Back to Basics Monday: Christmas

Yes, it's clique to say that I can't believe that Christmas is this weekend.  But, you know what?  It's true!  I've been busy at work, busy recovering from a nasty bout of the winter yuck, busy being a mom, you name it.  Christmas snuck up on my like a holiday ninja.

I thought it might be most helpful to share some ideas for how to ramp up and get ready for this weekend, if you're not quite ready yet.

1.  Last minute gifts?  Do not fear the gift card.

My family has a deeply-rooted desire to make every gift fun, unique, and meaningful.  And don't get me wrong, I love this about them.  And I love the gifts I receive from them.  But, I will say this:  If you are in need of a gift, it's okay to give a gift card.  Do you know why?  Because everyone likes them.  You are giving them free money to spend at their favorite store, restaurant, or place.  

And if you feel the need for creative delivery, how about something like this:

2.  Last minute holiday party?  Two words:  Pecan pie.

Image courtesy of Paula Deen.

Two more words:  Paula Deen.  Here's the recipe:

Servings:  6 to 8 servings

Prep Time: 10 min

Cook Time: 45 min

Ingredients:

1 teaspoon vanilla 

1/4 teaspoon salt 

1/3 cup sugar 

1   8-ounce package cream cheese 

1   egg 

1   deep dish pie shell 

1 1/4 cups chopped pecans

Topping:

3 eggs

1/4 cup sugar

1 cup light corn syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla

Directions:

Blend together first five items and pour in bottom of unbaked pie shell, top with chopped pecans.

Topping:

Mix all ingredients and pour on top of pecans.  Bake in 350 degree oven for 45 minutes.

3.  Last minute decor?  Be minimal.

Martha Stewart and I both love a pine-cone.  Look how simple and winter and chic this is:

She and I also love a swath of greenery.  Yes, I said "swath."

I also tend to just put things in bowls to see how that looks.  In the case of extra ornaments, the result is pretty good!

Image courtesy of Good Housekeeping.

4.  Last minute fashion crisis?  Dress up.

As perfectly expressed by Rose a la Mode...

Awesomeness courtesy of Rose a la Mode.

No matter what you're doing this week, remember to try and slow down and enjoy the season.  It's not called the most wonderful time of the year for nothing, after all.

No Scrooges here, last minute or not,