It is way faster and easier when you have a plan.

A recipe is a good place to start. Having all of the ingredients on hand is even better. Making the time to pull it all together ahead of the normal dinner time is the best.

This applies to so many things in life, personal events and especially holidays.

Reservations for Mother’s Day (just past), the birthdays and Father’s Day (still a month ahead – hint, act now).

Gifts for above mentioned and upcoming birthdays should be ordered or purchased – and wrapped – ahead of time. Give them early in the day, let them know you were ready and it isn’t last minute!!

Beyond the process or the steps you take to have a plan, share it with others well in advance. Get their feedback and input. Most of all obtain their buy-in. You might get a willing yes, but if not, at least agreement and acknowledgement (even with a minimal amount of grumbling) is critical to a stress-free celebration.

~ Dawn aka Hat Girl