Planning for the Holidays

November marks the beginning of the holiday season, which I love! To avoid stress during the holidays I take time to carefully plan the next 8 weeks with themed lists. I find that planning ahead helps tremendously.

Here is a peek at my schedule:

Thanksgiving List:
1. guest list
2. menu
3. food list
a. order specialty items from farmers
3. wine list
4. table scape
a. check linens, glasses, plates, platters, silver etc.
5. musical entertainment
6. server/bartender

Work-out schedule:
The holidays make it easy to pack on the lbs if you’re not careful.
I schedule training sessions 3x per week
I enlist 2 – 3 friends to do cardio with me daily. We make a pack…no canceling!

Weekly meal planning:
Every Sunday I prepare several meals for the week in advance. I know the days I’m going to a party, work function etc., and plan accordingly eating lighter on those days.

I prepare:
2 broth-based soups
6 salads
6 containers of cut-up veggies
4 – 6 pieces of baked/broiled chicken or fish
1 tray baked veggie lasagna or chicken casserole

Holiday Gift List:
I have a loving husband, 2 sons, 2 sisters, and 3 nephews. And I send food gifts to aunts, my mother-in-law, and other acquaintances.

Holiday Card List:
Several years ago I created a spreadsheet with names & addresses.

It’s also very important to take care of yourself. Schedule me time” appointments over the next 8 weeks. Depending on your budget try and schedule;

Weekly manicure
Massage 1 – 3 times
Facial 1 – 3 times
Pedicure 1 – 2 times

Go through your closets and check all your holiday wardrobe, shoes, stockings etc. Make sure garments are clean and wrinkle-free.

Avoid stress and start putting your seasonal plans together early!

Happy Holidays!