With Green Monday behind us, it will soon be time to tuck presents carefully under the newly-trimmed tree. Guest rooms are being freshened up and holiday cards have been sent, all in an effort to make the season bright for friends and family. As you make your list and check it twice, here are a few simple ideas for celebrating Christmas with loved ones.
Christmas Breakfast
I love prepping a hash brown casserole early in the day on Christmas Eve. All I have to do on Christmas morning is pop it in the oven before we sit down to open presents. An easy buffet comes together effortlessly with some fresh squeezed orange juice, a fruit salad and a platter full of bacon. If morning brunch is more your family’s speed, serve a few mimosas (for the adults) with the help of André Champagne. They’ve posted several brunch pairings on their website to assist in your menu planning.
Personalized Gift Bags
To keep gifts organized and in one place, consider a monogrammed tote for each family member. As presents are opened, simply place the tissue paper in one pile and the gifts back into the customized hampers or containers. Afterward, everything is ready to be taken home or put away!
I enjoy wrapping each family member’s gifts with their own special ribbon. Green for my daughter, plaid for my son, red for my husband and so on…it makes hunting for gift tags obsolete and no one knows their special color until Christmas morning.
A Relaxing Afternoon
Set out plenty of warm blankets, salty snacks and a variety of classic movie options. Enjoy the afternoon by watching family favorites. If your loved ones can’t get enough pumpkin in their seasonal sipping, try this white chocolate pumpkin hot chocolate recipe from Celebrate Magazine.
The Great Outdoors
A brisk walk in scenic surroundings will burn off those Christmas cookie calories and provide a natural mood boost. Travel to a nearby park or nature reserve and snap some candid photos to include in your holiday photo book or album.
Game Night
After leftovers, gather around the table to play a board game. If you’re looking for a new challenge, try closing your eyes during Pictionary when sketching for your teammates. Select something that will be fun for all ages or break into smaller groups and swap teams every so often.
The idea is to enjoy the day with people who hold a place in your heart.
For more holiday inspiration, visit 6 Tips to a Merry and Bright Holiday Season via the Huffington Post.
Happy holidays,
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