What expectations do you have for yourself as you plan celebrations? A large party for every birthday? Made from scratch cake or Pinterest-worthy theme decorations? Spending a fortune? (You’re getting a window into my heart 5 years ago!) How can presence over perfection in these areas help you to enjoy the celebrations we are blessed with each year? These are the ways that I have shifted my approach with a steep learning curve.

FOOD

I’m not a natural chef, so keeping it super simple lowers my stress. On the kids birthdays, they choose the menu, which is usually something like pancakes and pizza. For the grownups, we stick with the basics - something grilled, a veggie, a salad, and a starch.
Parties are planned between meals, so all that is needed is cake.
Large Family Gatherings are always pot luck. When folks ask what to bring, have a list ready or encourage them to bring their favorite dish or dessert or drinks. Delegating is the key.

DECOR

Leave it to Nature….it’s highly likely there is something in your yard to bring indoors - flowers, holly, pine cones, branches. Use vessels, bowls, vases, mason jars, etc you already have in varying arrangements and you’ll have different and beautiful decor every time. Keep it simple.
Kids Homemade decorations are my favorite because it involves them and they always come up with some new way to make place cards, garlands for the mantle, windows and doorways or to decorate the guest of honor’s chair.
Heirloom decor keep me from the need to buy new each year. Sticking with a handmade garland for every birthday and holiday decor that we pull out year after year builds a strong sense of tradition that far outweighs all the “new” possibilities, and I don’t have to reinvent the wheel.
Minimize options by using a neutral foundation. White tablecloths and serving ware that can be used for any occasion, and any decor.