by Anna Wright

Created on: October 12, 2008   Last Updated: October 20, 2008

Thanksgiving. That time of year where some think of turkey, stuffing, pies, family, friends and football while others are filled with panic, dread, stress and overwhelming thoughts of getting it all done. If the latter is you that's because you are the host. If the thought of having a stress-free and gratifying Thanksgiving has never entered your mind that's about to change. Follow these seven simple planning tips at the beginning of November and you will be on your way to an enjoyable Thanksgiving Day.

1. Calendar: Get a calendar of the month of November and also a weekly calendar for the week leading up to Thanksgiving. There are plenty of free calendars online if you google "free printable calendars". You will also need a small notebook to write down your lists in and keep track of everything.

2. People: Who's invited? Write down all the names of both adults and children. Check people off the list as they RSVP. Also use this list to figure out how many chairs you will need. If you don't have enough chairs ask around you never know which guests has some folding chairs sitting at home just waiting to be used.

3. Menu: Here comes that ol' pit in the stomach feeling. Let it go. Make menu planning easy. Honor your families traditional Thanksgiving meal. This really is not the time to try out new recipes. Everyone looks forward to eating the traditional foods on Thanksgiving Day.

Look your menu over and see what you would like to make and what you would like to have others bring: side dishes, wine, bread, desserts, etc. Remember most people really do want to help and they usually bring something along so it might as well be something you need.

4. Shopping: Make 2 grocery lists: one for perishable and one for non-perishable. You can shop for the non-perishables early leaving you with just the perishables to shop for a day or two ahead.

5. To do: Make a list of things you need to do to get ready for the day such as clean out your refrigerator, clean your house, gather and iron table linens, make sure china and your silverware are clean, set the table 1 day ahead, check for a large roasting pan, make ahead dishes, cooking schedule, etc. This is not the time to redecorate or rearrange.

6. Prioritize: Take your lists and calendars and plug in what you will do and when. Be realistic with your time. I find starting on Thanksgiving Day with the turkey and working backwards to be the most beneficial way to make your planning process simple.

7. Atmosphere: Think simple and easy. A pumpkin saved from Halloween can be carved into a stunning jack-o-lantern centerpiece by using a simple carving kit. Make wassail, it's easy and the aroma is so welcoming. Have light music playing softly in the background. On small pieces of paper have people jot down something they are thankful for and put them in a basket. Someone can read these during the meal. Children are great at helping with this.

Follow these seven simple planning tips for a Thanksgiving holiday that is both entertaining and gratifying for you and your guests. That is surely something to be thankful for.

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