LouLoU™ was given this lovely jar of assorted toffees from a customer for all her hard work this year.
We never imagined there were so many flavours of toffee available and were immensely grateful to have received such a kind gesture.
Nevertheless, we intend to approach our consumption of the toffee with caution.
This is because a trip to the dentist is less than an exciting prospect at the best of times, let alone during the Christmas season when there are sometimes only emergency services available.
And the kind gift acted as another timely reminder, around the same theme; namely, that there is only so much we can do to make Christmas a good one for others without prejudicing ourselves.
The build up to Christmas can be exhausting all by itself and the last thing needed come January is the stress of unmanageable debt as a result of having been financially overstretched in this uncertain economic climate.
The key to avoiding this, we feel, is to have a sensible Christmas budget that accommodates, among other things, the essential cost of heating and supplies to keep warm and healthy.
Then stick to the budget and don't feel emotionally pressured into deviating from it at the last minute.
And do not feel in any way that your budget requires explanation to others, whoever they may be, as it does not!
Secondly, aim to genuinely focus on the simple things that do not necessarily require excessive spend or sap your energy, such as quality time with those you care for, food you enjoy, refreshing conversation, positive reflection and exercise in the fresh air where possible.
Finally, as Christmas is a challenging and emotional time for many, by all means offer support to others where your energy permits, but try not to become involved in unnecessary dramas not of your making.
In other words, let's all fully enjoy the Christmas festivities, but like the lovely jar of toffee, let's not "bite off more than we can chew" and regret it like toothache come the New Year! 🎅🤶🧑🎄❤💥