Category: Atlanta

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Buy Holiday Ingredients for Baking | Day 12 of 60 for Health-Storey Holiday prep

Holiday Baking Preparation: Your Essential Ingredient List and Budget

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the joy of baking! Whether you’re preparing Christmas cookies for gifting, Thanksgiving pies, or festive breads and cakes, having the right ingredients on hand is essential for a successful baking experience. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of essential holiday baking ingredients along with an estimated budget for a family of four.

Essential Holiday Baking Ingredients

  1. Flour
  • All-purpose flour (5 lbs)
  • Estimated Cost: $3.00
  1. Sugar
  • Granulated sugar (4 lbs)
  • Brown sugar (2 lbs)
  • Estimated Cost: $4.00
  1. Baking Powder and Baking Soda
  • Baking powder (8 oz)
  • Baking soda (8 oz)
  • Estimated Cost: $2.00
  1. Salt
  • Kosher salt (26 oz)
  • Estimated Cost: $1.00
  1. Butter
  • Unsalted butter (1 lb)
  • Estimated Cost: $4.00
  1. Eggs
  • Large eggs (1 dozen)
  • Estimated Cost: $3.00
  1. Milk
  • Whole milk (1 gallon)
  • Estimated Cost: $3.00
  1. Vanilla Extract
  • Pure vanilla extract (4 oz)
  • Estimated Cost: $6.00
  1. Cocoa Powder (for chocolate treats)
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder (8 oz)
  • Estimated Cost: $3.00
  1. Nuts (optional, for cookies and cakes)
    • Walnuts or pecans (1 lb)
    • Estimated Cost: $6.00
  2. Chocolate Chips (for cookies)
    • Semi-sweet chocolate chips (12 oz)
    • Estimated Cost: $3.00
  3. Fruits (for pies and breads)
    • Fresh cranberries (12 oz)
    • Apples (3 lbs)
    • Estimated Cost: $5.00
  4. Spices
    • Ground cinnamon (2 oz)
    • Ground nutmeg (2 oz)
    • Ground ginger (2 oz)
    • Estimated Cost: $4.00
  5. Yeast (for bread)
    • Active dry yeast (3 packets)
    • Estimated Cost: $2.00
  6. Zest and Juice (for flavor)
    • Lemons (2)
    • Oranges (2)
    • Estimated Cost: $2.00

Estimated Budget for Holiday Baking

Now that we have our essential ingredients listed, let’s calculate the estimated total cost for a family of four:

IngredientEstimated Cost
All-purpose flour$3.00
Granulated sugar$2.00
Brown sugar$2.00
Baking powder$1.00
Baking soda$1.00
Kosher salt$1.00
Unsalted butter$4.00
Large eggs$3.00
Whole milk$3.00
Pure vanilla extract$6.00
Unsweetened cocoa powder$3.00
Nuts (optional)$6.00
Semi-sweet chocolate chips$3.00
Fresh cranberries$3.00
Apples$2.00
Ground cinnamon$2.00
Ground nutmeg$2.00
Ground ginger$2.00
Active dry yeast$2.00
Lemons$1.00
Oranges$1.00
Total Estimated Cost$56.00

Tips for Budget-Friendly Holiday Baking

  1. Buy in Bulk: Purchase larger quantities of flour, sugar, and other staples to save money.
  2. Use Seasonal Ingredients: Incorporate seasonal fruits and spices to enhance flavors without breaking the bank.
  3. Plan Ahead: Create a baking schedule to avoid last-minute purchases and ensure you have everything you need.
  4. Share the Joy: Consider baking in batches and sharing with friends and family, which can make the process more enjoyable and cost-effective.

With this essential ingredient list and budget in hand, you’re well on your way to a successful holiday baking season. Embrace the joy of creating delicious treats that will bring warmth and cheer to your home and those you love. Happy baking!

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DIY: Create Your Advent’s Calendar | Day 10 of 60 | Preparing for the Holidays

Advents Calendars don’t have to be filled with chocolate or bought in the store

Crafting Your Own Advent Calendar: Creative Ideas and Gift Suggestions

The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and anticipation, and what better way to count down the days to Christmas than with a DIY advent calendar? While traditional calendars often feature chocolates or candies, you can get creative and design one that suits your style and preferences. Whether you choose to use envelopes, boxes, or bags, the possibilities are endless! Here’s how to create your own advent calendar and some thoughtful gift ideas to include.

1. Creating an Advent Calendar with Envelopes

Using envelopes is a simple and versatile way to create an advent calendar. Here’s how to do it:

Materials Needed:

  • 24 small envelopes (you can decorate them with festive designs)
  • String or ribbon for hanging
  • Clothespins or tape
  • Small gifts or notes to fill the envelopes

Instructions:

  1. Decorate the Envelopes: Use markers, stickers, or washi tape to personalize each envelope. Number them from 1 to 24 for the days leading up to Christmas.
  2. Fill the Envelopes: Instead of sweets, consider filling each envelope with small gifts, notes, or even cash. For example, I created an advent calendar filled with money to spend after Christmas on holiday shopping. This gives me extra spending money for post-holiday sales and avoids the temptation of extra chocolates or candies in the house.
  3. Display Your Calendar: Hang the envelopes on a string or ribbon using clothespins, or arrange them on a shelf or table for easy access.

2. Creating an Advent Calendar with Boxes

If you prefer a more structured approach, using small boxes can be a fun way to create your advent calendar.

Materials Needed:

  • 24 small boxes (you can use gift boxes, matchboxes, or even repurpose small containers)
  • Decorative paper or wrapping for the boxes
  • Number stickers or tags
  • Small gifts or treats to fill the boxes

Instructions:

  1. Wrap the Boxes: Decorate each box with festive wrapping paper or paint. Number them from 1 to 24.
  2. Fill the Boxes: Choose a variety of small gifts, such as mini candles, ornaments, or beauty products. You can also include handwritten notes with fun activities or experiences to enjoy during the holiday season.
  3. Arrange the Boxes: Stack the boxes in a pyramid shape, line them up on a shelf, or create a festive display on your dining table.

3. Creating an Advent Calendar with Bags

Using small bags is another creative option for your advent calendar. This method is especially great for a more casual and playful look.

Materials Needed:

  • 24 small bags (paper, fabric, or burlap bags work well)
  • Twine or string for hanging
  • Number tags or stickers
  • Fun gifts or surprises to fill the bags

Instructions:

  1. Decorate the Bags: Use tags or stickers to number each bag from 1 to 24. You can also personalize them with festive designs or names.
  2. Fill the Bags: Consider including a mix of small gifts, such as tea bags, handmade coupons for activities, or even a few holiday-themed items like ornaments or decorations.
  3. Display the Bags: Hang the bags on a string or arrange them in a basket for a charming display.

Creating your own advent calendar is a wonderful way to add a personal touch to your holiday season. Whether you choose to use envelopes, boxes, or bags, the key is to fill them with thoughtful gifts. By customizing your advent calendar, you can make the countdown to Christmas even more special, all while avoiding the extra calories that often come with traditional calendars. So gather your materials, get creative, and enjoy the process of crafting a unique advent calendar that reflects your style and spirit! Happy holidays!

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Start Shopping for Gifts | Day 8 of 60 | Health Storey Holiday Prep for Thanksgiving and Christmas

10 Tips and Tricks for Staying Focused on Your Christmas Gift List and Budget

The holiday season is just around the corner, and with it comes the joy of gift-giving! However, the excitement can quickly turn into stress if you’re not careful. To help you navigate the bustling world of Christmas shopping this November, Health-Storey has compiled ten essential tips and tricks to keep you focused on your gift list and budget. Let’s make this holiday season merry and bright without breaking the bank!

Gifts do not need to be complicated. A tray or bag of Holiday cookies is an excellent gift for every one.

1. Create a Detailed Gift List

Start by making a comprehensive list. Include their interests, sizes, and any specific items they might like. This will not only help you stay organized but also prevent impulse buys that can derail your budget.

2. Set a Realistic Budget

Determine how much you can afford to spend on gifts this year. Break it down by person or category, and stick to this budget as you shop. Having a clear financial plan will help you avoid overspending and keep your holiday spirit intact. If you are not happy about this year’s budget, start making a plan for the 2026 holidays and focus your budget this year on a specific gift theme that is more modest.

3. Prioritize Your List

Identify who is most important to you and prioritize your gift list accordingly. Focus on finding meaningful gifts for those at the top of your list first, and then work your way down. This ensures that you allocate your budget wisely.

4. Take Advantage of Sales and Discounts

November is packed with sales events, including Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Keep an eye out for discounts on items on your list. Sign up for newsletters from your favorite retailers to receive alerts on special promotions and exclusive deals.

5. Shop Early

Avoid the last-minute rush by starting your shopping early in November. This not only gives you more time to find the perfect gifts but also allows you to spread out your spending over the month, making it easier to stick to your budget.

6. Use Cash or a Prepaid Card

To help control your spending, consider using cash or a prepaid card for your holiday shopping. This way, you can only spend what you’ve allocated, reducing the temptation to overspend with credit cards.

7. Limit Online Shopping Temptations

While online shopping is convenient, it can also lead to impulse purchases. Set specific times for online shopping and stick to your list. Avoid browsing aimlessly, as this can lead to unnecessary spending.

8. Get Creative with Gifts

Consider making homemade gifts or giving experiences instead of physical items. Handmade treats, personalized photo albums, or tickets to a local event can be thoughtful and budget-friendly alternatives that your loved ones will cherish.

9. Keep Track of Your Spending

As you shop, keep a running total of your expenses. This will help you stay aware of how much you’ve spent and how much you have left in your budget. Use a simple spreadsheet or Google Doc to keep track of how much you have spent and what you, have left for gifts.

10. Stay Flexible and Open-Minded

Sometimes, the perfect gift may not be what you initially envisioned. Stay open to alternatives and be willing to adjust your list if you find something that fits your budget and feels right. Flexibility can lead to delightful surprises!

With these ten tips and tricks in your holiday shopping toolkit, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle your Christmas gift list and budget with confidence. Remember, the true spirit of the season lies in the thought and love behind each gift, not the price tag. So, embrace the joy of giving, stay focused, and make this holiday season one to remember! Happy shopping!

Don’t forget to buy a Thanksgiving Gift for the Host of the Dinner!

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Guest Etiquette | Day 5 of 60 | Holiday Prep for Thanksgiving and Christmas

How Long Should You Stay as a Guest During the Holidays?

The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and celebration. But how long is it appropriate to stay as a guest at someone’s house during Thanksgiving and Christmas? Let’s break it down!

How Long is Too Long?

When visiting during the holidays, 2 to 4 hours is generally a good timeframe for a daytime visit. If you arrive for dinner, staying until dessert is served is usually acceptable. Leaving too soon, like right after the meal, can seem rude.

If you’re not staying overnight, aim to leave by 9 or 10 PM. This way, you won’t overstay your welcome, and your hosts can wind down their evening.

Guest Etiquette for the Holidays

As a guest, you should:

  • Help out: Offer to assist with setting the table or cleaning up.
  • Be polite: Thank your hosts for their hospitality.
  • Engage: Participate in conversations and activities.

As a host, you should:

  • Make everyone comfortable: Ensure guests have a place to sit and feel welcome.
  • Provide food and drinks: Keep the snacks and beverages flowing.
  • Plan activities: Have games or entertainment ready to keep the mood lively.

How Long Should You Stay?

For holiday gatherings, 3 to 5 hours is a good rule of thumb. This allows you to enjoy the festivities without feeling rushed or overstaying your welcome.

Gift Ideas for Your Hosts

Bringing a small gift is a thoughtful gesture. Here are some ideas:

  • For family: A homemade dish or dessert.
  • For friends: A bottle of wine or a festive candle.
  • For overnight stays: A cozy blanket or a fun board game.

Music Playlist for the Holidays

A good music playlist can set the mood for your gathering. Aim for a 2 to 3-hour playlist to cover the duration of your visit. Start playing it about 30 minutes before guests arrive to create a welcoming atmosphere.

Navigating holiday visits can be tricky, but with these guidelines, you can enjoy your time with family and friends without any awkward moments. Remember, the key is to be respectful and considerate of your hosts while making the most of the festive season!

Here is a playlist on YouTube that is 11 hours long and will get you through Christmas Day!

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Start a Holiday Journal | Day 4 of 60 | Health Storey Prep for the Holidays

Day 4: Start Your Holiday Journal or Planner

The holiday season is a magical time filled with joy, family, and memories. One great way to capture all those moments is by starting a holiday journal or planner. Let’s explore how you can get started!

Why Keep a Holiday Journal?

Keeping a holiday journal allows you to document your experiences, thoughts, and feelings throughout the season. Here are some benefits:

  • Reflect on Memories: Writing helps you remember special moments.
  • Stay Organized: A planner can help you keep track of events, gifts, and to-do lists.
  • Boost Creativity: Journaling can inspire you to create new holiday traditions.

Choosing Between a Journal and a Planner

Both options have their perks, so it’s essential to choose what works best for you. Here’s a quick comparison:

FeatureHoliday JournalHoliday Planner
FocusPersonal reflectionsOrganization and planning
FormatFree-form writingStructured layout
CreativityHigh (doodles, stickers)Moderate (checklists)

Getting Started with Your Journal

If you decide to go with a journal, here are some tips to kick things off:

  1. Choose Your Journal: Pick one that inspires you, whether it’s a simple notebook or a fancy bound book.
  2. Set a Routine: Dedicate a few minutes each day to write about your holiday experiences.
  3. Include Prompts: Use prompts like “What am I grateful for this holiday?” or “What’s my favorite holiday memory?” to spark your creativity.

Starting Your Holiday Planner

If organization is your goal, a holiday planner might be the way to go. Here’s how to get started:

  1. Select a Planner: Look for one that has sections for events, gift lists, and meal planning.
  2. Create a Calendar: Mark important dates like parties, family gatherings, and deadlines for gift shopping.
  3. Make Lists: Write down gift ideas, recipes, and tasks to keep everything in one place.

Tips for Success

  • Be Consistent: Try to write or plan at the same time each day.
  • Add Personal Touches: Use stickers, drawings, or photos to make your journal or planner unique.
  • Review Regularly: Take time to read back through your entries or check off completed tasks.

Starting a holiday journal or planner can enhance your holiday experience. Whether you choose to reflect on your feelings or keep everything organized, you’ll create a treasure trove of memories to look back on for years to come.

For more tips on holiday preparation, check out Health-Storey and stay tuned for more ideas in our 60-day holiday prep series!

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Pickng a Holiday Theme | Day 3 of 60 | Prepping for Thanksgiving and Christmas

Choosing Your Christmas and Holiday Season Theme for 2025

The holiday season is a magical time of year, filled with joy, family gatherings, and festive decorations. As we look ahead to 2025, it’s the perfect moment to start thinking about your Christmas and holiday theme.

Why Choose a Theme?

Having a theme can make your holiday celebrations more cohesive and memorable. It helps you decide on decorations, color schemes, and even the types of food you’ll serve. Plus, it adds a fun twist to your holiday preparations!

Popular Themes for 2025

Here are some exciting themes to consider for your holiday season:

1. Classic Winter Wonderland

  • Think whites, blues, and silvers.
  • Use snowflakes, icicles, and twinkling lights.

2. Rustic Charm

  • Incorporate natural elements like wood, pinecones, and burlap.
  • Use warm colors like red, green, and gold.

3. Vintage Christmas

  • Embrace retro decorations and colors.
  • Use old-fashioned ornaments and classic holiday music.

4. Modern Minimalism

  • Focus on simple, clean lines and a limited color palette.
  • Use geometric shapes and metallic accents.

5. Cultural Celebrations

  • Highlight traditions from different cultures.
  • Incorporate unique decorations and foods from around the world.

Tips for Choosing Your Theme

  • Consider Your Space: Think about how your chosen theme will fit into your home.
  • Budget Wisely: Some themes may require more decorations than others, so plan accordingly.
  • Involve Family: Get everyone’s input to make the theme more personal and fun.

Final Touches

Once you’ve chosen your theme, it’s time to get creative! From decorations to food, let your theme guide your choices.

Atlanta White Detox Bread

A Festive Recipe to Try While Holiday Prepping

As you prepare for the holiday season, why not try making Atlanta White Bread? It’s a simple recipe that takes a few hours but can be a great addition to your holiday meals.

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/8 cup oil
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1 packet instant yeast
  • 1 cup warm water

Instructions:

  1. Mix the warm water and yeast packet together.
  2. Add some sugar and let the yeast bloom for about 5-10 minutes.
  3. In a bowl, mix the yeast mixture with salt, oil, and flour until combined.
  4. Knead the dough on a floured or oiled counter until smooth.
  5. Place the dough in a bowl and let it sit for 90 minutes.
  6. After 90 minutes, knead again and cut into four pieces and let them sit for another 30 minutes.
  7. Store three pieces for future meals and place one piece into your baking container.
  8. Bake for at least 20 minutes at 375 degrees.

Variations for the Holiday Season

  • Herb-Infused Bread: Add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.
  • Sweet Cinnamon Bread: Mix in cinnamon and a bit of nutmeg for a sweet holiday flavor.
  • Cheese and Garlic Bread: Fold in shredded cheese and minced garlic for a delicious side.

With these ideas and recipes, you’re all set to make your 2025 holiday season unforgettable! Happy planning!

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Day One | Holiday Prep for Thanksgiving and Christmas

The holiday season is just around the corner, and it’s time to get organized! Today, we’ll focus on setting budgets and planning menus for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Step 1: Set Your Holiday Budget

  1. Review Last Year’s Spending
    Look back at your credit card and bank statements from last year. Write down what you spent on food and drinks for Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. If you do not have a budget set already, decide how much you want to spend on each person per day, that is your budget.
  • Thanksgiving Dinner: $____
  • Black Friday Snacks/Meals: $____
  • Saturday Meals: $____
  • Sunday Meals: $____
  • Total Food/Drink Expenses: $____
  1. Create a New Budget
    Based on last year’s spending, set a realistic budget for this year. Consider any changes in your guest list or menu that might affect costs. Health Storey does not believe in snacking, Can you add more food to the meals and eliminate grazing from each holiday?
  • Thanksgiving Budget: $____
  • Christmas Budget: $____
  • Total Holiday Budget: $____

Step 2: Plan Your Menus

Next, let’s think about what you want to serve. Here’s a simple outline to help you get started:

Thanksgiving Menu Ideas

  • Appetizers: Cheese platter, veggie tray, or stuffed mushrooms
  • Main Course: Roast turkey, Roasted and stuffed Squash
  • Sides: Mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, stuffing / dressing
  • Desserts: Apple crisp with Ice cream, Cranberry pound cake,

Christmas Menu Ideas

  • Appetizers: Bruschetta, chicken sausage bombs
  • Main Course: Vegetarian fried chicken
  • Sides: Roasted vegetables, cranberry sauce,
  • Desserts: Stolen bread, Christmas cakes,

Step 3: Meal Prep with the Instant Pot

To make meal prep easier, Health Storey suggests using an Instant Pot for making rice potatoes, steamed vegetables and hard boiled eggs. Here’s how to incorporate them into your meals:

  • Rice or Potatoes as a Base: One cup of steamed rice or potatoes can be the foundation for various meals throughout the week.

Example Meal Ideas

  • Rice Bowl: Top with grilled vegetarian chicken sausage, veggies, and teriyaki sauce.
  • Stuffed Squash: Mix rice with ground turkey, spices and place inside of baked or grilled carnival squash.
  • Potato Casserole: Layer potatoes with cheese, broccoli, and ham in an oven safe dish.

Step 4: Grocery Shopping

If you only shop on weekends, consider buying a 2-pound bag of rice per person per week for about $5.00 each.

By setting a budget and planning your menus today, you’ll be well on your way to a stress-free holiday season. Remember to keep track of your spending and adjust your budget as needed. Happy prepping!