Table of contents for Festive Special 2023 in Chat Specials

Welcome one and all. With the countdown to Christmas officially on, we’re all busy preparing for the festivities. From Christmas shopping, baking and wholesome days out, the lead up to the big day has always been my favourite time of the year. Full of magic and wonder, the holidays really do make my heart swell. And no matter who we are, we all have our own unique set of traditions. For Louise (pg22), her and her family tuck into a hearty Maccies, followed by a group snap in front of the tree on Xmas Eve. And this year, that tradition will mean more than ever. After a shock diagnosis, things are finally on the up and the family are looking forward to creating more magical memories. And family is certainly…

Linda Rawson, 63, from Skillington, Lincolnshire Making my way into the kids’ bedrooms, I hung four stockings at the end of their bunk beds. Getting everything ready for the big day, in the late hours of Christmas Eve, me and my husband Kevin, now 65, tried to make it as special as possible. Christmas was always such a magical time for us, especially with the sound of the kids giggling outside the bedroom door in the early hours of the morning. Only, then our eldest Gavin came leaping into the bedroom in his Superman PJs. With Selina, now 41, Tara, now 39, and Gareth, now 36, following closely behind. ‘Please can we open our presents?’ Gavin begged. ‘Course you can,’ me and Kevin laughed, as they climbed into bed. And…

Verity Bambury, 49, from Liverpool Munching on a mince pie, I glanced around my living room. Tinsel and decs were strewn across the floor – it looked like an explosion at Santa’s grotto! But seeing the big grin on my son Jarvis’ face made me feel warm and fuzzy inside. As Christmas music tinkled in the background, I took a sip of delicious creamy Baileys before turning back to the tree, where my partner John was straightening up the lights. ‘Right, let’s get some of these decorations on, shall we?’ I smiled. Back in December 2020, Jarvis was only five and he was so excited for the big day – so I’d invited my mum Dot, my two sisters, their partners and my niece and nephews round to decorate the…

Louise Greenbank, 48, from Uddingston, Glasgow Buckling everyone into the car, as Christmas Eve was in full swing, there was somewhere important that we needed to be as a family. With the smell of their famous chips and the glow of the golden arches, Christmas Eve meant one thing in our household – our annual McDonald’s dinner tradition. And after munching on our order in store, me and my husband Aaron, now 50, and our kids Morrin, now 15, Farrah, now 12, and Pearce, now nine, would go home to hot chocolates, present filled boxes and matching PJ sets. Snapping a picture of the kids in front of the Christmas tree before going to Mass, year after year, starting ever since Morrin was just a baby herself, I’d then make…

Murder at Holly House – Denzil Meyrick, £16.99, WATERSTONES We all know Santa comes down the chimney at Christmas – that’s how he brings the presents to the good kids. But December in 1952 at Holly House is a bit different. When a dead stranger is discovered lodged up the chimney, the town asks lots of questions – was this simply a thief or even a killer who got stuck? Inspector Frank Garsby is the man on the case to find out more. However, with a snowstorm hitting the Moors, cutting the villagers off, it’s not long before another person is found dead. Can Grasby get to the bottom of these murders in a village that holds plenty of secrets? Or will this be a Christmas to remember for all…

Hilary Messer-Barrow, 34 Sat amongst the presents at my brother’s Vancouver Island home, it was a little bit bittersweet. This would be my last Christmas on Vancouver Island, or Vancouver city for that matter. My now husband James, 29, had been transferred to Beaver Creek for work, a remote part of Yukon, Canada, close to the Alaskan border. And soon I would join him. I had never lived far from my family – especially during the holiday season, so I wanted to make the most of the time I had with them. ‘Are you ready for your present?’ my mum Meg, 60, asked, passing me a rectangular package. Tearing the paper off, I stared up at my parents dumbstruck, when I saw what was inside – it was a beautiful…

Andrew Greenhalgh, 74, from Great Baddow, Essex Switching over the TV channel, the familiar tune of Helicopter ER chimed loudly from the speakers. ‘Is that actually real Grandad?’ my grandson Arthur, now nine, asked. Coming to my house in the second lockdown for over three months, Arthur liked to stay up a little later than his mum, my daughter Katie, now 39, let him. So we could watch the emergency show together. He was obsessed with the idea of the air ambulance. ‘Of course, it’s real,’ I replied, thinking back to the times that I too had flown high in the sky. Living an adventurous lifestyle, I’d cycled back to the UK from Australia, been skiing in Austria and spent winter in Japan, went solo in a glider at 16…

Ask our doc With Cheryl Lythgoe, Matron at mutual healthcare provider, Benenden Health Winter skin woes Q Every winter my psoriasis flares up – I get so cold and want to layer up, but it really irritates my skin. What can I do to ease it? Claire, Northampton A During the winter it’s common for psoriasis to become worse and leave sufferers itchy and sore. There are lots of things that you can try to prevent or minimise these flare-ups though. Firstly, ensure you have a healthy diet with lots of water. When looking at skin hydration, increasing your moisturising routine can help to reduce the irritation and redness, so consider asking your GP for a prescription moisturiser. Try wearing soft, natural fibres that will not rub or cause irritation…

FILM AND TV 1 How old is Thomas Brodie-Sangster, who played the lovestruck boy Sam in the 2003 rom-com Love Actually, now? a 25 b 30 c 33 2 In The Muppet Christmas Carol, which actor plays the leading role of Scrooge? a Jim Carrey b Michael Caine c Patrick Stewart 3 In which American department store does Susan Walker visit Father Christmas in the film Miracle on 34th Street? a Cole’s b Target c Walmart 4 Which character said their goodbyes to Albert Square in the EastEnders Christmas special last year? a Stacey Slater b Mick Carter c Sonia Fowler In what year was the 5 Universal Pictures animated edition of The Grinch released? a 2018 b 2020 c 2021 SHOWBIZ 6 Which celebrity couple tied the knot on Christmas Eve in 1990? a Brad Pitt and Jennifer…

Festive tipple Christmas is the time to treat yourself. Me and my hubby did exactly that by picking up a special bottle of rum for the big day. Tina, Bideford Magical feast Took the kids to the Harry Potter Studios to see it all decked out. The food was fake but somehow it still put my Christmas dinner to shame! Josie, Kent Holidays are coming! You know the festivities are almost here when you spot the Coca Cola bus out and about. Me and my friends were lucky to spot it two years ago. We’re going to look for it again this year! Justine, Leeds Raise a glass Here’s my partner Alan enjoying a big glass of wine with our Christmas dinner in the countryside last year. Cheers! Julie, Walthamstow…

Counting down the days, there are parties to attend, errands to run and plenty of Chrimbo films to watch – but what are you supposed to wear? That’s where we come in… Dress to impress, even if you are wearing a hoodie, and enjoy the festivities by looking and feeling your best – staying merry and bright! FEELING BLUE Pair different shades of blue for a monochromatic look perfect for winter! SUITED AND BOOTED STILL IN YOUR PJS? UNDER THE MISTLETOE Velvet often speaks for itself so match with a basic coat and jewelled accessories PULLING OUT ALL THE STOPS MAKING A STATEMENT MORE SEQUINS PLEASE! NOEL NOVELTY FIVE GOLD RINGS! REINDEER RUNWAY Wide leg trousers are flattering for all shapes and sizes, easy to dress up or down! COSY…

In the small city of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Percy and Shauna Harris were trying to make the best of things. Living in their suburban Oak Grove home, which they shared with their two five-year-old twins and Shauna’s 15-year-old son from a previous relationship, the whole family was so excited for the upcoming Holiday season back in 2019. Despite having some marital problems, resulting in Shauna, 36, asking for a divorce, the pair continued to cohabit for the sake of the children. But after Christmas had passed, Shauna wanted Percy to move out. She wanted to remain in the family home to bring the children up. Working as a supply sergeant in the army, Percy, now 36, was used to being away from his family for periods of time. He was highly…

Charlotte Symonds, 41, from Keighley Unpacking the last of the boxes, I put a hand on my aching back and let out a huge sigh. At last, everything was in its place. We’d moved into our new home and life felt really good. My partner Joe, 38, and I were expecting our first baby together. I already had a son, Freddie, now 10, who lived with us, and Joe had a daughter and son aged 10 and seven who came every other weekend to visit. We hadn’t planned on extending our family, but during lockdown and weekends together there hadn’t been a lot to do…now I was expecting! As the pregnancy progressed, I bought clothes, toys and things for the nursery. But the news reports on the TV worried me…

CRACKING CANAPÉS Christmas is all about the food! And if you still have space after your Christmas dinner, then who doesn’t love a canapé? They look impressive and taste delicious, but this doesn’t mean they have to be complicated. These easy recipes from JAZZ™ Apples are perfect for seeing through the festivities. APPLE & POTATO LATKES MAKES: 24 MINI LATKES YOU WILL NEED: • 2 JAZZ™ Apples, grated• 1 large baking potato, peeled and grated• 1 onion, peeled and grated• 150g plain flour• 3 large eggs, beaten• 1 tsp salt• 1¼ tsp baking powder• 1 tsp black pepper• Cooking oil, for greasing• Sour cream, to garnish• Dill, to garnish HOW TO: 1. Grease a 24-hole mini muffin tin and preheat the oven to 220°C. Coarsely grate the apples, potato and onion.…

Yvonne Nowik, 42, from Kettering, Northamptonshire Pinning the tinsel to the shelf, I added the final touches to the Christmas display. Working as a librarian, we always decked the place out. It was 14 November 2019 and just like the rest of the country, we were preparing for the busiest time of year. With festive readings and activities, the library was always merry and bright at Christmas. I’d been at work for about half an hour after dropping my daughter Zosia, now seven, off at nursery. My husband Wes, now 44, was away in Manchester for work, so it was just the two of us. However, now at work, my focus was on the books and the stories within them. As we opened the doors, I went about my duties…

Express your-elf! We dressed up our cat Elf in a costume to match her name. We think she makes the best little helper. Julie, Luton My angel Milo snuggled right up with our angel on top of the Christmas tree. I guess we can’t use it as a decoration anymore. Maisie, Gainsborough Naughty or nice? Here’s my little pack waiting to open their presents this year. Despite being a bit naughty at times, they’ve only just made the Nice List! Yvette, Newton Abbott Festive fun Our dog gets so overwhelmed by all the wrapping paper on Chrimbo morning. He’s tired himself out playing with it. Now, he needs a few cuddles to calm down. Morgan, Hereford THAT’S SO BRITISH HAVING BUBBLE AND SQUEAK FOR BREAKFAST ON BOXING DAY USING LEFTOVER…

Hanging a wreath on your front door is the norm during the festive season. But did you know that they can make a stunning centrepiece, too, for your Christmas dinner table? Follow this beautiful craft guide by Stars for Europe to create your own Kokedama advent wreath. • Please visit: starsuniteeurope.eu YOU’LL NEED… • A log slice • Red mini poinsettias • Moss • Gold craft wire • Three taper candles • Three candle holders on spikes • Wooden kebab sticks • A pine branch • A cordless drill • Secateurs HOW TO DO IT… 1. Use the cordless drill to drill holes in the log slice for the candle holders and the wooden kebab sticks. You will need to place the Kokedamas onto the sticks later, so make sure that…

Easy clean Loop a bit of Sellotape around your fingers to easily pick up any Christmas tree pine needles off the floor. You could even use a lint roller if you have one. Dora, Sheffield Pine power Pine needles are a great natural disinfectant. Simply pop them into a jar full of white vinegar. Leave for three weeks and then strain into a spray bottle for your own DIY spray cleaner. Irene, Dorchester Storage solutions Collect all your takeaway boxes together throughout the year and make sure they’re clean. They’re perfect for storing Christmas dinner leftovers and keeping everything separate. Roll on bubble and squeak on Boxing Day!  Jenny, Stafford Wrapping hack If you cut the wrapping paper too small so that it doesn’t fully cover your present, simply turn…

Alison Blackler has been a transformational mind coach for over 25 years, working both in the NHS and in her own company 2minds. She works with individuals to understand their own mind, free themselves of unwanted habits and embrace their individuality. (2-minds.co.uk) Can I be strong enough? Q After experiencing a miscarriage, I now have to spend the festivities with my in-laws and other family members who have just welcomed a new baby. I don’t think I’m strong enough to doit… Caitlin, Portsmouth A The most important thing here is you and your self-care. It is a time to heal and look after yourself. It is such a difficult situation to process anyway and Christmas can exaggerate the pain. There will be many other Christmases and I would hope that your…

Tracy Bennet, 58, from Sheffield Dressing head to toe in my glitzy finery and throwing on a pair of perfect dancing heels, it was Christmas party time! Sporting a dapper suit, my husband Steve stood in front of the Christmas tree posing for a photo before we headed out the door, ready for the night ahead. With a posh sit down meal, plenty of bubbles and a black tie dress code, I knew it would be one to remember. Meeting over 20 years ago, whilst both working for the NHS, it was clear that me and Steve had a connection from the start. Tying the knot after four years, we became inseparable. With Steve having two grown-up children, Amy and Ashley, as well as myself having two older boys, Daniel…

Julie Fox, 73, from Brighouse Taking a sip of my favourite drink, a Elland 1872 Porter, I crossed another pub off the list. ‘What number are we on?’ my husband Phil, 76, asked. ‘That was the 200th, ’ I grinned, making sure to double check. Our hobby isn’t what you could describe as common – we’re adventurous, fun people and that’s why we decided to take on the ultimate challenge. And so, we made it our mission to visit as many UK Wetherspoon pubs as possible. Some people definitely think we’re crazy, but we love it. The pubs have such a warm and friendly atmosphere, and with the prices, who can say no?! It all began back in 1998. On our way to Newcastle to visit our daughter Camilla, we…

GET THE LOOK ‘Tis the season for all things glitter, but it can be a bit overwhelming. If you’re after a simple, glowing look with metallic shimmers, then No 7 are on hand. They’ve partnered with Christine Lampard for their Ethereal Radiance look from the Stellar Edit, with a dramatic eye and sparkling cheeks. 1. Accentuate the cheek and brow bones using the No 7 Multipurpose Highlighting Stick (£9.95), generously dabbing and blending across points that catch the light for that extra special shimmer. Apply using your fingers or a small brush. 2. Now the eyes – using an eyeshadow brush, apply Saturn, from the No 7 Burgundy Eyeshadow Quad (£12.95) all over the eyelid as your base. Follow with Galactic. 3. Take a clean brush and apply Celestial to the outer half…

Cleo Bailey, 43, from Loughborough Snuggling up on the sofa with a tin of Quality Street, I grabbed the remote. ‘Ready kids?’ I asked, loading up The Grinch on the TV. It was only November, but I was in full Christmas mode. I’d been preparing for it since January! While other people were buying beach balls and swimsuits this summer, I was filling up my basket with baubles and candy canes. Growing up, Christmas had always been special for me. After carefully writing our Christmas lists, my dad would gather me and my brothers in the garden and then set fire to our letters to Santa. Christmas is special to me ‘You’ll get them back after Santa’s read them,’ he’d say. ‘He’ll use magic to bring them back.’ And sure…

JAMES BROWN We’ve all heard of the Godfather of Soul himself. And even if his name doesn’t ring, his music will. Penning the likes I Got You (I feel Good) and It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World, his influence is everywhere. He even started in the Blues Brothers, alongside other funk and soul legends. James’ personal life was shadier – he was known for his run-ins with the law, including theft, assault and even domestic violence, too. And on Christmas Day in 2006, James died at 1.45am. The cause of death was said to be complications from pneumonia, although an investigation in 2019 by CNN led to suggestions that James had actually been murdered – a bit of a mystery… JOAN MIRÓ Fans of expressionist and surrealist artwork would recognise…