Christmas Food Prep Made Easy: Stress-Free Recipes & Tips

Christmas Food Prep Made Easy: Stress-Free Recipes & Tips

Garden Trading Company decorations for a stress free Chris
Garden Trading Company

“Christmas will always be as long as we stand heart to heart and hand in hand.”

DR SEUSS
Mary Berry Christmas Book, your ultimate guide to a stress free christmas

Christmas Eve is the perfect time to lay the table, chop your vegetables and double-check timings. I always put on a festive playlist, pour something bubbly and get into the spirit while I prep, it turns the jobs into moments to enjoy, especially if the family get involved too! One of our favourite make-ahead meals for Christmas Eve is a relaxed, cosy dinner that sets the tone for the celebrations.

Festive mulled wine prepared in advance for a stress free Christmas food prep
festive display of candles preparation in advance for a stress free Christmas and christmas food prep
The scent of Christmas – The White Company

“My secret to Christmas this year, as it is every year, is my to-do list. I’m always in charge if preparing the lunch – I like to think of it as simply a big roast dinner”  

MARY BERRY
Roast parsnips prepared in advance for a stress free Christmas food prep

Method:

Roast sprouts prepared in advance for a stress free Christmas
Roast carrots prepared in advance for a stress free Christmas

“Christmas is about sharing our homes with the people who matter to us the most. And a little planning goes a long way in making every room sparkle, cosset and glow.

From the thoughtful touches to the most memorable moments, we’re all set to help you make your home a place of celebration, comfort and joy this season.”

NEPTUNE
lemon posset in glass dishes prepared in advance for a stress free Christmas food prep

“Christmas isn’t a season. It’s a feeling.”

EDNA FERBER

“Christmas is a together-y sort of holiday.”

WINNIE THE POOH
christmas bauble on the tree ready for a stress free Christmas food prep

signature, claire

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How Many Times Do You Catch The Ball..?

How Many Times Do You Catch The Ball..?

Relaxing morning scene with coffee and croissant, reminding us to drop the ball and slow down

“If someone throws you the ball, you don’t have to catch it”

Such wise words from Richard Carlson, a concept that has stayed with me for years.

In today’s blog, I’m revisiting this idea through a 2025 lens, because if there’s one thing modern life has taught us, it’s this: we are surrounded by flying balls every single day. Expectations. Notifications. Opinions. Urgent messages. Other people’s emotions, dramas, dilemmas and deadlines. And somehow, without meaning to, we end up believing that we must catch every one.

And life feels so much lighter when we stop trying.

Calm lifestyle setup with flowers, book, and candle symbolising mindfulness and letting go of the ball

Often our inner struggles or stresses come from our tendency to jump on board someone else’s problem. A friend calls in a panic “My job / mother / cat is driving me crazy. What should I do?”

Before we’ve even taken a breath, we’re problem-solving, reassuring, rearranging our day and absorbing the emotional weight of a situation that isn’t ours to carry.

Sound familiar?

It’s okay to say No..

Repeat that out loud!!

As Carson reminds us learning not to catch every ball is a powerful way to protect your peace.

“Remembering you don’t have to catch the ball is a very effective way to reduce the stress in your life. When your friend calls, you can drop the ball, meaning you don’t have to participate simply because he or she is attempting to lure you in.

This doesn’t mean we stop caring about our friends. it means we honour our own limits.

As Brene Brown beautifully says:

“Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen.” 
Brené Brown

Peaceful sea at sunset representing clarity and choosing which balls to catch in life

Every Notification Is A Ball.

“Will this matter a year from now?”

A Little Story About Our Wedding.

Wedding flowers capturing joyful chaos and perspective, illustrating when to let go of the ball

No. Not at all.

Choosing Which balls To Catch.

Peaceful sea at sunset representing clarity and choosing which balls to catch in life

Vulnerability is not about winning or losing. It’s having the courage to show up even when you can’t control the outcome.

Brene Brown.

We all need a smile.. A gentle reminder that even the smallest shifts; in clothing, in boundaries, in energy and mindset can create the biggest sense of relief!

“It’s outstanding how much ones stress level goes down with the simple switching of skinny jeans to yoga pants”

Unknown

Hand holding a steaming green mug surrounded by plants, representing calm, mindfulness, and choosing which balls to catch.

So, How Many Balls Will You Catch This Week?

I know I’ve caught a few already!

But awareness is everything isn’t it and once you start noticing, you can begin dropping the ones that drain you, distract you or simply don’t belong to you.

And let me know how you get on.

Sending love and best wishes,

One Thing That Will Help You When There Aren’t Enough Hours In The Day.

One Thing That Will Help You When There Aren’t Enough Hours In The Day.

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Don’t worry, take a breathe. Let’s remove the overwhelm.

Nothing is particularly hard if you divide it into small jobs”

Henry Ford
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Turn Mundane Missions Into LittleWins:

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A walk along the coast in the fresh can be super powerful.

What You Can Achieve In An Hour

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Call a friend you’ve been meaning to catch up with ..

Enjoy the fresh air, whilst giving the garden a little makeover..

Giving your pantry a little Refresh.

5 books you’ll need to creat a beautifully organised home.

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Image of the free daily planner food in the organisation tools as an example

The Power of an Hour is a great way to inject intention into your day or evening. I’ve shared  free daily planner (and more) in the Organisation tools.

It really helps keep me focused and find it invaluable for my Power of an Hour.

Discover Nkuku Totnes: Beautiful Spaces, Conscious Living

Discover Nkuku Totnes: Beautiful Spaces, Conscious Living

Nkuku Totnes barn showcasing timeless collections

I was first invited to Nkuku Totnes  Totnes in 2022 to explore their newly extended barn and refurbished café, a space that perfectly reflects the brand’s ethos of thoughtful craftsmanship, calm design, and conscious living. Visiting Nkuku Totnes again, I was struck by the seamless blend of sustainability and style, from the hand-thrown ceramics to the seasonal dishes served with quiet elegance.

Since that visit, Nkuku has continued to grow, most recently opening a beautiful new venue in Redbrick, Leeds. Revisiting this inspiring destination feels like the perfect way to celebrate timeless design, sustainable style, and the spaces that make us feel truly at home.

From the Totnes barn to the new Leeds venue, Nkuku’s journey reflects a beautiful balance of evolution and ethos , staying true to its roots while expanding its reach.

Nkuku based just outside Totnes in the glorious South Hams countryside in Devon. Originally a farmyard of barns housing cattle and was derelict for over 20 years before Nkuku discovered them and worked their magic. There is free parking, wifi and well behaved dogs are very welcome. There’s even a little treat waiting for them by the door. I might have to make this my new place to sit and write, it’s so lovely.

The barns are filled with collections styled so beautifully, it’s impossible not to imagine these serene, curated corners in your own home

I’ve created three mood boards showcasing my favourite pieces from Nkuku’s latest collection. The designs span a variety of styles and price points, making them easy to adapt to your own home. With their light, tactile and natural materials, each piece adds effortless warmth, texture, and character to any living space, whatever its size or location. I hope these boards spark ideas to bring a touch of Nkuku’s timeless style into your own home!

The Garden Room

Inspired by nature and natural surroundings, the garden room or conservatory is a perfect place for relaxing, reading and entertaining. I love candles and the braided hemp designs to bring the outside in and all the pieces together.

Nkuku Totnes barn showcasing timeless collections

The Ondal Round Braided Hemp Side Table

Adds a sturdy, neutral layer to living rooms or garden rooms. (top left)

The appealing braided pattern is expertly crafted by hand using the warm, golden fibres of hemp. This attractive side table feels solid and sturdy and works well as a neutral layer in a living room, garden room or snug area.. This table would also work well as a footstool or an occasional seat.

Planters

Bring greenery indoors for a refreshing touch.

Planters (centre) are a fabulous way to add green and a refresh to your garden or garden room, complementing other textured, tactile pieces.

Sia Lantern

Elegant lanterns to create a warm and striking ambience.

These lanterns are enhanced with an antique black metal finish, holding tall glass panels for the perfect silhouette for a church candle or tealight. Easily transported from home to the garden, creating a beautiful setting wherever they are. (top right and bottom centre )

Nkuku Totnes barn showcasing timeless collections
Halali Fire Pit

Halali Fire Pit Kadai with Surround

A statement piece to anchor your outdoor living space.

Generously proportioned and crafted from solid iron, this traditional fire bowl is surrounded by a practical table edge, perfect for warming plates or drinks. (bottom right)

Alwar Outdoor Wall Light

Adds grace and a soft warm glow to any outdoor setting.

The antique brass patina of the stylish swan neck and lamp head pairs elegantly with the clear glass shade. This iconic design works well in traditional and contemporary homes alike. (bottom left of the mood board)

Inspired by shades of white, neutrals, wood, touches of greenery and of course, living by the Devon coast a touch of blue. Cosy, comfortable and light is the feel of our room; perfect for cosying up in front of the fire and a good book in the winter and light and airy in the summer months too.

Nkuku Totnes barn showcasing timeless collections

Muturi Glass Floor Lamp – Antique Brass

Adds warmth and elegance to neutral or bold interiors.

I love the combination of warm antique brass and elegant clear glass. The striking mix of materials makes this a standout piece in any home.

The Deni Collection

Generous, comfortable seating in timeless design.

The Grand combines soft contours, luxurious comfort, and timeless design, in a stylish UK-crafted solid wood framework with pure Brera Linen upholstery and solid wood legs. Available in six muted shades, you can order a free swatch pack to see the fabric choices. (middle centre and bottom left)

Braided Hemp Rug

Adds tactile, understated style to any room.

Hand-braided from hemp in a traditional pattern, the warm gold hues make it perfect for any living space, conservatory, or family room. (bottom right of the above mood board)

Chara Hammered Bottles

Simple yet elegant styling for your home.

These bottles are decorated with a hammered glass finish and etched detail, skilfully created by blowing glass through a brass ring. Perfect styled alone or with fairy lights. (above right)

Kajala Cotton Cushion Cover

Soft, versatile cushions with subtle geometric design.

Crafted in monochrome with black thread running through the fabric in a softly broken line, these covers are calming and adaptable to a variety of interiors. (above left and top centre of the mood board)

Nkuku Totnes barn showcasing timeless collections

The heart of the home. The busiest space of the house. With two teens, this room needs to be practical, effective and with Nkuku’s styling storage jars and accessories, the new collection ticks many boxes. A place for everything and everything in it’s place! See my pantry makeover for more inspiration.

Nkuku Totnes barn showcasing timeless collections

Kamtha Water Hyacinth Tray

Adds texture and warmth to side tables or kitchen counters.

These round trays are woven from water hyacinth, a plant that grows in abundance in the waterways of Vietnam. The warm, golden tones and attractive braiding work make them a great accessory to add texture and a natural touch to your interior. I keep mine on a side table in the garden room/conservatory. (Above centre)

Recycled Glass Dome Cake Stand

Stylish display for cakes, cheeses, and other treats.

These elegant recycled glass domes slot neatly into a mango wood base, providing a polished yet practical way to store culinary delights.

Charal Storage Jars

Keep ingredients fresh while adding natural elegance to your kitchen.

The simple clear glass body and mango wood top of this Charai storage jar makes it the perfect everyday organisational accessory. Finished with a silicone seal to ensure that its contents remain fresh. Perfect for pulses, grains, herbs, and spices.

The Dura White Marble Wine Cooler

A tactile, luxury accessory for entertaining.

With striking variegated tones and a smooth finish, this marble cooler looks stunning on any kitchen island or table. (above left)

The Nkuku Café, Totnes was fully refurbished and extended in 2022 and is a haven of calm, perfectly complementing the curated collections. Opening out onto the courtyard, there’s a serene space to enjoy a coffee, iced tea, or a light meal.

Nkuku Totnes barn showcasing timeless collections

There is plenty of room both inside and outside for dining, relaxing, or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

The menu celebrates the very best of local and seasonal produce, working closely with artisan bakers, farmers, and cheesemakers throughout the South West of England. Nkuku’s suppliers are carefully handpicked to ensure they share the brand’s commitment to sustainability and supporting independent producers.

Nkuku Totnes barn showcasing timeless collections
Full range of delicious homemade treats available in the new Lifestyle Cafe

Whether you’re local or visiting Devon, you’ll be greeted with a truly warm welcome.
A heartfelt thank you to Helen and the entire Nkuku team for a wonderful visit, it’s always such a delight to see you and experience your beautiful spaces. I could happily spend the entire day here!

I hope this post has given you a glimpse into the beauty and charm of Nkuku Totnes, a truly inspiring lifestyle store right on my doorstep, and that the mood boards have sparked ideas to bring a touch of its timeless style into your own home.

I’d love to hear your thoughts and any inspiration you’ve taken from it in the comments below.

Love

signature, claire

* This post was originally published in 2022 and has been updated in 2025 to include the latest collection and insights.

A Brand New Mission – I’m On The Road To Paris!

A Brand New Mission – I’m On The Road To Paris!

I’ve been keeping a little secret, well actually it’s quite a big one. I’m going to be running The Paris Marathon next April.

Oh my goodness, it all sounds a bit real now!

I’ve spent much of my working life as an Oncology nurse and have I’ve lost too many people close to me including my father and good friends to cancer.

More recently, my much loved and very much missed Mother in Law, Wendy to Ovarian Cancer.

On 13th April 2025, I’m running the Paris Marathon in Wendy’s honour, to raise funds and awareness for the Ovarian Cancer charity, Ovarian Cancer Action and the Blood Cancer charity, DKMS of which I’ve been an Ambassador for almost 6 years.

It won’t be easy, it’s been quite some time since I ran anywhere but I’m going to give it my best! That’s a promise xx

Paris marathon details

I’d love your support. Every penny donated, every conversation started to support my Mission is very much welcomed.

pink star indicating a point I have two fundraising pages, one for each charity Ovarian Cancer Action and DKMS, the blood cancer charity so any support would be amazing. Be sure to check out both pages for additional information on each charity.

You may know that over the last few of years, I’ve been taking part in little Missions to raise funds and awareness for the Blood Cancer charity DKMS. It all started with one crazy idea, if you’d like to find out more click here: I’ve comitted to raising at least £600 for DKMS with for this Marathon.

pink star indicating a point Please do follow me on Instagram to keep updated with what’s happening with the #roadtoparis Mission and more! If you are part of a corporate company or your friends, family and colleagues would like to get involved, I’d love to hear from them too.

pink star indicating a point Strava is where my training is uploaded (you’ll be able to see just how slow I am!)

pink star indicating a point Finally, if you’d like to join me on a training run or would like to chat about my Mission, I’d LOVE to hear from you.

Thank you…

…for not thinking I’m crazy and for your support. I am honestly so nervous about this one. hopefully, with a big dollop of grit and determination, I’ll be able to conquer the Paris Marathon and do Wendy and the charities proud.

Let me know in the comments what you think.

Love of love

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