(BPT) – For most of us, the holidays are the busiest time of year. From finding the best deals to stuffing stockings, it’s easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle and forget the spirit of the season. Instead of enjoying valuable time with family and friends, the holidays are often defined by a never-ending to-do list.
This year, however, survive the chaos surrounding the season by following these tips and tricks.
Host a potluck
Instead of tackling the stress of cooking a big holiday meal all by yourself, dish out some of the responsibility to make it more enjoyable for everyone. Encourage guests to bring an entree, side or dessert they could not imagine their holidays without. Not only will everyone be satisfied, but it also will spark conversation on favorite holiday traditions. Even more, the sharing will take quite a bit of weight off your wallet.
Stay connected with family and friends near and far
It can be difficult to bring all loved ones together during the holidays, but one of the best tools for staying in touch during the holidays is right in your pocket – your smartphone. So this holiday season, Walmart Family Mobile is offering plans starting at $24.88/month for unlimited talk, text and 1GB of data at 4G LTE† speeds, then 2G*. Learn more at http://www.myfamilymobile.com.
Drink lots of water
We all know the feeling of having one too many cookies off the dessert tray. To prevent the uncomfortably full feeling of overeating, drink lots of water before, during and after your holiday meals and gatherings. An added bonus, sugary and alcoholic drinks are nearly always at hand this time of year, so alternating with glasses of water will keep meals healthier and you feeling better today and tomorrow!
Embrace the busy
To most, the holidays and chaos are synonymous. Instead of stressing over not being able to achieve it all, embrace the busyness. Time in the car traveling from one gathering to the next shouldn’t be seen as time lost, but rather a great time to bond with family and friends. Similarly, view tasks such as shopping and cooking as yet another opportunity to spend valuable quality time with those you love. Sometimes the best memories are made when running from one thing to the next; cherish all the time you spend together – even in the busiest moments – to make your holiday merrier.
Plan ahead
The best way to make the holidays more relaxing is to plan ahead – use this holiday season as a starting block. If you try a new recipe that friends and family loved, print it off and put it in the box of house decorations so you have it on hand for next year. Save packaging from this year’s presents and reduce, reuse, recycle in the years to come. And when you take your holiday lights down for the season, wrap them around a piece of cardboard to avoid a tangled mess next time. A little planning this season will make next year easier than ever!
At the end of the day, the holidays are about focusing on what matters most – spending valuable time with loved ones. The holidays will still be merry and bright, even if a few items are still left on the never-ending to-do list!
† To get 4G LTE speed, you must have a 4G LTE capable device and 4G LTE SIM. Actual availability, coverage and speed may vary. LTE is a trademark of ETSI.
* At 2G speeds, the functionality of some data applications, such as streaming audio or video, may be affected. Please refer always to the latest Terms and Conditions of Service www.myfamilymobile.com.
