No gadgets (with the possible exception of an electric turkey-carving knife) are allowed at the Turkey Day table. But up until that moment when all of your nearest and dearest are settled neatly around the table, technology can be a big help in holiday preparations. Here are five ways to put technology to work so you can enjoy a relaxing holiday and stay connected with your family and friends this year.
1. Use cooking and meal-planning apps.
Unless you are very territorial and/or a cook extraordinaire, you probably appreciate a hand in the kitchen. With shopping and planning apps, wireless thermometers, and recipe websites galore, your phone or mobile device can be your best assistant in the kitchen (just keep it away from the gravy).
Impress your guests with your organization and attention to detail this year. Maybe even push the culinary boundaries and serve up that shaved Brussels sprout salad recipe you found on Pinterest along with Grandma’s famous JELL-O salad.
2. Stay connected with video calling.
“I can’t make it home” is no longer a reason to miss family time during the holidays, even from miles away. FaceTime, Google Hangouts, and Skype are just a few of the internet-based video-calling options available on your computer or mobile device.
3. Take a picture. It will last longer.
Whether you’re taking pictures of your kids goofing around, a family group shot, or Grandpa snoring on the couch, a camera of some sort is a must to capture all your Thanksgiving memories. Share these pictures with your extended family and friends on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram but wait until after dinner. Consider trying an editing or photo-collage app to help you post your best pictures.
Another word of advice: Take your humble-brag food beauty shots before everyone sits down to eat. None of your Facebook friends want to see eating action (read: mouths full of food) shots.
4. Record what you miss.
Going to miss the game while you are at the in-laws? Instead of sneaking off to the basement to catch a few plays, give thanks for your DVR, TiVo, or other video solutions that can record every touchdown and field goal for you (while you win in-law of the year honors by helping with the dishes).
5. Plan for Black Friday like a boss.
If you’re a Black Friday nut aficionado, you know that to get the really good deals, you have to be a ruthless planner. Map out your attack — store hours, online coupons, and coffee breaks — on your mobile device before you enter the swarm of holiday shoppers.
Hate crowds but want a good deal? Many stores have the same or similar discounts online as they do in stores. Lining up at midnight could be pointless when you can buy all your gifts online for a good price while still in your pajamas.
Grinnell Mutual wishes you and your family a very happy Thanksgiving.