The days between Christmas and New Year’s hold a special kind of charm—work days seem lighter and the frantic holiday pace slows down. Embrace the magic between Christmas and New Year’s. It’s during this time that our team likes to set aside time to reflect, recharge, and revel in the holiday spirit. Instead of succumbing to post-holiday blues, we suggest keeping the celebrations going with a mix of relaxing and fun activities. Start by scheduling casual local outings—think a morning walk in your favorite park or an afternoon enjoying hot chocolate and a book (see what we’re reading in our story) or a holiday puzzle at home. Invite friends over for a nail night or spa evening with soothing masks and festive tunes. If you need downtime, embrace “post-Christmas couch rotting” with cozy blankets, a good book, or a holiday movie marathon. Pair it with comfort food like simple sandwiches or easy pre-prepped appetizers pulled from the freezer. As New Year’s Eve approaches, consider fun and flexible plans. Whether it’s hitting the slopes, enjoying a movie date, or hosting an intimate gathering, the key is to keep it simple. For New Year’s Day, our laid-back Bloody Mary Brunch is always a crowd-pleaser. We show you how to create a DIY bagel bar with bagels from a local shop, lox, cream cheese, and a few toppings. Then, pair it with a fruit salad and a few juices for a no-fuss spread. This is also the perfect time to reflect on the highlights of 2024 and set intentions for the year ahead. Lay out a large sheet of craft paper and encourage everyone to jot down their resolutions—writing down goals or resolutions is a fantastic way to usher in 2025. These little moments of joy and connection keep the holiday magic alive while setting the tone for an exciting and fulfilling new year. So, savor this time, celebrate your way, and let the spirit of the season linger just a little longer. Happy New Year!
Holiday Festivities, Food and Fun…
As the final days before Christmas draw near, it’s time to slow down and enjoy the last few days of the season. After all the planning, decorating, and shopping, now is your chance to relax and savor the fruits of your efforts. There will always be more festivities, food and fun to be had, but these are the days we wish we could put in slow motion. This is the magic of the holidays—a time to connect with loved ones and make cherished memories. Simple Joys at HomeSpend a quiet evening with family, sitting in front of the twinkling Christmas tree, checking in with one another, and sharing stories. Pair it with a cup of tea or hot cocoa while working on a holiday-themed jigsaw puzzle for a cozy, laid-back activity. Festive GatheringsFor something a bit livelier, host a casual Christmas get-together. A hot cocoa bar with homemade marshmallows and all the toppings paired with a spread of festive cookies is sure to delight guests. Make it easy and prep the hot cocoa ahead of time and keep it warm in a crock pot. This allows guests to serve themselves. Add an interactive touch with a bowl of oranges and cloves for guests to create their own scented decorations—perfect for spreading holiday cheer. Special Meals and TraditionsCooking a traditional holiday meal together can be an entertaining bonding activity. From baking to setting the table, everyone can play a role. And don’t forget to plan Christmas Eve activities—perhaps a candlelit walk, a game night, or reading classic holiday stories. Relax and Savor the SeasonWith all the hustle and bustle behind you, take time to simply enjoy. Whether it’s hosting a holiday open house, sipping cider with friends, or admiring the decorations you’ve lovingly prepared, this is the season’s true essence—celebrating togetherness, love, and gratitude. So, light those candles, dim the lights, turn on the holiday music, and embrace these final festive moments. May the last few days of the season be wonderful – filled with relaxing festivities, food, fun, and the warmth of shared traditions!
