The premise of SushiGo! is that you are eating at a conveyor belt sushi restaurant and have to pick pieces of sushi that are whizzing by so that you can create a high-scoring sushi dinner. Each turn you pick a card from your hand and then pass the remaining cards to your neighbor. Some cards require a set to be worth any points, some are always worth points and others are only worth points if you have the most of that type. Since a full game can be played in about 20 minutes, it is perfect to pull out when the turkey takes longer in the oven than expected.

The box says that this game is appropriate for ages 8+, but I think that it can probably work for kids as young as 6 as long as they can match pictures and know their numbers. There are only a couple cards that require reading, but if you're playing with young kids, the game is unlikely to be super cutthroat so you could clarify the meaning of cards during game play. 

The box easily fits into a backpack or large purse so you might find yourself bringing it around to all your holiday events as a just-in-case activity.

There will be a point during any visit that everyone needs a little bit of alone time. If you are the host, you can make this easier on your guests by adding a couple items to their nightstand. 

First, your guests will appreciate it if you write down the information for your WiFi network. Now if they have to slip away for a few minutes to answer work emails or check the tracking number for a last-minute present, they don't have to interrupt the festivities.

I also like to put a collection of books and magazines in the guest room since not everyone feels comfortable pulling books off the shelf in someone else's home. Essay collections or short books work nicely because they can be finished during the visit, but you could also add a couple paperback books that you don't mind lending out to the stack.

Last year's post about dressing for Thanksgiving dinner has fabric and style suggestions that are just as applicable in December. For twelve outfit ideas that will cover just about any holiday party dress code, browse through the 12 Days of Holiday Parties series from 2013. 

A couple festive cocktails are always the perfect addition to a holiday party. I createdthree recipes with the flavors of Thanksgiving dinner. Since Christmas dinner includes a lot of the same flavors, it's a great time to make them again!

Ingredients

​butter or cooking spray, for the pan
8 ounces frozen hash browns
8 eggs
3 bell peppers, chopped
salt and pepper to taste
1 cup Cheddar, Pepper Jack, or other grated cheese

In a buttered oven-safe dish, evenly spread the frozen hash browns and then layer the chopped bell peppers on top.

In a bowl, whisk the eggs with salt and pepper and any other seasonings you want to add. Pour the eggs over the potatoes and peppers. Sprinkle with the cheese evenly over the top. At this point, the casserole can be covered and put in the fridge overnight.

​ Bake at 375 degrees F for 45 minutes. 

One week until Thanksgiving! For many of us, Thanksgiving involves dressing up, gathering with friends and family, and enjoying copious amounts of food. Fancy clothes are often too constricting to be able to completely enjoy such a large meal, but that doesn't mean that we have to wear sweatpants in order to indulge in a second (or third) slice of pie.

When choosing a Thanksgiving ensemble, look for soft, stretchy fabrics in styles that won't require constant adjustments. I also suggest avoiding items with lots of fasteners; buttons, zippers, and snaps can be irritating when you are sitting for long periods of time. If your family spends lots of time sitting around the table chatting after the meal, buttons on the cuff of your sleeve or bracelets will start to dig in if you rest your wrists on the table. Although I am usually a huge proponent of accessorizing, they can be a little cumbersome during an extended dinner. After all, you don't want the ends of your scarf trailing through the gravy boat! Instead, add visual interest with fun patterns and bright colors. Just stay away from white shirts unless you want cranberry sauce stains to be the statement piece of your look.

The first option for a Thanksgiving outfit is a knit or ponte dress that flares out at the waist. This creates a flattering hourglass figure and since it is not form fitting, you can leave the shapewear at home. A ponte dress is almost as comfortable as yoga pants and way more stylish. Accessorize with a bright shoe and fun piece of jewelry or a scarf. A skinny belt around the waist is always a great addition, but be prepared to let it out a notch after dinner.

A bright ponte pencil skirt is another comfortable way to add holiday cheer to your look. Pair with a lightweight merino wool sweater and a pair of textured tights. I love a great pattern like dots or chevron. I love a bright color in the skirt because the rest of your outfit can be neutral. If you feel more comfortable in a black or grey skirt, then add your pop of color in the sweater. Add a simple necklace and a great pair of shoes to finish off your look.

If you don't want to wear a sweater or other form fitting top, look for a silky tunic with a great design.   Either tuck it into a pencil skirt or leave it untucked over a pair of slim fitting pants. Add a cardigan to cover your arms for warmth.

Although bright reds, emerald greens, and rich purples are great holiday colors, don't feel limited to them. Choose a color that you love even if it isn't a traditional choice for the season, such as teal.

If you decide to wear pants on Thanksgiving, my main piece of advice is to look for a pair that is side-zip since that will minimize zipper discomfort after eating a large meal. I love an ankle pant paired back to a cozy sweater and a fun pair of heels. A subtle pattern is also a great way to add pizzazz to the your holiday outfit.

To add structure to your look, add a blazer or jacket instead of a cardigan. Leave it open to show off the layers underneath and to frame a fun pendant necklace.

The best part of Thanksgiving is being able to spend the day with friends and family so it is important that what you wear provides all day comfort. Skip the starched shirts and add some stretch to your holiday wear. You'll be comfortable for all the activities the day has to offer, from watching the Thanksgiving Day parade and football game on television to the last bite of pie.

What are you planning to wear to your Thanksgiving dinner and festivities? Share your holiday inspiration in the comments!

    For some, Sunday brunch brings to mind images of mimosas on a sunny patio while wearing a breezy sundress and strappy sandals, but that doesn't mean that it has to be confined to summertime. After all, hot coffee and french toast are even more enjoyable when it is not 100 degrees outside. So when the air turns crisp and cool, pair a patterned dress (I especially love a knit dress because they are just so comfortable) with dark tights and a great wedge or boot. Add a skinny belt to accentuate your waist, a contrasting clutch, and a necklace or bracelet with a touch of sparkle. Then grab a table by the window at your favorite brunch spot and order up a plate of something delicious!