A Traditional Christmas with Mr Kipling

*This is a paid partnership with Mr Kipling*

What do you think of when you hear the word Christmas? I think of twinkling lights, Christmas carols, pigs in blankets and mince pies. Christmas has always been quite a traditional family affair and it is something I look forward to every year, especially when those first packs of Mr Kipling mince pies start appearing on the shop shelves.

Mr Kipling have the ultimate treat for the festive season this year with their new and improved mince pies which have been awarded the Taste Approved logo by Good Housekeeping. We're already a couple of boxes down in our household and I can confirm they are very, very delicious. The deep filled mince pies are made with rich and fruity mince meat in a butter enriched case and with four variations in the range including a gluten free version, be sure to try them for yourself.

As I've been munching my way through mince pies and drinking tea in my Christmas cup, I've become so excited for the festive season especially as Joshua is going to be so much more aware this year. According to a poll that was recently carried out, 30% of Brits think that seeing their first Christmas ad is what signifies the true start of Christmas and I can totally believe that as every year I wait in anticipation for the John Lewis advert whereas Arran waits for the Coca Cola advert.

We have a few different traditions we carry out every year and this year we get to involve Joshua too. We choose a Christmas tree decoration ready to add to the tree on the 1st of December. Since Arran and I have been together, we've bought a new tree decoration each year so that one day when we're old, wrinkly and grey, we'll have a Christmas tree full of all our Christmas memories from all the years we've been together. 

One of my favourite moments is the very end of November when we get the Christmas decorations down from the attic ready to decorate. 45% of Brits note that decorating for Christmas is one of their favourite things to do during the Christmas season. We like to cook a warming meal, have mince pies and play our favourite Christmas songs all while we place ornaments on shelves and twinkling lights on the tree but I think what really signifies Christmas for me and always has is present wrapping.

For as long as I can remember I've been head present wrapper so I've always created the perfect present wrapping evening for myself with hot chocolate, a traditional Christmas playlist and festive food while I wrap, stick and write out gift tags. It's my own little personal tradition. 

The Mr Kipling #ChristmasStartsNow campaign is all about getting ready for Christmas in your own special way. Christmas is so personal for a number of reasons and it would be lovely to see some of your own traditions and special moments shared on their hashtag this coming festive season.