Last week was a tough one. You know the ones where the days blur together, family life seems overwhelming,  work pressures are building and somehow you are expected to navigate it all AND have a somewhat healthy meal ready at the end of each day. Yup, it’s too much sometimes. When I have one of those weeks and Friday finally arrives, I feel like I won a small battle. I made it through. We all survived. It’s time to celebrate! But….how? Welcome to the TGIF Chips n’ Dip Club.

Then you think about something you always enjoy, something that always gives you a lift, and makes you feel better….of course ….I’m talking about Chips n’ Dip!  I mean….no, no, NO…..I’m talking about meaningful conversation, a good laugh among friends and about connecting with others. 😉 What better way to finish off a hectic week, than to gather with a few people and talk, share….laugh. What if you combined these two? It’s a perfect combination!

TGIF Chips n’ Dip Club

Studies show that social connections are paramount to good mental health. The problem is the busier we get, the less importance we place on these gatherings, when the reality is, that is when we need them more than ever.

This past Friday I bought some chips and dip and extended an invite to 2 friends. Only 1 could make it….it was lovely. We sat by the fire, a glass of wine and simple bowl of chips with dip. We shared stories, had a few laughs, and solved a few of life’s problems along the way.

My usual Friday nights involve often an empty house as my family heads out to a local hockey game and I typically end up falling asleep on the couch, ridiculously early. I can think of no better way to celebrate making it through the week, than by connecting with people you care about. Make time for those people who are important to you. Make time to stay connected with friends you don’t get to see enough. Recognize the mental health benefits of social interactions and put “you” back on your priority list.

Think Simple

By the end of some weeks I don’t have the time or energy to go all out put out a big spread. Think simple. Chips n’ Dip….Bread and Cheese….Pretzels and Beer…..what you serve isn’t important. Making time for people who matter, that’s what counts. Host your own TGIF Chips n’ Dip Club some night. Go old school and get some good Dill Pickle Dip….some Lays Chips….and celebrate. Make time for you.

Do you have any simple celebrations you enjoy? Maybe your own version of a TGIF Chips n’ Dip Club? Let us know how you make time to connect with people, while keeping it simple.