December thoughts – when you've made your choices

Some hints and tips ...

Before you place your order a thought or two.

Check the small print – if you're considering ordering on line there may be a minimum spend which could be considerable – I've seen £60. Remember those three little words “book your slot” - early. You can order and collect with no minimum charge from store but bear in mind that's another for the already growing collection list – you can only be in one place at a time!

If you're buying party food check to make sure it all cooks for the same amount of time and at the same temperature – unless of course you want to be tearing backwards and forwards from the kitchen to your guests getting grumpier by the minute. Don't forget to set your timer – preferably a small version that hangs around your neck – it's a strange necklace I grant you – you'll be glad you wore it.

If you can organise it you might like to collect your last minute orders on the 23^rd December – unless of course you enjoy the queuing which begins in the car park and continues at the collection point – even though you will have a specific time slot to collect your goodies nothing ever goes to plan and the result – a wasted morning. Remember your breakfast – low blood sugar makes for a very cranky shopper.

Don't forget the supermarket deals. You'll find that they'll have good offers – a selection of antipasti and smoked salmon is great on two counts - doesn't take up too much space and they should have good dates – don't forget to check.

Consider buying part-baked baguettes. They do not need to be frozen so don't take up valuable space in your freezer, once again check the dates.

My tip to add to your shopping list. It doesn't take long to bake a Camembert to go with the freshly baked baguettes. Note to self, make sure it's in a stapled container not glued – it will not be pretty and you'll be very cross!

Assemble your own prawn cocktail shots. If you've not got shot glasses I might even go so far as to suggest you invest – you don't have to spend a fortune and I've found them so useful for all sorts of stuff, from making individual puds to the prawn cocktail. You could even use them for alcohol!

Your ordering choices may be influenced by elements that you dislike preparing and cooking – desserts as an example – if you reverse “desserts” you get “stressed”.

A few ideas … and more hints and tips