Whether you're expecting a large crowd for Thanksgiving dinner or just a few family members, you always want the meal and the day to be extra special. It can feel overwhelming. The planning alone can really frazzle your mind. Here are a few suggestions for how to make everything go smoothly!
1. Take an inventory of everything you'll need for the big day. This includes (but is not limited to) cookware, table settings, glasses, utensils, linens, candles chairs.
2. Do what you can ahead of time. Washing glasses, ironing table cloths, making centerpieces. You can start these tasks a few weeks before.
3. If anyone offers to bring something, take them up on it. Don't turn down any help from a kind friend or family member.
4. Plan your menu, and then keep a running shopping list. Add to it as you think of things you need. I keep my list on the computer, so each year I can update it and print it out.
5. Make a shopping trip early on and buy the non-perishable items before the stores get crowded. Then make a second shopping trip for the rest a couple of days before Thanksgiving.
6. Keep a second list of things that need done and when you're going to do them. Finally, a third list is a timeline for the big day of what needs done at what time. I keep this list on the refrigerator door. If someone asks what they can do to help, I refer them to the list.
Enjoy each task you are doing, enjoy your guests, and be thankful with a grateful heart, remembering that every thing and every one is a precious gift from God!
