Posts Tagged ‘traditions’

Over the weekend, Billy and I went to the annual “Meise Family Christmas.” Yup! It was January 30. A little late for a tree, Santa, stockings, all that — but that’s what makes it awesome. I love family traditions, and I love that I’m marrying into a family as crazy, fun and big as mine!

So this is what the Meise family looks like … Billy’s dad is one of nine, so Billy has 25+ first cousins. Add in significant others and kids, it’s kinda overwhelming. I don’t feel bad though, because my dad is one of eight and I have no idea how many first cousins I have. I think it’s harder for Billy around my family sometimes since everyone’s speaking another language, and there’s a lot of funky food. Sometimes he has no idea what he’s eating.

Anyway, I really love that we come from big families. And, I love that Billy values family as much as I do. It’s things like this that makes me love him more and more.

It’s the perfect time to do something different …

1. Start a family tradition. We all have favorite childhood memories. Fun stuff like pizza on Fridays, bagels and donuts on Saturdays, ice cream after each winning soccer game … and even $5 for every “A” on the report card. This year, start some new, creative traditions. Remember, they don’t always have to include “junk” food and sweets treats. For example, call grandparents or family members on speaker phone once a week. Or, hang a dry erase board in the kitchen and write special family accomplishments.

2. Challenge yourself. Do you have a bucket list? You know, things you want to accomplish in this lifetime? If you haven’t done so already, write it down and make it happen. There are a lot of interesting things to try — like a yoga or pottery. Check your town’s recreational department for upcoming classes.

3. Set a new goal each month. This year, pick 12 things and stick to them. Your goals may include cleaning the garage; trying new recipes; using coupons whenever shopping or saving extra money for a family vacation. Whatever your goal, write it down, and stick to it. It may be helpful to do some online research to help you get organized or get started.

4. Organize your pictures. Whether you have a stack of printed pictures — or a ton saved to your computer — get organized! With online resources like Snapfish, you can create flipbooks with captions or print out pictures. Prices vary, but are affordable.

5. Make health and fitness a regular thing. Most people are great at making New Year’s resolutions, but have a hard time sticking to them. If you’ve always wanted to get back into shape, do it! One of the biggest things to remember is that results won’t come quickly — and it’s going to be hard work. Start off with small, manageable goals. For example, workout every Monday to get your week and routine off to a good start. Then, add more challenging activities and additional goals. It may help to work out with a partner.

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Don’t skip meals — and eat sensibly. Don’t “save calories” to prep for a disastrous meal. You might just end up gorging on crappy foods because you’re starving.

Eat high-fiber foods before the party. Fiber helps you to feel full. Try low-calorie vegetables, salad fruit or oatmeal.

Eat small amounts of the foods you love. Don’t deprive yourself. Eat a little bit of what you love and choose wisely. Pick one thing you really want to enjoy — then fill up on good stuff like fruits and veggies.

Don’t hang around the buffet. Out of sight, out of mind. Get your food and back away.

Pace yourself. You know your body doesn’t always feel full right away. Slow down. Really chew your food. Set your fork down between bites and take sips of water.

Photo by beyond20khz.

There are no captions necessary. Please leave a comment and add your own. Muah! xoxo!

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