Tomorrow is Turkey Day! If you have baking or last minute cleaning left to do, now is a good time to get it done, and then…
Get Ready
Set out platters, and serving bowls and mark each one with a small piece of masking tape or a Post It note, indicating what will be served from each dish. If you are serving dinner buffet style, arrange your buffet (using the empty but marked serving pieces). Add flowers or candles. Make sure you have enough serving spoons. If not, these can be purchased separately (or borrowed). Don’t worry about matching your other silverware. Also, get out your roasting pans, sharpen the carving knife, or set out your electric knife, check the blades. Where’s the meat thermometer?
Get Set
Set the table. Set as many items as possible in advance to save yourself some time tomorrow. Press your table linens and arrange your centerpieces or flowers. If the turkey is going to be your centerpiece, add a few festive touches such as a pair of long taper candles. Set each place right down to the pretty linen napkins atop each plate. Add salt and pepper shakers, sugar bowl, creamer, trivets, etc. You can even set out the roll basket and other similar items or place serving bowls that you intend to have on the dining table (even if you’re having a buffet). Don’t forget the kids’ table!
Go!
Go out to eat or order take-out if it’s in your budget. Cooking and having to clean up afterward is difficult the day before a major holiday when you’re entertaining. If doing so is not within your budget, consider frozen pizza or something simple like sandwiches. Also, go to bed. Try to get into bed as early as comfortably possible so you can rest up for tomorrow. Don’t forget to set your alarm. Lay out your clothes so you won’t be fussing for something to wear in the morning.
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