Around Waynedale, people often keep a few stray singles in their pocket. After all, they might want to pick up a fried tenderloin sandwich at a church fundraiser or toss some money into a collection can at a business to help a resident fight cancer.The secret to keeping all of the warm sentiments of the holidays alive and well, without capitulating to crass commercialism, is to simplify. Take a few moments to consider ways you can streamline your to-dos, to-buys and to-makes.
•Go potluck. If you are hosting a big gathering, consider making the event a potluck.
•Make a “day of” cooking plan in advance. At least one week before the event, sit down and map out the cooking schedule hour-by-hour, and even minute-by-minute.
•Set the table a week ahead.
•Don’t enter a grocery store without a list.
•Assign family members to ongoing cleanup duty. Keep a rotating team of dishwashers in the kitchen who can wash pots, pans and other cooking utensils as you go along.
•Use packing lists to help you travel light.
•Send an e-card. If sending out physical cards is stressful and unpleasant for you, consider making the switch to e-holiday cards.
•Limit commitments and set aside time each week to decompress.
