They've got lots of practical advice and wonderful touches that will leave your guests feeling welcome and you feeling calm and, well, thankful.
Isn't that what Thanksgiving is really all about?
Start now
1.We assume that you know who's coming, but if not, call everyone and confirm their attendance. Make note of dietary restrictions, number of children attending (will you need booster seats? high chairs?) and any older folks who might need extra help.
We assume that you know who's coming, but if not, call everyone and confirm their attendance. Make note of dietary restrictions, number of children attending (will you need booster seats? high chairs?) and any older folks who might need extra help.
2. If Thanksgiving dinner is potluck, get the dishes assigned.
3. Sit down with your menus and "start building a game plan," Ayala said. Make a shopping list, divided into perishables and nonperishables. Buy the nonperishables now, and if you plan to order a fresh turkey, get that done, too. If you're planning on a frozen bird, figure out the poundage and time required to thaw it in the refrigerator, the safe way to do it.
4. Don't forget to include guest-room items on the shopping list, if some folks are sleeping over.
5. Ayala suggests you calibrate your oven. Get a meat thermometer you know is accurate, set the oven temperature, and after it's heated, check to see that the two match. If not, adjust your oven dial accordingly when you cook this year.
6. If you're using a new recipe this year, try it out this week, McCollum said.
7. Iron the tablecloth and napkins. If you want new ones, get them now.
