For those with
inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), something as simple as going to a New Year's celebration is not always possible. New Year's Eve also tends to revolve around drinking, which may not be a good choice for those who are not feeling well. Staying home with friends and family can be more rewarding and better for your health. Here are some ideas for a New Year's at home. But whatever you decide to do, have a great time and look forward to the promise of a new year.
1. Host a Party
A
small gathering gives you the chance to unwind from the holiday stress and spend some time with those you may not have seen for some time. Make it easy on yourself by throwing a potluck, where you ask all your guests to bring a dish, or order takeout from a favorite local restaurant.
2. Play Card Games
Card games have always been a fun idea for parties, but lately card games and "
poker night" have become especially popular, making it an easy theme for parties. You can keep the game friendly by playing for pennies or candy.
3. Talk About Your Resolutions
A great conversation-starter for a party is to go around the room and have everyone talk about their
New Year's resolutions. Some people make several, and others don't like to make any, so it should make for lively discussion.
4. White Elephant Grab Bag
Ask your guests or family members to bring a "
white elephant" gift. These could be gag gifts, or something totally useless or tacky. Number each gift. Then put all the numbers in a hat and have each guest draw one out. Guests receive the gift with their number on it (if they get their own gift, they should draw again).
5. Watch The Ball Drop -- Again and Again!
Depending on what time zone you live in, you can celebrate New Year's every hour by watching celebrations in other time zones on television or on the computer via
web cams. You could even serve food or have decorations with an international theme when you celebrate each "New Year."