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November 7, 2007
By Alli
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Don’t let the idea of the “big meal” stress you out….let this easy timeline help you with your holiday entertaining….
1-2 weeks before Thanksgiving
*confirm the number of guests (always plan for 2 more)
*determine the size turkey you will need, usually about 1/2 pound per person. This will also allow for those leftover turkey sandwiches
*plan your table setting: china, flatware, serving dishes,linens etc. This will give you time to purchase any additional things you might need.
*make a menu and shopping list. Determine if you are going to ask your guests to contribute with a dish or if you are going to do the entire meal.
*keep the menu simple and prepare dishes you are comfortable with. If you are going to try a new dish, do a trial run now to see if your family approves.
The timeline will continue with my next post…..don’t stress!
1. Hi Alli,
Great idea to have this timeline. I don’t know why its always so stressful to put on the meal. I guess we just want everything to come out perfect. I always have guests bring a dish. Then its not so stressful and I can enjoy the day and the company as well. Your table is beautiful, what time do we eat! What can I bring?
by Cathy — 11/7/07 at 11:57 pm #
2. Thanks Cathy…..
Since you are coming from beautiful California, I am going to make it easy on you……how about a nice bottle of wine to compliment the BIRD!!!!
You are most welcome anytime my friend.
alli
by Alli — 11/8/07 at 8:08 am #
3. I’m cheating this year! Dream Dinners offers an medly of turkey sides that serves 8 people. All I have to do is pick up the free bird that I earn from my local grocery store, and heat up the sides. That leaves me more time to focus on the table and presentation. And that’s the fun part!
I should add that we don’t have any family coming this year…just the 4 of us. In fact, we may stay in our jammies all day!
Susan Smith
www.roomsthatwork.com
by Susan Smith — 11/8/07 at 10:46 am #
4. Sounds like a winner Susan!!!!!!
It will be a parade and football themed day! have fun and enjoy your family!!!
Happy Thanksgiving!
alli
by Alli — 11/8/07 at 11:03 am #
5. Hi Alli,
Time is ever creeping up on us. It is coming so fast that people are in stores now shopping for Christmas (smile). Getting everything in order is so important for all family members. Many times my major problem is trying to decide what family members I will have dinner with. I will have the Christmas or New Years Day dinner. So glad, that right now, I don’t have the stress of trying to decide what to prepare and how many people to prepare for.
Happy! Happy Thanksgiving!!
by Betty — 11/8/07 at 4:13 pm #
6. Thanksgiving…the passed over holiday as far as retailers are concerned. I also always go by a timeline! I always order my turkeys, yes I said turkeys, at the beginning of November. Fresh is the only way to go. I also started getting plates and glassware together today. Serving 24 always needs preplanning. The table will be set for Thanksgiving on the Monday before. Less to think about later. Looking forward to your continuing time line!
Thanks,
Lynn
by lynn — 11/8/07 at 11:05 pm #
7. Lynn,
Way to go Girl!!! You have this down to an art! I totally agree, fresh turkey does taste so much better. I love Thanksgiving, it is the true American holiday, and I do think it is overlooked. I enjoy getting together with family and friends, and simply being together.
Please feel free to add to my timeline, I might accidently leave something out!!!
Thanks for your comments and Happy Thanksgiving!
alli
by alli — 11/9/07 at 10:15 am #