A Thanksgiving or Christmas meal is a great way to bring your family together. Memories of the past year can be relived and a good time can be had by all. However, a family get-together can also be stressful and hectic if you don’t plan ahead. Here are a few Stress Free Holiday Meal Planning and Cooking Tips to make the most of your family time.
Plan Your Menu Early
By planning your menu early, you will take a lot of the last minute chaos out of the picture. Try to limit the menu to two types of meat, which you can purchase and cook ahead of time. Plan on serving a variety of vegetable dishes. Since most of us tend to overeat at the holidays, this will help your loved ones eat healthier. Consider serving small individual sized dessert items such as cupcakes, cookies, tassies, fried pies, etc.
Share The Expenses
You don’t have to do it all! Ask family members to bring something with them. This not only helps to keep your celebrationstress free but also helps cut down on the shopping and expenses. Members can bring their favorite dish to share with others. Non-cooks may opt for helping to supply the paper and plastic products. You may also consider asking someone to supply the tea or drinks. If your family is like mine, someone may need to bring a chest filled with ice. This comes in especially handy if there are a lot of children attending.
Choose A Specific Meal Time
Choose a specific time for your holiday meal to begin. This will help everyone know what to expect and when to arrive. Don’t put your meal on hold to wait on a few family members. This creates stress for everyone else. When you say the meal will be at a specific time, make sure the meal begins at that time. Some family members may have to attend another family gathering that day; so, be a sweetie and help them stay on schedule. Knowing what time the meal will begin also helps parents with young children by allowing them to adjust the kids’ nap or feeding time. This can cut out stress for everyone.
Make Your Gathering Special
Make this holiday gathering special by doing something new or unique. Here are a few activities you can incorporate into your stress free holiday. Ask family members to bring pictures from the previous Thanksgiving or Christmas gathering. Have each person share one thing for which they are thankful. Plan a special time to remember family members who are no longer with you. Record the event and watch it after the family meal.
It’s not uncommon for holiday celebrations to be hectic. These stress free holiday meal planning and cooking tips will allow you and your guests to have a relaxing stress free holiday filled with wonderful memories.
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