How to have a stress-free Thanksgiving
It’s that time of year when there’s more things on your to-do list than hours in a day. The holidays tend to be a stressful time for everyone. But it doesn’t have to be. With a few simple steps, you can have a stress-free Thanksgiving that everyone will enjoy.
Planning is the key to everything and of course Thanksgiving is no exception. Plan your menu as early as possible and create a time table for chores such as cleaning and decorating. Put everything in writing with deadlines. Place the list visible for your family to see. You can even text your family so they’ll have reminders of what their responsibilities are.
Allow your guests bring side dishes. Don’t try to do everything yourself. Guests feel good to have helped especially if it’s their “speciality” dish included on your dinner table. Even a store-bought treat should be appreciated.
Spend the next couple of weeks cleaning any exposed area of your house. This includes the dining room, family room, kitchen, and guest bathroom. Don’t waste this time to clean out your closets or kid’s room if no one will see it.
When possible, use disposable pans for cooking and baking. You’ll be happier at the end of the night with less pots and pans to clean and put away.
Cook or prep your food as far ahead as possible, especially for desserts. Save Thanksgiving Day for final touches and hot entrees.
Check all platters, linen, tableware, glasses, and flatware before Thanksgiving. Layout everything you’ll need so that you can see if there are pieces that are missing or should be replaced. Many stores are closed on Thanksgiving so you don’t want to be rushing from store to store for dessert plates on that day.
Set your table the day before Thanksgiving. That will give you time to wash your dishware and iron your tablecloth if needed. Plus it will be one less thing do to on the day.
With early prepping and thankful help from your family and friends, you’ll be able to truly enjoy the holiday. Have a happy Thanksgiving.
Bringing together stories, rooms, life. 