A Thanksgiving Checklist for the Busy Woman

There are only a few days until Thanksgiving. Are you ready for a houseful of hungry people? Here’s a general list of reminders for those of you who are having Thanksgiving dinner in your home this year.

1. Write down your menu, keeping in mind everyone who will be at the dinner table.
2. Put together your guest list. Has it been finalized? And, are you asking guests to bring a dish to pass? Salads, veggie / cheese plates, and pumpkin pies are wonderful side dishes that guests can assemble and bring to the dinner to lighten your workload.
3. Put together your shopping list. Now is a great time for specials at the grocery store. Whether it’s a turkey or the vegetables like potatoes and yams, the sales are out there this week. Some of the non-perishable groceries can be purchased for Christmas too. You’ll find the prices start to climb, as we get closer to the holidays.
4. Look for items in your menu that can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen.
5. Clean out your refrigerator now to make room for the salads, cranberry sauces, drinks and desserts. Don’t forget to make room for the turkey or other meats in the freezer.
6. Create your to-do list. Chores like cleaning silverware, dusting chairs, and displaying decorations can be done throughout the week. Delegate as much as you can to others. You’ll be more relaxed if you can bring all the projects together that others are working on during the week.
7.  Are you having children visit too? Be sure to kid-proof your entertaining areas to avoid broken displays. Put all medicines and chemicals away, and provide alternative games and activities for the kids.

 
Thanksgiving is a wonderful time of year. It’s a time of reflection on the blessings of this past year, and the beginning of the Christmas holiday season. By organizing today, you’ll enjoy this busy season even more, and have plenty of energy left over for the Christmas holiday. Our blessings to you throughout this next week.
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Jean Muehlfelt - Editor and writer for mrs-s.com and mrssurvival.net. Jean has a degree in Marketing and enjoys writing on issues important to families.