So! the holidays will be here before we know it!
Have you started to think about and plan your holiday dinners, holiday hosting?
Have you pulled out cherished old recipe cards that you use every year?
Are you practicing new-to-you recipes?
I, personally, have NOT started any of that, beyond “typing” about it, to you!
I procrastinate.
Tend to, anyway.
And tell me true…. I’m not the only one that does, right?
Truth be told, the same holidays come at the same time of the year, EVERY year!
It’s a Groundhog’s Day movie, over and over,
so why do we stress?
Don’t tell me you don’t!!
I actually have overcome “most” of my rapid breathing and forehead sweating, through the course of the years. Practice really does make perfect.
Not that I’m perfect, I’ve just had a LOT of practice!
As a newlywed, hosting scared me to death!
A. I could not cook.
B. My idea of a “fancy” dessert, was to make Jell-O in a Tupperware mold…because, WHO DOES THAT? Exactly, that’s why it’s “fancy”!
C. As much as I love “words”, I would be tongue-tied as soon as people entered my home.
D. I am not an introvert, but compared to my husband, I was a door knob!
E. Was my house clean enough, big enough, pretty enough, and
F. WHEN WERE THEY LEAVING? !!!!
G.Did I mention that I could not cook?
Ahhh, thankfully friends, I’m glad I grew out of that.
The best way to eliminate stress for any occasion, is to plan ahead, give yourself enough time to do everything that YOU want to do. Clean, shop, decorate, invite people and confirm they’re coming,
something else, consider your guests “needs” as you plan your menu. Are there any food allergies or restricted diets to be aware of?
What are the ages around your table? Do you need a highchair? Booster or a drop cloth for an aggressive toddler?
Hint: If the parents aren’t willing to sit close to their sweet toddler, there’s a reason. NEVER forget the drop cloth, especially over carpet or a favorite rug.
Okay, back to the old recipe cards…
I have a few favorite make-ahead dishes that I prepare every year, for every holiday. My husband, children, grandchildren, and brothers request these dishes by name, that’s how good they are!
The night before a holiday, usually Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter, I prepare a Broccoli Salad and dressing, cheesy potatoes, and Wayne’s Cranberry Sauce from Paula Dean. Earlier that day, I’ll prepare a couple of Apple Cranberry pies, at my husband’s request, it’s his favorite. I’ve made this so many times, my kids are starting to call it their favorite too!
Before I go to bed, I’ll set the table or two, depending on the number of family or guests attending, I’ll double check, then double check, to make sure I haven’t forgotten anything.
At that point, it’s usually late, and the house is quiet. With everyone in bed, there are no distractions, the pace grows slower, and I can take my time.
Setting the holiday table is my favorite thing to do.
I imagine who will be sitting there, though I usually know, and I hope that they’ll like what they see. I believe you “eat with your eyes” before you actually begin your meal. That’s another way of saying that your presentation matters, it pleases the senses before the meal begins.
It creates anticipation.
This is so important to me; I am creating an “experience” beyond eating for my guests.
I’m making memories for them to carry home.
The next morning, the day of the holiday, I’ll do another quick check.
At this point, I’m simply adding a few easy appetizers as people wait, and condiments, rolls and butter, and beverages are ready to go!
Take your time. You do you.
Remember, I haven’t mentioned a single holiday that is all about you, or me, or how awesome WE are!
With all of that love around your table, look around, relax, and feel the warmth of “gathering”.
Happy Hosting friends!
Happy Holidays!
XO,
