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Moving Planning Made Easy – Plan Your Move to Berlin Now

As Germany’s capital, Berlin is not only attractive to many German citizens but also attracts a large number of foreigners. The reasons for this are manifold. Likewise, a move to Berlin can have many reasons and should be well planned.

Since moving to Berlin requires considerable financial resources, most people willing to move will probably associate moving to Berlin with a new career opportunity.

A career in Berlin is a frequent reason for moving

Anyone who wants to make a career in Berlin is in the right place. Many companies have chosen Berlin as their location. There are also many European headquarters in Berlin, so there are already many vacancies in this area. Above all, however, the start-up sector offers a range of career opportunities. After all, the capital has already launched a number of unicorns that have been able to successfully take off internationally. A unicorn is understood to mean those companies that have achieved a market value of well over one billion dollars.

Why people move to Berlin

It goes without saying that numerous career opportunities arise in connection with this. Basically, the average salary of people from Berlin is far above the average salary in the rest of Germany. This means that employees can also afford better living conditions and make their move pleasant and stress-free, for example by hiring a moving company in Berlin. With these amenities, the start in the new home is easier. But it also doesn’t hurt to work on specific household tips that will make it easier for you to get started in Berlin. In the following part, we want to provide some important household tips for your move to Berlin. Maybe one or the other tip will help you to get off to a fresh start in Berlin.

Tips for your move to Berlin

In principle, the same rule applies to your move to Berlin as to all projects of this magnitude. You need to be well organized and prepared to increase your likelihood of success. If you make a personal checklist before moving, you will be able to implement your project more successfully. In principle, the address of your new apartment should be fixed one month before the actual move. This also includes the fulfillment of all formalities such as signing the rental agreement. Furthermore, sufficient time should be planned for dealing with authorities. Also, note the tips for planning a move and the tips for packing furniture for the move.

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5 Tips for Planning and Carrying Out a Move

Changing jobs, a new partner, separation, or buying a house – there are many reasons why people move. In order for the move to go smoothly, you should plan your move well. The following tips for packing and labeling moving boxes, as well as a moving checklist, will help with organization.

Plan your move smartly

According to a study, almost five million households with over nine million consumers pack their bags and move into a new living environment every year. An impressive number considering the size of the overall population. Even if a move is not unusual in view of these figures, at least on paper – for the individual household, this often means a physical and mental effort.

It’s not just about picking the household effects in boxes and a moving truck. Every move must be organized and prepared down to the last detail. The situation is particularly critical for families with children. The latter often suffer from the sudden detachment from the traditional environment. You will make the move easier if you part with things in advance. Consequently, you should clean out your clothes and have a dress party.

Move easily and stress-free

If you want to move, you should plan well in advance. Because before you give notice of your apartment, you should sign your new lease. You should observe notice periods (usually 3 months) and clarify an early move-out with the landlord. Good organization is required to ensure that the move is stress-free. It can also be advisable to have a negative Schufa entry removed beforehand.

1) Plan your move on your own

When it comes to moving, opinions differ on the question of whether the change of residence should be handled with professional help or completely on your own. Ultimately, it is a personal decision and a question of money whether you hire professionals or fall back on the manpower of friends and relatives. The high time factor and organizational effort are offset by the cost savings. If you do everything yourself, you have to take care of the following things. Also, note useful tips for clearing out the apartment.

  • organization of helpers
  • procurement of means of transport
  • Organization of packaging material
  • Assembly and disassembly

2) Hire movers

If you want to move without spending a lot of time, you can plan your move with a professional moving company. Due to their daily experience with moving and their know-how when it comes to building kitchen units or wall units, the stress of moving is significantly lower for households that work with a moving company. However, moving companies come at a price. But you can often find student movers on the internet for a fair price. Basically, professional moving helpers outdo moving on their own when it comes to:

  • organization
  • dismantling the furniture
  • Reconstruction of the furniture
  • Transport of the removal goods and
  • the time factor

3) Agree on a fixed price when planning a move

If you want to have your move done by a moving company, you should negotiate a fixed price. Although fixed prices often appear more expensive than offers on an hourly basis, such as 3 movers + truck for 8 hours = price, a fixed price protects you from nasty surprises.

If you go on an hourly basis, you will have to pay extra for each additional hour and this can get quite expensive if the move takes longer than planned. Also, a fixed price usually keeps the packers from dawdling. In addition, there are also portals on the Internet where you can make a kind of tender in which companies can “apply” for your order, for example on myhammer.de.

4) Moving Checklist: Insurance

Moving is time-consuming and takes patience. It gets all the more annoying when doors or furniture are damaged. At this point, it is generally advisable to clarify insurance issues in advance. That’s why your move checklist should include informing the insurance companies below. Household contents and liability insurance play a particularly important role here. Damage in the old or new apartment – for example on doors – can be regulated as rented property damage (if insured) via private liability insurance.

  • Household insurance
  • legal protection insurance
  • car insurance
  • other insurances and
  • personal liability insurance

Personal liability also applies if the neighbor’s car is scratched. But: If the accident happens to a helper, their insurer is responsible for the damage. It is also important to clarify to what extent courtesy damage becomes a problem or not. Accident insurance can also be useful here.

5) Plan to move and unsubscribe from services

Likewise, when you move, you not only have to organize the actual move and its process. Changing electricity provider and internet may also have to be ordered. While the supply of electricity is generally secured via the regional supplier, the topic of telecommunications and the Internet should be tackled a few weeks in advance. It is necessary to check which providers offer services at the new address or whether the previous provider is available.

In addition, the mail should be delivered to the new address in the future and not end up in the old apartment. It is therefore important to set up a forwarding order. Swiss Post will then automatically forward consignments to the new address. If you save yourself the trip to the post office, the forwarding order can now also be issued online.

  • phone
  • Internet
  • TV and electricity
  • Forwarding order for the post office
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Planning & Organizing a Barbecue Party

Lots of useful tips for planning a barbecue party and organizing the tricks for a barbecue party. If the weather cooperates, the next barbecue evening is not far away. A barbecue party with friends, acquaintances, and family is just the thing for a warm summer evening. In order for this party to run smoothly and for everyone to have fun, however, proper planning and preparation are required. A few things should also be considered during the party in order to be able to enjoy an all-around cozy evening.

Choosing the right location

First of all, you have to find the right place to have a great party. Homeowners with their own garden naturally have it the easiest here. On the terrace, there is usually enough space for enough guests and the grill. Other barbecue organizers have to switch to alternatives. Perhaps a larger balcony is available or friends or acquaintances make their terrace available. Once you have found the right place for the barbecue party, you can continue with the planning.

Send out invitations early enough

The next step is to invite friends, family, and acquaintances. Depending on the location, it should already be planned here how many guests can be accommodated there. It should always be remembered that by no means all invited guests will appear. In the days of smartphones, this is usually done in a few moments. For example, a group can be set up on Whatsapp and/or Facebook, with all guests being added and being informed about the upcoming barbecue party.

If current cell phone numbers are not available, there is still the (old) option of sending them a card or simply stopping by in person. This should be done as early as possible. Time is often short, especially for working people, so a short-term barbecue party can definitely be a problem. If possible, guests should be asked directly what they like to eat and drink and whether they are vegetarian or vegan. Because of course, everyone should be full at the barbecue party.

Create shopping list

Now it’s time to get down to business: the shopping list. Admittedly, the planning is not easy: who eats what and how much? Which drinks do you think are preferred? Even if the guests were asked beforehand about their preferences, the planning is a bit of a gamble, especially with regard to the quantity. In any case, different types of meat should be on every shopping list, e.g. B. pork, turkey, and chicken. On average, you can and should count on 250 to 300 grams per person – of course only for meat-eaters. Potato and pasta salad, baguette, sauces, herb butter, mozzarella and, if necessary, fresh rolls round off the meal perfectly.

  • Men, in particular, like to drink a cool beer with every piece of meat. But drivers should also be considered: alcohol-free beer, soft drinks such as cola and water, and sparkling wine (especially for women) should also be on the shopping list.
  • Finally, the grill accessories should not be missing: Coal for the charcoal grill and grill lighter make the whole party possible.

Make the final preparations

Once the shopping list has been ticked off in the supermarket, the final preparations are made on-site so that the barbecue party runs smoothly.

  • The grill should initially be set up at a safe distance from the dining table. It is advisable to set up a larger table right next to it so that finished food can be stored temporarily
  • A meat bowl is recommended to bring the meat to the table later. That way, no guest has to stand up for every piece of meat.
  • There should also be no obstacles between the grill and the dining table. A bulging grill plate that was previously lying on the floor will certainly spoil the mood of some guests.
  • Drinks should be chilled a few hours before the party starts. If a bottle is removed, it should be replaced immediately so that cool drinks can always be offered.

Lay the table

If it’s the first barbecue evening this year, the table and chairs should be wiped down with a damp cloth. Plates, cutlery, saucers, glasses, and serviettes belong on every table. Cool containers for water bottles certainly don’t look bad either. Nevertheless, you should always make sure that there is enough space for the Schalke, which will later be filled with meat, and the baguette. If the dining table is too small, a smaller table can be positioned nearby to place sauces, etc. on it. So absolutely nothing can go wrong and the barbecue party is sure to be a huge success and a perfect dinner party that will be remembered.

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Celebrating and Planning a 70s Party

Celebrate and plan a 70s party with tips and tricks. A classic seventies party is a lot of fun and a nice change from the modern parties. Since there were neither PCs nor mobile phones in the 70s, people met up with friends much more often, ate together, and had game nights, or celebrated parties. The planning and design of such evenings were certainly not as complex and luxurious as today, but it was no less fun. On the contrary, sociability was very important and the parties were very boisterous. At the 70s parties, there was a lot of dancing and not much sitting around. Chatting, flirting, discussing, and eating were mostly done standing up.

Invitations like in the seventies

At that time, it was not common to put a lot of effort into the invitation cards and possibly even to make them yourself. Without a PC and mobile phone, the simplest option of sending the invitations by e-mail or SMS was out of the question, but the telephone call via landline was the most common form of invitation and very modern (not everyone had a connection yet).

Alternatively, the guests received a simple invitation card with all the necessary information.
However, since we are no longer in the 70s, you must not forget to name the motto and ask for the appearance in your invitations. Also, note other tips for successfully planning and celebrating a party.

Hits of the 70s

If it is a party where dancing is to take place, people like to decorate a previously darkened room with a disco ball and light organ. Of course, the right music from the 70s is also important: Marianne Rosenberg, Abba, Boney M, Stones, etc. Get yourself a music compilation from the 70s such as Kuschelrock (records or cassettes would be appropriate).

Decoration of the seventies

The furniture was removed from the room to create a dance floor and people sat on mattresses spread along the walls around the dance floor or in another room. At many parties, however, people simply “planted” themselves on the floor to rest from dancing or to chat with others.

An alternative decoration consisted of light chains with colored light bulbs, which could also be provided with lanterns as desired. There were also lots of balloons, paper streamers, and colorful garlands. Even the buffet was decorated in this way.

And of course, there was the obligatory snack in the form of peanut chips, potato chips, and pretzel sticks in small bowls in every room.

70’s buffet

Meals as if they were in the seventies. A cold buffet set up in the kitchen was typical. People usually ate standing up, holding the plate in one hand and the fork in the other hand, in order to eat the pasta and potato salads with mini meatballs, which were very popular at the time. But ham rolls filled with asparagus, cheese hedgehogs, egg salad, or half eggs with mayonnaise or anchovies were also offered.

In the 70s buffet, plastic plates and cutlery weren’t really popular, except maybe at school parties. However, ceramic bowls and plates were universally popular. To drink there was Cola, Fanta, beer, and wine or punch. In between, people also enjoyed themselves with a small Jägermeister, eggnog, or apple corn. The kitchen was usually the most popular meeting place. Here we chatted until the early morning.

Fashion and hairstyles of the 70s

The outfit from back then almost looks like a costume today, although many fashion hits are back in fashion today. Men had mustaches, sideburns, and long hair or VokuHila (short in front, long in the back). Towards the end of the 1970s, women increasingly preferred perms. Otherwise, very long or super short hair was popular.

They wore minis, flared jeans, and sweaters in bright colors like light green, yellow, or orange. But big colorful patterns on dresses and silver glittering lurex blouses were also trendy. And one thing could not be missing from any outfit: the platform shoe! Whether with a dress or pants, whether man or woman, nothing went without a heel of 10 cm or more.

Promotions at your 70s party

Dancing, dancing, dancing! Whether it was a tight dance party or a boisterous hop, the disco fever was spreading. Dance performances, competitions or dancing in groups with precisely defined, synchronous sequences of steps and arm movements get every party going. In addition, note other ideas for theme parties.

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6 Theme Party Ideas with Planning

Tips for planning and many useful party ideas for a great theme party. Normal festivals and birthday parties hardly lure anyone out of the house anymore. There has to be a little more to get a party rolling these days. The so-called theme parties are particularly popular. They are not only something extraordinary but also directly loosen the mood and break the ice.

However, a theme party is only a success if everything, from the location to the music, to the drinks, fits the motto. This is the only way the guests can follow the guidelines and celebrate a really good party.

1) Bad Taste Party

When planning and celebrating a party, it can be advisable to set a theme. The classic among themed parties is the motto “Bad Taste”. Bad taste requires little preparation and it’s bound to be a lot of fun. The worse the clothes the better this is for the party. In preparation, you should raid your closet and look for grandma’s old clothes.

Color combinations, such as neon colors, which do not go together at all, can also be combined. Musically everything can be used. From the charts to hits, every style of music is popular at such a party. Of course, the right decoration is also important. It is important that nothing is really high-quality and tidy. Disposable plates and plastic cups can be organized for the right crockery. Table decoration with old newspapers is always appropriate.

2) Horror party

With this form, the horror should be written all over your face. Guests should dress appropriately. It is best to appear as a witch, vampire, zombie, or werewolf. Basically, the scarier the better. The decoration should also look correspondingly scary. Burned-out candles, creepy skeletons, and a spooky pumpkin are all good for such an occasion. But skulls or spider webs made of cotton are also a good alternative. The drinks should also have a horror factor. In such situations, red cocktails or a delicious red wine are good. The music should also be appropriate. From scary music to thrillers, everything can be played. Also, note tips for a Halloween party for children.

3) Hollywood Movie Party

Everyone wants to be a movie star. With a Hollywood party, you can take on this role. When it comes to clothing, there are a wide variety of options. For example, you can dress up as your favorite actor or as a character from a movie. There are now plenty of opportunities to buy these costumes. Superhero costumes can also be a good choice. If the party is based on a special film, the rooms should also be designed according to this. Also, note other tips for a perfect dinner party.

  • If Hollywood is the focus, the room can be generously covered with confetti.
  • A red carpet should not be missing either.
  • A clapper board or an Oscar figure could also contribute to the decoration.
  • For example, guests’ placemats could have a star with their name on them.
  • Movie posters on the walls are also a nice option.
  • Classic film titles such as Dirty Dancing or Pirates of the Caribbean can be played musically.
  • Drinks can be based on a film, for example. If the party is themed James Bond, you can very well serve a martini.
  • If the Hollywood motto is more general, aperitifs can be served at the reception.

4) The Pajama Party

This party is also very popular. Clothing is quite simple. All you need is pajamas or other pajamas and you’re dressed appropriately. This model of the party is mostly more suitable for children and young people. But adults can have fun too. The special thing about it is that the guests don’t go home, but spend the night with the host. The decoration includes classic garlands, balloons, and streamers. The drinks can be chosen freely, but chips and fast food should not be missing. The music is also variable at this theme party. It can be a little looser so that it also fits for spinning the bottle. It is important that if the guests stay with the host, breakfast must also be provided.

5) Masquerade ball as a party idea

Each guest must bring and put on a mask. Although you know the party guests, they will seem a bit strange. This effect is mysterious and extravagant and is just plain fun. There are cheap masks for as little as 2 euros. If you like it more noble and even more mysterious, you can also buy a great mask on the Internet.

6) 80’s party

This is also one of the most popular mottos for such a party. During this time, many guests want to reminisce. The clothes should of course be adapted to the 80s. Neon colors and skin-tight leggings were popular. Of course, the shoulder pads for women should not be missing either. The men prefer a wig with a mullet cut. White tennis socks are also a clear symbol of the 80s.

  • Liqueurs, in particular, were a popular drink during this time. These should not be missing at such a party. Bowling and malt beer were also popular in the 1980s.
  • When it comes to decoration, you can also stick to simple things. The walls can be decorated with posters from bands of the time. Plastic flowers were also well represented at the time and deserved a place on the table.
  • Colorful garlands hanging across the room can also lighten the mood. Of course, a magic cube should not be missing. This is practically the invention of the 80s.
  • Musically, of course, you should pay attention to the time span. With Nena and the Spider Murphy Gang, you are always on the right side.
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10 Good Tips for Party Planning and Celebrating

A great party should be well organized and requires a lot of planning. Therefore, note useful tips for party planning and celebrating. Because from the invitation to the food and music, everything should be perfect. So that you don’t forget anything, we have summarized the most important points for you.

Planning a party can also be stressful. Then you quickly lose track. But for the party to be a success, all you need is good music and great people. If you want to throw a party that will be unforgettable, make a checklist.

Organize an unforgettable party

A perfect hostess remains calm and composed. Because she has thought through the party planning well. Making a checklist will help you make your house party a success. So you don’t forget the important things and can celebrate a great party with your guests without worrying. So good planning and preparation are key. Then you can relax when the guests arrive and look forward to the evening.

It can also be good to introduce the people you meet to each other so that there is no awkward silence. For this, you could add some interesting information, it will make it easier to start a conversation. Also, note the following things when planning a party. In addition, note tips for planning a 70s party.

1) Design the perfect invitation

In order for your invitation to be perfect, it should contain all the important information. You can also determine the type and design. So think about whether you want to send the invitation by email, SMS, messenger, or as a card. You can let your creativity run free as a card or email. With other options rather less. Finally, provide the following information in the invitation:

  • the occasion, e.g. wedding, birthday, anniversary, etc.,
  • full name, location/address of the celebration (with directions)
  • the time for the party to start
  • your telephone number, for inquiries or emergencies
  • Dress code and/or motto

2) Choose a venue to party

The next thing you should think about is where the party will take place. Should it take place at your home or would you like to rent a venue? Because especially with the latter you have to plan in good time. And depending on the location of the celebrations, different things have to be considered. Is there enough space? Is there enough seating? Is the place handicapped accessible? And much more. If the party is indoors, provide enough ashtrays and trash bags. Then cleaning up after the party will be easier. Also, note how to make corks fit in case the wine is left over after the party.

3) Have a theme party or not?

If you want to plan a party, then a great themed party can be a lot of fun. Because how often do you get the chance to dress up? However, you should communicate this clearly with your guests. And if there is no motto, should you consider whether or not there should be a dress code? The decision is entirely up to you and maybe your guests as well.

4) Buy great party decorations

Depending on which theme you choose for your celebration, the right party decoration can underline the atmosphere. Then you can design the table decoration lovingly and imaginatively (e.g. with flowers and candles; depending on the season also angels, Easter bunnies, etc.). And crockery, cups, and glasses can also be selected to match. Garlands or other great party sets can also be organized. Also, note tips for planning and hosting a baby shower.

5) Plan a party and organize catering

Also, think about the food for your guests. Because you often get hungry at a party or want to snack on something. So you can prepare and provide chips, pretzel sticks, or other finger food ideas. Even a simple chili or a delicious casserole can be cooked well for a house party. Depending on your guests’ wishes, you can prepare it normally with meat, vegetarian or vegan. However, you should not make big experiments! Also, read valuable tips for planning a barbecue party.

6) Have a great party with finger food

As mentioned earlier, finger foods and simple snacks are perfect for a great party, so don’t forget about them. If you are missing finger food ideas, watch the following video. Because here are simple recipes for sweet and hearty tastes.

7) Select the music for the party

It will be a great house party if the music is right. If your house party has a specific theme, you should coordinate the music with it, at least at the beginning of the celebration. You can also consider hiring a DJ or creating a music playlist yourself. Both are great options for a relaxing evening and partying. In addition, get tips for a perfect dinner party.

8) Consider good party games

Good party games can loosen up the evening and be a lot of fun. So think ahead of time about great party games that you want to play with your guests. There are many games, e.g. Charade, Who am I? or how about a round of Twister? Drinking games like Meiern can also get the guests in the mood. Accordingly, you should get the necessary utensils in advance, such as dice, post-its, or entire games.

9) Plan a party and inform neighbors

If you are planning a great party, you should also inform your neighbors about the time and ask for their understanding. Many people hang up a note in the stairwell for this purpose. If you get along very well with your neighbors, inform them personally or invite them over. This way you can prevent and reduce unnecessary stress.

10) Make special ice cubes

When it comes to the little things when celebrating, it often comes down to the details. So try making special ice cubes. Because in decoration and kitchen shops you get many interesting ice cube trays. Instead of the conventional water ice cubes, you can also freeze delicious cola or juice. And you can particularly impress your party guests with cherries or strawberries frozen in ice cubes. Fresh mint leaves are also very suitable for this. Also, note tips for a Halloween party for children.

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Planning a Baby Shower – When is the Right Time?

As is so often the case, the idea came from the USA, but it is also very popular in this country: More and more pregnant women want to celebrate a baby shower! The upcoming arrival of the baby is celebrated with the female friends of the pregnant woman. We have collected the best baby shower ideas and baby shower planning tips.

When is the baby shower?

Such a party usually takes place before birth. Since many people struggle with morning sickness in the first few months of pregnancy, a later date is usually chosen. You should also not set the date too soon before the birth. Because if the baby comes earlier than expected or the pregnant woman has to go to the hospital earlier because of complications, the party will, unfortunately, be canceled. So the mother-to-be should be surprised in the last trimester of her pregnancy. As a rule, a baby shower 6 – 8 weeks before the birth makes sense.

How to plan a baby shower correctly?

A baby shower is all about celebrating the upcoming arrival of the baby. Then there is delicious food, such as cakes, finger food or salads. And together, games that often have to do with the baby can be celebrated. In addition, the pregnant woman enjoys gifts for the baby and everything is nicely decorated. So a nice evening among friends. To ensure that the organization of the baby shower is successful, we have collected creative ideas for you.

Where is the celebration?

Since the friends want to be among themselves, most celebrate at home. Either with the pregnant woman or with one of the guests. If you don’t have enough space, you can also rent a room or, if possible, celebrate in the garden.

Planning food for the baby shower

First, you should invite the guests and set a suitable date with them. Then it’s time to plan the baby shower. Providing food is important as it is a big part of the party. There is usually a great cake, maybe even with the name of the child. Donuts, muffins, or other sweets can also be provided. You can also provide various salads, such as pasta salad, potato salad, and dips with finger food. It is best if everyone brings something with them, it makes the work easier. However, also note a healthy diet for pregnant women. But back to the cake. You can order great cakes online, but they’re not always cheap. Therefore, many make a cake themselves.

Baby shower party games

So that there is no boredom in between, there are great games for the baby shower. Of course, you can use existing games and play Tabu or UNO, which were used at other planned parties. But here are also wonderful games related to the baby. You can also find great sets and templates on the internet here. Then you can buy them or print them out. For example, here is a city, country, baby. It works almost like a city, country, or river, but here are the categories: baby clothes, baby food, baby toys, etc. There are also playing cards where the players guess the baby’s name or assign the baby’s characteristics to the respective parent. In addition, you can play the following games for the planned baby shower:

  • Guess waist size
  • Assign baby photos
  • advise baby porridge
  • paint onesie
  • Fill out the friend book
  • predict due date

Ideas for a beautiful decoration

Furthermore, decoration is a must for many. Here you can let your creativity run free and decorate the apartment as you wish. But now there are already ready-made sets for baby shower decoration on the Internet. This usually includes garlands, balloons, and streamers. You can also order matching plates and mugs. This makes planning a baby shower super easy. And the good thing is that this decoration is available in many different colors and designs.

What gifts for a baby shower?

As a rule, the guests of the pregnant women bring gifts that they can use for the newborn baby after the birth. They can be very different gifts. Some give diapers, burp cloths, baby clothes, or pacifiers as gifts. Others give baby toys, blankets, or vouchers. The best thing to do is to find out inconspicuously beforehand what the parents-to-be still need for their baby’s initial equipment.

What speaks for a baby shower after the birth?

Of course, there are also some reasons that speak for a baby shower after the birth. Parents often opt for this variant in order to offer guests the opportunity to get to know their newcomers right away. In addition, it is often easier for guests to choose a gift for the baby if their size, gender, and name are known. Also, note useful tips on pregnancy and how you can give the gift of joy with beautiful birth cards.

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Cooking Tips

Planning and Preparing Christmas Dinner

A traditional Christmas dinner is part of Christmas for many families. This is where the family comes together and celebrates. In order for the celebration to be a success, you should prepare the Christmas dinner well. You can plan traditional dishes as well as use modern dishes. Get inspired by our Christmas dinner ideas.

What is the Christmas feast all about?

The tradition of the classic Christmas roast originally goes back to Lent. For a long time, roast goose and the like were only served on December 25, because that day marked the end of Lent. For a long time, feasts were served with a decoration of twelve apples. Because these apples symbolized the apostles and pursued the task of driving out evil spirits. The spices for roasting were also carefully selected. For example, the original meal of roast pork should be refined with three times three spices. This constellation should remind us of the trinity, which, in interaction with apples, should usher in a new year without sickness and hunger. However, the roasts were only served to rich people. Poorer families would eat sausages at Christmas time.

Ideas for a successful Christmas dinner

Christmas dinner is traditional and sacred in many families. Because on these evenings the family gets together. And that’s particularly nice because you usually have little contact with most family members throughout the year in hectic everyday life. Therefore, the Christmas days should be celebrated without stress in a cozy get-together. To ensure that everything goes well, you should plan and prepare the Christmas dinner well, if it is taking place at your place. Because a good Christmas meal lifts the spirits and calms the mind. With the following planning tips, the traditional Christmas dinner can come:

Plan the traditional Christmas dinner correctly

When you’re the one who has relatives visiting for Christmas. Then you should give some thought to the planning and implementation of the perfect dinner in advance. Because that way you can be sure that the preparation of the traditional Christmas dinner will be stress-free for you too. So you should ask yourself the following questions:

  • How many people are coming?
  • Are guests aware of any food intolerances?
  • Which food preferences should be considered (vegetarian, vegan, without pork)?
  • Is there enough crockery and cutlery?
  • Is there enough seating?
  • How should it be decorated?
  • What can be prepared well and early?
  • Preparing tips for Christmas dinner

If you don’t want to spend Christmas in the kitchen with enthusiasm, plan the Christmas menu so that a lot is prepared in the days before Christmas. Yeast dough can be frozen well, bread dough too, and even vegetables can be cleaned, cut, and frozen. It can also help if you choose cooking methods that don’t tie you to the stove. Even bratwurst can be prepared well in the oven. Another advantage of cooking in the oven is that the kitchen stays clean. In addition, it is a nice and stress-free solution for everyone if everyone contributes something homemade to eat. Then one makes the salad, the other the dessert and the hosts take care of the roast.

The traditional dishes at Christmas

At Christmas time there are many different specialties around the world that are otherwise rarely served. It’s mostly the same traditional dishes for Christmas throughout Germany, even if each region brings its own touch. Most German food on Christmas Eve is traditionally something more modest, while the days that follow are a feast.

Modern Christmas dinner

Since there are many different forms of nutrition these days, it is not easy to make everyone happy. Still, it’s not impossible. If there are vegetarians or vegans among your guests, you can fall back on numerous vegan minced meat alternatives here. There are also plenty of vegetarian dishes that the whole family will enjoy. However, so that all the work doesn’t get stuck on you, here’s a reminder of the idea that everyone can contribute something to the food. So everyone conjures up the dish that he can do best. Then everyone will like it.

Leftover menus for the following days

There is usually a lot of leftover food at Christmas. So the hard work was worth it twice over: you had a wonderful Christmas with your loved ones and you still have plenty to eat for the next few days. So you can relax and reduce the stress of the past few days.

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Food

Planning a Self-sufficient Garden: You Should Consider This

You should plan a self-sufficient garden well so that it works for you. Then it can be an important tool for a more self-determined and sustainable life. Here you can find out more about the most important tips.

More and more people want to live more independently of the economy and the state, focus more on nature and combine sustainability, health and nutrition. You can put this into practice with the help of a self-sufficient garden, for example.

In this article we explain how you can provide yourself with fruit, vegetables, herbs and nuts.

Self-sufficient garden: questions to get started

These relevant questions should accompany you if you are seriously considering becoming a self-sufficient person:

What level of self-sufficiency would you like to have? In other words, what percentage would you like to take care of yourself and what would you have to buy additionally?
In which areas of daily needs would you like to live self-sufficiently? Just fruit and veg? Or, for example, with honey and eggs?
What is your eating style now and how would it need to change if you were self-sufficient? Would it be possible for you to do all of this yourself?
How much garden space do you have available?
How much time can you take to work in your self-sufficient garden?
How much strength, endurance and patience do you have? Are you aware that self-sufficiency also means being outside at any time of the year?
Who would like to help in the self-sufficiency garden? It’s easier when you can share tasks and work.
Which methods do you want to work with? Is classic vegetable cultivation in rows something for you? Do you already know market gardening? Would you like to work with mixed cultures or even with the principles of permaculture?

Basic nutrition and self-sufficiency

If you just want to feed yourself using your self-sufficient garden, you should first find out how much food you need in a day. A food diary can help you with this. Your approximate basal metabolic rate can also serve as a guideline. This indicates how many calories you burn per day at rest.

According to the DGE (German Society for Nutrition), the average calorie requirement for men aged 25 to 51 is 2700 calories on average and for women of the same age 2100.

When creating your menu, you should also make sure that you consume sufficient micronutrients and all macronutrients (i.e. fats, proteins and carbohydrates) in a balanced amount.

How much space do you need for a self-sufficient garden?

How much space you need for a garden that you can completely take care of yourself depends on many factors. The soil conditions and the type of crops cultivated play a role here, for example. The numbers given here give you a first orientation:

Vegetables and herbs: The DGE recommends eating 400 grams of vegetables per day. That would be around 150 kilograms per year. You should plan a little more for the cultivation. Then you are well prepared if there is a loss in earnings. So if you plan on 180 kilograms per year, you need an area of ​​at least 60 to 70 square meters for the vegetables. The potato is probably the most essential staple food for self-sufficient people. It has high nutritional value and is easy to grow relative to grain. One person eats around 60 kilograms of potatoes a year. This corresponds to a bed area of ​​30 square meters.

Fruit: The recommended amount of fruit per day is 250 grams. That is approximately 90 kilograms of fruit per year. Here’s an interesting comparison: A well-tended standard apple tree produces around 100 kilograms of apples a year. However, it takes a few years for an apple tree to reach this stage. Therefore, it is advisable to grow different fruit trees and shrubs. In order to provide yourself with the amount of fruit mentioned above, you should calculate at least an area of ​​​​80 square meters.

Nuts and seeds: You should also plan some space for this indispensable source of protein and fat. Native walnut species are: hazelnut, walnut and chestnut. It also includes beechnuts and acorns. These nuts were formerly brought in as a food source in times of need and are edible under certain circumstances. A mature hazelnut bush, for example, provides you with about 3 kilograms of hazelnuts per year. They are well suited for planting at the edge of the garden. For a hazelnut tree you need about 20 to 50 square meters. You should plan 80 to 100 square meters for a walnut tree.

Note: The required size of your self-sufficient garden ultimately depends on the extent to which you want to be self-sufficient and whether and to what extent you buy additional groceries.

How much time for the self catering garden?

If you are planning a self-sufficiency garden, you also need to know what time capacities you have. The time of day also plays a role. If you only have time in the evenings, it can be difficult in winter. Your soil quality is also a factor affecting time. For example, if you’re lucky enough to have nutrient-rich soil, you don’t have to go to extra lengths to improve soil quality.

Some self-supporters report that they only need an average of 3 hours of work per week to feed two adults and one child. You can definitely do that with certain gardening tricks. But just when you start building a self-sufficient garden, you will have to plan more time. This also includes the research time.

How much time you will need exactly, you have to find out for yourself at the beginning. A garden diary can help you with this. This way you can plan step by step better and better how much time you have to spend on certain activities.

These plants are suitable for cultivation

Plants that grow well without much effort are particularly suitable for a self-sufficient garden, especially at the beginning. These include, for example:

Radish,
chard,
Pumpkin,
Zucchini,
Spinach,
Arugula,
bush beans,
Jerusalem Artichoke,
Potatoes.

Different plants also contain different nutrients. They can be broken down into three categories:

Plants rich in carbohydrates: for example potatoes, corn, carrots, all types of fruit;
Plants rich in protein: for example French beans, broad beans, peas, soybeans, walnuts, hazelnuts;
Plants rich in fat: sunflowers, flax, poppies, walnuts, hazelnuts.

A seasonal calendar gives you the best orientation as to which regional fruits and vegetables you can grow and harvest in which month. The storage periods are also indicated in the Utopia seasonal calendar. In order to fully plan your self-sufficient garden, you should first think carefully about which plants are suitable for which part of the garden. Take the time to read, research and share with others! Your region, climatic conditions and soil conditions are also important when choosing your plants.

Note: In order to be able to eat food from the self-sufficiency garden all year round, you must store it well or preserve it in some other way. To do this, you can boil, dry, ferment, salt, sour or sugar vegetables or fruit. For example, you can make pickled cucumbers, dried tomatoes, sauerkraut, dried fruit, jam, mush or chutney.

Material and equipment for the self-sufficiency garden

Before you start your project, you should get some important things. With the right material and high-quality gardening tools, your work will be much easier.

Your equipment for wind and weather: rubber boots, rain jackets and trousers and gardening gloves (e.g. with natural rubber) are essential. Because you will be kneeling on the floor a lot, knee pads or a knee pillow are useful.
Garden tools: Spades, rakes, rakes, pruning shears, garden shears, hoes, shovels, brooms, knives and weed pullers are the most important garden tools. You can use a lawn mower or even a sickle or scythe for mowing. A ladder, several buckets, a watering can and a wheelbarrow are also among the most important utensils. It is best to look for used equipment to save money and resources.
Planters: Cultivation pots and plant pots of different sizes are essential. Use eco-friendly options whenever possible. Read also: Avoid plastic plant pots: 8 alternatives. If you buy eggs, you can use the egg cartons as breeding pots.
Larger purchases: A self-sufficient person should also create a cold frame, a greenhouse, a planting table, raised beds, a warehouse or a storage cellar and a compost. For your storable harvest, stackable crates come in handy. You should also organize irrigation water.

Self-sufficient garden: conclusion

Complete self-sufficiency from your own garden is almost impossible these days. This would require a lot of compromises and hard work. There are also weather conditions and crop failures.

Nevertheless, there are many reasons to venture into a self-sufficient garden. No one can take away the knowledge and skills you acquire with it. Self-sufficiency makes sense, especially when it comes to fruit and vegetables: In 2020, German agriculture only produced 22 percent of the fruit and 37 percent of the vegetables that were offered for sale. The rest was imported from other countries. If you want to be less dependent on this global industrial agriculture, a self-sufficient garden is a good option.

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