When it comes to public art contests, Fort Wayne has had giant decorated sneakers and smaller-than-life-size decorated mastodons.“Now it’s time for wheelbarrows,” says Hollie Chaille.The secret to keeping all of the warm sentiments of the holidays alive and well, without capitulating to crass commercialism, is to simplify. Take a few moments to consider ways you can streamline your to-dos, to-buys and to-makes.
•Go potluck. If you are hosting a big gathering, consider making the event a potluck.
•Make a “day of” cooking plan in advance. At least one week before the event, sit down and map out the cooking schedule hour-by-hour, and even minute-by-minute.
•Set the table a week ahead.
•Don’t enter a grocery store without a list.
•Assign family members to ongoing cleanup duty. Keep a rotating team of dishwashers in the kitchen who can wash pots, pans and other cooking utensils as you go along.
•Use packing lists to help you travel light.
•Send an e-card. If sending out physical cards is stressful and unpleasant for you, consider making the switch to e-holiday cards.
•Limit commitments and set aside time each week to decompress.
