Good Morning, y’all!

It’s Tidy Tuesday and as promised I wanted to share some Thanksgiving Day preparations that have always worked for me.

I have always been a ‘list’ maker. Very rarely will I leave the house for errands without my lists. And since we can create these on our phones, I have lists for ……

just about everything and my life is so much more organized!

It’s only 17 days before this wonderful holiday is upon us, yum yum. So exciting!

Here we go ……

Three weeks before:

1. Create your menu; the appetizers, the dinner, the desserts, the drinks. It’s so much easier for your budget and will help so things do not fall through the cracks.
2. Finalize the number of people attending. Also, if people are bringing a dish, now is the time to finalize what they are bringing so you can create your grocery list. Ask if there are any allergies or special requirements.
3. Make out your grocery list. Go through your pantry so you do not forget important ingredients or buy things that you already have.
4. Go through how you want the table set up. Visualize exactly what you want, down to the decorations, like candles, etc and create your list now. Remember you can always remove things from the list to stay in budget or decide it’s not needed.
5. Set your budget.

Two weeks before:

1. Order, buy Turkey. Many people like to wait until one week before to buy their turkey (frozen) since many stores have them on sale, however, I prefer to get mine a little earlier. I have the storage space and have found out that although they may be on sale, the choices are more limited; brand and size. If you are ordering a fresh turkey, many stores need at least two weeks sometimes three.
2. Go shopping for other essentials; new linens, decor, special games/activity items, liquor, etc. Do you have pets of your own and/or are any additional ones coming, you don’t want to forget about our furry family members, they need to be part of the day too!
3. Finalize place settings and centerpiece.

One week before:

1. Grocery shopping. I usually prefer to go to the store once for all my items however, if by chance I miss something, there is still plenty of time. Account for all special ingredients/specialty items.
2. Prepare linens, spare bedroom/bathroom items.
3. Create Thanksgiving Day timeline. You may chuckle, but having things written with time frames takes all the stress out of this very special day. What time do you want your meal and work backwards. Write down how long it takes to prepare each item. Include items that you will make the day before. Check to see how long you need to defrost your turkey.

The week of Thanksgiving Day:

• Monday – Let’s Clean! Get the deep cleaning done, then the day before  Thanksgiving is just a little touch up and last-minute fluffing!
•  Defrost turkey accordingly.
• Create your centerpiece …… so much fun!
• Tuesday – Review your list and timeline. If any last-minute shopping is needed, get it done today.
• If you are having any overnight guests, get their room ready.
• What are you wearing on Thanksgiving Day, have it ready. Be sure your family is prepared.
• Wednesday – review your menu. Many things can get done the day/night before. Boil eggs and store in refrigerator to make deviled eggs tomorrow. Dressing is another item that can be made in advance. Many appetizers and desserts can also be prepared in advance. (sip a little wine, turn the music up and prepare some items tonight, it’s always been so much fun for me)
• Review your timeline, set your alarm and may your dreams be full of pumpkin kisses and harvest wishes covered with sprinkles!

Thanksgiving Day!

• Wake up, enjoy some coffee and a light breakfast. Follow your timeline and have a glorious day!
• Easy Peasy and Stress-free!!

Thanksgiving Day is special and a blessing. If you are hosting it this year, I hope you find some of my ideas helpful.

Sending you love and blessings from our home to yours on this Tidy Tuesday!