Holidays are a great time of year to connect with family. It is easy to let schedules get too hectic so make sure you prioritize your family this time of year. Hopefully you will have some down time to visit around the dining room table, without any electronic devices. That is the perfect environment for treasured family time. 

Incorporating games, working a jig saw puzzle or building a snowman (if we get snow) are definitely memory makers. I have a great poster titled, “100 Ways to Celebrate your Family” that is free if you simply stop by our office at 3007 10th Street in Great Bend. All of the suggestions are no-cost or very low cost and I firmly believe that those are the things that make the biggest impression on kids.

When our grandkids come for a visit I always have plenty of paper, markers, and colored pencils on hand for the budding artists. When they leave, I have new pictures to put on the refrigerator. 

Another consideration during this busy time of year is to stick to a simpler menu. There is no prize for stressing yourself out in the kitchen. Menu ideas I go to at this time of year include soups and stews, served up with some tasty fresh fruit. Not only are these ideas simple but they are healthier choices as well.  

Later this month, on Nov. 30th, at noon, I hope you will mark your calendar and join me at noon at the Great Bend Activity Center, 2715 18th Street. I have invited Monique, my team member from the Hays office, to work together to present an educational program we have titled, “Heathy Holiday Hints.” We’ll have some fun ideas to share that may help you de-stress and enjoy the holidays for the right reasons. 

Whatever you are planning and wherever your holiday travels take you, make time for some simple fun with your family!

Donna Krug is the Family & Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. Contact her at 620-793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu.