Mandy's Christmas
Alison Owens
I'm not really bossy, I just know where everything is supposed to go.
Being born with the creative gene means that I was just made for Christmas decorating! My ever-growing stash of handmade Christmas decorations borders on an obsession. I have wreaths and garlands, and lights and baubles, angels and reindeer, quilts and wall hangings, and a significant number of Father Christmas figures. As a result there is always a little tension in my house when my husband is asked to get the decorations down from the loft. He thinks I won't remember how many boxes there are... ahem. There were 30 at the last count.
My vision of decorating the tree - with the fire roaring, Christmas songs playing, kids helping cheerfully - usually goes slightly out the window. One, because it all takes soooo long to put everything up, and two, because I am too controlling and bossy about where everything has to go. I also have to admit to moving the tree around a thousand times until I get the right shape. Anyway, this is all good news for you: because of my obsession with Christmas you have a huge choice of patterns, kits and inspiration for to create your own Christmas heaven.
You cannot have too many baubles and quirky Father Christmas figures.
Christmas for me is special, as it is the season when we spend precious time with our loved ones. Personally, I don't get too wrapped up in the shopping frenzy, but do like to think carefully about the presents I choose to give to our close family and friends, and this often involves a handmade gift. No surprise there!
I also love simple cooking and time spent round our large table with candles lit, good food, crackers, silly games and giggles. And cheesy festive films watched while wrapped up in quilts on the sofa, with cheeks made rosy by warmth of the fire - this is my version of bliss.
Those 30 boxes of Christmas decorations that I love so much? They help to create that festive atmosphere of celebration and family closeness, along with lovely memories. I hope they do the same for you.