Stress and Striving




Every year I find myself in the same position when it comes to hosting - stressed. panicked, and overwhelmed by my long to-do list. Most of the stress stems from my desire for everything to be perfect.  Hosting has become more about a performance lately than welcoming people into our home. When did it become about the hosts instead of the guests? 

This year I want to shift that mentality in my life - maybe you're wanting to do the same. Welcome to the club.

Even though my focus is on stressing less and moving away from perfectionism, there are still things that need to be done before we host people in our homes. To help me stay organized, I created a short guide for navigating hosting that seems to be helping!

The first thing I do when I'm getting ready to host is read these words: 


“Entertaining isn't a sport or a competition. It's an act of love, if you let it be. You can twist it and turn it into anything you want—a way to show off your house, a way to compete with your friends, a way to earn love and approval. Or you can decide that every time you open your door, it's an act of love, not performance or competition or striving" ***

This reminder has helped set the tone for me and my family as we approach gatherings in our home. 

 


Another part of the guide involves  loosely planning meals and prepping whatever I can. Prepping might look like chopping ingredients, making up casseroles, desserts, and whatever else I need ahead of time and freezing them. We all have busy schedules and it might seem impossible to plan and make meals ahead, but you can do it. Just make a double batch of cookies, or double up your casserole recipe - freeze one and serve one for dinner. Gradually you'll fill up your freezer with meals and treats you can serve when your guests arrive. 

Also, invest in some festive serving dishes (they make everything look better!)

 
C H A R C U T E R I E ! ! ! 

If you're like me, you might be sick of hearing about Charcuterie boards - it definitely the big thing right now, but there is a reason why they are so popular! 

They're convenient, simple, tasty, versatile, and generally liked by most people. When I know I will be hosting a large group of people, I stock up on cheeses, crackers, meats, dips, fruit, and candy (mainly chocolate), and arrange them on my wooden board for appetizers. It doesn't take very long and it looks great. 

You can use any type of board - square, round, with writing or without writing, and whatever size you want. We have several board options in our shop and online!
Square Serving Board with Leather Handle
Square Serving Board with Leather Handle
$22.99
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Round Wood Tray
Round Wood Tray
$39.99
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Round Black and Wood Board
Round Black and Wood Board
$59.99
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The last thing on my guide is to say a prayer or set an intention. I want my guests to feel my warmth and love, not my stress and striving. So say a prayer, do a mindfulness exercise, listen to a song that calms you and just breathe. Do whatever you need in order to ground yourself and welcome peace into the picture, even if you only have 5 minutes. 
Merry Christmas friends! We're in this together. 

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