thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--Jill Biden Reveals Why Right-Wing Attack On Her 'Dr.' Title Was 'Such A Surprise'

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Future first lady Jill Biden revealed her surprise at being criticised for using the title “Dr.” in a lengthy joint interview with her husband, President-elect Joe Biden, that aired on Thursday’s episode of “The Late Show.”
Wall Street Journal columnist Joseph Epstein faced backlash over his op-ed last week in which he called Biden — who has a doctorate in education — “kiddo” and suggested she drop the title because it “sounds and feels fraudulent, not to say a touch comic.”
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“That was such a surprise,” Biden told “The Late Show” host Stephen Colbert. “It was really the tone of it. He called me ‘kiddo.’”
“One of the things I am most proud of is my doctorate,” added Biden, who plans to continue working as a college professor after her husband enters the White House. “I worked so hard for it.”
Biden said she was touched by how many people sprang to her defense — including former first lady Michelle Obama — in the wake of the controversy, which was amplified this week by Fox News host Tucker Carlson.
“I was just overwhelmed by how gracious people were to me,” said Biden.
Colbert suggested the flap could be a compliment because it was the only thing that people could find about her to criticise.
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“OK, I’ll take it that way,” Biden replied, laughing.
Colbert then asked the president-elect if “as the husband who loves this person, did you ever wanna get out a length of pool chain and go full corn pop on these people?”
“The answer is it’s close,” he replied. Said Jill Biden: “The answer is no.”
“I have been suppressing my Irishness for a long time,” he added.
Check out the video here:
Elsewhere in the interview, the president-elect said he had “great confidence in our son,” Hunter Biden, who is under federal tax investigation and who has been used as a right-wing whipping boy by President Donald Trump and his allies.
“I am not concerned about any accusations that have been made against him. It’s used to get to me,” Biden said, describing the attacks as “foul play.”
Biden called Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), who denounced Trump before the 2016 election and later became one of his staunchest backers, as “a personal disappointment because I was a personal friend of his.”
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But Biden nevertheless vowed to work with Republicans, predicting Trump’s impact “on the body politic” will fade once he leaves office and many Republicans will then feel “they have a lot more room” to work with Democrats.
Colbert asked Biden if there was anything about Trump “that you could thank him for sincerely.”
“What he’s done getting the vaccine moving has been positive,” replied Biden. “But by and large, he has been a president who’s decided that the way he succeeds is by dividing us.”
Check out that part of the interview here:
In other segments of the interview, the president-elect predicted the United States would be almost back to normal by Christmas 2021:
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thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--Eamonn Holmes Makes Cheeky Dig As He And Ruth Langsford Host Final Friday On This Morning

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Eamonn Holmes couldn’t help but slip in a cheeky comment about his and Ruth Langsford’s reduced This Morning roles as the couple hosted their final Friday episode.
The pair are stepping down from their regular slot on Friday mornings after 15 years to make way for new presenters Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary, and will instead now only host the ITV daytime show during the school holidays.
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Although the husband and wife pairing have been gracious about the changes, Eamonn made a joke about the situation as he and Ruth opened Friday’s episode.
Ruth Langsford and Eamonn Holmes hosted their last regular Friday edition of This Morning ITV/Shutterstock
Near the start of the show, Eamonn turned to Ruth and said: “Do you know what I saw yesterday? Outside the opticians was a man selling Christmas trees, discounting them by half price.′
Ruth responded: “They’re struggling to get rid of them, I suppose.”
Eamonn then said: “I would say so darling. That’s the obvious conclusion. Which is why they’re getting rid of us on a Friday after all this sort of chat.”
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Ruth quickly shut her husband down, telling him to “stop it!”.
‘We would ask you to be as nice and lovely to them ... as you have been to us for the past 15 years' ❤ @EamonnHolmes @RuthieeL #ThisMorning pic.twitter.com/H5FHrpw11B — This Morning (@thismorning) December 18, 2020
At the end of the live broadcast, Ruth and Eamonn called for This Morning viewers to make Alison and Dermot feel as welcome as they’d made them each Friday, as they revealed they now will not be on air until the February half term.
“You won’t be watching us anymore on a Friday,” Eamonn told viewers. “Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary – they’re going to be here on Fridays from here on in.
“And please, we would ask you, to be as nice and lovely to them – as they are friends of ours, and we’re very close to Alison – as you have been to us for the past 15 years.
“We appreciate all the love you have sent us today, we send it all back to you. Have a very Merry Christmas whatever you’re doing, it’s been lovely having you.”
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Ruth added: “You haven’t got rid of us, we’re back for half term. It’s been a tricky year for everybody, we hope we’ve helped you through it a little bit and thank you for all you support.
“Have a very Merry Christmas, and see you in February!”
Dermot O'Leary and Alison Hammond Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock
After the episode, Eamonn tweeted: “Bye bye to you all on a Friday folks...
“Hopefully see u next February for half-term This Morning. Thanks for having us and please have a safe and Merry Christmas.”
Bye bye to you all on a Friday folks .... Hopefully see u next February for half-term This Morning. Thanks for having us and please have a safe and Merry Christmas 🎅 — Eamonn Holmes (@EamonnHolmes) December 18, 2020
The couple’s friend and fellow ITV daytime star Gloria Hunniford previously claimed Eamonn and Ruth were finding it “very difficult to understand” why bosses have made the decision to reduce their presenting role.
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Speaking to The Mirror, the Loose Women panellist said: “That one was very hard to understand – I don’t fully understand the reasons behind it.
“I’ve talked to Eamonn since, and he’s clearly disappointed.
“I think they find it very difficult to understand why the change.”
Her comments come after Eamonn and Ruth publicly congratulated Alison and Dermot on their new Friday roles on social media, following the announcement last month.
Alison and Dermot, who proved to be a hit with viewers when they teamed up to present two shows together over the summer, will take the reins of Friday’s This Morning from 8 January.
Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield will continue to present the show from Monday to Thursday, except for school holidays.
This year, the pair will also be hosting a special pre-recorded Christmas edition of This Morning, as the show airs on 25 December for the first time in its 32-year history.
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This Morning airs weekdays at 10am on ITV.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--The UK's Coronavirus R Rate Has Risen Above 1

The reproduction number, or R rate, of coronavirus transmission across the UK has risen to between 1.1 and 1.2, according to the latest government figures.
It represents a significant increase from last week’s estimate of between 0.9 and 1.
R measures the number of people, on average, that each sick person will infect.
If R is greater than 1, the epidemic is generally seen to be growing; if R is less than 1 the epidemic is shrinking.
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The estimate represents the situation over the past few weeks rather than a snapshot of the situation on Friday, due to the time delay between initial infection, symptoms appearing, and the need for hospital care.
Boris Johnson on Friday refused to rule out a third national lockdown in England in the New Year and warned the “reality” was the number of infections was rising.
The Government Science Office has also published regional R rates across England as supplied by NHS England.
Regional R numbers across England
England: 1.1 - 1.3
East of England: 1.2 -1.4
London: 1.1 -1.3
Midlands: 1.0 - 1.2
North East and Yorkshire: 0.9- 1.1
North West: 0.9- 1.1
South East: 1.1 -1.3
South West: 0.9 -1.2
The Scottish government currently estimates the R rate in Scotland as being between 0.9 and 1.1.
In Wales the latest estimate is that the R rate is between 0.8 and 1.1.
And the R rate in Northern Ireland is currently estimated at between around 1.1 and 1.2.
Northern Ireland will enter a tough six week lockdown beginning on Boxing Day in an attempt to suppress a surge in Covid-19 cases.
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Asked on Friday if England could soon follow, the prime minister said: “We’re hoping very much that we will be able to avoid anything like that.
“But the reality is that the rates of infection have increased very much in the last few weeks.”
It comes as the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said the proportion of people testing positive is estimated to have increased sharply in London.
Infection rates have also increased in Eastern England, the East Midlands and south-east England, the ONS said.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--Boris Johnson Refuses To Rule Out Third National Lockdown In England

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Boris Johnson has refused to rule out imposing a third national lockdown on England in the new year, saying the reality is infections rates are rising.
Northern Ireland will enter a tough six week lockdown beginning on Boxing Day in an attempt to suppress a surge in Covid-19 cases.
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Asked on Friday if England could soon follow, the prime minister said: “We’re hoping very much that we will be able to avoid anything like that.
“But the reality is that the rates of infection have increased very much in the last few weeks.”
It comes as the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said the proportion of people testing positive is estimated to have increased sharply in London.
Infection rates have also increased in Eastern England, the East Midlands and south-east England, the ONS said.
The East Midlands has the highest rate (with an estimated 1.4% of people in private households testing positive for Covid-19), followed by London (1.4%) and north-east England (1.2%). South-west England has the lowest rate (0.4%).
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Much of England is currently under strict tier 2 or tier 3 restrictions, but the rules will be loosened from December 23 until December 27.
Under the relaxed rules, three households will be allowed to mix over the five day period.
But Johnson urged the public to now think of that as a “maximum” not “a target people should aim for”.
“Keep it short, keep it small, have yourselves a very little Christmas as I said the other night – that is, I’m afraid, the way through this year,” he said.
“Next year I have no doubt that as we roll out the vaccine and all the other things that we’re doing it will be very, very different indeed.”
ONS figures published on Friday showed half of adults across the country are planning to form a Christmas bubble.
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thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--Dawn French Has A Plan For How A New Series Of The Vicar Of Dibley Could Work

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Dawn French has got a plan for a storyline that could revive The Vicar Of Dibley.
The comic is currently back on screen as Geraldine Grainger in a mini-series of Vicar Of Dibley lockdown specials, which has prompted calls for a new, full series.
While that might appear unlikely due to a number of sad deaths among the in recent years, Dawn said she has already laid out an idea to the show’s creator Richard Curtis.
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Dawn French as The Vicar Of Dibley BBC
Appearing on ITV’s This Morning on Friday, hosts Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford asked if we might see Geraldine again in 2021, and if we did, whether she would still be residing in Dibley.
Dawn said: “Well, she is definitely in Dibley at the moment. She is married and she’s in Dibley.
“But I’ve always said to Richard Curtis, she would make a great Bishop. Come on!”
Ruth agreed, adding: “I can see you in the frock, definitely in the frock.”
The Vicar Of Dibley originally ran from 1994 to 2007, with some Comic Relief shorts airing in 2007, 2013 and 2015.
During the interview, Dawn also discussed her character’s tribute to Alice Tinker, after actor Emma Chambers died in 2018.
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Geraldine moved viewers to tears as she spoke about the death of her fictional best friend during Monday night’s episode, which Dawn said also served as her own tribute to Emma.
Dawn filmed a tribute to Emma Chambers' character Alice Tinker, following the actor's death BBC
“We hadn’t had an opportunity really to say goodbye to her properly. This was our chance,” she explained.
“I suppose in my tribute to her it was Geraldine talking about Alice, but also Dawn talking about Emma, which is why it took seven takes to do.
“The one that eventually made it to screen was the one with the least crying. I was a blubbing mess, because we miss her so much.”
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She continued: “You want to pay tribute but it brings back so many memories.
“That’s the great thing about The Vicar Of Dibley, it can be silly and funny and light and it can also address issues of the day, it can be very current, and it can be warm and and understanding about that, our grief.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--Post-Brexit Trade Deal 'Looking Difficult', Says Boris Johnson

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Boris Johnson has said a post-Brexit trade deal is “looking difficult”, as talks go down to the wire.
There are just 13 days of the UK’s transition period out of the EU remaining.
Earlier on Friday, the EU’s chief negotiator, Michel Barnier, warned there were “just a few hours” left to reach an agreement with the two sides standing at the “moment of truth”.
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The main barrier to a deal being reached appears to be fishing rights, with London and Brussels at odds over how much access the EU will have to UK waters and fish stocks.
The UK’s current trading arrangements with the EU expire at the end of December, meaning any new deal would have to be in place by January 1.
If not, tariffs and quotas will apply and bureaucracy will increase, causing further damage to an economy already ravaged by coronavirus.
Speaking on Friday, Johnson said there was still a “gap that needs to be bridged”.
“The UK’s done a lot to try and help. We hope our EU friends will see sense and come to the table with something themselves,” he said.
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“The UK’s position is always that we want to keep talking if there is any chance of a deal.”
The prime minister said “no sensible government” would agree to a deal that did not allow the UK to “control its own laws” and its own waters and fishing rights.
“Our door is open,” he said. “We will keep talking. Things are looking difficult.”
Johnson admitted while a no-deal exit would be “difficult at first” the country would still “prosper mightily”.
MPs have been warned they may need to to hastily return to Westminster from the Christmas recess to vote to approve it.
HuffPost UK understands a 50-page “draft future relationship bill” has already been drafted by the government as the clock ticks down.
The current text forms a skeleton to which the details of any last-minute trade agreement can be added.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--Scathing Supercut Shows How Republicans Keep Moving The Goalposts On Trump’s Defeat

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thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--Kelly Loeffler Keeps Posing For Photos With White Supremacists And Other Extremists

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Earlier this week a photo of Georgia GOP Sen. Kelly Loeffler posing with a notorious white supremacist went viral, prompting her campaign to disavow it.
But this wasn’t the first time that Loeffler — who is competing in one of the Jan. 5 Georgia runoff elections that will decide control of the US Senate — has posed for photos with a white supremacist or other far-right extremists. She has done it repeatedly this year.
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The picture that went viral showed Loeffler smiling alongside Chester Doles, a former Ku Klux Klan leader and member of the neo-Nazi National Alliance. Doles, who attended the deadly 2017 white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, went to prison in the 1990s for assaulting a Black man in Maryland.
He posted the photo, taken at a Loeffler campaign event in Dawsonville, Georgia, to the Russian social media site VK on December 11.
ALERT: Kelly Loeffler just posed for a photo with Chester Doles, a former KKK leader who runs the white supremacist American Patriots USA.
In 1993, Doles nearly beat a Black man to death.
In 2017, he marched in Charlottesville.
This is who @KLoeffler is proudly appealing to. pic.twitter.com/4YZcvL05rf — Bend the Arc: Jewish Action (@jewishaction) December 13, 2020
The activist group Bend the Arc: Jewish Action reposted the image to Twitter, with the comment “This is who @KLoeffler is proudly appealing to.” The tweet quickly went viral.
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In response, a Loeffler campaign spokesman told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that the senator “had no idea who [Doles] was and if she had she would have kicked him out immediately because we condemn in the most vociferous terms everything that he stands for.”
But photos of Loeffler smiling alongside far-right extremists are not hard to find.
The Democratic Party of Georgia and Bend the Arc each separately provided HuffPost with a photo showing Loeffler posing with Joshua Mote, Lumpkin County coordinator for American Patriots USA (APUSA), a Georgia extremist group led by Doles.
The photo, which Doles also posted to VK, shows Mote standing alongside Loeffler and Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) at a Loeffler campaign event on Sept. 3 in Gilmer County, Georgia.
Sens. Kelly Loeffler and Tom Cotton pose for a photo with Joshua Mote (center), Lumpkin County coordinator for American Patriots USA, a Georgia extremist group founded by Chester Doles. VK
The Loeffler campaign did not respond to a request for comment on the Mote photo on Thursday. But spokesman Stephen Lawson did provide a statement when HuffPost previously contacted the campaign about the photo in September.
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“Sen. Loeffler denounces all forms of hate,” Lawson said at the time. “But sadly, this is another fake news attack from the totally discredited Southern Poverty Law Center and their friends in the liberal media.”
The Southern Poverty Law Center was not involved with this story and did not provide HuffPost with the photo of Loeffler and Mote. The civil rights organization does, however, list APUSA as a white nationalist hate group.
Doles founded APUSA in 2019 in an apparent attempt to rebrand himself and whitewash his past connections to the KKK and other white supremacist groups.
APUSA, which is supportive of President Donald Trump and which has aligned itself closely with the far-right militia movement, claims to be non-racist. Its membership, however, is teeming with Klansmen and neo-Nazis, according to research compiled by the group Atlanta Antifascists.
Politicians like Loeffler take photos with lots of people on the campaign trail, and it’s impossible for them to know the political affiliations of each and every person with whom they pose. But there’s also clearly a reason why extremists are excited to be photographed with Loeffler: The senator has repeatedly catered to or condoned those on the far-right.
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In August, Loeffler sat down for an interview with One America News Network host Jack Posobiec, a neo-Nazi collaborator and prominent MAGA propagandist.
“I joined @JackPosobiec on @OANN to discuss why I had to call out the [Black Lives Matter] political organization — and why the woke mob is trying to cancel me,” Loeffler tweeted at the time.
Posobiec’s extremist résumé is long. He once associated himself with white supremacists like Richard Spencer, one of the organizers of the 2017 Charlottesville rally. Posobiec has also tweeted out multiple anti-Semitic memes and has often made reference to the numbers 14 and 88 — codes frequently used by neo-Nazis. He was one of the biggest promoters of the deranged, right-wing Pizzagate conspiracy theory.
Great to be in Ringgold today with @mtgreenee and a fired up crowd of Patriotic Georgians!
Now more than ever, we need outsiders and businesspeople in Washington who will FIGHT to protect the #2A, defend innocent life, and advance our conservative values! #gasen #gapol pic.twitter.com/Z3j0n4zbyW — Kelly Loeffler (@KLoeffler) September 19, 2020
In September, Loeffler attended a pro-gun rally in Georgia and posted photos from the event to Twitter showing her standing alongside armed members of the Georgia III% Martyrs militia group.
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The Georgia III% Martyrs — part of a nationwide far-right militia movement ― are known for showing up to monitor Black Lives Matter protests carrying military-style assault weapons.
Loeffler also posted photos from that pro-gun rally of her standing with Marjorie Taylor Greene, then a Georgia congressional candidate who gained national infamy for her support of QAnon, a pro-Trump conspiracy cult that believes a globalist cabal of pedophiles — who kidnap and torture children — are waging war against the president.
Greene, who won her election to the U.S. House in November, has also been recorded making multiple racist, Islamophobic and anti-Semitic statements.
In October, Loeffler and Greene held a joint press conference at which Greene endorsed the senator’s election bid.
Loeffler and then-House candidate Marjorie Taylor Greene speak at a news conference in Dallas, Georgia, on Oct. 15, 2020. Elijah Nouvelage/Reuters
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“Sen. Loeffler’s claim to disavow the former KKK leader she posed with rings hollow given her repeated attacks on Black activists and her association with other politicians such as Marjorie Taylor Greene who use racism and antisemitism to spread division and hate,” Victoria Raggs of Bend the Arc: Jewish Action Atlanta told HuffPost in a statement on Thursday.
Raggs added that “Loeffler has clearly made tying herself to extremists part of her electoral strategy” in an effort to “distract from her own greed and ethics inquiries for illegally profiting off of a pandemic.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--Trump Gets History Lesson After Calling Out Democrats In Election Tweet

He really has a hard time believing it is possible for him to lose. Also, don't most Democrats think the election was stolen from them in 2000? https://t.co/gBPehjvj3Y


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--Dutch Authorities: Trump's Twitter Was Hacked By Man Who Guessed 'maga2020!' Password

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Dutch prosecutors confirmed on Wednesday that Donald Trump’s Twitter account was indeed hacked by a so-called “ethical hacker” who didn’t have to work too hard to guess Trump’s password: “maga2020!”
Victor Gevers, a Dutch security expert, cooperated with investigators from the Dutch Public Prosecution Service in November and freely released information and screenshots pertaining to the October 16 hack.
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“He ... stated to police that he had investigated the strength of the password because there were major interests involved if this Twitter account could be taken over so shortly before the presidential election,” Dutch authorities told the BBC on Wednesday.
Hacking is a criminal offence in the Netherlands, but Gevers will not be prosecuted for his actions — likely because, after initiating the hack, he tried to contact US authorities and offered advice on how to make Trump’s account more secure.
“The Public Prosecution Service believes the hacker has actually penetrated Trump’s Twitter account but has met the criteria that have been developed in case law to go free as an ethical hacker,” the service said in a statement Wednesday.
Gevers said in October that he guessed Trump’s password on his fifth attempt. Gevers told De Volkskrant that he had logged into Trump’s account once before, in 2016, after guessing the password “yourefired” and was acting with good intentions to test the security of verified Twitter accounts.
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Once Gevers accessed the account with relatively little trouble, he reportedly contacted the Trump campaign team and suggested it enable two-factor authentication and change the password to something more complex, like “! IWillMakeAmericaGreatAgain2020 !”
Two-factor authentication was enabled the following day, Gevers said. Trump’s team initially failed to answer Gevers, but Secret Service officials eventually thanked him for exposing the vulnerability.
Dear @realDonaldTrump,
I've tried to notify multiple times because of your passwords for Twitter are too weak. Last Friday, I contacted @CISAgov, @TeamTrump, @WhiteHouse, @DonaldJTrumpJr, and @twittersecurity, just like in Oct 2016. But no one responds. Please keep 2FA enabled! https://t.co/DRCCS8NAa4 — Victor Gevers (@0xDUDE) October 19, 2020
The White House denied Gevers’ claims in October, and Twitter said at the time that there was no evidence to support claims of a hack.
A Twitter spokesperson told HuffPost on Thursday that the company “proactively implemented account security measures for a designated group of high-profile, election-related Twitter accounts in the United States, including federal branches of government.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--A Parent's Guide To What's Happening With Schools in January

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Staff and pupils across England are recuperating during a much-needed Christmas break. But many are still unsure what a return to the classroom in January will look like.
Boris Johnson has said he wants schools in England to reopen as planned at the start of January, but said measures were being kept “under constant review” as we learn more about the new Covid variant.
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The prime minister told a Downing Street press conference that the government wants secondary school pupils to return to face-to-face lessons in a staggered way in the new year if they “possibly can”.
His comments came after Britain’s largest teachers’ union called on the government to allow schools to move classes online for most pupils for a fortnight in January to allow Covid-19 cases to fall.
The leaders of the National Education Union (NEU) have written to Boris Johnson and Education Secretary Gavin Williamson to call for all students to be kept at home – except key workers’ children and vulnerable pupils – over the first two weeks of January to get mass testing set up.
For now, the Department for Education is sticking to the previously published guidance for schools on how to return in January.
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Sally Anscombe via Getty Images
Children in nursery and primary school
Children in nursery and primary school will go back to class as normal in January, the guidelines state.
This is because younger children are rarely impacted by Covid-19 and “show minimal symptoms of SARS2 infection and often have no symptoms at all,” according to researchers.
Debate continues about whether young children can spread the virus asymptomatically, though. A large study from South Korea suggests kids under 10-years-old spread the virus to others far less often than adults do, though a separate German study suggests children may be as infectious as adults.
We’re also still learning more about the new Covid variant and some data suggests it infects more children.
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Children in secondary school and college
For now, the Department for Education (DfE) has ordered secondary schools to stagger the return of students in January – but this advice may change.
It currently says students in exam years (particularly those in years 11 and 13), key workers’ children and vulnerable pupils in secondary schools and colleges should return as normal after the Christmas holidays. However, the majority of secondary school pupils should start the term online.
It will be down to schools to organise their phased reopening, so if your child falls outside one of the priority groups, you’ll need to wait to be told by the school when they should return. Face-to-face education for all students will resume on January 11.
It is hoped the staggered return will allow headteachers to roll out mass testing of children and staff in the new year.
What’s happening with testing?
Every secondary school and college in England will be given access to rapid coronavirus tests from January, the government confirmed.
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In the week before Christmas, almost 700,000 children in England did not attend school for coronavirus-related reasons – such as needing to self-isolate. It’s hoped the new testing system will keep more kids in the classroom.
From January, students will be eligible for daily testing for seven days if they are identified as a close contact of someone who has tested positive.
Students will not need to self-isolate if another student or staff member tests positive in their “bubble” if they agree to be tested once a day in the new year.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--What’s Giving Us Festive Cheer This Year | Good Vibes Only

What’s Giving Us Festive Cheer This Year | Good Vibes Only
This week in entertainment we get all festive, as the Christmas specials roll out and the battle for Christmas number one heats up. Will Mariah Carey finally get a Christmas number one or will Justin Bieber’s collaboration with NHS choir pip her to the post? We also take a look at the Christmas films being released and Ash gives his prediction for Eastenders’ Christmas shock.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--George Clooney Has Taught His Kids The Most Disgusting Prank To Play On Wife Amal

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With many of us having a lot more time on our hands than usual of late, it’s often a struggle to know how to fill the hours – but not for George Clooney.
The Hollywood actor has revealed he’s been using lockdown to teach his kids the most disgusting prank to play on wife Amal.
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The couple are parents to three-year-old twins Ella and Alexander, and during an appearance on The Graham Norton Show he said he had found a way to horrify Amal using Nutella and some nappies.
Amal Clooney and George Clooney Stuart C. Wilson via Getty Images
He said: “They are clearly my wife’s children – they are three and speak fluent Italian and they are way ahead.
“My wife is a genius and they are brilliant kids, and it is my job to dumb them down and put a bit of actor into them, so I teach them horrible things.
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“When I hear the shriek from my wife, I know I have succeeded. I taught them to put Nutella in their nappies and to go upstairs, take off the nappy and eat it!”
Talking about lockdown and how he coped, George also said: “It is all things that are lousy in that I miss my parents and I miss seeing family and friends.
“I do a lot of changing of diapers, wash dishes and do the laundry all day long. But I do get to put them to bed at night and wake them up every morning. There is something very special about that.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--Those With Long Covid Finally Get Some Guidance. Here's What It Says

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People with long Covid should be offered treatment and care for the long-term effects of their illness, according to new guidance published on managing it.
The latest figures suggest one in five people in the UK who contract coronavirus develop longer term symptoms. Around 186,000 people suffer problems for up to 12 weeks, according to the Office for National Statistics.
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People with long Covid previously told HuffPost UK how they felt ignored by doctors or that their GPs didn’t seem to know what they were dealing with.
Now, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) and the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) have worked together to publish guidelines covering the care of people who have signs and symptoms that develop during or after an infection consistent with Covid-19, that continue for more than four weeks and are not explained by an alternative diagnosis.
“This guideline highlights the importance of providing people with good information after they’ve had acute Covid-19 so they know what to expect and when they should ask for more medical advice,” said Paul Chrisp, director of the Centre for Guidelines at NICE.
“This could help to relieve anxiety when people do not recover in the way they expect, particularly because symptoms can fluctuate and there are so many different symptoms reported.”
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The guidance is intended to be adaptable and responsive as understanding of the condition grows and new evidence about how to manage it emerges.
Here’s what you should know for now about what it means for you.
Elena González Hontoria / EyeEm via Getty Images
Long Covid can actually range in duration
The new guideline shares some definitions of long Covid as well as post-Covid-syndrome and ongoing symptomatic Covid – some of which cross over.
Most people’s symptoms of Covid-19 resolve within 12 weeks. However, for a sizeable minority of people, symptoms can persist or new ones develop, sometimes worsening. These long-term symptoms – which can include shortness of breath, fatigue, and problems involving the heart, lungs, kidneys, nervous system, and muscles and joints – can impact your quality of life.
Until now, long Covid has been used as an umbrella term for anyone with symptoms that last longer than usual. The new guideline splits the stages of Covid-19 recovery into the following three groups:
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Acute Covid-19.
Signs and symptoms of Covid-19 for up to four weeks.
Ongoing symptomatic Covid-19.
Signs and symptoms of Covid-19 from four weeks up to 12 weeks.
Post-Covid-19 syndrome.
Signs and symptoms that develop during or after an infection consistent with Covid-19, continue for more than 12 weeks and are not explained by an alternative diagnosis. It usually presents with clusters of symptoms, often overlapping, which can fluctuate and change over time and can affect any system in the body. Post-Covid-19 syndrome may be considered before 12 weeks while the possibility of an alternative underlying disease is also being assessed.
In addition to these clinical case definitions, the guidance recognises the term ‘long Covid’ is commonly used to describe signs and symptoms that continue or develop after acute Covid-19. That includes both ongoing symptomatic Covid-19 and post-Covid-19 syndrome.
Long Covid needs to be taken seriously
The guideline emphasises the need to address inequalities in care for people experiencing ongoing symptoms. It also mphasises the importance of receiving empathetic care – after evidence from patient experiences showed many people felt their symptoms were not taken seriously.
People with acute (or early stage) Covid-19 should now be given advice and written information on the common symptoms of Covid-19, as well as ongoing symptoms that can occur. They should also be given details on what they can expect from their recovery, information on how to self-manage long Covid, and the symptoms they should look out for that they should seek help for.
Those who still have symptoms after four weeks or more should be urgently referred to acute services if they have: severe hypoxaemia or oxygen desaturation on exercise; signs of severe lung disease; cardiac chest pain; or multi-system inflammatory syndrome (in children), according to the guideline.
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People with long Covid need care and support
People should be offered tests and investigations tailored to their signs and symptoms to rule out acute or life-threatening complications, and to find out if their symptoms are caused by long Covid or something else.
If serious complications and alternative diagnoses are ruled out, people should be referred to an “integrated multidisciplinary assessment service” (if available).
The most common symptoms of long Covid: Breathlessness
Cough
Chest tightness
Chest pain
Palpitations
Fatigue
Fever
Pain
Cognitive impairment (brain fog, loss of concentration, memory issues)
Headache
Sleep disturbance
Peripheral neuropathy symptoms (pins and needles and numbness)
Dizziness
Delirium (in older people)
Abdominal pain
Nausea
Diarrhoea
Anorexia and reduce appetite (in older people)
Joint pain
Muscle pain
Depression symptoms
Anxiety symptoms
Tinnitus
Earache
Sore throat
Dizziness
Loss of taste and/or smell
Skin rashes
During their recovery, patients should be guided on self-management of their long Covid symptoms, and receive either support from integrated and coordinated primary care, community, rehabilitation and mental health services; referral to an integrated multidisciplinary assessment service; or referral to specialist care for specific complications, according to NICE.
People with long Covid should be given advice on self-managing their symptoms, setting realistic goals, details on who to contact if they’re worried about symptoms, sources of advice and support, as well as information on how to get support from other services – from social care to housing and finances.
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They should also be supported in discussions with their employer or school about returning to work or education in a phased way, the guidelines say.
The guidance also suggests people should be monitored in their recovery, have regular follow-ups and, as part of this, access to multidisciplinary services for assessing physical and mental health symptoms and carrying out further tests and investigations.
NHS England has revealed that people with long Covid can now access specialist help at more than 60 sites up and down the country. Patients can access these services through a referral from their GP or other healthcare professional. This is to allow doctors to rule out other possible underlying causes of the symptoms.
Safia Qureshi, director of Evidence for Healthcare Improvement Scotland (of which SIGN is a part), said: “The publication of today’s guideline is an important stage in making sure that people who are experiencing long-term effects from COVID-19 get the right care and support that they need.
“We appreciate how difficult it must be for people to face so much uncertainty with this condition and the significant impact it can have on people’s quality of life.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--Victoria Beckham Shares Hilarious Behind-The-Scenes Look At Family Christmas Card

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Victoria Beckham learned the hard way that you should never work with kids or animals after trying to stage a family Christmas card.
Posh shared a behind-the-scenes look at the chaos that ensued as she tried to gather her four kids Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz and Harper together for a festive family snap.
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In the hilarious video Victoria shared on Instagram, she is heard being a typical mum as she asks shorts-wearing son Brooklyn if “he’s sure” he doesn’t want to put a pair of trousers on for the snap, before trying to get her three energetic dogs to sit still.
“It’s a Christmas card, guys! This is meant to be a nice thing to do,” an exasperated-sounding Posh can be heard saying.
“Why is this so difficult?” she says, before letting out some “fa-la-la-la-las” as she finally gets her snap.
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“The making of… never work with kids or animals!!” she captioned the video.
Her famous followers certainly enjoyed it, with her fellow Spice Girl Emma Bunton commenting: “Laughed out loud!!!”
Reese Witherspoon also said: “This is MY LIFE !!!”
In the end, it seems Victoria lost the dogs for the final photo, with the chosen option she shared on Instagram just featuring the four kids.
She later shared a festive snap of husband David too, as he met Santa Claus at a socially-distanced grotto.
David was seen sporting a reindeer face mask and dangling a pair of jingle bells, in reference to his ‘Golden Balls’ nickname.
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“Golden Bells met Santa tonight in a very festive mask!” she wrote.
Victoria recently discussed how the Beckham clan would be spending Christmas this year.
Speaking on ITV’s Lorraine earlier this month, she said: “As much as lockdown has been hard for everyone, it’s just been great spending time together as a family.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--Jeremy Bulloch, Star Wars' Boba Fett Actor, Dies Aged 75

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Star Wars actor Jeremy Bulloch has died at the age of 75.
He was best known for being the first actor to play the bounty hunter Boba Fett in the intergalactic film series.
Jeremy died in hospital on Thursday from health complications after many years living with Parkinson’s disease.
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Star Wars actor Jeremy Bulloch has died aged 75 PA
His agent confirmed news of his death in a statement, which read: “We are very sad to announce the death of actor Jeremy Bulloch earlier today.
“He died peacefully, in hospital, surrounded by his family, from health complications following his many years living with Parkinson’s disease.
“Jeremy was best known for the role of Boba Fett in the original Star Wars trilogy.
“He had a long and happy career spanning more than 45 years.
“He was devoted to his wife, three sons, and 10 grandchildren and they will miss him terribly.
“We ask that their privacy be respected at this very difficult time.”
The Leicestershire-born star also had roles in James Bond film Octopussy and featured in a number of Doctor Who episodes in the 70s.
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He went on to appear in Star Was as Boba Fett in The Empire Strikes Back and Return Of The Jedi.
Mark Hamill, who starred as Luke Skywalker in Star Wars, was among the first to pay tribute, calling Jeremy “the quintessential Englishman”.
Jeremy Bulloch was the quintessential English gentleman. A fine actor, delightful company & so kind to everyone lucky enough to meet or work with him. I will deeply miss him & am so grateful to have known him. 💔 #RIP_DearJeremy pic.twitter.com/SMvjtQsSwZ — Mark Hamill (@HamillHimself) December 17, 2020
He tweeted: “A fine actor, delightful company & so kind to everyone lucky enough to meet or work with him.
“I will deeply miss him & am so grateful to have known him.”
Billy Dee Williams, who starred as Lando Calrissian in the Star Wars films, tweeted: “Today we lost the best bounty hunter in the galaxy. RIP Jeremy Bulloch.”
Today we lost the best bounty hunter in the galaxy 💔RIP Jeremy Bulloch #BobaFett — Billy Dee Williams (@realbdw) December 17, 2020
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The official Twitter account for the Star Wars franchise also paid tribute.
“Jeremy Bulloch, whose unforgettable performance as notorious bounty hunter Boba Fett has captivated audiences since he first appeared in 1980’s Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, has sadly passed away,” it said.
“He will be remembered not only for his iconic portrayal of the legendary character, but also for his warmth and generous spirit which have become an enduring part of his rich legacy.”
Jeremy Bulloch, whose unforgettable performance as notorious bounty hunter Boba Fett has captivated audiences since he first appeared in 1980's Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, has sadly passed away. pic.twitter.com/Wekhv3rxqN — Star Wars (@starwars) December 17, 2020
He will be remembered not only for his iconic portrayal of the legendary character, but also for his warmth and generous spirit which have become an enduring part of his rich legacy. — Star Wars (@starwars) December 17, 2020


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--Christmas 'Not Worth The Risk', World Health Organisation Warns

Christmas is “not worth the risk”, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned, appealing to the public to stay home over the festive period.
Thirty-eight million people in England – more than two-thirds of the total population – will be living under tier 3 restrictions from Saturday as the government attempts to stem rising infections.
But just four days later the tier restrictions will drop until December 28 and up to three households will legally be able to ‘bubble’ in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland over Christmas. The number of households legally permitted in Wales has dropped to two.
Amid a worrying rise in Covid-19 cases, the WHO has said that “the safest thing to do right now is to remain at home”.
The organisation’s regional director for Europe Dr Hans Kluge said: “There remains a difference between what you are being permitted to do by your authorities and what you should do.”
In a statement, he said: “We have a few more months of sacrifice ahead and can behave now in a way that collectively we are proud of. When we look back at these unprecedented times, I hope we all felt we acted with a spirit of shared humanity to protect those in need.”
His words follow a press conference led by Boris Johnson on Wednesday, during which the PM urged the public to have a smaller Christmas than the rules allow, calling on everyone to “to exercise extreme caution” and the “greatest possible personal responsibility”.
Dame Donna Kinnair, chief executive and general secretary of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN), warned on Friday that relaxing coronavirus restrictions over Christmas could lead to an “unrelenting tsunami” of cases.
“After a difficult year, it is everybody’s instinct to want to be together and see loved ones – especially those who live far apart or feel isolated. But what is at stake is coming into sharp focus,” she said.
“Travelling and family visits associated with this time of year will undoubtedly lead to more cases, more pressure on NHS and care services, and more deaths. By turning the second and third waves into an unrelenting tsunami, we would begin 2021 in the worst possible way.”
She said nurses would not enjoy Christmas “knowing what awaits them in January” and called on the government to be “clearer about the risks – not just the rules”, warning: “This virus isn’t taking Christmas off and nor should we.”
Dr Kluge said the pandemic’s “devastation” had hit communities across Europe.
“Covid-19 has forced families and communities apart, bankrupted businesses, and deprived people of opportunities that a year ago were taken for granted,” he said.
“From anxieties around virus transmission, the psychological impact of lockdowns and self-isolation, to the effects of unemployment, financial worries and social exclusion – the mental health impact of the pandemic will be long term and far reaching.
“What has resulted is a growing mental health crisis in Europe.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--Should You Try A Sleep Workout? It's The Latest Bedtime Trend

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With 2020 being the year our sleep officially took a turn for the worse, it’s unsurprising so many of us are turning to Pinterest for sleep inspiration.
A 2021 trends predictions report from the social media site says there’s been a 90% increase in interest for sleep yoga, year on year, while interest for the phrase ‘before sleep workout’ has tripled.
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“Sleep care is the new self-care,” reads the report. “Bedtime routines will be more luxurious than ever. From home goods just for sleep (diffuser blends) to bedtime exercise routines (sleep yoga), people will bring intention to more restful regimens.”
But is the so-called “sleep workout” a good idea? Sleep expert James Wilson, also known as The Sleep Geek, believes so.
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“I think the likes of yoga, pilates, and mindful exercise are great before bed because they help us lower our heart rate and feel relaxed,” he tells HuffPost UK. “Stretching particularly, and those moves that open up the chest, are also useful to allow us to breathe slower and create the right physiological conditions for sleep.”
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Wilson believes people are showing an interest in pre-bedtime yoga and ‘sleep workouts’ because poor sleepers are starting to understand they need to take a more personalised approach to getting better sleep, especially during the pandemic. “So they are looking for something pre-sleep that helps them feel relaxed but is something they enjoy,” he says.
A survey from the US found over 55% of yoga users report improved sleep and over 85% report reduced stress. That’s not to say any old workout before bed goes, however. Aerobic exercise right before bed might wake you up more, leaving you struggling to drift off.
If you do this type of exercise, you should aim to do it at least two hours before going to bed, suggests Charlene Gamaldo, medical director of Johns Hopkins Centre for Sleep at Howard County General Hospital in Columbia, Maryland.
The type of yoga you do before bed is also important, notes Wilson – hot yoga, for instance, is unlikely to help you sleep. “It raises the heart rate too much, and the rise in core temperature will make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep,” he says.
For bedtime yoga routine inspiration and slow wind-downs, try Yoga With Adriene or these 10 bedtime poses from Dreams.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--I’ve Only Ever Had Sex With My Long-Term Partner. Am I Missing Out?

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You’re reading Sex Diaries, a HuffPost UK Personal series about how we are (or aren’t) having sex. To share your story, get in touch on ukpersonal@huffpost.com.
When I started dating my boyfriend, I didn’t expect it to last.
I really liked him, of course, but we were two nerdy teens entering our very first relationship. We only knew one other couple who seemed to be in it for the long run (who are, in fact, still together), and instead it was much more common to see friends’ relationships to fizzle out after a few months. So I thought we were destined for a similar end.
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Before him, I had been boy-crazy. Girl-crazy, too. I’d had multiple crushes (mainly on friends who didn’t like me back) but despite all the heartbreak – and the awkward facing the person on the school yard who had rejected your love confession just the day before – I was hopeful that life would have plenty of lovers in store for me. He was going to be my first love, but by no means did I believe he would be my last. We would have a wonderful time together and, down the line, both find something more long-lasting.
Naturally, we didn’t waste time any time waiting around. Hungry to experience everything a relationship had to offer, we jumped at the chance to sleep together within weeks. After three fumbling attempts, we finally had our first time on his narrow bed in his childhood bedroom. I can’t remember exactly what happened, but I can still remember the feeling. The lip-biting, electrifying lust.
Back then, we didn’t really talk about sex – we just did it. When we would visit each other at university, the first thing we always did was have sex, and then go and pick up a box of Chinese noodles so we wouldn’t have to spend any of our time together cooking. We’ve grown up since – we make better food, and have less sex – but we’ve also learned what makes the other person tick.
“Seven years later, we both find ourselves trying to get to grips with the fact neither of us have had sex with anyone else.”
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However, now, seven years later, we both find ourselves trying to get to grips with the fact neither of us have had sex with anyone else.
I don’t want to paint this out like too much of a problem – having sex with someone you love is one of the best things in the world. But it does make me wonder: can you be sure you are truly enjoying the sex you’re having, if you don’t know what else is out there?
I won’t deny that having sex with the same person for years and years means you fall into a bit of pattern – neither of us have any real talents in acting, so our efforts to switch things up with a roleplay have just ended up with one of us failing to keep a straight face. I am quite intrigued by what it would mean to share this experience with someone else. What have we left undiscovered about ourselves by limiting each other to one sexual partner? When all the sex you’ve ever had is with the same person, even the idea of bad sex with someone new seems kind of intriguing.
As a bisexual, I am also deeply curious what it would be like to have sex with other women. People sometimes compare their sexual partners to each other, but I’m interested in whether it would change anything about the way I perceive myself.
We both believe a good relationship includes a fulfilling sex life, so I’d never want to hold back my partner in exploring his sexuality and I know he feels the same way. Throughout the years we’ve discussed the idea of an open relationship several times. It felt necessary when we were both studying in different cities and had to sometimes spend a long time apart from each other. But it never felt completely right for us.
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“We would probably seriously suck at casual sex. But at least it would be easier to find that out for yourself while we’re both still relatively young.”
Now, this discussion feels pressing in a different way. Reaching this age has made us realise that this might truly be the endgame for us, and for some reason I feel much more comfortable with the idea of committing to having just this one relationship than committing to never having sex with anyone else in my life.
What has stopped us so far (besides the pandemic) is that we both think we would probably seriously suck at casual sex. But at least it would be easier to find that out for yourself while we’re both still relatively young.
When we started going out, we were one of the few couples in a serious relationship. Now that couples around us are starting to settle down as well, we’ve come to realise that a window of sorts might be closing.
In the end, the biggest reason me and my partner have stayed together, just the two of us, is that we are happy with what we have. I’m incredibly grateful that someone I love so deeply has been there for such a large part of my life. From our very first date, being together has felt like the most natural thing in the world.
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And if that means I’m left a bit inexperienced in casual sex and romance, so be it.
Melanie is a freelance journalist, writing under a pseudonym


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--How To Have The Best Christmas Day If You're Spending It In A Pair

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As confusing Christmas messaging from the government continues, a growing number of people are choosing to take matters into their own hands and burst their Christmas bubbles – before the five-day period even begins.
If you’ve had the awkward conversation with family about cancelling Christmas, it’s time to shake off the disappointment and start looking forward to your alternative day.
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Here are some tips on enjoying the day with one other person, whether that’s a partner, friend, housemate or sibling. A lot of the tips are also relevant if you’re spending Christmas alone – or you may want to read this article from our head of entertainment Matt Bagwell, on why he loves his solo Christmas routine.
We can’t have a normal Christmas this year, but it doesn’t have to be a bad one.
Ruben Earth via Getty Images
1. Start the day with a new tradition
Plan an activity for Christmas morning that’ll enable you to focus on the perks of a low-key Christmas, rather than focus on the usual traditions you can’t recreate.
Francesca Specter, founder of Alonement, advises kicking the day off with a festive bath (cinnamon bath bomb and all), to set-up a day of relaxation. Alternatively, start off the day on a runner’s hig, by going for a festive jog.
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“That feeling of anticipation is important,” says Specter, adding that it can turn apprehension into excitement. “Being able to rewrite the rule book and break away from tradition for one year is no bad thing, because there is opportunity.”
2. Agree on a dress code
If you’re staying at home, avoid slipping into the same jeans you’ve been wearing all year. For a lot of people, getting dressed up on Christmas day is part of the fun.
Whack the heating on and get out your glad rags, even if there’s not a big crowd to appreciate them. Or if you’re going for a super cosy day, have a pact to both put on fresh, festive PJs.
3. Plan an alternative menu
For once, you’re completely in charge of the menu and don’t have to cater to different tastes – so eat exactly what you want on Christmas day.
Cook a turkey if you’re a lover of tradition, but consider opting for a small crown rather than a whole bird, to minimise waste. Alternatively, take the opportunity to make something different – mouthwatering meaty options include pork belly, beef wellington or goose.
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Rebecca Hastings, who’s spending Christmas with her boyfriend in their London flat, is looking forward to creating a veggie feast. “We’re both vegetarian, and so for the first time we can cook a big plant-based Christmas dinner, rather than picking at a stuffed mushroom from Tesco while everyone else tears into the turkey,” she says.
Enjoy the cooking process with no pressure on time by putting on these brilliant Christmas tunes in the background.
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4. Take a festive walk
If you’re lucky enough to live close to other friends and family, you could still head out for a festive walk and wave at them from the end of the driveway (just don’t be tempted to pop in or hug – you’ll undo all of your good work).
If there’s nobody close though, a stroll around the block is a great way to walk off a big lunch before you bed down for the afternoon. Take a moment to appreciate the Christmas lights and say a heartfelt “merry Christmas” to any neighbours you see at a distance. If there’s one thing to celebrate this year, it’s our renewed sense of local community.
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5. Make family Zoom calls fun
If 2020 has given you serious Zoom fatigue, you might be dreading the inevitable video calls with friends and family.
One way to make screens less invasive is to simply set up a call in the background. This could be while you’re cooking, for example, if you think the family’s usual head chef would enjoy giving you tips along the way. Or you could co-ordinate your lunch, and set up a tablet to chat more naturally over dinner.
If you’re saving calls for the afternoon, introduce a game or Zoom quiz. Yes, we’re bored of those too, but check out our guide on some super silly quiz rounds that are guaranteed to get everyone laughing.
6. Have some tech-free time
The temptation (or pressure from loved ones afar) may be to stay glued to your phone or laptop all day. Be sure to schedule some tech-free time too, to actually enjoy the company of the person you’re with.
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6. Invest in a two-person game
Charades doesn’t really work with two people, so it may be time to invest in some more suitable afternoon entertainment.
For retro vibes, go for Guess Who?, Jenga or Scrabble. To update the latter, Bananagrams (a faster Scrabble-esque game) appears on many of the top recommended game lists.
If you usually dig out the Monopoly board at Christmas, the Monopoly Deal card game might appeal. It’s faster, works with two players and takes around 15 minutes to play. Traditional card games like Gin rummy also work well with pairs, so have a refresher on the rules.
7. Mix some Christmas cocktails
Making cocktails during a big family get together is a nightmare and can take hours to co-ordinate. But with just two people, it’s a delight.
From the Midnight Rambler to a traditional Irish coffee, our guide on festive cocktails is all you need (remember to order the ingredients in advance!).
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8. Kick back with Christmas telly


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--2020: The Year We Started Sending Christmas Cards Again

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Christmas cards are back in our letterboxes. The volume of cards we’re sending to friends and family has skyrocketed in 2020 – and industry experts predict this burst of festive correspondence is here to stay.
More than half of Brits (55%) believe that sending Christmas cards to loved ones is more important than ever, according to research by the Royal Mail.
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One in 10 (11%) UK adults said they plan to send up to 10 more Christmas cards this year than they usually do, as a direct result of lockdown restrictions.
And in a year like no other, it seems the traditional round-robin is having a resurgence – because a hastily scrawled message simply won’t do.
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Rebecca Hastings, who wrote an article for HuffPost about creating new festive traditions this year, is among those who are joining the big card send.
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“I’ve never sent them before, but this year, with not much else to do, I decided to try making my own,” she said. “The process was so lovely and therapeutic that I’ve already decided to make it a yearly ritual – getting all the bits in from Hobbycraft, lighting a festive candle, blasting Mariah Carey and spending a peaceful evening at the kitchen table, doodling and folding and sticking.”
Social media is also full of people talking about sending cards for the first time in years – or the first time ever.
Picked up our Christmas cards. First time doing them. They are kinda sorta amazing and I’m super happy with them. — Wally D (@WaltDeWalt) November 30, 2020
Writing Christmas cards for the first time in several years. Because 2020 is not like any other year... — Tom Doorley (@tomdoorley) December 4, 2020
This is the first time I have mailed Christmas cards in about 5 years. I felt it was really needed this year ! — SANDY R 🇨🇦 (@Sasla) December 17, 2020
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This will be the first time in many years that I send cards. Like others said, I feel like it’s needed more this year. — Erin Pearson (@ekmpearson) December 11, 2020
I haven’t sent cards in over 10 years but this year I am. I think the extra cheer is needed this year. I also joined a homeschool Christmas card exchange. It’s been super exciting sending and receiving cards from all over our country. Merry Christmas Travis! — Jennifer West (@GHJenWest1) December 11, 2020
I got all my Christmas cards out today. For the first time in my adult life I sent everyone a card! AND there's just enough time left for them to be like "shit I gotta send Kori a card." I'm so proud of myself 🥰 — Kori Marie (@CherryFig) December 15, 2020
There’s been a “huge upturn in general card sending this year” as people find ways to keep in touch remotely, says Amanda Fergusson, CEO of the Greetings Card Association. That’s also translated into Christmas card sales in the UK.
“We’ve had members selling Christmas cards all year, practically,” she tells HuffPost UK. “We saw retailers putting Christmas cards out when people started to ask for them as early as August, which never usually happens.”
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Some retailers are scrambling to re-order cards stocks because supplied have sold out, she says. “People aren’t able to meet up with loved ones and obviously this time of year, people are thinking about close family and friends. A Christmas card is a tangible way of keeping in touch,” says Fergusson.
“There’s nothing nicer than seeing familiar handwriting on an envelope on the door mat and seeing an image and wording that’s been chosen specifically to reflect your relationship with a loved one. It’s very special and it creates a very powerful connection. People love receiving cards and sending them, too.”
The increase in card sales may have been boosted by our renewed sense of community during the pandemic, Fergusson speculates. “So many people send cards to neighbours they don’t even know, then report getting cards back.”
The Royal Mail research also uncovered that young people are pushing sales; 15% of 18-24 year olds said they will be sending more Christmas cards this year, compared to just under one in 10 (8%) of those aged 55 plus.
Younger people have been sending more post in general over the past three years, says Fergusson. “We think it’s because of social media, so people are more likely to see if someone is having a tough time or feeling down.”
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There’s also a precedent for our fondness for post during times of adversity.
“During the second world war, the government actually declared greeting cards essential to the war effort, because of the positive effect they had on morale,” says Fergusson.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--People Share Their Beauty Routines Before Lockdown Vs. Now

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This article was originally published by HuffPost US.
With so many of us spending more time at home than ever, and businesses like salons and spas closed or operating with adjusted safety protocols, our wardrobes and beauty routines have inevitably changed in 2020.
Some people are using this time of quarantine and social distancing to take a break from wearing makeup every day and focusing on skin care.
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Others are letting their hair (both on their head and the rest of their body) do its thing. Above all, people are re-evaluating their relationship with beauty, questioning how much they do for themselves and how much they do because of what others or society expects of them.
Below, people break down their pre- and post-pandemic beauty routines.
Patrice Grell Yursik, writer and creator of Afrobella in Chicago
Patrice Grell Yursik
“I was raised to think of makeup as a daily necessity. I didn’t go to the supermarket without at least a light beat ― foundation, setting powder, eyeliner, mascara, lipstick. And if you’ve gone and done all of that, then why not blush or bronzer or highlighter? It used to take me a long time to get ready before going out. Now if I do go somewhere, which isn’t often, I’m wearing a mask. So who needs a whole face of makeup to do a parking lot pickup of an online purchase? Not this woman.
“Being at home so consistently has really made me step up my skin care and hair care routines. Now I’m more likely to do elaborate skin care routines, to use my serums and essences daily, and I’m perfectly happy working from home all day with a face glazed with an occlusive, instead of a full face of makeup. I think this pandemic has revealed that makeup isn’t as essential to me as I thought it was, so I see myself taking a less is more approach.”
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Amena Azeez, plus-size fashion blogger, body positive influencer, freelance writer and content creator in Mumbai, India
Amena Azeez
“When India had a nationwide lockdown, I ran out of most of my skin care products in a few weeks. As time passed and I did not see any significant damage from lack of use of skin serum, moisturiser, day cream or night cream, I stopped missing them. I used to be paranoid about dark circles and apply under-eye cream religiously. Once I ran out, it finally hit me that the cream was not doing any real work. I was so conditioned to think it was that I kept spending an exorbitant amount of money on it.
“Pre-pandemic, I was extremely particular about having my arms and legs waxed and my eyebrows shaped by a professional. Once the lockdown happened I could not get either done. Initially, I used to pluck my brows but after a point I stopped doing that. When it came to my arms and legs, I was in panic mode. My skin can’t take shaving or epilators and I don’t like hair removal cream, so I could not do anything other than let my hair grow. At first I hated it. I was not used to so much hair on my arms and legs. I used to wear long-sleeved tops at home! After a point, I made peace with it. Even though salons are open now I still haven’t gotten my hands and legs waxed.”
Melanie Sutrathada, on-air host, content creator and actor in New York City
Melanie Sutrathada
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“The first photo was snapped pre-pandemic, right before I went to set for one of the shows I host, after spending an hour in front of the mirror putting on a full face and carefully curling my hair. I’m a huge fan of the no-makeup makeup look, but it can take forever to make it all look effortless. There was so much time and money spent going to salons for manicures, highlights and facials. Nowadays, I’m much more relaxed and laid-back, like in my second photo where I’m wearing almost no makeup. I am more low maintenance now than I ever expected when it comes to my beauty routine and I’m really loving it!”
“The more I focus on really taking care of myself, the less I feel the need to wear makeup to cover up.”
“I’ve spent most of 2020 without any makeup on and I feel more confident than I ever have. Before, it was pretty rare for me to leave the house without at least a little concealer or a tinted moisturiser, even if I was just going to the grocery store. Now, I am almost always completely bare-faced with the exception of a little mascara and eyeliner; 2020 has definitely changed my relationship with beauty because I now focus more on my skin care routine, eating healthy foods that fuel me, and getting my body moving every single day. The more I focus on really taking care of myself, the less I feel the need to wear makeup to cover up.”
Shan Berries, founder and CEO of Shades By Shan Cosmetics in San Francisco
Shan Berries
“I used to be an all-natural eye look kinda girl, but now with masks and face coverings I’ve been playing up my eyes since it’s the only visible thing. I’ve been experimenting a lot with more colours and glitters, halo eyes, cut creases and really going out of my comfort zone and I’m loving it!
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“I hardly wear glosses anymore due to masks. I’m all about matte liquid lips these days. Another trick I picked up during the pandemic was setting my entire face with translucent setting powder. I felt like it made a big difference for me in stopping my foundation from transferring to my mask as much. It creates a little barrier from my skin to the mask which keeps me from having those crazy lines and wiping off my foundation.
“The pandemic and working from home has made me realise how much I truly love makeup. Even if I’m working from home in sweats, doing my makeup makes me feel refreshed, awake, and is good for my mental health. I feel more productive and get more things done!”
Victoria Harrington, executive assistant in Philadelphia
Victoria Harrington
“I’ve become a lot more self-aware about my relationship with beauty than at any other time in my life. I started wearing makeup daily when I was a senior in high school, and caring about my hair and skin in my mid-20s. The pandemic has forced me to take an inward look at myself and my habits. My truth is that I care more about my hair than about makeup. Every once in a while I’ll do a fun and wild look but for every day, it’s just not me.
“I found that I care about my hair in more ways than the products I use. I have much more fun expressing myself through trying different styles on it. I’m teaching myself how to Dutch braid curly hair and I’ll tell you, it’s harder than I already thought it’d be. But I’m having a blast trying! I’ve also learned that I’m better off styling my hair at night, air drying it, sleeping on a silk pillowcase, then touching it up in the morning.”
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Danielle James, fashion and beauty journalist, founder of Model Citizen and co-host of Safe Space in New York City
Danielle James Danielle James
“I pay more attention to my eye makeup now and less on lipstick because it’s annoying when it gets on my mask. Eyes are the window to the soul and I’m decorating these panes! Since we’re all masked up, I love to do fun eye looks to show off my personality since people can’t see my smile.
“I’ve impressed myself with my hair routine. I’ve never been great at achieving protective styles on my natural hair. I tried Senegalese twists using the rubber band method with help from my mom, and even though it took 10 hours (!!!), I felt so accomplished. I’ve been playing with my natural hair more in quarantine instead of relying on a stylist.
“I take more time with my beauty routine. I incorporate more steps and wait 10 minutes in between applying products. When I was rushing into an office in the morning, I never had this kind of time, but now that I’m working from home, I’m able to spread my beauty routine throughout the morning. My beauty routine has become therapeutic and self-soothing to me. The world may be chaotic, so I control what I can, and right now, that’s my moisturiser.”
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Gina Quinn, stay-at-home mum in New York City
Gina Quinn
“I used to look forward to getting my mani/pedi every few weeks. It was one of those things I chose to do when I needed ‘mommy time.’ I’d put my earbuds in and relax without the sound of my littles calling my name every second. Now my mommy time includes my three-year-old daughter picking my nail polish colour and doing my nails on her ’Frozen’ vanity! I just started painting her nails, and it’s a great bonding time for us ― lots of laughs and a huge mess.
“Being a stay-at-home mum, my daily ‘fit was always leggings and a tee. I only really got ‘beautified’ when I went out with my girls or date night with the hubby (boy, do I miss our day dates). Both of those things are very limited right now, so there are lots of leggings and sweats happening now.”
Amanda Lauren, design expert and host in Los Angeles
Amanda Lauren
“Some people are born with Disney Princess hair. I am not one of those people. I’ve always struggled to get my hair to look satisfactory. Even mediocre hair is a lot of effort for me. My hair is naturally wavy and desert dry, which isn’t a great combination. At the beginning of the pandemic, I lived in top knots most of the time. I let my blonde fade into a natural brunette. But I missed being blonde, so I went back to it as soon as it was legal and wore blonde clip-in extensions for filming.
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“A few months into the pandemic, I discovered Olaplex. I also found a purple shampoo by Moroccanoil that actually worked. As a result, my hair was less brassy and broken looking. I got a Brazilian blowout and cut off the dead ends, and it was life-changing. My hair no longer feels like straw and it’s far less unruly. It looks so pretty even with minimal effort. During the pandemic, I’ve realized that it’s not red-carpet glamour or nothing at all. Styling my hair a little bit or putting on some makeup even if I’m just staying home or going to the farmers’ market makes me feel good.”
Nickee Plaksen, editorial assistant and copyeditor in Philadelphia
Nickee Plaksen
“Pre-corona, I never would have left the house without foundation, eyeliner, mascara and styled hair. Even if I was just running some errands, I would put on mascara at the very least. Leaving the house without some sort of makeup on my eyes made me feel uncomfortable. I didn’t like the way I looked, and I felt embarrassed to go out in public without that safety cushion. Once masks became the new makeup, I quickly stopped worrying about it. I have since felt a lot more comfortable in my own, natural skin and for me that’s one of those odd silver linings that came from a global pandemic.
“I have wavy, curly hair and pre-pandemic, I was straightening it, using a wand to curl over my natural curls. I always kept my hair very short and loved to change it up in funky ways. Since March, I have grown it out to avoid getting monthly haircuts and I keep it much more natural. I use a hairdryer with a diffuser, but I have not used my straightener or wand in months, which has resulted in healthier hair and more defined natural curls.”
Diego Raul Hernandez, graphic designer and photographer in Philadelphia
Diego Raul Hernandez
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“I wear makeup less often and my skin care routine has become more, well, routine. Before the pandemic, I would try to moisturise and do a face mask as often as I could with a busy work schedule. Now, I find myself wanting to end each workday with a nice face mask and do face peels more frequently during the day. Now that we have a mask on whenever we leave the house, I make sure my face is washed more frequently to avoid any buildup.
“Since I have more time on my hands (as I am working from home and no longer have an hour commute every day), I find myself trying more makeup products and experimenting with my style. Before the pandemic, I would normally just wear a tinted moisturiser for everyday use. These days, I’m buying more makeup palettes to play with. My current favourite is Lady Gaga’s Stupid Love eyeshadow palette.”
Jenny Henny/Ryan Hennessey, drag queen by night and administrative assistant by day in Philadelphia
Jenny Henny/Ryan Hennessey
“I don’t normally wear makeup on a daily basis, but my skin care routine has definitely been enhanced since I have more time on my hands. Due to the pandemic, I have not been able to perform in drag as much. Instead of getting ready for several shows each week, I film multiple performances for digital shows.
“When I film digital content for my drag, I have more time to get ready and experiment with my looks. Before the pandemic I would sometimes only have around two hours to get ready for a show after work. Now I can start getting ready whenever and film in advance for a show or performance. I hope that now that I’ve had more time to refine my skills it will take me less time to get ready for quicker showtimes.”
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Sarah Novio, freelance content creator and social media manager in Tampa
Sarah Novio
“My beauty routine as far as makeup hasn’t really changed that much. I still like to wear makeup, as it is part of my job, however I have become more focused on eye makeup. When I look back at my looks from before the pandemic and now, I feel like my eye makeup skills have improved and I’ve been more daring with colors and textures.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--What You Need To Know About Getting A Covid Test Before Christmas

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With Christmas bubbles still going ahead in the UK, some will be considering taking a Covid-19 test before seeing loved ones over the festive break.
But there are a few things to bear in mind before you do. The NHS offers Covid-19 testing, however it’s only intended for those with symptoms. Demand for tests is high right now, so if you’re planning on taking one as a precautionary check that it’s safe to see your family over Christmas, consider the ethics.
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As Dr James Gill, a GP locum, explains: “Whilst having a test before a Christmas meet-up is a really sensible idea, consider where you feel it is right and fair to source your test for your social engagement.”
You can only get a free NHS test if at least one of the following applies:
you have a high temperature
you have a new, continuous cough
you’ve lost your sense of smell or taste or it’s changed
you’ve been asked to get a test by a local council
you’re taking part in a government pilot project
you’ve been asked to get a test to confirm a positive result
Of course, if you do have Covid-19 symptoms ahead of Christmas, you should get tested as soon as possible and self-isolate until you get your results back.
chrupka via Getty Images
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If you’re going into hospital for surgery or a procedure, you may need to get tested, too. You can also get an NHS test for someone you live with if they have symptoms of Covid.
Testing sites will be open over Christmas. However they will have reduced opening hours. People in all the devolved nations can access a Covid-19 test at either physical testing sites or via a home testing kit.
Gov.uk Testing site opening hours over Christmas
Getting tested before visiting a care home
Rapid (lateral flow) tests are being issued to Care Quality Commission registered care homes for the purpose of testing visitors.
The care homes will receive these tests during December and should have sufficient quantities to test up to two visitors per resident, twice a week by Christmas, according to the UK government.
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These tests use a throat and nose swab, with results available in around 15 minutes. It’s worth noting that while rapid testing can reduce the risks around visiting, it does not completely remove the risk of infection.
Pilot data from Liverpool, which trialled the lateral flow tests on a city-wide basis, revealed they detected just 48.89% of Covid-19 infections in asymptomatic people when compared with a PCR swab test (that is sent off to a lab for results).
If you’re planning on visiting a care home before Christmas, you should speak to them in advance about your visit and whether they’ll provide testing.
If you haven’t got symptoms, you can get a private test
If you’re determined to get a test to see your family, you’ll need to fork out for a private PCR test – you can get them from retailers like Boots for £120.
The test is much like the NHS test, which swabs the nose and throat for traces of the coronavirus. Results are delivered in 48 hours.
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Depending on where you are, tests can often be booked for the same day. Once your appointment is confirmed, you’ll need to head to the clinic where you’ll have a swab (or two) taken. Some firms will send the test straight to you to do at home and post back to them.
The government website has a list of providers that offer private testing. Some companies mentioned on the list are no longer accepting new orders for testing kits.
Are there certain tests that work best?
“For those wanting to practice caution before socialising with vulnerable family members this Christmas, or those travelling abroad, they should ensure they are opting for the most robust testing available,” says Dr Joel McCay, from Melio Health, which provides a range of testing services.
“Firstly, it’s important to make sure you’re taking advantage of the PCR tests which are available on the high street, rather than rapid antigen tests which have proven more likely to come back with false negative results.
“And secondly, more and more ‘providers’ are popping up online who simply don’t have the ability to deliver. It’s especially important for people to background check firms, look at online reviews and choose reputable providers who offer fast and accurate tests, with results that have been analysed by a medical professional.”
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What else should you know?
Despite the accuracy of Covid-19 tests improving over time, Dr McCay emphasises that taking a test won’t guarantee anyone is 100% safe this Christmas. “A PCR test can only tell you if you have or have not got the virus at the point at which you did the swab,” he says. “It’s essential to continue keeping social distance, washing your hands frequently and wearing a mask when needed.”
Private testing companies are experiencing a Christmas rush – so don’t leave booking a test until the last minute if you want to avoid delays. If you do have a private Covid test before Christmas, you will then need to self-isolate ahead of your meet-up to ensure that you’re not picking up the virus from anywhere else.
Dr Gill urges people to remember the other essentials for keeping safe this Christmas, too.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--The Definitive Ranking Of The 20 Best Christmas Films Ever

Just some of the Christmas films on our countdown 20th Century Fox/Universal/Disney/Sony/New Line/HuffPost/Getty
Christmas films are as much of an integral part of the festive season as turkey and mince pies, but if there’s one thing guaranteed to cause a family row, it’s deciding which one of them is the best.
We’ve decided to settle the argument once and for all by counting down the top 20 best festive favourites ever...
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20. Arthur Christmas
Netflix
Despite receiving critical acclaim upon its release in 2011, Arthur Claus has been a bit of a sleeper hit, growing in popularity over the ensuing years thanks to its early appearance on Netflix.
As you might have guessed, this charming animation tells the story of Arthur – the son of Father Christmas, who embarks on a mission to save a little girl’s Christmas when Santa’s high-tech ship fails to deliver her present on Christmas Eve.
19. Last Christmas
Universal
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One of the newest additions to the library of Christmas films came in 2019 in the form of Last Christmas – a movie based on the Wham! festive classic of the same name, and featuring the music of George Michael.
Now while the critics were not exactly enamoured with it, we were very invested in the love story of Kate and Tom, and we’ll confess to still not being quite over that moment.
18. Christmas With The Kranks
Zade Rosenthal/Columbia/Revolution/Kobal/Shutterstock
Proving he’s the King Of Christmas films, The Santa Clause’s Tim Allen also stars in this cute festive caper about a couple who decide to stage a festive boycott and head off on a cruise after their daughter leaves home.
But these empty nesters soon learn about the true value of Christmas and their community when their plans are sent into disarray.
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17. Happiest Season
Hulu
As big Schitt’s Creek fans, Happiest Season initially caught our attention because Dan Levy – aka David Rose – is in the cast.
But this film is so much more than that, telling a queer love story that is rarely – if ever – featured in mainstream Christmas movies.
Sure, it might not be as big on the laughs as we first expected, but anyone who has ever struggled to be their true, authentic self around a Christmas dinner table with conservative family members will see themselves reflected here, which is a huge step forward for the festive film genre.
16. Bad Santa
Columbia
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Despite feeling like one of the more modern Christmas film offerings, Bad Santa was released 17 years ago now, and it’s still as darkly hilarious as it was back then.
It tells the story of Willie and his partner in crime, Marcus, who reunite once a year for a Christmas con. They usually raid the shopping mall on Christmas Eve will posing as Santa and his elf, but when Willie’s life begins to fall apart, their operation is at risk of being scuppered.
15. Miracle On 34th Street
20th Century Fox
Make no mistakes, Miracle On 34th Street is an absolute classic. Mara Wilson is adorable in it, and the late Richard Attenborough is exactly how you imagine Santa to be as a kid.
However, we’re willing to admit our interest always starts to wane when it jumps to the courtroom scenes, which – let’s be honest – drag on for way too long.
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14. White Christmas
Globe Photos/Mediapunch/Shutterstock
Every festive film countdown has to feature one Christmas film from back in the day, and for us, it’s always the Bing Crosby classic that has stood the test of time.
The 1954 movie is a true Hollywood great, and one that produced one of the most beloved and enduring festive songs ever.
Honestly, we challenge you to watch it without getting at least a little bit misty-eyed.
13. Jingle Jangle
Netflix
You might be surprised to see something released in 2020 is so high up this list but it’s a testament to just how good it is, as unlike many other of Netflix’s festive offerings, it feels like a proper cinematic release rather than a made-for-TV movie.
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After feeling the genre of Christmas films often felt non-inclusive, director David E. Talbert dreamt up the heart-warming story of toy maker Jeronicus Jangle, who enlists the help of his granddaughter when his most prized toy goes missing.
It also has some big-scale song and dance numbers, with the soundtrack featuring original numbers from John Legend.
12. Four Christmases
Warner Bros.
Listen, every time we watch Four Christmases, we always wonder if the filmmakers stole the idea from that Vicar Of Dibley episode. And while we’ll always love watching Geraldine Grangiers’ multiple festivities more, this Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn offering still produces the laughs.
11. Scrooged
Paramount
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Much like The Muppet Christmas Carol (which is still to come on this last, don’t worry), Scrooged offers a much different take on the Dickens novel, following Bill Murray as cynical and selfish television exec Frank Cross, who is visited by a succession of ghosts on Christmas Eve.
Scrooged marked Bill’s return to acting after a four-year hiatus, following the release of Ghostbusters, and what a film to come back with.
10. The Nightmare Before Christmas
Moviestore/Shutterstock
The beauty about this 1993 Tim Burton classic is that you can legitimately enjoy it a whole two months before Christmas, under the guise of watching it for Halloween.
The films tells the story of Jack Skellington, who grows tired of having to be scary on Halloween, and decides to try his hand at being a Christmas mascot instead. Spoiler alert: it does not go well.
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9. Jingle All The Way
20th Century Fox
Rushing to the shop to secure the most sought-after toy of the year might seem a strange concept in 2020, but before the internet and, indeed, Covid, that’s what people actually resorted to.
And that whole saga was brought to life brilliantly in Arnold Schwarzenegger’s 1996 family comedy.
We’re still devastated we never got our hands on a Turbo Man, though.
8. Die Hard
20th Century Fox
Over 30 years on from its release, debate still rages on as to whether Die Hard constitutes a Christmas film or is simply an action film that’s set at Christmas time.
Given it was originally released in July, we’re inclined to believe it’s the latter, but it’s ranking so highly here as it’s a damn great movie, and also provides a welcome break if you get sick of all the schmaltzy Christmas rom-coms and animations.
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7. How The Grinch Stole Christmas
Universal
Dr Seuss’ story of The Grinch earned a whole new army of fans when a new animated version was released in 2018, and while it’s a film we enjoyed very much, it was missing one vital ingredients – Jim Carrey.
The comic actor was what made the original 2000 film so campy and surreal (along with the heavy prosthesis, of course).
Plus any film with Christine Baranski gets an immediate yes from us.
6. The Santa Clause
Attila Dory/Walt Disney/Kobal/Shutterstock
Much like Home Alone, childhood nostalgia always draws us back to Tim Allen’s 1994 classic, which sees his character Scott Calvin forced to become the new Santa after he causes the old one to fall from his roof.
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Actually, it’s kind of a bit dark when you look at it through an adult lens, isn’t it?
But Scott’s first trip to the North Pole with his son Charlie and his physical transformation into Santa feel just as magical over 25 years on.
5. The Holiday
Zade Rosenthal/Sony/Kobal/Shutterstock
Yes, it’s cheesy. Yes, it’s the epitome of what Americans think a British Christmas is probably like, and no, we’ve never met a man that’s whisked us off our feet over Christmas like Jude Law’s Graham.
But we’re always willing to park those feelings, as The Holiday is just so damn watchable.
If you’re in a relationship, it’s perfect for cosying up with the other half on the sofa, and if you’re single, it’s perfect for watching with a bucket of ice cream and copious amounts of wine. Either way, it’s a win-win.
4. Love Actually
Peter Mountain/Universal/Dna/Working Title/Kobal/Shutterstock
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While it seems like Love Actually is never not being repeated on ITV – even in the height of summer – its popularity never seems to wane, even despite some of the film’s more problematic elements, which have been the topic of much discussion in more recent years.
Our hearts still break when Mia discover’s Harry’s affair, and we never not laugh at Hugh Grant as the prime minister busting a groove to The Pointer Sisters’ Jump.
3. Home Alone
Moviestore/Shutterstock
Want to feel old? Home Alone turns thirty – yes, THIRTY – this year. But three decades on, and it’s still one of the most popular Christmas movies ever made.
And if you’re one of those people who has only just discovered Schitt’s Creek this year, the film might just take on a new element when you realise that Kevin’s mum is played by Catherine O’Hara, aka Moira Rose herself.
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We still can’t believe she left her bébé at home, though.
2. Elf
New Line Cinema
Elf is always one of the first Christmas films to be shown on TV each year, and has become synonymous with getting into the festive spirit for millions of people.
Will Ferrell’s brand of comedy might not usually be everyone’s cup of mulled wine, but this film helped him earn an army of new fans, and saw him create a new unlikely Christmas hero in Buddy The Elf.
1. The Muppet Christmas Carol
Jim Henson Productions/Kobal/Shutterstock
There’ve been many, many retellings and reimaginings of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol over the years, but none as inspired and entertaining as The Muppets’ take on the classic tale.
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The combination of Kermit The Frog and Michael Cain as Bob Cratchit and Scrooge is genius, Rizzo and Gonzo’s narration is hilarious, and the soundtrack is unquestionably 10 out of 10.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-12-18--Boris Johnson's Nightmare Before Christmas As Covid Surges

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You’re reading The Waugh Zone, our daily politics briefing. Sign up now to get it by email in the evening.
This year, to save me from tiers…
Boris Johnson took a leaf out of his old foe David Cameron’s book and headed north to don a hard hat.
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His predecessor pioneered an era of austerity that hit the poor pockets of the region the hardest, but clearly relished the chance to promote his “northern powerhouse” or “midlands engine” from the factory floor.
By contrast, the prime minister of 2020 clearly felt powerless and somewhat out of steam in Bolton on Friday, as the looming inevitability of a third national lockdown heaved into view.
Barely a month after Downing Street had briefed that Johnson was resetting his premiership after Dominic Cummings’ exit, his government is grappling with a nail-biting Brexit deadlock and a resurgent Covid pandemic.
With Christmas just around the corner, Johnson was determined to strike an upbeat tone. But Northern Ireland has already committed to a six-week lockdown from Boxing Day and there was no masking a bleak midwinter of tighter restrictions is on the cards.
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“We’re hoping very much that we will be able to avoid anything like that,” said the PM, careful to ensure his libertarian backbenchers don’t hear him utter the words “third national lockdown”.
“But the reality is that the rates of infection have increased very much in the last few weeks.”
In the last week alone, lab-confirmed cases crept up by an astonishing 41%, with London and large chunks of the south east joining huge swathes of the north in tier 3.
So it was with a gloomy inevitability that the R rate jumped above the crucial number 1 on Friday (now 1.1-1.2, having been 0.9-1 the previous week).
After health secretary Matt Hancock revealed the virus had been doubling in seven days in some areas, despite the November lockdown, scientists are increasingly applying pressure.
Professor Neil Ferguson, whose Imperial College London infection survey persuaded the government, finally, to lockdown in March, told the BBC “there may be a need for additional controls beyond even what were in place” last month.
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Johnson has so far refused to back down on the five-day relaxation of rules at Christmas and amid business fury at his chopping and changing hopes to stick to his regional tiered approach.
Former minister Jake Berry, once a staunch Johnson ally, has little faith that piecemeal further restrictions will work.
“I think for many people across the north of England it’s a bit like the Brexit debate under Theresa May, when the public had stopped listening,” he said, in a comment Johnson will find unflattering given May’s sharp demise.
With many desperate to see loved ones next week, there are some who sympathise with the PM relaxing rules at Christmas.
Chief medical officer Chris Whitty is not one of them. At a press conference last week, standing beside the PM, he said this was “not a moment to relax at all, quite the reverse”.
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The top adviser, whose own actions will be heavily scrutinised in any future public inquiry, put his finger on a deeper problem for Johnson, in CMO’s annual report which was published on Friday.
It heavily criticised the growing overall gap in life expectancy between the most and least deprived areas in England.
Life expectancy was the lowest for people living in north Cumbria, County Durham, and in areas of Lancashire and Yorkshire, all of which contain “red wall” seats Johnson won from Labour in 2019 with a promise to level up.
“There is wide variation in ill health across the country, and much of this is avoidable,” Whitty said.
Cameron’s austerity agenda exacerbated health inequalities in much of the north where areas were already deprived, and many face poor elderly health and chronic conditions.
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All of which means the NHS can come under pressure quickly in areas like Bolton, which is one of the 20% most deprived council areas in England.
Something which, incidentally, can land an already struggling area, and its local economy, in tier 3 and place them at a disadvantage to wealthier areas.
In clearly identifying the need to “level up” Johnson pinpointed the problem. The question is: has he internalised how endemic, disfiguring and urgent that problem really is?
Or as Whitty put it in his report: “Ill health and disease concentrating in areas of deprivation is long-standing and needs to be tackled.