Easy living

Don’t let Christmas stress you; plan in simple steps, says Harriet Paige

Great idea!

Snowflake present sack, £12.50, Cox & Cox

What could be more exciting than waking up on Christmas morning to an entire sack full of gifts? Hint to the other half and this strong cotton jute bag (full of presents, naturally!) could be yours!

Keep it clean

A new sleepbetter.uk.com range of pillows and mattresses will go on sale in January with a ground-breaking hygiene indicator. Blue means it’s ‘clean’, green shows it’s in the middle and then when the indicator is yellow you know it’s time to be washed. Once washed, it’s back to blue. Phew!

BLOG OF THE MONTH...

This year I’m resolving to cut the crazy out of Christmas. For me that doesn’t mean replacing my hand-made cards with e-cards or delegating the catering to the supermarket freezer aisle, just planning ahead and stripping my to-do list down to the things that really matter. As much as I love spending time on thoughtful details, there aren’t many tasks that can’t be skipped should it all get too much. As long as I have my friends and family around me, some good, uncomplicated food and a cosy home, I’m happy. I hope my simple decorating ideas and survival tips will help you have a wonderful stress-free holiday. Enjoy!