The Holidays Are Around the Corner! Here’s How to Get Ready for a Stress-Free Thanksgiving
The holiday season is upon us, and with Thanksgiving just around the corner, it’s time to start prepping to make the day enjoyable and stress-free! Here’s a quick guide on how to stay organized and get ahead for a holiday that’s as relaxing as it is delicious.
- If you like your whole house to be in order….Start Early Like Now : There is nothing wrong with getting a little help either. Call for some yard help or for a handyman to come and fix items that have been bothering you or that have been on your Fix-It List. There is nothing like having a get together like Thanksgiving to kick you into high gear. This can help you get your House To-Do List checked off and get you off to a great head start to New Year.
- Decorate For The Whole Holiday Now : Go Ahead! Decorate for all your celebrateions now. If you like to decorate for Thanksgiving and Christmas, you can do both now. To add some separation to the holiday decor, decorate your living area with Christmas or the holiday theme you celebrate most and keep your eating areas decorated with Fall/Thanksgiving themed decor. Once Thanksgiving is over, simply remove the Thanksgiving decor, add some new holiday centerpieces and flip on the holiday lights. Go ahead! Put up the tree and start baking holiday cookies. You can freeze them for sharing at Christmas. Tip: Cookies baked now will stay fresh for up to 3 months if you layer them between sheets of parchment or wax paper and seal them in an air tight container in your freezer.
- Plan Your Menu Early: Decide on the dishes you’ll be making and which ones can be prepped in advance. If you’re trying new recipes, consider testing them beforehand to avoid any surprises on the big day.
- Stock Up on Ingredients: Check your pantry and make a detailed grocery list. Non-perishable items can be bought ahead of time, saving you a last-minute dash to the store.
- Prep What You Can in Advance: Many dishes can be partially or fully prepared ahead of time. Sauces, soups, desserts, and even mashed potatoes can often be made a day or two in advance, saving you precious time on Thanksgiving Day.
- Delegate Tasks: Thanksgiving is about sharing – including the work! Invite family and friends to bring a dish or help with setup and cleanup. A team effort makes everything run more smoothly.
- Set Up Your Kitchen and Dining Area Early: Arrange your serving dishes, utensils, and decor a day in advance so you’re ready for guests without scrambling.
- Relax and Enjoy: Remember, Thanksgiving is about being together. Once everything’s in place, focus on the good company and celebration.
With a bit of planning, you can enjoy Thanksgiving without feeling overwhelmed. Start now, and make this holiday season one to remember!
