HomeTagsPosts tagged with "Christmas"

Christmas

There are few among us who don't know someone who dreads the holiday season each year.

Whether they're experiencing financial difficulties, enduring a bereavement or suffer from a condition which makes constant socialising and compulsory joviality almost agonising, not everyone awaits the festive season with bated breath.

Tapping into this all too familiar truth in a recent article for Time magazine, Kesha encouraged readers to navigate the festivities with the welfare of one person in mind – themselves.

 

Animals! Read what I wrote on @time about the holidays and taking care of yourself at link in bio

A post shared by Kesha (@iiswhoiis) on

"All those plans and expectations of joy can turn tougher than they sound," Kesha acknowledged.

"This is especially true for those of us who struggle with mental illness – be it depression, anxiety, addiction or any other challenges."

"In so many ways, the holidays can throw you off your game  – and that can shake you. When you have a routine, it’s easier to manage whatever mental struggles you may be faced with, and when that routine is broken, it can trigger things you may not be ready to face."

 

A post shared by Kesha (@iiswhoiis) on

Uttering a sentiment which will resonate with millions, Kesha confided: "Around the holidays, I often feel like I’m supposed to be everywhere, with everyone — all with the added guilt that it’s the season of giving."

"To fight this, I’ve developed a mantra: It’s not selfish to take time for yourself," she encouraged.

Reminding readers that Christmas is as much about taking a step back as it is diving in, the 30-year-old urged anyone struggling to ignore the incessant soundtrack of the season, and simply take time to just be.

"It’s not your responsibility to try to make the whole world happy. Especially since sometimes it’s not that easy to make yourself happy, either — even with all the celebrations and gifts and seasonal decorations, foods and drinks, which can only do so much."

"So don’t ask yourself things like “It’s almost Christmas, why am I not happy?” That can turn into a shame cycle. It’s just another day — don’t put unrealistic expectations on it, and don’t beat yourself up."

If you listen to no other advice this week, listen to that.

Trending

Every single one of us has a friend who appears to spend more time travelling than anything else.

Whether it's last-minute holidays to the Algarve, extended trips to south-east Asia or prolonged periods backpacking down under, this person has an acute case of wanderlust.

They're either in the middle of a trip or planning their next one, and that actually makes them very easy to buy for, because there is always some handy gadget or accessory which they'll appreciate on their next jaunt abroad.

Why not take your pick from these…

 

 

 

Trending

If there's one thing guaranteed to reduce us to a sniffling mess, it's a top-class Christmas ad.

From high street giants like Boots to local establishments like Co Kerry's Yummy Cafe, we thought we'd seen the best of the best this year.

And then the BBC released theirs, and all bets were off.

"I wasn't prepared for these emotions," wrote one Twitter user while another added: "My eyes are full of TEARS."

Documenting the relationship between a performance-obsessed young girl and her hardworking father, the audience is given an insight into the weeks leading up to the child's school talent show.

Dedicated and committed, the young girl practices at every opportunity while her father appears not to comprehend the significance of the child's place in the show…. until the big night, that is.

Ladies, take a look at this…

 

Trending

Choosing Christmas presents for your boyfriend's parents can be pretty tricky.

Whether it's petty or not, you know you don't want to spend more on them than your own parents, but at the same time you know a little effort will go a very long way.

Unless you're incredibly close to your boyfriend's folks, it's hard to find a present which manages to tick the thoughtful/ personal box without overstepping the mark.

Thankfully, we've got you covered on this one.

For her…

 

For him…

Trending

If there is one thing we love about Christmas – apart from the boozing, snoozing and chilling, it is the excuse to binge on chocolate totally guilt-free. 

While most people enjoy chocolate on a regular basis, we all know a person who is truly obsessed it. Real connoisseur or simple cacao enthusiast, the chocolate lover in your life will be over the moon if you get them one of these presents!  

1. A chocolate fondue kit

Chocolate fondue set, Debenhams, 25 euros

2. A hot chocolate kit

Cocoa Creations, Whittards of Chelsea, 25 euros

3. Some sweet soaps

Box of Chocolate Soaps, Uncommon Goods, 24.23 euros

4. A chocolate workshop

1 Day Chocolate course, The Baking academy of Ireland, 150 euros

5. A dangerous game

Chocolate Russian Roulette Game, Debenhams, 11 euros

6. A membership to a chocolate tasting club

Bean and Goose Tasting Club Membership, from 20 euros

7. A hot chocolate room spray

Chocolate Fragrance Room Spray, by Sensory Decisions, 11.30 euros

8. The ultimate Parisian chocolatier gift box

Hatbox by Nastry, La Maison du Chocolat, 132 euros

9. A book with the best chocolate recipes ever 

'I Want Chocolate!' by Trish Deseine, 15 euros

10. A fun notebook

Chocolate notebook, Amazon, 5 euros

Trending

by
 

They've been there through thick and thin – through good times, AND that time your son handed her his poo…So it is no wonder when Christmas rolls around you want to spoil the lovely gal pals in your life. 

That's why we've put together a great gift guide for the ladies in your life who get that a cup of hot tea is EVERYTHING and that sometimes all you want is a full nights sleep and an entire family packet of Twix.

Queen of Awesomeness Cup (TheGreatGiftCompany.com
12 Days of Beauty Cuteness (TheGreatGifCompany.com
Personalised Necklace Charms (Notonthehighstreet.com)
Bring me wine novelty socks (Amazon.co.uk)

 

All Aboard makeup bags (TheGreatGiftCompany.co.uk)
Giant inflatable unicorn pool float (Thegreatgiftcompany.co.uk) 
Glitter clutch (Amazon.co.uk
Lightbox (Notonthehighstreet.com)

 

Gym bag (TheGreatGiftCompany.co.uk)
Five stars silver ear climber (Notonthehighstreet.com)

I normally just shop for myself and then order two of something I love and gift it to my best mummy friend. We think these gifts are really fun as well as being quite sentimental. 

Trending

by

Whether it's the return of the Coca-Cola Christmas ad or the highly anticipated arrival of the new John Lewis commercial, the festive season wouldn't be the same without an advert that leaves the public sniffling into their sleeves.

And with some of the world's biggest retailers vying for the top spot in the festive feels stake, it's easy to forget about homegrown business and talent… until now.

The Yummy Cafe in Co Kerry has sent social media ablaze this week after releasing a beautifully produced Christmas advert which seeks to communicate the true meaning of the festive season.

Reunite: Christmas is Better Together has stunned Facebook users, with many comparing the production to those created by the retail industry's heavy-hitters.

"Beautifully shot, lovely story, excellent post production! Well done lads! John Lewis eat your heart out!" wrote one member of the public.

Another added: "I am absolutely speechless. That is just fantastic, well done, I assumed it for for a big brand too until I recognised Tralee. Just brilliant."

Take a look at this…

Trending

by

The arrival of the festive period brings with it the onset of countless family arguments regarding the appointment of a designated driver. 

While some people are more than happy to go on the dry to ensure a safe trip home for all involved, others aren't quite as quick to offer their services, and stick to soft drinks for the night.

In an attempt to counteract the latter, Coca-Cola HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland today launched its 13th annual Designated Driver campaign, which encourages people across the island of Ireland to give the ‘Gift of a Lift’ to friends and loved ones this Christmas.

And as one of the most appreciated gestures you can give to family and friends is the freedom to enjoy all the fun that Christmas offers by providing the ‘gift of lift’, Coca-Cola is adamant the designer driver needs rewarding too.

To support these selfless designated drivers this season, Coca-Cola will once again offer two free drinks from the Coca-Cola range or an alcohol-free ‘Coketail’ that can be redeemed in participating bars and restaurants across Ireland and Northern Ireland.

 And that's not all!

This year Coca-Cola is also making it even easier for designated drivers to claim their free drinks – with digital vouchers that can be stored in the mobile wallet app on their smart phones.

The campaign, which is fronted by 2017 All-Ireland Football and Hurling finalists and rivals, Dublin’s Paul Flynn; Mayo’s Aidan O’Shea; Galway’s Gearoid McInerney, and Waterford’s Austin Gleeson,as well as Ulster and Ireland rugby star Craig Gilroy has the lads' full backing.

“Christmas is a time when we all like to catch up with loved one. It’s an opportunity to go out with friends and family who you don’t see as often as you would like throughout the year, " said Aidan O’Shea.  "Nights out are a big part of the season but, let’s face it, getting home can sometimes be a challenge!"

“Being a designated driver is one of the best gifts you can give over the holiday season to help keep your mates safe, and it doesn’t cost a thing. Given my sporting commitments, I’m often the designated driver but I certainly appreciate it when the favour is returned."
 

 
“I’m delighted to support Coca-Cola with this campaign; helping to get the word out to encourage everyone to give the gift of a lift this Christmas. If you are the designated driver, be sure to claim your two free drinks!"

In the Republic of Ireland, the Designated Driver campaign is supported by An Garda Síochána, the Road Safety Authority and Drinkaware. It is also backed by the Licensed Vintners Association, the Vintners Federation of Ireland, the Restaurants Association of Ireland, and the Irish Hotels Federation.

Trending

If there is one universal truth we can all agree on, it’s that Christmas is all about children.

Simply put, December is nothing short of purely magical for the little’uns in your life.

While you may love the festive season with every fibre of your being, there’s no denying that the magic dulls somewhat the older you get.

If you’re in the business of fighting this hard fact tooth and nail, why not treat yourself and the smallies in your family to some stunning Christmas events?

While recapturing the magic for yourself, you’ll be providing the little people in your life with a whole host of memories.

Take a look at these…

Santa’s Journey

Take a journey by train through the foothills of the Wicklow mountains, and be sure to stop off at Santa’s Runway, The Talking Trees, Candy Cane Land, and Elves Village.

Warm up with hot drinks and festive treats at the Winter Lodge Café before getting your letters stamped personally by the Big Mans’s team of adorable elves.

Santa’s House Express

Taking place at the 5 Star Palmerstown House Estate, you and the little ones will receive a boarding pass which will allow you to board an enchanting Christmas train and embark on a stunning festive journey.

You will depart from the grounds of Palmerstown Estate and take in the sights and sounds until you reach Santa Claus in his magical manor.

Christmas at Castlecomber Discovery Park

From visiting Mrs Claus in her igloo home to taking part in the elves’ Art Workshop, this is one Christmas event which really captures the magic of the season.

This Christmas wonderland, which is located in the heart of the woodlands, is an absolute must-see.

 

Trending

Former Great British Bake Off presenters Mel, Sue and Mary Berry look set to reunite for the first time since the show moved to Channel 4.

The trio will appear together on Mary, Mel and Sue's Big Christmas Thank You, which will air on the BBC over the festive season.

The show follows the ladies as they attempt to organises a Christmas party in the Welsh town of Rhondda Valley.

Mel and Sue will attempt to modernise the local community centre in time for the event, while Mary will be tasked with cooking up a mouth-watering festive feast.

The personalities worked together on The Great British Bake Off for seven series, with all three choosing to stay loyal to the BBC after the much-loved show was snapped up by Channel 4.

Television fans can also look forward to all the usual favourites including Mrs Brown's Boys, Strictly and the Doctor Who Christmas special.

Someone grab the RTÉ Guide – Christmas telly is officially here!

Trending

Wine lovers are usually the best people to get gifts for: a nice bottle of wine and Bob's your uncle!

But because we want to show this special person that we actually care about them and put a bit of an effort into their present, here are some ideas that will make the wine lover in your life incredibly happy.

1. Some tasty candies

HOLLYS LOLLIES, Mulled Wine Humbugs, €8.00, brownthomas.com

2. A cool wine cooler 

EDDINGTON, Epicurean Straight Sided Wine Cooler, €44.95, arnotts.ie

3. A mug to remember that wine time is coming

'Because It's Too Early For Wine' Hand Lettered Mug by HOPE AND HALCYON, €14, notonthehighstreet.com

4. A pretty candle

Recycled Wine Bottle Candle, €27.69, uncommongoods.com

5. A wine course

Wine course at the Dublin Wine School, from €120, dublinwineschool.ie

6. A sommelier set

J by Jasper Conran, Silver sommelier gift set, €42.00, debenhams.ie

7. A monthly supply of wine

Donnybrook Fair Wine Subscription, €39.99, donnybrookfair.ie
8. A sleek wine pump

LE CREUSET Wine Pump & 3 stoppers, €26.00, arnotts.ie

9. Elegant wine glass charms

JOANNA BUCHANAN, Set of 6 Jewelled Wine Charms, €55.00, brownthomas.com

 

Trending

by

Like it or not, the festive season is well and truly upon us, and with nowhere to turn you might as well get into the spirit.

And what better way to get into the holiday mood than a good old-fashioned sing-along to your favourite Christmas songs?

Well, we've got some good news.

Christmas FM returns to the airwaves at 1pm on November 28 on the following FM bands:

  • Dublin City and County 105.2FM

  • Cork – 106.7FM

  • Galway – 87.7FM

  • Kildare – 88.1FM

  • Kilkenny – 104.3FM

  • Letterkenny – 105.7FM

  • Limerick and North Tipperary – 105.5FM

  • Midlands North – 101.6FM

  • North East – 99.4FM

  • South East – 103.8FM

  • Tralee / Killarney – 105FM

  • Wicklow North – 107.3FM

  • Wicklow South – 106.6FM

Listeners can also find the station on Christmasfm.com and on Virgin Media channel 900.

This year, all proceeds will be donated to Sightsavers, a charity which provides sight-saving operations for people in the developing world.

Speaking about this year's launch, co-founder Garvan Rigby said: “We are delighted to bring Christmas FM back on-air for our tenth year.”

“We are beyond delighted to have reached this point and want to thank each and every one of our listeners who have supported us on our journey and in turn, supporting each of our chosen charities.”

Warm up those vocal chords, ladies! 

Trending