IT feels good to be good.
I can see why some people get hooked on helping others, it's that special, warm feeling you receive as a reward.
I've been on a bit of a warm high myself this week after I spent a day at Dundrum Car Boot Sale last Sunday.
I've been to this Co Down car boot a few times in the past, as a stall holder.
In the the run-up to Christmas, Darren and I found that our attic needed a good clear-out and so, we made plans to try to sell what we had.
Now, I'm not going to lie, the 5.30am start was hard but when the sun came up, the selling was all go.
Like many there, our car was bulging with boxes and bags of everything from much-loved toys and children's clothes to books, perfume sets and furniture.
We had no sooner opened the boot than potential customers had swarmed the car looking for bargains and soon, the sales came thick and fast.
And, while it was great to start getting rid of the stuff, it was the stories we heard from customers that warmed our hearts.
Many of the toys we sold had been much loved by our kids but were still in very good condition.
One item we sold was a little Disney E-Reader, which came with a set of books.
The lady who bought it explained to us that her little one struggles verbally and so, she thought this item might help.
Another item, a beautiful Disney make-up case, was bought for a little girl who I just know will have many hours of fun with it.
Another lady bought many of the kids' clothes for her own children and all but one of the books we had for sale and there was no doubting the fact that each of those items will bring joy.
Our little pink doll pram was bought by grandparents for their grand-daughter for Christmas and a grandmother who had just had a new grandson bought some of James's pram toys - and I hope they give the new little boy as much fun as they brought him.
Around four hours after we set up and following a bacon and egg bap, we were left with very little and it was time to repack the car, mostly with empty boxes.
With around £150 profit in our hands, we agreed it had been a pretty successful day and best of all, none of the contents of our attic went to landfill.
I'd say we sold around 90 per cent of our stock and what we had left came home with us in one bag.
Not only did we help the environment but it seemed we helped out some families with their Christmas shopping and the thanks we got from some of our customers filled me with warmth - on a very cold day.
::::::::::::
I can't say I'm too excited by the BBC's Christmas and New Year TV schedule.
Once again, for the umpteenth year in a row, it's the usual candidates and boy, is it boring.
As per usual, we can look forward to Christmas specials from Mrs Brown's Boys, Doctor Who and Call The Midwife.
Been there, seen it.
The only good thing is the first ever festive special from Death in Paradise - so at least there might be one new thing to watch.
It's time to shake up festive TV. After all, it is meant to be the most wonderful time of the year.
:::::::::::::
Who fancies at night out at the flicks?
If Christmas shopping has left you stressed and in need of some chill time, why not visit Movie House Cinemas for a well-earned break - and some popcorn.
Movie House has four locations around Northern Ireland, at City Side in Belfast, Glengormley, Maghera and Coleraine, and there’s plenty of upcoming films to keep everyone entertained.
These include Encanto, the latest animated offering from Disney.
The Madrigals are an extraordinary family who live hidden in the mountains of Colombia in a charmed place called the Encanto.
Its magic has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift - every child except Mirabel.
However, she soon may be the Madrigals' last hope when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is now in danger.
There's also a host of other new films now playing including King Richard and House of Gucci, so take your pick.
Full details about listings and screen times are available at www.moviehouse.co.uk.
I have two family passes for Movie House Cinemas to give away.
If you would like the chance to win, simply email your name, address and telephone number – along with the answer to the question below – to competitions@irishnews.com.
Closing date for entries is noon on Tuesday November 30 2021.
(Q) Name the family featured in the new animated Disney movie, Encanto.
Normal Irish News rules apply.
COMPETITION WINNERS
The winners of the Elave competition are Catherine Robinson, from Benburb, Emma Brown, from Derry, and Catherine O’Connor, from Downpatrick.
