Izzy Nicholls

Dec 18, 2024 | thingsthatmakepeoplegoaww.com | Izzy Nicholls

Even if you love your own company, spending Christmas alone can be tough. Everywhere you go, adverts pushing the festive season depict happy families and groups of friends having fun. For some, this is not the reality, and Christmas alone is a welcome option. The solitude and peace allow you to celebrate (or not) in your own way, unhindered by tradition or expectation. I've spent Christmas alone several times by choice, finding the holidays a good time to take a much-needed break from the world.

Dec 17, 2024 | thingsthatmakepeoplegoaww.com | Izzy Nicholls

Has your year gone to plan? As winter wraps its cold arms around us and the holiday season starts with a bang, your thoughts may turn to activities you wish you'd done this year. But there is still time! Get your skates on (literally!), and you'll have plenty of opportunities to complete your winter bucket list before the year is out.

Dec 14, 2024 | thingsthatmakepeoplegoaww.com | Izzy Nicholls

The Danish call it hygge, the Dutch gezelligheid, the Swedish mysig, and the Serbs say mepak. These words convey a sense of simple pleasures and coziness, often coming from countries with long winter months and short days. And there is something irresistible about cozying up at home on a cold winter's day, especially if it's dark by mid-afternoon. A good book, check. A yummy hot drink, check. Thick woolen socks and a fire, check.

Dec 10, 2024 | thingsthatmakepeoplegoaww.com | Izzy Nicholls |Nancy Reyes

Winter break is that special time between mid-December and early January, mirroring the academic year, where maximizing your holiday days nets you several weeks off. Whether you plan to lounge around at home, travel to far-flung destinations, or catch up with friends and family, winter break is a ritual that sets you up for the New Year. Because winter break only happens once a year, you want to make every second of it count, leaving you feeling invigorated and energized for 2025. Here's how…1.

Dec 7, 2024 | thingsthatmakepeoplegoaww.com | Izzy Nicholls |Nancy Reyes

As winter approaches and the days grow shorter, it's traditional to hunker down and eat well. Historically, the extra layers of fat would have kept us warm; now we enjoy the bounty of the season and lots of delicious food!During what is already a busy time, having staples to hand saves time and energy. I always stock up at the start of winter with my favorite pantry heroes – ingredients that work hard and earn their cost. As a keen home cook, this is my tried and tested list of pantry staples.