You have probably already started doing this, but if like me you have been buying bits and pieces over the past number of weeks, you can often forget what you have bought. So write down a list of the people that you need to buy a gift for – and beside each name write a budget (you should have a budget, and stick to it) 😊 Tick them off as they are done.

Do as much shopping locally as you can, and support people who support Lakers such as: Supervalu Bray; Bannon’s Jewellers; Kelly’s Jewellers; Kilruddery House & Garden; Amphibian King; The Sports Room, Wicklow; Bray Wanderers, Bray Bowl, Catalyst Coffee and The Martello.

It is a good idea to take out your Christmas Card List at this stage and update any details that may have changed so you are ready. Maybe you can buy some Lakers Christmas cards and write them well before the final posting dates.

Now is a good time to check your Christmas lights. I always pack mine away each year in a separate box so I can take it down in advance of the other decorations and then I can test them early, leaving myself time to buy new ones if needed. I also try and leave myself a note in the box from last year about what worked well and what was broken! You never remember 11 months later!!