Through all the holiday “hustle and bustle” (which may include a few unfortunate shattered ornaments) I always make sure to do a few things.
Here is my Stay Sane Holiday Check List:
☐ Put on your slipper socks – the ones with the sticky bottoms
☐ Watch Love Actually
☐ Check doorstep for holiday shipment from Crate and Barrel
☐ Smell the pine (unless you opted for a fake tree*)
☐ Indulge in a handful of fancy dark chocolate covered almonds, like Amie’s of The Healthy Apple (or, a flute of bubbly and light Prosecco**)
☐ Connect with your spirituality, wherever you find it
☐ Make a wish/say a prayer for someone special
☐ Dress up (break out the bow ties and Carrie Bradshaw red lips)
☐ Order the After-Dinner Coffee Cocktail
☐ Toss three ugly ornaments (hey, you can use that extra storage space)
☐ Reminisce about past holiday blunders and successes
☐ Pamper yourself (you only get the excuse for spa treatments so often; guys – I am talking to you, too)
☐ Cook a colorful meal, like pizza with red sauce, spinach greens and fresh mozzarella (you could always order it in, too – wink)
☐ Listen to at least one Alvin and The Chipmunks holiday song
☐ Burn a batch of cookies (there is plenty more dough)
☐ Get at least 8 hours of sleep
☐ And don’t forget to shower (the dishes can wait)
☐ Do all things with a loving touch
☐ Give as much as you can to the local food pantry
☐ Discover wire ribbon. Trust us. (Family tip.)
☐ Call your grandparents, if you are fortunate enough to have them
☐ Arrive on time with a semi-full stomach and a hostess gift (you never know what the party food is going to be like)
☐ Kiss under the mistletoe. A lot. If you don’t have anyone to kiss, give yourself a hug. You deserve it.
☐ Pay the bills (you are still responsible for your rent, even though you’ve spent it all already)
☐ Find new places in your downtown community where you can celebrate and shop (I buy #MadeInUSA whenever possible)
☐ Visit with friends and family, whether nearby or by Skype
☐ Forgive someone, even if it’s just in your head
☐ Did I mention, watch Love Actually?
*Long story short, Kevin and I decided not to brave the Christmas tree bugs this year. We will never again take scented candles for granted.
**La Marca is one of our favorite, which is also completely affordable. (Note: Bottle is best when shared.)
What is your #1 Holiday Stay Sane Tip?