Every week, we will explore another theme of Christmas starting with giving and connecting. Our third theme of Christmas is reflecting.

Many of us start pensively looking back over the year. Whether it’s because we’re reminded of our new year's resolutions or because we’re making plans and looking back at who has been dear to us.

Take a moment to look back over this year and think about who has had your back. Was there a neighbour who you’ve gotten closer to? A family member who has helped you out? A friend you’ve reconnected with? Or a loved one who has been there through thick and thin?

During the season of giving, it’s natural to want to thank this person through presents. There are loads of ways to say thanks this year, here are our favourite ways to say thanks:

 

Send a card

Telling someone how thankful you are to have them is easily done in writing. Take your time to write a message or even add a poem. If you send Christmas cards, you can add a little note of thanks in your message. Charities and charity shops have a wonderful selection of cards for all occasions, that will mean you can send good wishes and support a good cause at the same time.

 

Offer a helping hand

They say actions speak louder than words and offering your help is a great way to show thanks. At this time of year, there’s plenty of things to help with from hanging Christmas lights to helping with a groceries shop. Saying thank you by offering a helping hand doesn’t cost anything.

 

Shout about it

Make a public announcement about how grateful you are to this person. Either in a social media post, making a toast at a dinner, calling up their favourite radio programme for a shoutout or any other way that comes to mind. And remember, you don’t need to wait until December to tell people you’re grateful for them.

 

Get into the reminiscent, thankful mood with some Back to the Land with Kate Humble everyday this week at 3pm and 9pm on Together TV. Each episode follows pioneering local entrepreneurs through the seasons and reminds us to be thankful for the land we live off. Check our TV guide for when you can catch the next episode.