Thanksgiving is a week away and the countdown has begun!  Instead of stressing and loathing all that goes into the planning and the execution of this holiday, I’m going to share with you how I make Thanksgiving go smoothly.

No using the turkey hotlines on my watch!

When I was a girl my family always hosted Thanksgiving dinner for family and friends.  My mom was calm and totally put together.  Always wearing a beautiful dress, her diamonds, and a smile on her face no matter what was happening behind the scenes.

I couldn’t wait to host my first Thanksgiving dinner once I got married and I was determined to do it stress free just like my mom.

Follow these tips and you too can have a stress free day!

Right from the beginning keep things on tract by planning.

Clean out your refrigerator and freezer to make room at least a week ahead of time.  While you’re cleaning also take inventory of what you have on hand so you’re not buying double when you go shopping.

Now is the time to button down your menu selections and pull out all the serving dishes you will need.  I put a sticky note on each one so I remember what goes where.  Also add the serving spoon and fork to the dish.  I turn them upside down on the table so they don’t collect dust.

It is to get excited about your holiday meal and go overboard with the menu.  Keep the menu simple. Make a list and shop now before the grocery stores get to hectic.

Set the table.  I  would do this sometimes a week in advance and then place a white sheet over the whole table to keep it from getting dusty.

Prepare items that can be made ahead and frozen, pie crusts, rolls, and desserts. I also made some gravy ahead of time just to make sure there is extra on the big day.  Stuffing or dressing (depending where you are from) can be made a day ahead and so can the cranberry sauce.

Make a schedule and stick to it.

Delegate!  Consider asking a few guests to bring their favorite dessert or their “specialty” dish.

Set up a drink station so your guests can help themselves.  Make sure you have alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks available for you guests.

If there are young children who will be at Thanksgiving dinner set up an activities area where they can stay active.  Have easy crafts and games to keep the children entertained.