Holiday Season Begins

I was in the stores killing some time after class yesterday and the Christmas music was already billowing out of store speakers everywhere. It really annoyed me, especially since Halloween wasn't over for another 10 hours (at that point). I know Christmas is a big holiday, but what about Thanksgiving?

I'm trying to focus my energy on 1 holiday at a time. I sat down this morning and designed the e-vites for the family to come to Thanksgiving dinner. I have to admit, that I really love that it has become "my holiday". It's nice to have the house stuffed with people. Ok, so my mom still cooks the turkey. I'm not giving that a 3rd try! If it were up to me, I'd go to Boston Market to by a pre-cooked bird. Somehow that ruins that holiday (according to mom and Sean). Anyway, while mom slaves over the bird, I take to making all the filling appetizers, tasty side dishes and the devilishly delicious desserts. Yes, Thanksgiving is an event that I savor.

It doesn't have to be a beating to your budget either. Since I know that I will be hosting it, each weekly trip to the grocery store I will add 1 or 2 items to the cart that will be used for Thanksgiving dinner. Adding a few items each week is less of a blow to the wallet. Sure, the stores run some good sales on food, but most of the good stuff is gone the first day of the sale and you miss that price anyway. I would much rather make sure I have the item, instead of running around like a crazy person to save 25 cents. (I also take this approach to Christmas shopping). Another tip is to take a look in your pantry now. You never know, you might have more hidden in ther ethan you think. Or you might have something that will help you create a delicious, but unique addition to the meal. Remember, a "tradional dinner" is whatever tradtion you make.

I'm not telling you what to do, really I'm not. I'm just trying to offer little tips to help us all get through the next 8 weeks.