Beating Holiday Stress

The holidays can be a stressful time for a lot of people, especially this year when it seems there is nothing but doom and gloom in the economic forecast. But folks who have lived through such times as this in the past, know a thing or two about not only getting by, but actually thriving. I think now is a good time to look at that.

The first thing to look at is expectations. We all have these Norman Rockwell-sized expectations that are out of whack with reality. We have to fix our own mentalities before we can get to the more practical side of things. Bring down the expectations (and guest list, if need be) and take a look at a simpler way. There’s nothing wrong with having a potluck instead of putting on a lavish spread all by yourself. People love to show off their best dishes so this year, do the main course and divvy up the side dishes and dessert. How easy (and less expensive) is that?

Use this principle with your Christmas cookies too. Instead of killing yourself baking eighteen different types of Christmas cookies, invite some friends over (and their kids) to share the workload and the cost. Have everyone bring a batch of sugar cookie dough; some sprinkles and other decorative doodads, then bake ‘em all up at your house. Decorate them together, take pictures of the fun then make some hot cocoa, sit down and enjoy your company and cookies.

You’ve just made a terrific memory! The burden of the cost of making all those cookies has been effectively spread out; everyone had a good dose of holiday cheer and got to take home a souvenir, too!

Happy Cooking!

Leanne Ely
The Dinner Diva
www.SavingDinner.com