What I did During The Christmas Holidays of 2025: Open House Madness, Stepping Into the Games & Dining Out! 🎄🎁🎅🏻

Hello World! Welcome back to another blog. With 2025 now over, and 2026 well underway, it’s safe to say that my Christmas and new year was eventful. This blog has everything, from thoughts on what I did, reviews of tv specials and new Christmas films, and being open on some challenges during the event. So sit back, relax and enjoy! Here is what I got up to throughout the holidays! 

Professional:

Acting Class:

The last few weeks of class focused on stuff to work on for the 15th anniversary open house event (which I’ll mention in the next section of this blog). I got lots of good feedback on my material, and we also looked at many improvisation games to use on the night. My teacher also wondered if the date we’re having it was a good idea, and how ditching our traditional end of year session of theatre sports was also a good idea. However, we reminded him that first of all it was too late to change the date, and second of all because it was an anniversary event, we’d make an exception. He also mentioned about how on the day, it’s then we decide who’s doing what improvisation game, as there were people who weren’t here that maybe wanted to do a specific game. Which is fair enough. 

Open House Event:

The main thing that happened for me acting wise was taking part in the Actors Workshop Nottinghamshire Open House event to celebrate 15 years of when my acting class started. Yes I may have had 4 hours of sleep the night before, but I pushed through, fuelled myself up with all the carbs and had a really good time. Everyone loved my impressions, my monologue was a hit, I felt like I did a brilliant job of the improvisation games, and I got to see some other amazing performances. I also got to watch the awesome Pura Vida, which was shot in Costa Rica in November 2024 and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Keep an eye out for the full blog of each step of the event, from when we first started brainstorming ideas, to the event itself, along with a vlog of the day itself, but for now here are some snapshots of the event, one of which is my monologue! 

Content Filming:

During the holidays I’ve managed to squeeze in some final bits of filming content, which include stuff that didn’t make the cut for the Open House Event (as mentioned in the previous section), along with some of my own content. I won’t lie, it was easy now that my family who work in education were off, but after listening to the final Act On This podcast of the year (which I’ll get onto in the section "Act On This Podcasts"), it inspired me to keep going. Is it perfect? No. But as long as you could see and hear me then that’s all that matters! Here is two sketches below, one being bloopers of the second half of 2025 and the other being about my time at a place in London based on a huge Netflix show.

Living With A Squid Game Fangirl: https://youtu.be/-DY4vX_aRWY?si=lZP97nHGsCP4uUZZ

Outtakes of 2025 Part 2: https://youtube.com/shorts/hSb_YRf2KDo?si=14S0cgsQ-gizMkxy

Applying for Jobs:

I’ll be honest, I’ve been slacking on the job hunting side due to winding down for Christmas and also having a little set back (which I’ll mention in “Challenges” at the end of the blog). But on New Year’s Day, I bit the bullet and signed up for a casting workshop and a storytelling workshop with the National Youth Theatre. With both of these options being digital as well, I’m glad I can have access to not only learn more from the comfort of my own home, but to learn some new skills along the way! 

Reaching Out To Creatives: 

Before the holidays, I sent out emails to many creatives one last time to let them know what I’ve been up to along with inviting them to the open house event. Yes despite them not coming, for me to even reach out to them gives me that 1% more productivity, as a lot of people would wait until the new year. And I've also started making notes of what to mention to each casting director for the next batch of emails along with a template I can adapt to cater each creative.

Act On This Podcasts: 

During the holidays I had a chance to catch up on the final instalments of the podcasts Act On This had to offer. These included a goal setting workshop (where as I'm posting this I have them down on the notes section of my phone, and will keep developing them as the year goes on, focusing on three important ones in my acting career at least), a podcast with the one and only Kelly Valentine Hendry (famous for casting Gangs of London, Bridgerton and Rivals) and the big 2025 wrap up (where particularly for the last question by a guest from Steve Bartletts podcast it really got me thinking). I enjoyed each of these podcasts for different reasons, and they’ve definitely got me ready for 2026. I just can’t wait to see what more amazing things Ross and Petch will do with the community! 

Shows & Movies I’ve seen:

Throughout the holidays I finished some shows for my final tv reviews (which you can see here: https://www.theautisticactress.com/post/exploring-parenthood-nottingham-royalty-more-adventures-from-the-chatty-man) but mainly focused on Christmas specials of other shows. I’ll do a full section of Christmas Films/Specials I saw in a separate blog (which you can view here: https://www.theautisticactress.com/post/things-i-watched-during-christmas-2025), but for this blog, here are some of the moments in the world of serial drama where drama is never too far away:

Coronation Street:

Coronation Street saw lots of drama happening. Before the Christmas specials, we saw Maggie's dark past coming to light, Todd and Theo’s relationship from a unique angle, and Will and Megan consummating their relationship (where they nearly got caught and Megan being roped into the Driscoll's Christmas plans). We also got to see Joanie test Sally, and Dee Dee exit the cobbles despite some tension with James (which they quickly managed to resolve). But good luck to Channique Stirling-Brown for what’s to come, and after revealing what she’s got up next in Lorraine, I know that Dee Dee has set her up for the big wide world! Christmas also saw some dramatic moments. Becky was able to get under Lisa’s skin whilst revealing Carla’s true whereabouts, and soon Kit was on a mission to find Carla. And just as Carla thought she made her escape, Becky was once again one step ahead of her. I just hope that Corriedale will be the key to exposing her for who she really is! During Christmas Day, Eva revealed a heartbreaking secret which resulted in Maggie getting kicked out, and Daniel getting attacked sent all sorts of chatter, where Will was the culprit but Maggie getting her hands dirty to protect the family. I could also understand Billy’s frustration when he found out on Boxing Day about going on holiday with Theo over Summers surprise, little does he know that there was something deeper behind it. And it all started when Theo made Todd walk home in the pouring rain, and it prompted Billy to seek Alya's advice following Yasmeen's abuse to Geoff, and Todds proposal was soon ruined after Theo overheard Billy and Alya. Like with Becky, and after seeing spoilers (some of which being hard to watch), I hope Corriedale will expose Theo for the monster he really is. And Abi is definitely starting to regret her life choices when she finds out the real truth behind James and Carl’s secret, and Tracy prompted her to seek revenge. After seeing spoilers, I can't wait for the wedding to unfold, and also hopefully see what happens for myself when the truth comes out. Also after getting a hint of one of the characters from Emmerdale officiating the ceremony, I know that the aftermath of the wedding will be a huge part of Corriedale!

Hollyoaks:

Hollyoaks saw lots of tension within the village. These included Dodger trying to catch out Sully, which wasn’t easy when Donny was under his influence, and getting caught nearly doing the dirty on Misbah. Lucas was also the main topic, as his plan to keep Dillon went too far, with Rex making Ste see that he needs help. But things may be more complicated when Dillon’s feelings for him get into it. Frankie was also on the hunt to find out who’s stalking her with Dodger's help, but little do they know the real culprit (who I’ll mention in a moment), Ant is also showing no signs of changing when his temper increased, leading to Diane accusing him of stalking Frankie. However, even I was shocked when Dee Dee revealed it was her, and the reason why she did it. But Diane had more to contend with when Tony revealed that he knew about Mercedes shooting him. Mercedes herself was also on survival mode, first missing on her and Warren impressing the kids, and then Warren overhearing a conversation led to her having one too many, being confronted by Diane in the process. And I think things will get even more complicated when Warren goes back to Gemma, but at least Theresa and Dodger reuniting was a good thing to look forward to. Donny and Misbah's Christmas also was a disaster when his secret is revealed, and Dodger (who had to help Frankie), finding out what really happened to him changed the trajectory. And Leela was willing to make amends with Ste, and given that it was the first Christmas without Peri, made her realise that life is too short to hold grudges. But after making things right with him, I can only imagine Lucas’ fury when he overheard Dillon telling Rex about the secret. But at least there was some happy news on Jack and Pearl, with one happy storyline to look forward to in 2026. 

Eastenders:

Christmas in the square saw Nigel premiere his film. But moments where the dementia symptoms kicked in resulted in Julie getting hurt, and seeing a blast from the past in the form of Barry, Debbie, a younger Phil and Grant and the iconic Pat Butcher. It was then and watching the film that made Phil realise that seeking professional help is the only way to not only help Nigel, but also take the load off of him and Julie. And after a Christmas to ask Julie to renew his vows, and spending new year with Honey and Billy (even if he did mistake her for Julie, and you can’t really blame anyone other than the dreadful disease that is Dementia), some would say it’s a memorable Christmas. Zoe’s stalker was also revealed to be none other than Chrissie Watts, who enlisted Jasmine to help bring her down, but with Anthony revealing the truth about Zoe’s children (one of which was in fact Jasmine), an act of love got Zoe taking the blame for Anthony’s shocking death. But good on Kat for standing her ground and getting Jasmine to stay. And I’m so glad Harry is back on the square, but despite some warning from Kojo, his revenge for Ravi was soon caught by Nicola, who suggested doing it carefully. I can’t wait to see how that unfolds in the new year. And 4 years after his exit, Max Branning was once again causing trouble. First having it off with Cindy, then Lauren finding out about what happened with Tanya, which resulted in ruining Jimmy's christening (and you know when you’re not welcome, when children like Louie don’t want you here, but at least Peter decided to redo it in his own way), and then trying to get off with Linda. All of that just made things worse and resulted in the Beale and Branning clan wanting to get rid of max for good. I also got to see a flash forward episode on New Year’s Day, and I won’t reveal too much due to spoilers. But let’s just say that there’s a lot to come in 2026. These include a baby, an injury, a baby on the way, three possible brides, and a death threat, and I’m so looking forward to it! 

Personal:

Archery Christmas Meal:

During the holidays I went to Baseri in Newark for a delicious meal with some people from my local archery club. I’ve never been to this place before, but they had food which was delicious. As seen below I had a chicken curry which had a kick, but it was delicious. And it was a nice way to help me destress and break from showcase prepping, and got me to socialise. Which was always nice. 

Christmas:

Christmas itself has been brilliant. I started Christmas Eve by doing a workout at the gym, which to some people may seem daft, but for me, this is one of the activities that would help keep me regulated throughout the next few days. This was followed shortly by going to my cousins for some sausage and bacon sandwiches, and boy did I enjoy them! I also loved this photo below that my auntie did, although I don't think Disney me suits me very well. But at least she managed to capture the sunflower landyard well!

It was then followed by watching Elf and the new film Tinsel Town. Was I on my own? Yes. But did it help me feel regulated? Yes it did!

Christmas Day consisted of having a sausage and bacon sandwich for breakfast, and some rest and relaxation before going to a pub for dinner. I was surprised by the turnout, and thankfully the atmosphere was just right! Not too busy and not too quiet. But it’s safe to say that we were all a little full after the dinner, but at the same time we all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves!

Boxing Day:

On Boxing Day it was more of a rest and recovery period for us. But that didn’t stop us from going out to a local pub to meet my cousin and her baby. I had scampi and chips as seen below, and it was scrumptious! I even got to hold my cousin's baby again, and it was slightly longer than the last time! Which for me is a good thing. But I did enjoy myself, and my last day of freedom before I go back to my day job was worth while! 

New Years:

As always, New Year’s Eve involved me getting a takeaway and watching a film. But I honestly didn’t mind, as with me going out the day before (which you can view in “Squid Game: The Experience”), I needed a night in alone. And the film I watched was brilliant! Keep an eye out for a review of the film along with some of the other films I saw at the end of 2025!

For New Year’s Day, it resulted in me and my dad watching the Quarter Finals of the World Darts Championships. I’ll be doing a whole segment of it in “World Darts Championships”, but for New Year’s Day, knowing that things will soon go back to normal, was the perfect way to start the new year right! 

Squid Game: The Experience:

Quite possibly my favourtie day ever despite a train delay back home. The day before New Year’s Eve saw me going to London and taking on the iconic games at London Excel. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and I really admire how they managed to capture the little details of each of the games from the show. I think my only downside about it was the fact about not getting a hoodie due to a mixture of pricing (as I had abit of an expensive month) and also being wary of carrying a lot of stuff on the way back home. Other than that, and after the madness of Christmas and Boxing Day, it was a day out well needed! 

Books:

Now as I’m posting this, I’m still on the book I’m currently reading. But still, slow and steady wins the race, and even more so, as the book I’m reading has a character where it gives of hints of being neurodivergent. So even more of a reason why I need to take my time with it, and I’m enjoying it so much! With my goal to read 1 book a month (possibly 2 months at this rate), coming up, I hope I can get the ball rolling and maybe use an extra day to read. 

Surveys:

This was something which I thought I would do more of, but sadly that wasn’t the case. This was partly due to focusing on Christmas stuff and also coming down with the seasonal bug (which I’ll explain in the challenges section) but my goal to do at least 2 a week during 2026, fingers crossed I can get into the flow of that. 

Darts: 

Now I’ll be honest, I thought I would’ve had some good practice with this sport, and for the first few weeks of December I got a good number in. But given fact that I was also poorly between Christmas and new year I definitely slowed down. But at least I practiced abit, and for me that’s better than no practice at all. And after listening to a podcast on goal setting (which you can listen to under the section “Act On This Podcasts”), I hope I can sustain my darts goal for at least 3 months before finding a natural flow to do it regularly, abit like how I gradually made yoga part of my routine. 

World Championships of Darts:

During the holidays of course it was a time where darts players from around the world took part in the tournament held at the Alexandra palace in London. It was no surprise that Luke Littler won it again, becoming only the 4th player to win back to back titles. But kudos to Gian Van Veen for reaching the final when a) he lost on his first game in last years tournament, and b) opening up about having Dartitis at the start of his career. He should also be proud by becoming number three in the world and also becoming the new Dutch Number 1, as that's an achievement in itself. But the championships are not just about the winner, but it was also about the small wins. These included Stefan Belmont from Switzerland, Nitin Kumar from India, and David Munyua from Kenya being the first person from their country to win a single darts match. It’s moments like this where not only is it a celebration of other countries, but how the most magical moments are the smallest moments. There were also highlights from the darts where some moments were entertaining whilst others were for the wrong reasons. The good moments included Ricky Evans beating Man Lok Leung, which resulted in Ricky splitting his trousers, and Paul Lim from Singapore still going strong at 71. Despite not beating Luke Humpheries (which doesn’t surprise me), he always seems happy, which I think is the key to being a true passionate player. I’ve also got a newfound respect for Ryan Searle (who just missed out his spot in the final after he got beat by Luke Littler, which doesn’t surprise me), who opened up about his eye condition and how that shouldn’t let you get in your way. Some of the most talked about moments included Charlie Manby aka Champagne (who did well in his debut year) winning a game on debut, but it saw Cameron Menzies showing a violent side afterwards (which he apologised for later). I was abit annoyed with Mensur Suljovic for getting cocky during and beating Joe Cullen, and if I were Joe, I would feel the same. But I must say, shout out debutants/unseeded players, as they seemed to have hogged the limelight, knowing out 17 of the 32 seeded players before Christmas. One of which was Justin Hood aka Happy Feet, and not only will he be able to open his own Chinese restaurant, but will definitely change his life for the foreseeable. 

Shows I’ve seen:

I’m A Celebrity:

During the holidays I watched the rest of the competition set down under. There was so much happening, including Shonas yodelling skills, drama with the washing up, and a trip to the jungle arms. I also got myself in tears when some of the camp mates had a surprise visit from their loved ones, with Aitch and Jacks reunion being the most emotional for me. The trails were equally brilliant, with my favourites being Ginge taking on one celebrating 25 years of the show, and Celebrity Cyclone being another favourite. The final three trials were also intense, and I was surprised by Ginge’s choice of starter and main (although as a foodie myself I kind of relate to it). But in the end I’m glad Ginge took the crown, as not only was he entertaining, but he also set a fine example to young men and how they should be in today’s society. Well done Angry Ginge, you should be very proud of yourself!

Strictly Come Dancing:

During the holidays the famous ballroom competition got tougher by the minute. During musicals week, everyone upped their game, but the backlash that followed after Lewis Cole’s shock exit left everyone with different opinions. The public obviously voted for their favourites for a reason, and Amber really didn’t deserve all the hate she was getting. But during the semi finals, Nikita's words about how it costs nothing to be kind really struck a chord with me. One other highlight was George Clarke's Samba, which I really wasn’t expecting, but in a good way. The final of the show had light and tears. Tears for a few reasons. As it was Tess Daley and Claudia Winkleman’s last episode presenting together, it got emotional in the ballroom. And also tears after Carlos made an admission following his final dance with Karen Carney, and also tears when Karen and Carlos were announced the winners. But each of the finalists' dances were amazing, and it really showcased why they made it to the final. But one thing I will say is that after seeing on Facebook about how apparently the show was “rigged”, I must also mention that the public voted for Karen as the winner for a reason, so to this day I’m still wondering why people are shocked when they vote for their favourite to win it. But nonetheless, congratulations Karen and Carlos, you are a fine example of how through dedication, patience and hard work, you can achieve the impossible. 

Celebrity Masterchef:

Throughout the holidays I watched the cooking competition that had me on the edge of my seat. This was an extraordinary competition, with a lot of memorable moments. even though he didn't win, Alfie Boe OBE was my favourtie, and somehow I found him adorable when in the kitchen. But well done to Drag Artist Ginger Johnstone for taking the title as despite missing a round due to illness, she carried on to create a party for John and Grace. I also liked how before the final round, we each got to see in more depth about each of the final three and why getting to the final means so much to them, and I hope they do it again in next years show.

Gogglebox:

The recap of Gogglebox 2025 really brought back some brilliant moments. These included Nitros Rumba on “Strictly Come Dancing”, and Carl and James getting hot and flustered with James in “Coronation Street”. There was also the big question on how to make the perfect cup of tea on “Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel”, and I’ll never forget the moment on “Married At First Sight UK” where the groom raps for the bride, and for me personally, I don’t think I would want someone doing that in public, and that’s coming from someone who likes to perform on stage. We also saw “The Assembly” getting me emotional again, and “The Great British Backoff” saw a situation with regards to Swiss Rolls going wrong. They also saw the moment Kim Kardashian got her acting hand going in “Alls Fair” and “Songs of Praise” once again got me reminiscing of my time in school assembly. Those were some of those moments that really made 2025 a year to remember for the Goggleboxers. 

Challenges During The Festive Period & How I Got Through It:

There were definitely moments during the holidays where I reached a low point. As well as missing my mum and Christmas being an overwhelming period as it was, the main challenge I faced during the holidays was being ill the day after Boxing Day. It did feel scary, knowing that I haven’t had that sensation since I was 14, but I knew that it was the time of year where everyone was coming down with a sickness bug of some kind. That and I also had a combination of being in my time of the month, and even my colleague from my “proper job” pointed out later on that I didn’t look right. It also caused me to miss out on the pantomime, which yes is not ideal but the last thing I wanted was to pass on anything to anyone in the auditorium. 

And that is it for what I got up to during the Christmas holidays! I hope you enjoyed this read and whatever you did, also enjoyed the season of goodwill!

See you soon for another blog. Until next time…

This is The Autistic Actress signing off :)