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Getting back to basics
As a young boy I remember about 25%...
Holiday Survival Tips
You've burnt the holiday feast.
If you accidentally prepared the whole turkey extra-extra-well-done, your best bet would be turning it into turkey salad with mixed greens.
And for a cranberry sauce gone wrong? Puree it, drain it and use it as syrup drizzled over turkey.
Time Is the Best Gift
This year, put quality time at the top of your to-do list -- quality time with your family, friends, neighbors, and special co-workers. Taking time to show someone how important he or she is to you can mean so much more than any gift.
Consider organizing a casual potluck for your friends and neighbors -- each can bring their favorite Holiday dish, and perhaps you can spread the spirit by caroling after the meal.
Keep It Simple
The No. 1 reason for out-of-control Holiday stress comes from trying to overdo it. If you're planning your own shindig, or sorting out gifts for your extended family, don't feel obligated to make it to every single party, or buy for the whole office.
Gift-Giving Strategies
We all want to give the very best to our loved ones, but don't shop as if the entire GNP of the nation rests on your credit card purchases. Nothing could be more stressful than a flurry of bills that hits just as you're recovering from the festivities.
Instead, think carefully about your gift-giving list, and prioritize. If you've got a group of close friends or extended family on your list, see if they'll participate in a blind gift exchange, like Secret Santa.
Or consolidate your resources: Team up with siblings on your parents' gift, or cousins for your grandparents' gift. Set a spending limit for each person on your list, and stop when you've reached it. Your gift is only a symbol of your love; what really counts is the time you spend and the words you say.
Shop Early or Online
Make a list, check it twice, and then get to it. You'll probably save money if you shop in person, but if you can't get there early enough to steer clear of crowds, the Internet can be your best friend. Sit back and sip your eggnog as the gifts are delivered to your door. Most of your favorite department stores and retailers like Target, Sears, and Wal-Mart all have easy-to-use Web sites. So does Farmers’ Almanac TV.
Use one credit card for all holiday purchases
Ever notice how lenders are sticklers when it comes to tracking your spending? Let them keep your books this year. (This recommendation is only for those who pay off their balances in full each month.) Next year, you can look back at your purchases and avoid purchasing any duplicate gifts.
- Plan in advance. Buy staples, paper goods and liquor well ahead of the event. The week leading up to the get-together, polish silverware and serving pieces, wash crystal and china, and launder and iron table linens. The day before, set the table and get flowers or greenery for decoration. Give the house a final swift cleaning.
- Keep it simple. If guests are visiting over a period of days, don't turn every meal into a major extravaganza.
- Accept offers of help. If someone volunteers to bring a dish, entertain the kids for a few hours while you cook or help clean up, say yes! And don't be shy about asking for assistance. When everyone pitches in, it's everyone's party. Share the duties and share the fun.
- Don’t let your trash “advertise” the great presents you got. Boxes from computers, TVs and video game systems let a thief know what valuables you have in your home. Collapsing and folding boxes will help conceal what new gadgets you have received.
- If you will be away for the holidays, protect your home by placing your lights on timers and having the Post Office hold your mail.
- Do not burn wrapping paper in the fireplace. A flash fire could result since it ignites quickly and burns intensely.
Compiled by Farmers’ Almanac TV staff
