FROM THE EDITOR

Every year I swear I’m going to get better at it, and yet, every year December 1 hit s and a sense of panic sets in. Hang on, where did November go? Why haven’t I done a single bit of Christmas planning? How on earth am I going to fit everything in? Why can’t I breathe?!

This year I started my panic a little early – a couple of weeks ago, in fact, when I looked at the calendar and realised I’d miscounted the weeks until Christmas and there were two fewer than

I’d thought. But right as my blood pressure began to rise, I remembered I’d already bought one gift... if only I could remember where it was. Well, lo and behold, I found it stashed away among a whole box of presents – a collection I’d put together in the first six months of the year, then entirely forgotten.

I can now remember that I was working off the theory that it’s so much harder to find gifts when you’re under pressure and I should instead pick up presents as I spot them. Plus, spreading the cost over the year really helps the stress levels. It’s honestly one of the greatest gifts I’ve ever given myself. That, and learning to say ‘no’ to things at this time of year. All those, ‘We must catch up before Christmas’ sentiments are lovely, but making plans for a less harried catch-up early in the New Year instead is positively liberating.

So now I might actually be able to get on top of my stack of Christmas cards, watch those nostalgic movies and truly feel some festive cheer!

I hope you’re managing to keep cool as the festive season approaches – and if not, never fear, we have plenty of tips and tricks in this issue to both inspire you and create some calm.

Take it easy and enjoy your week!