Boxing Day is the perfect opportunity to relax, reflect, and perhaps indulge in some creative gift wrapping. After the whirlwind of Christmas, this day offers a chance to put a personal touch on the gifts you’ve yet to wrap or those you’re preparing for New Year celebrations. Whether you’re looking for something eco-friendly, personalised, or simply different from the usual, here are some innovative ideas and techniques for gift wrapping today: Sustainable wrapping With the increasing awareness around environmental impact, many people are opting for sustainable gift wrapping. Eco-friendly materials help reduce waste while maintaining a festive charm. Here’s how…
Author: Pride Team
The Christmas season is often synonymous with indulgence, where food plays a central role in celebrations. For many, this means overindulging in dishes that might leave them concerned about weight gain. However, there are a variety of Nigerian foods that are both delicious and nutritious, offering a balance of taste without the risk of piling on the pounds. Here are 5 Nigerian dishes you can enjoy this Christmas while still maintaining a healthy weight: Moi Moi A popular dish in Nigerian households, Moi Moi is made from ground beans, peppers, onions, and spices, then steamed to perfection. This high-protein, low-calorie…
The festive season is a time for celebration, and there’s no better way to embrace the Christmas spirit than by hosting a memorable party. Whether you’re throwing an intimate gathering or a grand soirée, hosting a Christmas party like a pro is all about attention to detail, a warm atmosphere, and, of course, a little bit of festive magic. Here’s how you can pull off the perfect Christmas gathering: Start with the guest list The foundation of any great party begins with the guest list. Consider the dynamics of your guests and aim to create a balance of personalities. Whether…
Christmas Eve, the day before Christmas, is a magical time full of excitement, as families and communities worldwide prepare for the big day. While Christmas Day often takes centre stage, Christmas Eve has its own charm, steeped in tradition and festivity. From cosy family gatherings to spiritual observances, here’s a look at some of the most cherished Christmas Eve customs. The night before Christmas For many, Christmas Eve is a time of storytelling. Parents gather their children to hear the tale of Santa’s jolly arrival, creating an atmosphere of wonder before bedtime. Church services and Midnight mass For Christians, Christmas Eve…
Dear Dorothy, As we near the close of this year, I’ve been reflecting on my life and feel somewhat dissatisfied. While I’m proud of certain accomplishments, I can’t shake the feeling that I’ve missed opportunities to grow, learn, and make meaningful changes. I find myself wondering: how can I approach the new year with more purpose and achieve a sense of fulfilment? Any advice on practical steps to make the most of the months ahead would be much appreciated. Yours sincerely, Laura Dear Laura, Your letter reflects a feeling many of us share as one year folds into the…
The holiday season can be a wonderful time filled with joy, connection, and celebration. However, for single people, it often brings an unwelcome side dish of pressure. Whether it’s the constant questioning from well-meaning relatives or the barrage of social media posts highlighting loved-up couples, going through the festive season can feel like a challenge. Below are some practical tips to help you enjoy the holidays without giving in to external pressures: Set boundaries early Before the holiday gatherings begin, it’s wise to establish clear boundaries with family and friends. If you’re dreading the inevitable, “So, when are you settling…
As the festive season approaches, “Detty December” promises endless parties, concerts, and events. However, the thrill of the season can leave you grappling with an empty wallet come January if you don’t tread carefully. Here’s how to enjoy the celebrations without sacrificing your financial health: Set a budget and stick to it The first rule of avoiding financial pitfalls is knowing your limits. Determine how much you can afford to spend without jeopardising your essential expenses. Divide this budget into categories such as gifts, outings, and travel. Once set, resist the temptation to overspend, no matter how enticing the offers…
Readings: Judges 13:2-7; 24-25; Psalm 71; Luke 1:5-25 The First Reading and today’s Gospel are very powerful and instinctively related. They are stories of good news to childless women, a message of hope to distressed families and the announcement of God’s purpose for their unborn children. I just want to draw a lesson that I believe we all need today. Today, let’s ponder on what I have titled: “When the time is right.” The wife of Manoah was childless for a long time. She must have been wondering, “Will I ever have a child? Will God ever answer me? If…
Weddings are often steeped in tradition, with rituals passed down through generations. However, many cultures have adopted unique and unconventional wedding customs that add a personal touch to the celebration. Here are 5 shocking wedding traditions from around the world that might surprise you. 1. The blackening of the bride (Scotland) In some parts of Scotland, the bride-to-be undergoes a peculiar tradition called “The Blackening.” Before the wedding day, the bride, along with her friends and family, is “kidnapped” and covered with a mixture of mud, feathers, and other sticky substances. This practice is said to symbolise the challenges that…
The holiday season is a magical time filled with celebrations, family gatherings, and countless photo opportunities. Yet, for many women, the whirlwind of activity can leave little room for self-care. Here are some practical beauty tips to keep you looking radiant and feeling refreshed amidst the chaos: Embrace multi-tasking products Streamline your routine with multi-functional beauty products. A tinted moisturiser with SPF can provide coverage, hydration, and sun protection in one step, while a lip and cheek tint saves time and space in your makeup bag. Hydration is key Between late nights and festive cocktails, staying hydrated is essential. Drink…