Here are some tips to help take the stress out of your Day of Thanksgiving.
- Make lists: Make lots of to do lists. Make a grocery list, make an errand list, make a list of things that need to be done around the house. Remember…..delegate some tasks to others in the family. Make sure kids have something to keep them busy. They will love feeling a part of the big day.
- Make Thanksgiving a pitch in: You don’t have to do all the cooking. Give specific assignments to your guests (be sure and ask them what their specialty is!) This relieves the stress, gives everyone an opportunity to contribute, and makes it a real family affair.
- Check on your supplies: Do an inventory of your kitchen. Make sure you have all the cookware you need, necessary serving dishes, and your festive table linens (making sure all is in order and clean can be done days in advance.)
- Decorate early: To avoid last minute rush on the big day, set your table, including centerpiece the day before. Once again, let the kids help!
- Appetizers: We all know how difficult it is to bring the entire meal together at the same time. While guests are waiting for the chef to put on the finishing touches, serve a few appetizers. Make sure these are just little nibbles…..you don’t want everyone filling up before the big meal!
- Carving the bird: This all important task is often thought of at the last minute. Appoint your official “bird carver” ahead of time. Make sure they have the necessary tools to do the job justice.
- Drinks: An important detail that is often overlooked is the beverages to be served. Give these some thought, prepare ahead if possible, remember to stock up on ice and have appropriate beverage glasses available.
- Keeping everything warm: In order to serve a warm delicious meal, use warm plates. This can be done in a clean dishwasher set on the dry cycle or run the plates under very hot water. Dry them thoroughly and wrap in heavy towel until ready to use.
Adapted from The Thanksgiving Table by Diane Morgan. Copyright 2001.
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