Every year the holiday season rolls around and we all feel so pressured to do so much. I think we all should step back and breathe a bit before we let the rush of the season take over. I think that making a plan with a few things that have a big punch will make the holidays much better. Lets face the fact that our family really only want those comfort foods and their loved ones sitting around the table laughing and share our blessings. Make it simple and take away the fuss.
Lets start with lunch on the big Turkey day. Make your list now of all your favorites, new recipes and that special something that makes the meal perfect. Make your list by this weekend so you aren’t rushed the day or two before. This will also help you not forget items you will need. Also plan your shopping day at least a week before so you beat the rush. If there are things that you need to get fresh make a second list of those items and plan to shop the day before you cook.
Okay so your food menu is all worked out, now for the decorations for the food serving table or center piece for the main table. I like to use greenery down the center. I get that all in place and then carefully place candles and a few decorative items to make it look festive and welcome my guest to the table. This is a great way to save time because when Thanksgiving is over you just remove the candles and decorations add the Christmas touch and you aren’t stressed. You can add candles and other special decorative items to finish off the house. Keep it simple it’s best to just add these things in small amounts so not to overwhelm your home or yourself.
Food list done, decorations done, now what? Try to think of things that you have done in the past on Thanksgiving that made it memorable for you family. If you haven’t really had any standing traditions now is the year to start. You could have a table set up to make special Christmas ornaments, Have coloring pages and a binder to put them in year after year, decorate cookies or make a family t-shirt. I like the idea of making a family tree and giving your guest leaves to write on. Thank you Shauna for that great idea. There is no limit to what you can do to make the whole family involved.
Preparing ahead of time is the key to a successful holiday. You can reduce your stress by keeping it simple and charming. I for one will be keeping it simple and making it more of a Blue Happy moment. Over the next few weeks I will be sharing ways to cut down on texting and cell phone use on such a family day along with other ideas on how to make the day of Thanks truly a blessed day of giving.
Make your list of food, plan your simple decorations and pick an activity for all to do and enjoy. I’m sure if you do these things your family time will be Blue Happy!
