one of Santa’s most enthusiastic helpers.

Ah, the Christmas gifts, the Christmas baking, the Christmas cards I have created in my whirlwind of goodwill and joy.

At Hastings District Libraries we have some great titles that will help you too unleash your inner Christmas elf.

Here is my recipe for a joyous pre-Christmas frenzy:

1. Set the scene with good Christmas music with -

Absolute Best Christmas Album in the World…ever!
Accents: Christmas harp with gentle accompaniment O Come All Ye Faithful – featuring Kings College ChoirHandel’s Messiah – featuring the Mormon Tabernacle Choir

2. Sing while you gather inspiration from -

Tree top Decorations – Emma Hardy
Wreath making for the first time – Pat Poce & Deon Gooch
300 ways to make the best Christmas ever! – Mimi Tribble
Christmas cards: 100 fast & festive cards & tags – Elizabeth Moad
Christmas Details – Mary Norden

3. Pull out the baking tins and create with -

Christmas - Good Housekeeping Institute
Christmas – Australian Women’s Weekly
Classic and contemporary Christmas Cakes – Nadene Hurst
Christmas Made Easy – Mary Cadogan
Celebration: the Christmas Recipes you must have – Kitchen Classics

4. Take a compulsory stop to breath in the pine tree goodness, the baking smells, and admire your creations

5. Reach for the Christmas issue of your favourite magazine and/or add a good Christmas movie to the blend. Try -

It’s a wonderful World
Love Actually
The Family Man
The Grinch Who Stole Christmas
The Christmas Specials from The Office & The Vicar of Dibley

6. Christmas is ready and wrapped. ENJOY!