Christmas celebrations :

I have been reading about some of the celebrations that have a Natural theme.

The Tannenbaum or Christmas tree was found in Friburg ,Germany in 1419 laden with nuts and baked goods for children to pick.

Queen Charlotte bought this to England at the start of the 19 th century.

Queen Victoria had a tree in Kensington Palace in 1848.

Mistletoe came from the Vikings.

If two feuding Nordivc warriors met under a sprig. They were expected to make up.

The  European yule log was used burnt for 12 days to reflect on the year past and welcome the year ahead.

Traditionally  there was  feasting  in midwinter before the harshest times to come.

History was not my favourite topic at school.

However, I have enjoyed learning about the Christmas celebrations that use Natural products from the environment.

Bring something natural into Christmas.

The shops are full of tinsel and baubles.

Here are some ideas to redress the balance:

Buy a natural Christmas Tree that you can keep in the New Year.

Remember to keep it watered.

Bring indoors the bulbs you planted  in Autumn.

Natural Holly Wreaths are another good idea.

Amaryllis make a beautiful arrangement at this time of year.

There are also the traditional plants ,such as Ponsettia and  Christmas Rose.

Bring a breath of fresh air into your Christmas decorations.

Garden Centres: Not just for plants.

Over the last couple of weeks I have been amazed at the range of activities at my local Garden Centre.

One was the super Christmas Shop selling a range of beautiful  decorations.

Just made to cheer up a dull day.

Then there was the coffee experience.Relaxing and most welcome.

There is a new world of Living Style that encourages decorative vases to dispel household smells.

Tea lights can give your home a new ambience.

A friend who owns a nursery has introduced a Bijou shop on the  Market Square.

Christmas Trees , delightful  decorative  containers with bulbs and animal creations are on sale.

The Festive Spirit is here at the heart of the town.

It is good to take a break from gardening.

Try to make the most of this  by embracing the other things that Garden Centres provide.

These activities bring cheer and relaxation to a stressful time of year.