Special Replay: Last Minute Easter Prep

Special Replay:  Last Minute Easter Prep - Episode 341 Last minute Easter Prep made easy! If you are hosting an Easter celebration or joining one here are some things to remember to make your time memorable and fun. And, the best part it can be hassle-free and will save money and time. Easter is a time when we rejoice and celebrate and commemorate the Lord’s death and Resurrection. Eggs symbolize new birth and for us, as Christian’s, it is a time of renewal of our faith and rebirth in a sense as well. SO, how do we translate our faith into a celebration that the children will understand and remember for more than just the candy? We have a celebration! I’ve hosted many of these and now my younger kids are grown up and sadly can’t join us as they are away in other states in college. While I’m sad for us, I’m happy they can spend it together. However, my “help” has dwindled down and that is why I am big on doing things way ahead. There are always last minute things to do. If you are a guest ask if you can arrive early to help. And be sure to volunteer to help clean up (without being asked!) Unless you know your host really does not want your help. My secret has been keeping it simple. And, in reusing things from past celebrations and adding on as money or time permitted for crafts. For example, I use cloth napkins that are over ten years old and napkin rings. I also use paper napkins and have those out for use with appetizers, etc.t Clothing: Fancy clothes are nice and special but we rarely wear them more than one time and they tend to be more expensive. * Sewing is an option for those talented. * Dress up a simpler dress with jewelry or a pretty sweater. * Order online and return what you don’t like. Saves time and money, often online sources are cheaper than shopping in the stores. * Go to second-hand stores – great bargains for those with patience! * Outlet or discount stores Decorations: * Create nice posters that commemorate the Lord’s resurrection – the March 2019 planner contains some you can print out that I’ve provided. * Have the children make a paper chain with strips of colored paper in pastels you can hand. * Use wildflowers and create a spring bouquet for the tables. * Colorful tablecloths and napkins Delegate: * Everyone has a job – be sure they know what it is. * Guests want to help – the ones that don’t you’ll either know or they may surprise you! * Have a floater *typically spouse who can go where needed – on call. Food – Keep it simple: * Casserole or roast - prepare ahead or in a slow cooker (or instant pot!) * Ready-made sides  - or prepare and freeze * Allow others to bring something * Cake or cheesecake, brownies Cleaning: * Start way ahead * Assign jobs – take out the trash, pick up items from the floor, etc. * Keep trash bags and cleaning cloths handy for spills * Set up tables or count number of chairs * Cups with lids for kids (use disposable insulated coffee cups with lids -insert straws) Games for Kids – Basket of stuff for little ones – * Coloring books and my favorites are nonmessy – coloring markers that don’t make a mess “magic” * balloons (helium is a favorite) with weighted toys. – caution – ceiling fans! * Paper crafts – airplanes * Plain paper and coloring pencils * Plastic eggs with pennies or cheap toys * Kathleen’s store – trade in eggs for stuff Older Kids: Playoffs – * Checker game boards