Thursday, January 8, 2009

The Holidays: Less Really is More

by Kelley Herring

Holiday dinnerSo often, we lose the meaning of the holiday season in the hustle and bustle of “doing”. There are meals to prepare, shopping to be done, gifts to wrap, and cards to mail. All of which can sap your energy, leaving you weary and flustered when guests finally arrive.

But through the years, I have learned two very important lessons that help to keep me relaxed and put my guests at ease:

#1 Plan ahead and #2 Keep it simple.

A great way to save time (and money too) is to plan ahead and shop online. In fact, there’s no better way to hit 25 stores in 25 minutes to find that perfect cashmere sweater at the best price. They’ll wrap it and ship it with just a few clicks of a mouse, usually for a lot less than you’d find at a department store.

What’s more, you didn’t waste time or gasoline milling about, possibly at the last minute to find that special gift. Make your list, turn on your favorite holiday tunes and shop in the comfort of your own home. It doesn’t get much more stress-free than that!

We all look forward to the festive holiday dinner, but they too take a toll on us. Holiday fare needn’t be elaborate or expensive to ensure happy guests. In fact, wholesome food, simply prepared is a perfect example of less equaling more.

Think slow roasted organic pork with fresh herbs, spice-rubbed winter squash, mixed greens with seasonal fruit. Simple flavors, quick preparation, and fast cleanup. Your guests will be delighted and you’ll have energy to spare!

The holidays are a perfect time to reflect on our blessings, express our gratitude and connect with our loved ones. And with a little careful planning, you’ll be able to focus on just that!

[Ed Note: Who says dessert can't be healthy? Nutrition expert Kelley Herring's brand-new recipe e-book, Guilt-Free Desserts, reveals 40 easy-to-make, mouthwateringly delicious, 100% healthy dessert recipes you can make at home. Order today, and you'll receive the e-book Healthy Holiday Hors d'Oeuvres for free

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