lists Archives - Kristin Saatzer

So, there was an election recently. You might have heard about it.

And here we are careening to the holidays, almost to the Thanksgiving table. For some of us, this presents a challenge: Our expectation is to count our blessings over a delicious meal with friends and family. Instead, Uncle Harold and Cousin Sally would rather spew political opinions and diatribes.

This might be the year for ground rules. A challenge to pull off as a guest, but as a host or hostess- your table, your rules?

The following are “safe” topic ideas:

Kids and Seniors- If there are kids around the table (or kid table) put the spotlight on them. Ask about their interests and school. Have them share a song or poem. Have the seniors among you share stories of how they celebrated the holidays as children.
Veteran’s- I noticed on Facebook that my friends from opposing political parties all seem to be fans. Print off a story of a heroic veteran or two.
Bucket Lists- Have your table guests share theirs.
Jokes- Funny NON-political, cheesy and clean.
Inspirational Stories- It keeps the perspective positive. Check out: chickensoup.com
Sports- This is an exciting time of year for the NFL, college football, NBA and college basketball.
Beautiful places visited- Share travel stories.
Favorite books read from this past year- My personal preference! Provide paper and pens.
Goals for the New Year- New fitness or workout trends, financial or relational goals.
GRATEFULNESS- But of course! Count your many, many blessings.

Healthy boundaries and rules of engagement can make for a rich holiday celebration. Not perfect but rich and semi-peaceful.

May your table and heart be replete with Thankfulness.

Now go start cooking!

“One servant is worth a thousand gadgets” Joseph Schumpeter

I recently heard a radio DJ ask, “If you had to choose between your smart phone or one of your kidneys, what would it be?” I listened as callers reported their choices, most of them saying they would rather lose a kidney than their smart phone. A telling commentary on where we have come in our society in such a short time. We’ve become addicted to those mini-computers haven’t we?

I too am crazy about my iPhone. Sure, being able to check FB and Instagram any place anytime is fun, but what I love most about my phone is the ability to make lists and receive reminders. I am a list-making nerd. A list making nerd who sometimes adds an item that’s already been completed because it’s thrilling to check off said item again. Anyway…

I make my daily to-do list first thing in the morning or before going to bed. I like the app called “Any Do” (it’s free). On this list, I include all of my regular reminders (ex.: 1. put on Hazmat Suit and clean the boy’s toilet 2. Return Sonya’s call etc.).