A note from the editor

As I write this letter, my final one for 2021, I find it hard to believe that the end of the year is almost upon us. Over the past few weeks, I have enjoyed a bit of seasonal foraging on my daily walks as I have focused on gathering pine cones and fallen branches from the ancient woodland around me. This Christmas, I want to bring some more of the outdoors in, and adding the natural aroma of pine to the house is a wonderful, more natural, alternative to scented candles.

Truth is, I have been more than a little inspired by Alaina Binks, our talented home and crafts editor, who told me that every Christmas her festive tree (locally sourced) is laden with festoons of paperchains, which she remakes every couple of years in different colours to replace any that are a bit squished. Resourceful as ever, she says that nothing goes to waste, as she cuts the damaged parts into strips, using them as shredded paper to nestle gifts into boxes and tins. Alaina is the creative force behind many of our crafting features, often working alongside talented makers, artists and stylists, such as Sian Williams, who created Making Memories on page 40 (below left). It’s another great example of how to design upcycled, handcrafted decorations that can be used and treasured for years to come.

This special issue is abundant with other treasures, too. On page 50, you can read our delightful interview with the Queen of Bakes, Mary Berry (below right), and if you’re a fan of Call the Midwife, turn to page 34, where Heidi Thomas, the genius behind this popular TV series, shares how she spends her Christmas. On behalf of the whole team at Country Living, I wish you a restful, peaceful and wonderful time!