I'm hosting my first thanksgiving this year.
While its not as sexy as i dreamed—decorating the table with my fiance as my new engagement ring sparkles in the chandelier—I'm very excited.
And stressed.
In less than a week my sister and I will be hosting seven members of our family at my apartment in Chicago. Amidst our preparation over the last month there have been countless lists, several spats, a dozen phone calls and about 10 thousand recipes. And perhaps one or two panic attacks. So in light of my experience planning my first thanksgiving (results pending, of course), I've come up with six ways to maintain your sanity when you're the host; a handful of quick, at-a-glance survival tips to help your event run (even more) smoothly.
1. Have a plan
Make a game plan for the day including recipes, oven temps, allergies, etc. Make sure to schedule in 15 extra minutes for each cooking component. I happen to be an avid list maker, but my sister Emma always takes it up a notch with lists that include detailed time schedules. I have often mocked her for these meticulous lists she makes (especially the time she plotted out our entire weekend with our mom including time slots for coffee and conversation)
But for this occasion, her schedule making came in handy. We've planned what we are making and when, with time scheduled for cleanup and table prep. While this step may seem tedious up front, once you have everything down on paper you will feel ready to tackle anything.
Hot tip: Sign up at www.Butterball.com to receive tips and reminders via text message.
2. Divide and Conquer
Whatever you do, do not do this alone. I know, I know. You're probably thinking, "Isn't this all about hosting your own thanksgiving?" But in order to escape this first feat unscathed you have to find a partner in crime, or several. Dole out tasks specific to the guest/family member's age and abilities. Put your cousin and her husband on appetizer duty. Tell Uncle Larry to bring the wine. Have your teenage niece set the table. Working together is what the first thanksgiving was about anyway, isn't it?
3. K.I.S.S.
That's right, Keep it simple, stupid. Don't try and get too fancy on your first run. Stick to traditional items and limit yourself to one new fun dish. I found a killer recipe on Epicurious.com for chipotle sweet potatoes. Even Aunt Helen can't complain about that.
4. Stay Calm
Pick some key "gloss overs" in case any uncomfortable topics arise. In our family we like to avoid the three D's: divorce, debt and the Dow. If for some reason these subjects arise we have armed ourselves with some key gloss over transitions like, "Drew, tell us about your new job!" or "So Mike, what is Portland like this time of year?". The last thing a Thanksgiving dinner needs is uncomfortable conversation or—heaven forbid—a full blown fight. Keep in mind a few harmless topic areas that will provide safe transition back to
neutral ground. You'll be glad you did.
