This is the last KBzine prior to our Christmas break as we’re about to enter our season of excess… I realise I sound jaded but I know I’m not the only one to be frustrated at how early what is supposed to be the season of goodwill is foisted upon us, with some stores playing Christmas music from late October, shelves stocked with festive goodies and advertising geared towards making us spend more than we can afford on things our loved ones don’t need and probably won’t appreciate!

Facebook is adorned with images of Christmas trees almost hidden by far too many presents for the recipients to get the most out of, posted in some cases by families that I know ought to be spending the money elsewhere (or working fewer hours so they can at least see their children grow up). The excess is becoming frightening and I’m glad I’m no longer involved, since for at least 20 years now our family has been exchanging token presents and home-made gifts in an attempt to get back to the real spirit of Christmas. Our bank accounts – and stress levels – are far better for it.

With so many UK families now having to use food banks and ever greater numbers of homeless people crammed into hostels and bed & breakfast accommodation – and of course the millions of homeless and displaced people worldwide, the idea of over indulgence at Christmas now feels obscene.

I do hope that if you’re involved in the supply of new kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms and appliances, you make a point of encouraging customers to recycle their unwanted items either by arranging for charity shop collection or via a giveaway site such as Gumtree or Freecycle. And of course if you have your own scheme in place, I’d love to give it some publicity! For while some people are in a position to upgrade their household items on a whim, others are not so lucky and are grateful for cast-offs.

Our next issue will broadcast on 8th January. If you have news you’d like to share with KBzine’s readers, please do send it – when it comes to press releases I’m happy to be indulged!

And whether you’re taking a break over the next couple of weeks or are continuing to work, I hope you can stay safe, be happy and share peace and goodwill with all those around you.

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Yours,

Jan Hobbs