The day of thanks. When I think of Thanksgiving I feel all cozy inside, and I instantly feel ten steps closer to home. It’s not just the one day of the year the whole the whole family comes together under one roof—which isn’t always the most ideal—and have the opportunity to exemplify how grateful you are.
I don’t know about you, but my Thanksgiving consists of multiple tasks, and I can’t afford to forget anything because over the years I’ve been assigned very specific obligations. In order to make this holiday perfect here are a few of my tips to make your thanksgiving run as smooth as possible.
1. Outfit
Thanksgiving day is the time when all your relatives are in one room and most likely won’t stop asking for photos, not just regular disposable ones to save as memories, but ones that you’ll see on instagram and most of all Facebook. I like to be cozy but cute in autumn warm tone colors. Every family member and co-worker will be comparing their thanksgiving to yours, and it’s crucial to not only look presentable, as a member of the host family, but to dress to impress—even if it is only your family.
2. To do list
There is going to be a long day ahead of you, with all the running around picking up last minute grocery items causing you to have a tug of war over the last can of whip cream, to setting up the pre-snacks during the football game. If not the day before, I typically create my to-do list right when I wake up, it feels very satisfying to check off each task, and it even motivates me more throughout the day while making sure i’m not forgetting anything.
3. Recipe ideas
With all the hands in the kitchen, it’s a good idea to already know what you’re going to be making. Personally, I always make the mac n cheese while helping my dad cooks up some side dishes (like corn and string beans), and preventing my little brother from making a sea of potato skins when mashing up the potatoes. Channeling my inner domestic food star, I have my apron set out and step by step instructions so I don’t waste time being lost.
4. Set the table
Something I always did before everyone arrived at my house was make a seating chart, one so I could make crafty name plates and two. I know which of my aunts butt heads with my grandma, so they would go on opposite sides. keeping as much peace as possible throughout the hectic day. Since I’m also in charge of making the annual “grateful game” we pass around the table, it’s good to be one step ahead and have the napkins and silverware set out, so I don’t have to worry about it.
Thanksgiving has always been an overlooked holiday because everyone usually leaps straight to Christmas (but who can blame them), but that doesn’t mean it isn’t important. Since I’m an overachiever, I also implore you to make your own Thanksgiving as special as you want while enjoying time as a family.