“It’s the most wonderful time…. of the YEAR!”

Hope you sang that, just like I did.

For many, this holiday season is NOT the most wonderful time of the year. Many of us have this nostalgia attached to the holidays, and we want everything to be perfect and spoil everyone around us, even if we do not have the means to do that. From busy schedules, to empty pockets it can take a toll.

In the past, I too, have struggled toward the end of the year into the new year. Thinking about all the ‘What if’s‘, and What could be’s‘.

This year has been a busy one for me,  from getting engaged to attending other people’s weddings, baby showers and birthdays. I have loved it all. 

The next few weeks are even busier and I know they will fly by, and I truly want to be present in the moment so I am taking some time to sort out my head, and schedule, so I can come back better and stronger for you.

I will be spending most of time in the kitchen baking some tasty treats, and sampling them of course.

I hope you take some time for yourself this holiday season, and enjoy the little things (like the cookies! 🍪 ).

I did not want to leave you empty handed, so here are some quick tips to keep you from getting your tinsel in a knot this season!

Keep the Food Costs Down

It is common to have a budget, or at least a rough idea of how much we are willing to spend on presents, but when it comes to food, that goes out the window.

Usually we end up overspending. One thing leads to another.

We picked up the cute napkins and decor last week at the craft store.

Now the turkey is thawing in the bathtub.

We run into the store to grab some drinks – a variety, oh, and some for the kids. We also want to provide a delicious assortment of sides and desserts, from cookies, to pie and the ice cream on the side. On the way to the checkout we see the chips, figure we can snack on that while we wait for the turkey to cook, and before we know it, we’ve blown past our weekly grocery budget.

Here is how to help with overwhelm when it comes to food:

• Include food costs into your budget
• Plan what food will be served and make a list
• Keep your sides simple or only pick one or two
• Assign each guest with a dish to bring (can also be tableware, rolls or the whip cream you forgot to pick up)
• Shop ahead of the rush
• Stock up on sale prices for baking essentials and frozen veggies
• Repurpose leftovers, or freeze them for easy meals
• Sit down and enjoy your friends and family

What are you doing to take time for yourself this season?

What do you do to keep your holiday spending in check?

With Love,

Connie xoxoxo