Tag: Holiday prep

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Make Your Holiday Card List | Day 6 of 60 | Holiday Prep for Thanksgiving and Christmas

Holiday Card Lists and Sending Fun Recipes to Family and Friends

The holiday season is a wonderful time to connect with loved ones, and what better way to do that than by sending holiday cards? This year, consider making your cards virtual e-cards and including a fun recipe that everyone can enjoy. Let’s dive into how to create your holiday card list, design your e-card, and share a delightful recipe!

Creating Your Holiday Card List

Start by making a list of everyone you want to send holiday greetings to. This can include:

  • Family members: Parents, siblings, cousins, and extended family.
  • Friends: Close friends, acquaintances, and neighbors.
  • Colleagues: Work friends and professional contacts.

To How Many People Should You Send Cards?

There’s no set number, but a good rule of thumb is to send cards to anyone you want to keep in touch with during the holidays. If you’re sending out physical cards, consider your budget and how many people you can realistically manage. For e-cards, the sky’s the limit!

Designing Your Virtual E-Card

Creating a virtual e-card is a fun and eco-friendly way to spread holiday cheer. Here are some great online platforms where you can design your e-card:

  • Canva: Offers a wide range of customizable templates for e-cards.
  • Paperless Post: Known for stylish designs and easy-to-use features.
  • Smilebox: Allows you to create animated e-cards with music and photos.

These platforms make it easy to personalize your e-card with festive graphics, your favorite colors, and a heartfelt message.

Include a Fun Recipe

To make your e-card even more special, include a fun recipe that your family and friends can try during the holidays. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Holiday Sugar Cookies that everyone will love!

Holiday Sugar Cookies Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups white sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons of colored sugar or sprinkles

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
  4. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients. Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls, and place onto ungreased cookie sheets. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass, and sprinkle with colored sugar.
  5. Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Let cool on wire racks.

Feel free to personalize the recipe with your own notes or tips!

Do you have a Side Business? Sending Cards as a Business Owner

If you’re a business owner, sending holiday cards can be a great way to connect with your customers and suppliers. Here’s how to approach it:

  • Customer List: Send cards to loyal customers to show appreciation. A good number is around 10-20% of your customer base, depending on your budget.
  • Supplier List: Sending cards to suppliers can strengthen your business relationships. Consider sending to key contacts.
  • Marketing List: If you have a marketing list, sending e-cards can be a cost-effective way to reach out during the holidays.

Sending holiday e-cards is a fun and meaningful way to connect with family, friends, and business contacts. By including a delightful recipe, you can spread joy and encourage others to create special memories in the kitchen. So, gather your card list, design your e-card, and get ready to share the holiday spirit! Happy holidays!

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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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Suggested Menus for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Menu Planning: How Many Dishes for Your Guests?

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and, of course, delicious food! Planning the perfect menu can be tricky, especially when it comes to deciding how many dishes to prepare. Here’s a guide on how many stuffings, entrees, and desserts to serve based on your guest count, along with example menus for different regional styles.

How Many Dishes to Prepare?

Here’s a quick breakdown of how many dishes you might want to prepare based on the number of guests:

Guest CountStuffingsEntreesDesserts
4111
61-211-2
122-322-3

Example Menus by Regional Theme

Southern Cooking Thanksgiving Menu

  • Entree:
  • Mustard Honey-Glazed Turkey
  • Stuffing:
  • Cornbread Stuffing with Chicken Sausage
  • Sides:
  • Collard Greens
  • Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
  • Sweet Potato Casserole
  • Desserts:
  • Apple Pie
  • Red Velvet Cake

Southwest Cooking Thanksgiving Menu

  • Entree:
  • Chipotle-Glazed Turkey
  • Stuffing:
  • Corn and Black Bean Stuffing
  • Sides:
  • Roasted Corn Salad
  • Green Chili Mashed Potatoes
  • Jalapeño Cornbread
  • Desserts:
  • Pumpkin Flan
  • Tres Leches Cake

Midwestern Chicago Thanksgiving Menu

  • Entree:
  • Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
  • Stuffing:
  • Traditional Bread Stuffing
  • Sides:
  • Creamed Spinach
  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes
  • Green Bean Casserole
  • Cranberry Bread
  • Desserts:
  • Apple and Cranberry Pie
  • HoneyNut Squash Bars with Vanilla Ice Cream

New York Thanksgiving Menu

  • Entree:
  • Herb-Roasted Turkey or Vegetarian Chicken Thighs
  • Stuffing:
  • Wild Rice and Mushroom Stuffing
  • Mushroom and Cranberry Stuffing
  • Sides:
  • Roasted Vegetables
  • Butternut Squash Soup
  • Classic Stuffed Mushrooms.
  • Desserts:
  • Pumpkin Bars
  • Lemon Meringue Pie

No matter where you are, Thanksgiving is a time to gather and enjoy good food. By planning your menu based on the number of guests and choosing a regional theme, you can create a memorable feast that everyone will love.

Happy Thanksgiving!

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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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Gift List | Day 2 of 60 | Holiday Prep Thanksgiving & Christmas

The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Gift Giving

The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and, of course, gift-giving! Creating a Christmas list can help you stay organized and ensure you don’t go over budget. Let’s explore how to make your list, stick to your budget, and understand gift etiquette in various settings.

Making Your Christmas List

Start by writing down everyone you want to buy gifts for. This can include family, friends, coworkers, and even service providers like mail carriers and garbage collectors.

  • Tip: Use a spreadsheet or a simple notepad app to keep track of names and gift ideas. This way, you won’t forget anyone important!

Staying Within Budget

Setting a budget is crucial to avoid overspending during the holidays. Here are some tips to help you stick to your budget:

  1. Set a Total Budget: Decide how much you can spend overall. This will help you prioritize your spending.
  2. Allocate Funds: Assign a specific amount for each person on your list. This ensures you don’t overspend on one person and leave others out.
  3. Look for Deals: Keep an eye out for sales and discounts. Websites like RetailMeNot or Honey can help you find great deals.

According to a survey by the National Retail Federation, the average American planned to spend about $998 on holiday gifts in 2022. Setting a budget can help you manage your finances better and enjoy the season without stress.

Gift Etiquette in the Workplace

When it comes to giving gifts at work, it’s important to be thoughtful and considerate. Here are some guidelines:

  • Know Your Company Culture: Some workplaces have strict policies against gift-giving, while others encourage it. Always check the rules first.
  • Keep It Professional: Choose gifts that are appropriate for the workplace. Items like coffee mugs, plants, or gift cards are usually safe bets.
  • Consider Group Gifts: If you want to give something more substantial, consider organizing a group gift with your coworkers.

Gift Etiquette for Neighbors and Service Providers

When it comes to neighbors and service providers, a small gesture can go a long way. Here’s how to approach it:

  • Neighbors: A homemade treat or a simple card can show appreciation. If you’re close, consider a small gift like a candle or a festive decoration.
  • Condo Building Employees: A gift card or a nice basket of goodies is a thoughtful way to thank your building staff for their hard work.
  • Mail Carriers and Garbage Collectors: A small gift or a card is a nice gesture. The U.S. Postal Service allows mail carriers to accept gifts worth up to $20.

Gift Etiquette for Teachers

Teachers play a significant role in our lives, and showing appreciation is always a good idea. Here are some tips:

  • Group Gifts: Consider pooling together with other parents for a larger gift. This can be a gift card to a local restaurant or a nice gift basket.
  • Personal Touch: A handwritten note from your child can mean a lot. It shows that you value their hard work and dedication.

Gift Etiquette for Friends and Family

When it comes to friends and family, the rules can be a bit more relaxed. Here’s how to navigate gift-giving:

  • Set a Spending Limit: If you have a large family, consider setting a spending limit for gifts. This keeps things fair and manageable.
  • Personalized Gifts: Think about what each person would truly appreciate. A thoughtful gift shows you care and pay attention to their interests.

Creating a Christmas list and understanding gift etiquette can make your holiday season much more enjoyable. By staying organized and mindful of your budget, you can spread joy without the stress. Happy gifting!

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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!

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For Planners | Week One Schedule For 60 Day Holiday Prep.

Week 1: Planning and Preparation

1. Day 1: Create a Christmas budget.

2. Day 2: Make a list of gifts you need to purchase for friends and family.

3. Day 3: Research and choose a theme for your holiday decorations.

4. Day 4: Start a holiday planner or journal – For Americans, one month to Thanksgiving – Plan the Menu for the four days. A sample menu which is Health Storey Friendly will be available for you to use.

5. Day 5: Set up a holiday playlist with your favorite Christmas songs on Youtube to play over the holidays.

6. Day 6: Plan your holiday card list, e-card list and designs.

7. Day 7: Decide on your Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day menus.

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60 Days to Christmas| Preparing a Weekly Holiday Budget

Christmas Budget

Welcome to the Prep Which Starts on October 24 2025. For Day which is next week, create a Budget for your Christmas season. Here is a weekly budget we set for a single person living in the Atlanta who doesn’t have to travel over the holidays.

Budget for Christmas

8 Week Holiday Budget Breakdown (8 Weeks Before the Christmas Holiday)

Total Budget: $1,070  Weekly Budget: $133.75

Weekly Breakdown

Week 1

   – Advent Calendar Gifts: $25  

   – Gifts: $50  

   – Total: $75

Week 2

   – Advent Calendar Gifts: $25  

   – Gifts: $50  

   – Total: $75

Week 3

   – Advent Calendar Gifts: $25  

   – Food and Beverages: $50  

   – Total: $75

Week 4

   – Advent Calendar Gifts: $25  

   – Decorations: $50  

   – Total: $75

Week 5

   – Advent Calendar Gifts: $25  

   – Holiday Cards: $25  

   – Gifts: $50  

   – Total: $100

Week 6

   – Advent Calendar Gifts: $25  

   – Food and Beverages: $50  

   – Total: $75

Week 7

   – Advent Calendar Gifts: $25  

   – Travel Expenses: $50  

   – Total: $75

Week 8

   – Advent Calendar Gifts: $25  

   – Charitable Donations: $50  

   – Miscellaneous: $50  

   – Total: $125

Adjust the amounts based on your personal preferences and financial situation. Happy budgeting and we look forward to preparing for the holiday season with you starting on the 25th of October 2025.