By having more family gatherings you will be surprised how close a family can become. Don't wait till the major holidays, Christmas, Easter, Independence Day, and others to have a barbeque or have a great family sit down dinner.

Take some time in your busy schedule to plan a dinner with the family at least every month or every other month. If you don't want to make a dinner, then have everyone bring something for pot luck. By planning by themes you can designate somewhat, what they are to bring. For example if you want a Hawaiian themed dinner with barbequed chicken and pineapples. Tell some of the family to bring some décor, that you can set out, such as leis and maybe a tiki torch.

Don't be afraid to ask other members to bring items. You will be surprised how most are more than welcomed. By spreading the cost, it makes it more fun and then you are not caught holding the buying bill!

Planning ahead for a family dinner can also save you time later and money. If you purchase items that are on coupon for your dinner then you will find you are saving more. An easy method you can use to plan ahead is making a list, first start with a theme. Write this list on the top of a page. Then from your list you then can write down what you wish to serve. Then from your list you can take items of what you want to serve and give them to other family members, then from that you are left with what you will serve.

Using this method will cut down on your lengthy grocery list. You will find this method works for all holidays as well. A little bit of planning will save fuss in the end!

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