Avoiding Leftovers...
Published on Friday 4th January 2008
Whilst I have to confess that our tree looked as vulgar as ever this Christmas (an obscene abundance of presents) I did notice a difference in the volumes of wastage we generated and our attitudes to it. Not only were we more conscious than we have been in previous years about scooping up every little piece of disregarded wrap for recycling but, I felt that there was considerably less wastage on the present front too.
For a start my family (which believe me is more than sizeable) had decided that, instead of buying for every second cousin once removed, we’d do a secret santa and actually spend a decent amount of time and money on one present the recipient might actually like as opposed to scraping up something small for each and every person on the family tree.
 My Uncle’s wife got me (poor thing) - and my Nigella Express  was an absolute hit. She’d had time enough to think about how little time I have to spend in the kitchen and chose perfectly.
Secret Santas aside, I was pretty vocal about what I wanted for Christmas this year. I can’t bear leftovers (be it food on a plate or an unwanted present) and unless you know the receivers taste impeccably, it’s better to ask (if it means I get something that I’ll actually use and that won’t sit at the back of the cupboard for the entire year then, in my mind, it makes perfect sense).
Set on it being a surprise? Then ask us - that's what we're here for.
My smart new Oka Towel Stand (sister in law), White Company Hooded Dressing Gown (mother in law), Hush Bed Socks (stocking), Butler & Wilson Earrings (stocking) and my Floyd Lap Top Case (stepmother) have all been put to good use already. (I didn’t get the Karl Donoghue Hat
 but it’s now in the Net A Porter sale!) And that’s more than I can say for the previous year (no names mentioned).
So take my advice and next time you’re asked what you want for your birthday / Christmas / Valentines or just because you deserve spoiling, prevent wastage and send them to SheerLuxe or... speak the truth!
And next Christmas our wish list function that’s coming soon will make life even easier!
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