As a follow on from another thread where we are discussing our wrapping as we go, I noticed a lot of people wrap and put under the tree as they go. Which of course looks lovely. And I used to do this. Until the following happened to my dear friend, and never again...
DF had the most stunning tree every year, set in her bay window. And she would (bar the youngest DC presents) wrap things, also beautifully and place them under the tree throughout December. Honestly looked like something from a high end magazine shoot, she would go to so much effort, and just had the knack.
Because it was moderately visible, (she had shutters but they would be open during daylight) some robbing arsehole also saw them. And broke in whilst her and her family slept, and stole the lot on Dec 22nd.
When she reported this to the police, she was told it was the most prolific week for burglary every year. Because thieves knew people had a pile of brand new expensive items all placed together, it's like a dream for them.
Even though DF's tree was only visible from the back garden, these people obviously scout the area and maybe even the night before had accessed all the gardens in her street to see the respective "hauls".
Naturally, she was devastated and didn't have the time, nor money, to replace everything, as well as the awful act itself to deal with immediately before Christmas Day.
That was the last year my presents went under the tree a moment before they had too.
I guess because we can't imagine ever doing something this low, you kind of don't think that someone would ever literally steal children's presents from under a tree as they sleep.
Most people are probably aware of a slight risk, but maybe don't know it's the week of the year with the highest level of household burglary, by some margin. I certainly didn't.
I know it's not the nicest thing to have to consider, but if there's anything we can do to mitigate these arseholes targeting our homes, it's a good thing. I just wanted to share the story and raise awareness.
Xx