Pillow talk ~ Hostess Tips for Stress Free Holiday Shopping

Do you remember the film Pillow Talk?
The vintage rom com starring Doris Day and Rock Hudson.

Mother and I spent many happy hours watching films with Doris Day and Rock Hudson when I lived at home.
Father wasn't a big fan of this genre, he preferred James Bond or espionage films.

Mother and I went for a drive this past weekend and did some shopping at Mattick's Farm.
Homebody has sumptuous imported linens and Danish porcelain pieces. It's my new favourite spot to shop for gifts and home decor items.

I managed to find a pillow for our new love seats.
My back aches if I do not support it with a cushion,
it's because I am short and my feet cannot touch the ground without the extra padding!

Belgian Linen 

in an off white shade

the cover is removable for laundering

Chester is giving it the sniff test.

checking the construction

I think he approves.

Over a cup of freshly brewed tea I made out my annual Christmas Do List.

Things to make and bake and take.

Scottish Shortbread

Rum Balls

Bark

List of hostess gifts and ideas...

candles

soaps

linen tea towels and napkins

jams and jellies

fancy vinegars

olive oils

teas

List of people that we buy gifts for, mostly family and friends

 ideas jotted down beside their names.

Things I need to do...

buy, write and mail the Christmas cards

order the turkey

buy the Christmas crackers

get the tree

buy a wreath for the front door

buy some poinsettias

plan the menu for Xmas dinner

Decide on the table cloth and napkins for the turkey feast.

If a new colour is in order buy the cloth and napkins ahead so there is no last minute panic shopping.

 I try to shop ahead close to home 

in smaller shops nearby 

to avoid stress of parking lots and crowded stores.

Walking to the shops is a bonus and I'll frequently indulge in a seasonal treat ~

an egg nog latte from Starbucks.

When I bake, write cards, or do the wrapping I put on my favourite Christmas CD's.

I'll light an aromatic candle and sip a cup of tea or perhaps a wee sherry.

It's so much more pleasant and helps me get into the spirit of the festive season.

I'll keep my shopping list in my purse and make notes as I shop

that way I can keep track of who I have bought for and therefore do not over buy.

I could use my IPhone too but old habits die hard!

Make and plan ahead some meals for nights when energy is waning.

Aim to get to bed earlier to avoid falling ill.

Hydrate with plenty of water

and 

breath deeply and mindfully.

Try to give yourself ample time to accomplish your tasks

rushing just makes one frantic and nerves can get frazzled so quickly.

Be kind to others and don't let the rudeness of others get you down.

Try to schedule in some pampering at the Spa 

or set some time aside 

a few hours at home for a restorative facial 

and a relaxing soak in the tub.

I savour and enjoy getting ready for the holidays

making it easy and enjoyable is how I manage to make the most of the pre-season busy~ness.

Oh!

 I almost forgot

Remember to smile!

Best wishes

Hostess

XO