Entry tags:
I'm still alive....
Disclaimer: I haven't had the time to be present online for the last several weeks so I will be posting all my scribbles from my scratchbook over the nex few days...
No, I haven't died (although I think others thought I was close). I've just been very busy. Two and a half superbugs, manic shopping, insane work demands and one family holiday party later, I have survived. I am happy to say that I am almost completely done with Christmas shopping. I only have to aquire 2 presents once I land in H. Assuming I can get on the plane (long story, lots of rant and for another post), but I'm 95% sure I will. A few observations for the holiday seasons - so far:
On shopping/presents:
No, I haven't died (although I think others thought I was close). I've just been very busy. Two and a half superbugs, manic shopping, insane work demands and one family holiday party later, I have survived. I am happy to say that I am almost completely done with Christmas shopping. I only have to aquire 2 presents once I land in H. Assuming I can get on the plane (long story, lots of rant and for another post), but I'm 95% sure I will. A few observations for the holiday seasons - so far:
On shopping/presents:
- It is infinitely easier to get gifts for someone who has a casual hobby. Casual being defined as not wanting/needing/analyzing the best products for the hobby. People who are "totally into" a hobby are impossible to buy for. "Rock Band" or gardening are good examples of casual hobbies.
- If you are making/baking things for multiple holiday events, pick one or two things that is your specialty and only make those. This makes things easier because it reduces ingredient waste, keeps the recipe in your head and lets you get into a groove. This year it was cheesecake. I did the equivilant of 5 cheesecakes this season ( 2 cakes worth in cupcake form).
- If a gift doesn't work out for this year, keep it in mind for the next one. This way you have a back-up plan if you can't think of anything and you will have more time to coordinate group-gifts.
- All gift certificate presents should come with a Wrapper-gift. Just something small ~$5 so the recipeints have something tactile on Christmas Day. It makes a difference.
- Have No-Cook foods in the house. You may very well be too busy/tired to cook dinner.
- Compromise nothing in Holiday recipes. Low fat/low carb can be done the rest of the year.
- Well wrapped foods are a great "for everyone" gifts.
- An electric blanket really helps when you are sick and freezing. You also know you are getting better when the lower settings feel "too warm".
- Take naps when you can. They are your best defenses against getting sick.
- Unless you're down and out ill, exercise everyday (at least 20 min) to keep your immune system going, keep yourself alert and make up for the food tips.
- Buy at least 2 hats - one you can wear comfortably at home and one that can be worn for work. they keep you warm when three layers of sweaters can't.