Last-Minute Thanksgiving Timeline

Clean

• If you only have time to deep-clean one room, make it the bathroom; then do other rooms later in the day if there's time. 
• If you have clutter, simply put it in a box (or two), then stash it in the garage or a room that won’t be in use. 
• Do a quick straightening of chairs, couch cushions, and pillows, and then vacuum. (Unless you’re house is in desperate need, skip the dusting.)

Make a Grocery List

• Think about what you are going to make from scratch and what you are buying pre-made.
• Check recipes to make sure you have all the ingredients you need on the list.
• Don't forget the extras: flowers, candles, matches (see sidebar for centerpiece ideas), wine, etc.

• Make it your goal to get to the grocery store between 10-11 a.m. so you can be home by the early afternoon.
• Think about any other stops you might need to make while you're out: A favorite bakery that makes the best pies? Coffee shop for fresh-ground coffee?

• Make dips
• Wash and chop veggies for appetizers and salad.
• Make cranberry sauce; refrigerate until the next day.
• Go through recipes to see if there's anything you can do to prep main and side dishes.
• Pull out serving dishes; rinse if necessary.
• Set dining table
• Once you're done in the kitchen for the night, sweep and wipe down counters.
  
  

First, arrange your centerpiece and put any finishing touches on your dining room table--then, it's all about the cooking. Do so at your leisure and plan to eat your meal in the evening, giving yourself some well-deserved time to relax and enjoy spending time with your guests.

You won't miss a thing if you consult the rest of your to-do list:

• Set out dips, veggies, crackers, etc.
• Chill or open wine.
• Prepare main dish.
• Mash potatoes.
• Make gravy.
• Toss salad.
• Warm dinner rolls.
• Whip cream for dessert.
• Heat cider, make coffee.

Happy Thanksgiving!