See You all on Monday. Celebrate the Holiday, Black Friday shopping and a weekend of football! We will see you on Cyber Monday and continue preparing for Christmas!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Plan on Seeing a Holiday Play|34 of 60 Holiday Prep
Here’s a step-by-step plan for your holiday theatre outing, focusing on maximizing your experience:
Day Planning for Theatre Outing
1. Choose the Performance
- Select a Show: Research the holiday theatre productions available in November and December. Consider classics like “A Christmas Carol” or “The Nutcracker,” or look for local community productions.
- Check Reviews: Read reviews to ensure it’s a performance you’ll enjoy.
2. Gather Company
- Invite Friends: Reach out to friends who enjoy theatre. Ask who would like to join you.
- Use Meetup: If you don’t find a suitable group, check Meetup.com for local theatre enthusiasts or events.
3. Purchase Tickets
- Book Early: Once you have your group, decide on a date and purchase tickets. Popular shows can sell out quickly, so aim to book as soon as possible.
- Consider Discounts: Check for group discounts or any promotional codes.
4. Plan the Day
- Choose a Dinner Time:
- Pre-Show Dinner: Aim to have dinner about 1.5 to 2 hours before the show starts. This gives you enough time to eat and arrive at the theatre comfortably.
- Restaurant Selection: Choose a restaurant nearby the theatre to minimize travel time. Make a reservation if needed.
- Travel Plan:
- Decide on Transport: Will you be driving or taking public transport? Consider traffic and parking if driving.
- Meet-up Point: Agree on a meeting point and time with your friends to ensure everyone arrives together.
5. Evening Schedule
- 6:00 PM – Dinner: Enjoy a leisurely meal and discuss the upcoming show to build excitement.
- 7:30 PM – Head to Theatre: Leave the restaurant by this time to allow for travel and any unexpected delays.
- 8:00 PM – Show Start: Arrive a little early to find your seats and settle in.
6. Post-Show Plans
- Discussion: Plan to grab dessert or a drink after the show to discuss your thoughts on the performance.
- Photos: Take a group photo in front of the theatre as a memento of the night.
7. Final Touches
- Dress Code: Check if the theatre has a dress code. Dress comfortably yet stylishly for the evening.
- Refreshments: If allowed, pack a small snack or drink for the journey, especially if it’s a long day.
Additional Tips
- Timing: Reconfirm showtimes and restaurant reservations a few days before.
- Entertainment: Consider browsing theatre-themed podcasts or articles to enhance your experience.
Following this plan will help you enjoy a memorable night at the theatre, surrounded by good company and festive vibes!
Time to Make a Gingerbread House | Plan on Moving to a New Apartment | Day 33 of 60 Holiday Prep
Day 33: Gingerbread House and Moving Plans
As you dive into the holiday spirit with the idea of making a gingerbread house, it’s also a great time to think about your living situation. Whether you own or rent, think about whether your current home makes you happy. If you’re considering a move, it’s helpful to get organized!
Moving Checklist
Here’s a comprehensive list of everything you need to consider, along with budgeting tips for moving into a new apartment or house.
Moving Checklist
1. Budgeting for the Move
- First Month’s Rent: Typically the cost of the first month before moving in.
- Security Deposit: Usually 1-2 months’ rent.
- Moving Expenses:
- Moving truck rental
- Packing supplies (boxes, tape, bubble wrap)
- Professional movers (if applicable)
- Utilities Setup: Potential service fees for water, gas, electric, internet, etc.
- Renter’s Insurance: Monthly or yearly cost for coverage.
- Miscellaneous: Emergency fund for unexpected costs.
2. Ideal Timing
- Best Month to Look for an Apartment/House:
- January: Many people move over the holidays, leading to a higher availability of listings in January.
- Best Month to Move:
- May-August: Summer is peak moving season due to better weather, school schedules, and increased job relocations. However, consider potential price fluctuations due to demand.
What to Consider When Apartment Shopping
1. Location
- Proximity to work, schools, public transport, and amenities.
2. Size and Layout
- Number of bedrooms/bathrooms.
- Open vs. closed floor plans.
3. Amenities
- In-unit laundry?
- Gym, pool, or communal spaces?
- Parking availability.
4. Lease Terms
- Length of the lease (12 months, 6 months, etc.).
- Flexibility and renewal options.
5. Pet Policies
- If you have pets, consider places that allow them and note any fees or deposits.
Preparing for the Move
- Declutter: Go through belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or throw away.
- Pack in Stages: Start packing non-essential items weeks in advance.
- Label Boxes: Clearly label boxes by room and contents for easier unpacking.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re making a whimsical gingerbread house or contemplating a new living space, planning and organization are key. Dive into apartment hunting if you’re not happy with your current home—your ideal space is waiting. Happy building and moving!
Schedule A Holiday Movie Night | Day 32 of 60 Holiday Prep|
The holiday season is a time for joy, connection, and creating lasting memories. This year, why not combine the comfort of a festive movie night with the warmth of friends—near and far—through a Zoom call? Renting a holiday movie adds a touch of excitement to your evening, and with the right dinner menu, you can create the perfect cozy atmosphere. Here’s how to make your holiday movie night unforgettable!
Renting a Holiday Movie
Choosing the Perfect Film
Start by selecting the movie you want to watch. Whether it’s a classic like “Home Alone”, a heartwarming tale like “The Holiday”, or a family-friendly animation like “Elf”, ensure it suits everyone’s taste. Use a rental service such as Amazon Prime, Google Play, or Apple TV to find and rent your chosen movie.
Setting Up Your Zoom Call
- Send Invites: Reach out to friends and family a few days before to set a date and time. Include the movie title, rental instructions, and Zoom link.
- Pre-Movie Chat: Allow time for everyone to join before the movie starts. This gives everyone a chance to catch up and share their excitement.
- Plan Viewing Logistics: Decide whether to use a watch party feature (if available) or to coordinate starting the movie simultaneously.
Food themed with Movie for Holiday Movie Night
Now that you’ve got the movie and the Zoom logistics sorted, let’s talk about the most important part: the food! Here’s a festive dinner menu that’s sure to impress your friends:
Holiday Themed Food
- Cheese & Charcuterie Board: Assemble a variety of cheeses, cured meats, fruits, and nuts. Add festive touches like pomegranate seeds or rosemary sprigs.
- Winter Salad: Create a refreshing salad using mixed greens, sliced apples, walnuts, and feta cheese. Drizzle with a honey-balsamic vinaigrette.
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crunchy garlic bread to complement your pasta.
Drinks
- Festive Cocktails or Mocktails: Get creative with holiday-themed drinks, such as a cranberry spritzer or mulled wine. Provide non-alcoholic options as well for those who prefer.
Making the Most of Your Movie Night
- Dress Code: Encourage everyone to wear festive attire for a relaxed atmosphere.
- Snacks on Hand: Besides the dinner menu, don’t forget the popcorn! Season it with your favorite toppings like cinnamon or caramel.
Renting a holiday movie and connecting with friends over Zoom can be a heartwarming experience filled with laughter, good food, and cherished memories. By planning your movie choice and crafting a delicious dinner menu, you’ll create a cozy and joyful evening that celebrates the spirit of the season. Happy holidays, and enjoy your movie night!
Get Holiday Cards Ready to Send Day 31 of 60 | Holiday Prep
Holiday Prep Day 31 of 60: Sending Holiday Cards and Recipes
Welcome to Day 31 of our 60-day holiday prep journey! Today, we’re focusing on a delightful task: preparing and sending out your holiday cards, complete with a tasty recipe card to share the festive spirit. Not only will you connect with your loved ones through a cheerful greeting, but you’ll also encourage them to whip up something special in the kitchen!
Double Check Your Address / Contact List
Why Include a Recipe Card?
Including a recipe card with your holiday card serves a dual purpose. It adds a personal touch to your greetings while sharing a beloved holiday recipe. Whether it’s grandma’s famous gingerbread cookies or a new festive drink you discovered, a recipe is a wonderful way to share traditions and inspire others to celebrate.
Steps to Prepare, Send, and Enjoy
1. Gather Your Supplies
- Holiday Cards: Choose your favorite designs—these can be store-bought or homemade.
- Recipe Cards: Print or write out your favorite holiday recipe to include with each card.
- Envelopes & Stamps: Make sure you have enough for both your cards and recipe cards. Don’t forget to purchase the right amount of stamps!
2. Craft Your Messages
- Personalize Messages: Write a sweet note in each card, sharing festive cheer and a little update about your life.
- Recipe Explanation: Briefly explain why you chose that particular recipe or share a cherished memory related to it.
3. Check Your Contact List
- Use this mailing as an opportunity to ensure that all email and mailing addresses are correct. This can save you time and ensure that no one is missed.
- Make note of any changes or missing addresses, so you can follow up if necessary.
4. Best Dates to Send Out Christmas Cards
- TIMING IS KEY: Aim to send out your holiday cards by the first week of December. This allows ample time for them to arrive before Christmas, especially for friends and family who may live far away.
- For International Mail: Sending by early to mid-November is recommended to ensure arrival by December.
5. Mailing and Costs
- Domestic Mail: For cards sent within the same country, they typically arrive within 3-7 days.
- Overseas Mail: Keep in mind that mailing a Christmas card overseas can take 2-4 weeks, depending on the destination and potential delays.
- Cost of Mailing: In the U.S., the postage for standard letters is generally around $0.66 for first-class mail. International postage varies, usually between $1.40 to $2.00 depending on the country.
Final Thoughts
Sending holiday cards—and including a cherished recipe—creates a profound connection with your loved ones during this festive season. Taking the time to ensure your contact list is accurate will help you stay in touch with everyone.
So gather those supplies, write your heartfelt messages, and let’s spread some holiday joy, one card at a time! Happy mailing!
Wrap Extra Gifts and Presents |Day 30 of 60 | Health Storey Holiday Prep
Holiday Prep Day 30 of 60
Tasks for Today:
Wrap Extra Presents for Charity
- Gather any gifts you’ve purchased for charitable donations.
- Use festive wrapping paper and tags to make them more appealing.
- Consider including a small note encouraging joy and kindness.
Prepare for Extra Guests
- Assess your seating and dining arrangements.
- Gather extra serving dishes and utensils.
- Prepare any additional food items that might be needed.
Double Check Gift List
- Review your gift list to ensure no one is missed.
- Confirm that you have all gifts purchased and wrapped.
- Make a note of any last-minute gifts needed.
Double Check Budget
- Review your holiday budget to ensure you’re staying on track.
- Take into account any last-minute purchases or expenses.
- Adjust if necessary to avoid overspending.
Make a Contact List of Email Addresses
Collect email addresses for your guest list:
- Family
- Friends
- Co-workers
- Neighbors
Use a spreadsheet or a note app for easy access to information. Consider adding a column for RSVP status if relevant, what kind of presents you are gifting, relationship to the person and location of the person.
Sample Contact List Template ( This can be created in Numbers or Excell or Google Sheets)
4 or more columns: names, email addresses, Relationship, Location etc.
| Name | Email Address | Relationship | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| John Doe | johndoe@email.com | Friend | Local |
| Jane Smith | janesmith@email.com | Family | Hometown |
| Bob Johnson | bobjohnson@email.com | Co-worker | NYC |
| … | … | … |
Tips for Organization
- Digital Lists: Utilize a tool like Google Sheets or Excel for easy updates and accessibility.
- Physical Copies: Print out the contact list for reference during planning and communications with family and friends.
- Regular Updates: Check and update your list as guests RSVP or if you add more people. Duplicate the main list to use for events.
Stay organized today, and you’ll set yourself up for a joyful and stress-free holiday season ahead if you decided to plan events or group festive gatherings.
Health Storey Services
Working on the Services pages. The main services page is created for the services offered by Health Storey USA – Health Storey Coaching Programs
Services provided:
- Invidual coaching – on and offline
- Group coaching – online group calls, workshops, in person group meetings
- Corporate Wellness Programs
Shopping Now or Black Friday? You Choose. Day 29 or 60 Holiday Prep
Day 29: Christmas Shopping Decisions
As we approach the holiday season, it’s essential to refine your Christmas shopping strategy. Today, we’ll consider whether to shop now or hold off until Black Friday, ensuring you complete your Christmas list while maximizing deals.
Evaluate Your Christmas List
- How Much of Your Christmas List Is Left?
- Take a moment to review your list. How many gifts do you still need to purchase?
- Assess any names you might have unintentionally left off—now’s the time to add them!
- Secret Santa Letters
- Have you exchanged Secret Santa letters with your loved ones? This can give you a clear idea of what to buy and ensure everyone gets something they’ll love.
- Backup Presents
- Check if you have any backup gifts for unexpected occasions—like surprise guests, birthdays, or last-minute exchanges.
Shopping Today vs. Black Friday
Shop Today If:
- You have a smaller list and want to guarantee that specific gifts are available.
- You prefer avoiding the crowds and chaos often associated with Black Friday shopping.
Wait for Black Friday If:
- You’re hoping for significant discounts on larger purchases.
- You need to finalize your list and want to take advantage of deals across various stores.
Budgeting for Black Friday Shopping
Setting a budget for Black Friday shopping can help you avoid overspending. Consider how much you can reasonably allocate for gifts without stretching your finances.
- Suggested Budget:
- Determine a total amount and divide it among categories (e.g., $200 total: $50 for men, $50 for women, etc.).
Gift Suggestions for Different Recipients
Here’s a list of thoughtful gift ideas to consider for various people on your list:
For Men:
- Tech Gadgets (Bluetooth speakers, smart home devices)
- Grooming Kits (beard care, shaving kits)
- Apparel (nice sweaters or jackets)
- Sports Accessories (fitness trackers, gym gear)
- Hobby-Related Items (books on interests, board games)
For Women:
- Skincare or Beauty Products (scented candles, makeup kits)
- Fashion Accessories (scarves, bags, jewelry)
- Subscription Boxes (books, snacks, beauty)
- Wellness Gifts (yoga mats, aromatherapy diffusers)
- Experience Gifts (spa days, workshops)
For Older Adults:
- Comfort Gifts (blankets, slippers)
- Tech Devices (tablets with larger screens, simple smartphones)
- Personalized Photo Gifts (calendars with family photos)
- Hobby Supplies (puzzles, gardening tools)
- Gift Cards for Dining Out (local restaurants)
For Children:
- Educational Toys (building sets, science kits)
- Arts and Crafts Supplies (painting kits, coloring books)
- Books (age-appropriate or popular series)
- Outdoor Games (bicycles, sports equipment)
- Interactive Learning Devices (tablets, smart toys)
As you navigate Day 29 of your Christmas shopping journey, take time to review your list, think strategically about your shopping approach, and determine how best to maximize your budget. Whether you choose to shop now or wait for Black Friday, being organized and thoughtful will ensure a joyful and stress-free holiday season. Happy shopping!
From the Rice Detox: Rethink Your Kitchen Appliances and Furniture | Day 8 of 14
Day 8 of Rice Detox: Declutter and Refresh
Welcome to Day 8 of your rice detox! As we continue this journey, it’s the perfect time to also refresh your surroundings. Today, let’s dive into your kitchen and evaluate your appliances and gadgets. This not only promotes a healthier eating environment but can also make room for items that better serve your goals.
Kitchen Declutter: Evaluate and Replace
- Sort Through Kitchen Appliances
- Coffee Maker/Coffee Press: If it’s outdated or doesn’t meet your brewing needs, consider upgrading to a model that offers better functionality or convenience.
- Blender: An efficient blender can help you create nutritious smoothies and soups. If yours is weak or ineffective, now’s the time to replace it.
- Toaster or Toaster Oven: An appliance that doesn’t toast evenly or takes up too much space could be replaced with a more compact or efficient one.
- Slow Cooker or Instant Pot: These can make meal prep easier and faster. If you have one that’s rarely used or too cumbersome, think about upgrading.
- Evaluate Gadgets
- Clean out items you haven’t used in the last year.
- Consider donations—charity shops often accept kitchen gadgets in good condition.
- If you’re unsure about larger appliances, check with local charities if they offer pick-up services for larger items.
- Furniture Consideration
- Evaluate kitchen furniture (chairs, tables, etc.). If something is broken or doesn’t fit your space, consider replacing it or donating it.
- Donation
- Once you have sorted through the items, take them to your local charity shop or arrange for larger items to be picked up.
Menu for the Day
Breakfast:
- Rice with Margarine
- Simple and satisfying, this dish will keep you energized.
- Pan de Yuca
- A tasty gluten-free bread made from cassava flour—perfect for breakfast.
- Steamed Vegetables
- Add some color and nutrients to your plate with your favorite steamed veggies.
Lunch:
- Plant-Based Chicken Sandwich
- Enjoy a hearty sandwich made with plant-based chicken for a fulfilling lunch.
Dinner:
- Cup of Rice with Margarine
- Keep it simple and comforting as the day winds down.
Day 8 is a fantastic opportunity to clear out the old, making space for healthier habits and a refreshed kitchen environment. Keep working on your detox journey, this is the last week of the rice detox before the Thanksgiving celebrations!
After Thanksgiving, do you want to prep for Christmas and then New Years? Do you already buy your outfits?
Create a Photo Wall for the Holidays | Day 28 of 60 Holiday Prep
Cherishing Family Memories
The holiday season is the perfect time to gather with loved ones, reflect on the year, and celebrate the moments that matter most. One wonderful way to do this is by creating a holiday photo wall where family members can display their favorite pictures from the year. Not only does this make for a heartwarming decoration, but it also stimulates conversations and nostalgia for shared experiences.
Why Create a Holiday Photo Wall?
A holiday photo wall serves as a visual diary of your family’s year, showcasing everything from birthdays and vacations to everyday moments. It allows everyone to share their unique experiences and bond over shared memories, adding a personal touch to your holiday decor.
Supplies Needed
To create your holiday photo wall, gather the following supplies:
- Small Photo Printer
- A compact printer that can easily print 4×6 or smaller photos. Models like the Canon Selphy or HP Sprocket are popular options.
- Estimated Cost: $100 – $150
- Photo Paper
- Specialty photo paper compatible with your printer ensures high-quality prints.
- Estimated Cost: $20 for a pack of 50 sheets.
- Wall Space
- Designate an area in your home—a wall or large board—as your display space.
- Photo Display Materials
- Consider clips, a clothesline, or washi tape to hang the photos creatively.
- Decorative Items
- Optional: Fairy lights, garlands, or holiday-themed decorations to enhance the visual appeal.
Time Needed for Printing Photos
Printing photos for an entire wall can take some time. Here’s a rough estimate:
- Total Prints: If you plan to include 50 photos, printing each photo will take about 1-2 minutes.
- Estimated Total Time: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours for printing all photos.
When to Start Organizing
The ideal time to start this project is around Thanksgiving. This allows your family to reflect on the past year during the holiday and gather pictures from various sources, such as smartphones, social media, and digital cameras. Here’s a suggested timeline:
- Thanksgiving Weekend: Start collecting photos and planning the layout.
- First Week of December: Begin printing photos and setting up the wall.
- Second Week of December: Finalize your display and enjoy the visual memories.
What to Do with the Photos After Posting Them
Once your holiday photo wall is complete, consider these options for preserving the memories:
- Create a Photo Album: After the holiday season, compile all printed photos into a family album for lasting memories.
- Rotate Photos Annually: Choose a few standout photos to keep on display and store the rest for future holidays.
- Digital Archive: Scan the printed photos or take digital shots of the wall before taking it down to preserve them in a digital format.
- Gifts for Family: Surprise relatives by creating smaller versions of the photo wall or framing individual photos as gifts.
Final Thoughts
Creating a holiday photo wall is a delightful way to honor your family’s memories and build connections during the festive season. With just a few supplies, some planning, and a sprinkle of creativity, you can turn your home into a warm showcase of love and cherished moments. So gather those photos and let the holiday magic begin!