How To Manage Your Stress During the Holidays
With years of experience in the grocery business, we at Sparkle Markets are not strangers to the chaos surrounding holidays. And while this year may not be filled with parties and visiting in-laws, it will most definitely still have some stress. Here are a few tips for managing it.
Step 1: Be Prepared
The holidays will be here before you know it, so don’t wait until the last minute to prepare! Start to think about all of the ingredients you’ll need for meals, desserts and drinks, even if it’s just for your immediate family. If you get things ready before the chaos kicks in, you can avoid last-minute grocery runs and potential shortages at the store. See what’s on sale ahead of time.
Step 2: Surround Yourself with Comforts
In any stressful situation, you must be armed with the essentials! And we at Sparkle are here to provide you with all of the essential recipes and grocery items you need to create some of your favorite, comforting dishes.
Apps + Snacks
Not in the mood to cook an entire ham? Try our recipe for Bacon Cheese Bread Bowl Dip, this recipe is simple, yet delicious. Or try this recipe for Pine Cone Cheese Ball! Made with plenty of tangy cheese and seasonings, this cheese ball makes a beautiful appetizer, topped with almonds to look just like a pine cone. Our recipe for Spinach & Roasted Red Pepper Dip makes for another delicious snack, served with crisp tortilla chips.
Main Course
This year, don’t fret over a complicated main course. Instead, try our recipe for Beef Tenderloin with a red wine sauce. Seasoned and cooked to perfection, this recipe can easily be doubled for plenty of leftovers. This recipe for Glazed Ham with an apricot mustard is another great option. Select whichever sized ham works best for you and your family and add this sweet glaze, for a delicious sweet and salty dish.
Dessert
Limit the amount of dishes you have to wash and choose to make some of these grab n’ go dessert recipes! Try our recipe for Candy Cane Cookies. With white chocolate chips and crushed candy cane, these cookies are a delicious holiday treat. For another dessert idea, try this recipe for Christmas Tree Brownies, cut into triangles and frosted green to make the perfect little trees. Gift tip: Prep a large batch of holiday desserts, bag them and drop off at friends’ doorsteps as a fun, no-contact holiday surprise.
Step 3: Connect with Loved Ones
Even if you can’t be with all of your friends and family in-person this holiday season, make an effort to connect with your loved ones in some way. Drop off baked goods, write and mail meaningful holiday cards, send a thoughtful text or give your relatives a call. Make sure you and your loved ones aren’t left feeling lonely this year.
Step 4: Pay it Forward
Did you know research shows that the act of giving actually lowers your blood pressure and increases your self esteem? When shopping at your local Sparkle, look for the Feed Our Valley donation boxes and consider donating non-perishable grocery items. Or, offer to shop for a neighbor or family member that is high-risk. You’ll be surprised at how much volunteering and giving for others can have a positive effect on your own personal stress!
As you prepare for this different season, stop by your local Sparkle Market for all of the quality ingredients you and your family need for a happy holiday.
