Getting Prepared for the Holidays

As I was going for my coffee fix at my favorite Peet's Coffee & Tea, I just happened to coincide with there "tasting series" where I was invited to taste all of their holiday blends - tea, coffee, holiday muffins, and more. With all of the business of my career change, trying to get back in the training groove and all around just enjoying life - I completely had forgotten that the holidays were more than just around the corner, we're in full force! 

The holidays are a time to enjoy family, enjoy good laughs and memories, but for most people a time to eat freely, leave their scheduled lives behind and all around just "enjoy".  The end of the year for most climates also brings colder weather, generally making people less likely to go outside and make it hard to get out of bed in the mornings chilly air.  But does that mean that the only way we can truely "enjoy the holidays" is to forget all the hard work we've done the rest of the year, and give in to all temptations and neglect our routine that we've worked so hard to achieve?

Of course not.  Yes, it will take some extra willpower to get through all of those long and carb fueled comfort meals - but why reverse all of your hard work throughout rest of the years for the last month and a half of the year?  All it takes is a little planning! 

Plan for these holiday get togethers to be centered around food and drinks.  It's okay to enjoy some of the festivities, but everything comes with moderation and the ability to make smarter choices.  Be the one to add something new to the holiday menu!  Why not bring a new dish, something you and everyone else can enjoy. 

Do a slight twist to your holiday favorites and create no sugar added fruit tarts instead of a large pie - one tart satisfies just fine.  Instead of the traditional green bean casserole dish that Aunt Sue always likes to bring, offer to bring a new twist on the holiday favorite: Green beans, brussel sprouts, shreaded carrots, and sweet sauted yellow onions tossed in light EVOO and topped with some panko breadcrumbs for a little familiar crunch!

Not a big cook in the kitchen?  Many health food stores and restaurants are now offering pre-cooked meals that you can bring with you to the party - check your local Whole Foods Market or Native Foods Restaurant which have already started to display there takeaway items that meet your nutritional needs and the star of the party!