Plans on how to Enjoy a Hectic Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving brings to mind the typical situations that surround any holiday gathering with family and friends. There are details to work out, a meal to prepare, a house to fill with people and in many cases there will be drama to contend with. So while the holiday and happiness go hand in hand there may also be stress thrown in the mix.
The best idea is to have a holiday plan all mapped out before anyone even gets in the door. Build a schedule in your mind about how you want Thanksgiving to go. Include the arrival times of those you are entertaining, the numbers of people you need to accommodate and the timing and help you need to prepare a meal for that many people. If you're having guests that will be staying in your home for the weekend then get their beds ready the evening before the big day. Make sure you have your family there to help entertain relatives and act as hosts while your attention may be drawn elsewhere. If your guests are expected to share close quarters in the house then make sure you give them a chance to escape outside for fresh air and to let the younger family members have room to run and blow off energy.
At Thanksgiving there is so much to consider that it might get overwhelming right as you begin to prepare for the meal. Start early and by that I mean getting into bed early the night before so you'll have enough rest and time in the morning to get things going. Start with the biggest part of your Thanksgiving meal and have a turkey or ham in the oven with enough time to cook it thoroughly.
Next you will need to get the remainder of the trimmings done and it might be best to have a sidekick or two or three handy in the kitchen. It is also a good idea to have a back-up plan in case you have too many or too few guests. Preparing side dishes ahead of time means you can have it ready in case the table starts getting empty too soon. It's also best to have the means to preserve food if the table is way too full. Of course there is always the simple gesture of sending guests home with leftovers in containers you probably won't need returned. It allows you to keep the fridge and freezer clear of too much clutter and remind your guests of the wonderful time they had at Thanksgiving. This leftovers theory also applies to anyone who will be sticking around after Thanksgiving to help clean up food.
During the preparations and other activities let the kids and the relatives do whatever makes them comfortable whether it be running outside, playing games, talking amongst themselves or simply plopping down in front of the TV. The more relaxed they are, the easier it will be to entertain them before and after the meal. It also helps some family members to avoid drama and arguing if they can do different things in different parts of the house. Although if the guests are being harmonious, make sure they have a big enough place to all enjoy each other's company.
If the sidekicks haven't already offered, get some help to keep the kitchen and the rest of the house cleaned up as best it can be. Always be ready to drop what you're doing or get up from a comfy chair to say goodbye to those who are leaving and those who you might not see again until the next big holiday. Send them off with leftovers if you have to and be comforted that all your guests have left with a smile and a reminder of a well-spent holiday weekend.
