OVER THE RIVER

OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS

It's that time, guys. We are ONE WEEK OUT! So much to do! Are you ready?

Here are some things that can be taken care of between now and Sunday. Starting Monday, I will give a daily "to-do" Thanksgiving preparation list.

Your menu should be settled, but if it's not, go ahead and do that. Also assign foods to whomever might want to help out. Good "travelling" dishes include desserts, side dishes and breads.

Make sure you have your seating settled....do you need to bring in some extra tables and chairs? Also, make sure you have a roasting pan that is big enough for your bird. Double check silverware, glassware, dishes and any serving items you might need.*

*Now, Martha would NEVER approve, but I will throw it out there anyway. Paper is OK. Really, it is. If you don't have enough plates, or you are with family or friends whom you just don't see enough, then pass up on all the dishes....you will have tons to deal with from the meal preparation alone. If you DO use paper/plastic, please throw away when they are used. (You laugh, but years ago, a Thanksgiving feast for my family saw us all reminding the new family members to break the plastic ware, poke holes in the plates and take a bite out of the styrofoam cups.)

There are a few things you can prep now: a relish and your gravy will freeze well. Personally, I do my cranberry stuff the day before or the day of. The gravy will be prepped on the day of, in my house.

Make your final grocery list...don't forget things like coffee, creamer, ice and snack stuff (nuts, cheese platter). Keep in mind that there may be a few things you need to buy the day before. However, your turkey needs to be purchased now. :D

TURKEY.....To thaw your turkey, you need 24 hours per 5 pounds. A 15 pound turkey? Put it in the fridge on Monday morning. 20 pounds, Sunday morning...count up from there, depending on the size of your bird. Haven't gotten your turkey yet? ACK!! OK...don't panic....that is your assignment for tomorrow.

Housekeeping: go ahead and do your major cleaning (deep cleaning) paying special attention to the areas where guests will be. Yes, I know you will be busy running around and cleaning up the day before guests arrive, BUT you want the hard stuff done so you only have to spot clean the high traffic areas.

I'm sure I'll be back tomorrow or the next day. And, I'll certainly post my Making a Happy Home Monday. Monday is when I will start with some daily reminders/tips. Use what you can.