We're nearly into December and the countdown to Christmas Day, when families make that extra effort to spend the special day together and enjoy time away from the day to day. And depending on how organised you are, it's completley possible for you to spend the next few weeks getting into the seasonal spirit of things as well as ticking lots of things on the 'to do' list, I'll explain what I mean:

The National Trust at Arlington Court are running Children's Craft Workshops on Sunday's 27th Nov, 4 & 11 Dec, when in conjunction on 27th Nov and 4th Dec, mums and dads can also be inspired and buy Crafty Christmas gifts that will delight family and friends. And on Sunday 4th November learn to make your own wreath for £20 with all materials and lunch included. All events run from 11am - 3pm, call 01271 850296 for details or look on their web site www.nationaltrust.org.uk/arlingtoncourt

We know bad weather may be on the way but for guaranteed festive, frosty fun why not drop your kids off at LetsGo on the Braunton Road and get them on the only ice-rink in Barnstaple. Giving you a few hours of your own to get things done. Under 17s parties a speciality. 01271 321123

If you are shopping on a budget or want to family day out on Sunday, why not pop along to Barnstaple's many Car Boot Sales, where unusual items, objet d'art and nearly new goods can be found for a song.

Talking of singing, its fantastic to hear the wives and girlfrinds choir of Chivenor making the national news. Even better, there are many talented singers and entertainers here in North Devon and Christmas Carols & Concerts are a must to get into the spirit of Christmas and to remember the true reason for Christmas. The Exmoor Carolers sing in South Molton on 7th December at 8pm. And on the 8th December in the Pannier Market, Barnstaple from 6.00pm is the Victorian Christmas Fair and Carol Service.

The shops of Barnstaple are all open late every Thursday evening til Christmas so if you are tied for time during the working day, why not sort the family out with an easy meal at home and head to the shops with a few friends for some 'me' time. You'll find a warm welcome at Zenas for fine dining and Lilicos for their live music and buzzy atmospere. Phone ahead to chec what's on.

If you are more active with your spare time, join in the festive spirit for North Devon's Hospice Santa's Fun Run on Sunday 11th December at Barnstaple Town Football Club. Registration from 11am, the 5k run starts at 1pm. And for your kids, get them on the golf course on Saturday mornings at Libbaton's Junior Golf Academy

And finally Christmas, wouldn't be Christmas without the annual family visit to North Devon's Queen Theatre to see Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs suitable for all children over 3 years.....hi ho, hi ho, its off to work we go.............

Whatever your plans for the big day, if you're here or away from the area, have fun with your family and friends over the next few weeks and make Christmas in 2011 a good year to remember.