For some families there is constant competition from one year to the next to top the efforts of the host/hostess for the last season’s holiday festivities and cooking. If you are looking for a great way to do just that when it is your turn to do the holiday cooking for the family, how about breaking with tradition and creating your own theme for the holiday? I know it may seem a little rebellious and some may not like it but others may find it ingenious.
You can make your holiday cooking fit any theme or situation you like. You can create the perfect picnic complete with a checked tablecloth, seating on the ground, and baskets filled with healthier goodies for everyone to dig in when ready. The idea is to do something a little bit different from what others have done in the past and give them ideas to build upon for the next holiday cooking theme. If you decide to go with the picnic theme be sure to bring wine, cheese, and plenty of finger foods that travel well. If the weather permits (and it may depending on where in the country you live) you can actually make a picnic event of your turn doing the holiday cooking.
You can set your food up and display your cooking efforts like an all you can eat buffet if that’s what you like. The point is to make the theme something that is new and a little bit different but also that isn’t really related to the holiday but allows the family to enjoy the benefits of the holiday, which includes the pleasure of each other’s company.
If you really want something new, go with an ethnic theme for your holiday cooking. This leaves a lot of room to explore and those who have the duties of cooking for the holidays next year will have a hard act to follow if you choose a theme that you really enjoy eating, cooking, and decorated well to suit the theme. Let your imagination, personal tastes, and knowledge of your family be your guide as you decide what theme to incorporate and how far you want to take it. You can even have a lot of fun by issuing a challenge from the very beginning.
The downside is that skipping tradition is always a risk. If you are worried that your family might not like it, ask first, and then decide if this may or may not be the right move for your family situation. It is best to make sure that everyone who attends will enjoy your gathering to the fullest.
If you would like some help navigating this or for your other weight management and nutrition needs, email me at barb@twinlifecoaching.ca.
Barb Schutz
