1) Many people feel pressure to become the perfect host during the holidays, but it’s nothing to stress over. First of all, feel free to say “No,” when you start to feel overwhelmed. Secondly, make lists to keep yourself organized, and don’t be afraid to delegate!
2) If you are planning to cook, keep these few things in mind: Yes, this is supposed to be a season of delicious and impressive meals, but don’t over do it. Think about the size of your kitchen as you plan your menu, and don’t cook something you feel is over your head. Always feel free to ask for help or to ask friends and family to bring a dish. Make anything in advance if at all possible. This will help you stay sane as everyone starts gathering around the table.
3) Try not to overeat, but don’t sweat if you break a few of your diet rules over the holidays. Cherish the time you have with family and friends and savor the food that they’ve prepared. There will be plenty of time to get back on track after the holiday season.
4) Instead of spending money on wrapping paper, wrap your gifts in brown paper bags and accessorize with a colorful ribbon. This will help the environment and your wallet! Just remember to recycle the paper after your fun fête has ended.
5) Can’t decide what to give the person that has everything? Give them a gift that gives back. On websites like The Hunger Site and The Heifer Project you can purchase things like livestock that helps families support themselves or immunizations for children in third world countries.
6) Set a budget to spend on gifts, or even suggest gifting “Secret Santa” style in order to cut down on anxiety about finances during this busy and expensive time of year.
7) Don’t focus on trying to make your holiday perfect, but instead focus on taking in all the fun moments. Laugh, cry, embrace each other, but don’t worry if you burn the turkey. That’s what take-out is there for!
8) If you had a successful holiday season, make a file of all the things that worked well so that it will be there for a quick reference next year. Turkey recipes, hotel contact information, and Gramma’s food allergies will be right at your fingertips whenever you need it.
9) Take the time to think about what you are thankful for and enjoy the company of your family and friends. If you have more tips, be sure to comment below. I would love to hear what you have to say!
10) Listen to Mariah Carey’s Christmas Album – it will put you in a merry mood!
Be sure to share your own tips in the comment section below. I would love to hear what you have to say!
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1 comments:
Great tips, Lady Gray. I wish you would come to my house for Thanksgiving and cook the turkey!
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