by Marta Allison

Created on: October 13, 2008   Last Updated: October 20, 2008

Thanksgiving is an eagerly awaited, very hectic, yet sometimes stressful time of year. Between the shopping, baking, house cleaning, decorations, calls to invite friends and relatives, along with work and caring for pets and kids, time slips away from us. With a little planning you can make your holiday entertaining easy and gratifying.

Taking time to give thanks personally and as a family can bring deeper meaning, relaxation and lighthearted enjoyment for all involved.

Each morning or evening take 30 minutes to reflect on the things for which you are grateful. Many articles have been written on this subject. Studies show that this type of reflection can bring back joy in your heart, can decrease stress, blood pressure, lower heart rate, decrease cortisol levels, increase self esteem and lighten your mood...in essence, make you happier. And you know what they say, "if Mama's not happy, no one is happy", so Moms, steal 30 minutes per day several times a week and enjoy the difference. Being thankful can be as simple as appreciating the sound of birds singing in the morning. Or feeling relieved that the kids are out of diapers. Reflecting on the joy you feel when you receive a hug or kiss from someone you love. How happy you are that Mom and Dad are coming for dinner and are in good health, (and can only stay one day). Whatever the subject, focus on the joy and being grateful.

Make a list and delegate a task for everyone. Your husband could pick up the table centerpiece and wine on his way home from work earlier in the week. Do your shopping early enough to allow for meal planning and the inevitable extra trip to the market to pick up what was forgotten the first trip. Kids help pick up, dust and vacuum. Set aside a few tasks per day prior to Thanksgiving to avoid the mad rush at the eleventh hour.

After dinner,a few days before the holiday, clear the table and have the kids help with handmade decorations, or cookies, which make great conversation pieces and give the kids pride in helping to prepare for the holiday.

Have each guest bring a part of the dinner. Aunt Ellen...rolls. Sister Emma...pumpkin pie. Grandma and Grandpa...sage dressing. Not only does it decrease your work load , but allows everyone to contribute, for which everyone will be thankful.

Before dinner have everyone go around the table briefly sharing something which brings them joy or for which they'd like to express gratitude.

Don't forget to tell your husband and kids how grateful you are for their love, help and support. Then smile, take a deep breath and enjoy! Happy Holidays!

Have games and videos on hand for those who will not be watching sports.

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