Nannies 4 Grannies Ltd Newsletter Issue 14

Christmas is on its way, I know we all love Christmas even those who say otherwise, it brings some sparkle and warmth to the long winter evenings, dreaming of snow, hot chocolate and sitting by the fire or radiator (in most cases these days). N4G has had a busy Autumn with the Farmers Market in October. We raised £325.00 for the Salvation Army thanking them for all the good they do for the community. This money will go towards the Christmas Day dinner and entertainment that they put on every year for older residents.

We attended both Harpenden and St Albans libraries ‘Flourishing Lives’ campaign which aims to provide information of support available to the older community. We want to reach those people that haven’t heard about our amazing team and how we can support them at home. St Albans Council, other partner organisations and Nannies 4 Grannies were all on hand to provide information about their services that make a positive impact on older adult’s lives.

The tradition of kissing under the mistletoe has its roots in ancient pagan rituals and has been passed down through various cultures over the centuries. Mistletoe is a parasitic plant that grows on the branches of trees, and it has long been associated with magic, fertility, and love.

In ancient Norse mythology, mistletoe was considered a symbol of love and friendship. According to one popular legend, the goddess Frigg declared mistletoe to be a plant of peace and vowed that it would never again be used for harm. In another Norse myth, the god Balder was killed with an arrow made of mistletoe, and Frigg's tears turned the red berries of the mistletoe white. As a symbol of love and reconciliation, mistletoe became associated with the custom of kissing under its branches.

The tradition of kissing under the mistletoe gained popularity in England during the 18th century. It became a common Christmas custom, and a sprig of mistletoe would be hung in a doorway or other prominent place. According to the tradition, if two people found themselves standing under the mistletoe together, they were supposed to exchange a kiss. This custom has persisted and evolved over time, becoming a light-hearted and festive part of the holiday season in many cultures.

While the specific reasons for the association between mistletoe and kissing may vary across cultures and legends, the general theme is one of love, peace, and goodwill during the holiday season. Today, many people continue to hang mistletoe as a decoration during the Christmas season, and the tradition of kissing under it is a fun and festive way to celebrate the spirit of the holidays.

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A slow cooker allows you to create one pot meals. Just add the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the rest. Save 81% off energy bills using this slow cooker when comparing the energy used to cook pork in a 1.8 kW electric oven. The slow cooker shown here also incorporates a black board too, so you can write reminders on it! - Google Salter Chalkboard Slow Cooker to find out more

An air fryer will allow you to meals in a more healthy way, only ever needing little or no oil. This model shown uses advanced hot air technology which speeds the cooking process. There are many models available that will suit everyone’s needs from cooking for 1 to 2 people up to 6 and more! Google Tefal Easy Fry Max for more info.

“I’ve had many amazing adventures in my life. Some stories, though, I have only ever shared with my friends.… Until now!” Dame Joan Collins has always believed that one should retain some mystery in life and hide a knowing smile behind one’s shoulder pads.

In her new book, Dame Joan Collins returns in dazzling form to share the most memorable moments from her eclectic and vibrant life, in and out of the limelight. Taking us on an incredible journey from her early years as a young star in the golden era of Hollywood to stamping her stilettos in Dynasty; from the glittering heights of St Tropez to the busy Oscars season in LA over the years.

Sheila Hancock reflects upon her life and career with all the winning candour and warm-heartedness we have come to expect from the legendary actress.

In Old Rage, one of Britain's best-loved actors opens up about her tenth decade. Funny, feisty, honest, she makes for brilliant company as she talks about her life and takes an uncompromising look at a world so different from the one of her wartime childhood. And yet - despite age, despite rage - she finds there are always reasons for joy.

FICTION Showcasing the same narrative flair and flawless knack for intimacy as her So Late in the Day and the award-winning Small Things Like This, Keegan's perfectly crafted debut collection finds life-altering drama in the most simple and unexpected moments.

A secret one-night tryst in the city. A sister's revenge. A love-struck doctor. A missing girl. In Antarctica, an astonishing sequence of stories, one of our most gifted writers illuminates human longing and fallibility in all its variety.