Here is the menu I will be doing next week. (with input from the family attending) Red wine marinated Tri-Tip Roast, grilled Grilled Pork Tenderloin Mushrooms in a red wine sauce Hasselback Russet Potatoes and Hasselback Sweet Potatoes Green Bean Casserole Roasted or grilled Asparagus Buttermilk Pie Cranberry Key Lime Pie When we have family in for Christmas, my husband always makes homemade Bagels for breakfast. I am so looking forward to the food, fun and family!

I am making a Ragu sauce today to freeze. I misread the instructions and did not cook down the wine. I am sure it will be fine, but that started me wondering why the wine is cooked down. Is it just to intensify the flavor? or does it have another purpose?

What is the one thing you are looking forward to cooking/making the most? One of my favorites is Turkey thigh Confit. It always reminds me of Christmas.

The grand finale of your challenge is a Day 7 that can feel triumphant, joyful, and effortlessly orchestrated. Because you took intentional steps all week (shopping is done, the timeline is set & dishes are prepped), all you have to do now is finish and put together your meal. Finally… Hosting, cooking, and serving can feel smooth, allowing you to be fully present with loved ones. You can feel good that you have put together a menu that is balanced and delicious. The gift of preparation keeps giving - You can finish the holidays feeling recharged instead of depleted, knowing that you maintained traditions, food, and self-care. Celebrating yourself for a successful prep and setting the tone for a healthy, happy new year. This is something you can easily carry forward into 2026!

Here are a couple more. I just wanted to make sure I got them all in this season. Post your favorite Christmas joke below! Also like all the comments please! What do you call an old snowman? a Glass of Water How is the snow globe feeling this year? a little shaken...