Christmas Q&A: Anna Boles

Athlone artist Anna Boles who is known for her paintings of local scenes is looking forward to the festive season.

In recent years Anna has been publishing a calendar featuring her work and has been donating 25% of the sales income from the calendars to a chosen charity and the Dublin native published her seventh annual calendar last month.

What is the build-up to Christmas like for you?

I love Christmas. The build up is always exciting but I keep forgetting my kids are growing older every year. I think I'll always be the biggest kid of them all.

How and where will you spend Christmas this year?

At home in Athlone. We've always stayed home since the kids arrived just to be sure Santa knows where we are. Then, we will head to our families in Dublin a day or two after to catch up with everyone. I love that part as we don't get to do it too often.

What does the Christmas season mean to you?

I suppose it's a happy time of reflection over the year that's past. It's a fun way to appreciate the good experiences we've been blessed with over the months gone by and time to connect with family and friends.

Who is your Christmas hero?

My Granny has always been my Christmas hero! I've so many fond memories of her when I was growing up especially at Christmas time. She lived in Antrim but always made her way to Dublin to stay with us at Christmas. She will always be my Christmas hero plus she was hugely creative which I adored and we share the same birth date.

What are you thankful for this year?

The health of my family. The fulfilment I get from painting. The appreciation I get from others for my art work. The success of my business. The love I get from my three beautiful kids Jake, Katie and Sophie and all the fluffy cuddles we get from our many, many pets!

What's your favourite Christmas memory from times past?

Spending time with my granny and sisters on Christmas morning opening gifts. I've also a very vivid memory of watching 'The Snowman' with my sister Jo one Christmas morning when we were very young. It really stands out as it was such an emotional and creative movie.

What's your best loved Christmas tradition?

Making the homemade stuffed tomatoes for Christmas dinner. I always had that job at home when I was young and I love the memories of my Mam showing me how to make them. She made the nicest Christmas dinner ever.

Favourite Christmas song or movie?

Fairyyale of New York. It's always been my favourite Christmas song. It's very bitter sweet and packed with emotion for me but I love it and Elf for the movie.

How will you ring in the New Year?

No doubt I'll be in my pyjamas with a glass of bubbly in my hand. I'll meet my beautiful next door neighbours outside our houses and toast to the New Year followed by a mandatory group selfie.

What's your big hope for 2024?

I'd like to push myself to be a bit more social. I'd like to maybe take up something new or join something creative and fun. I'd love to meet some new people and to make some new friends in 2024.