Last-Minute Thanksgiving

Decorating might seem frivolous with so little time, but something as simple as a centerpiece can go a long way. Try one of these easy centerpieces:

• Flowers: instead of one big bouquet, use three smaller, medium-height arrangements so you can still see the person across from you. Put a larger arrangement on a side table or buffet if you like.
• Produce: arrange bowls of citrus fruits--one for a small table or three for a large table. Baby pumpkins or fall fruit (like pears, apples, bunches of grapes, etc.) add great color--arrange on a cake stand or candle holder large in diameter.
• Candles: use tall glass cylinders or hurricanes that rise above the candle's flame so guests can reach across the table without worrying about dragging sleeves and arms through the lit wicks.

If you have extra time, here are some easy ways to spice up the atmosphere:

• The night before, make fresh ice, dropping two or three cranberries into each section of the ice try. Use the ice cubes in water glasses at dinner.
• Get colorful leaves from outside the night before, lay out to dry, and then place on table as part of your centerpiece, or under each water glass.
• Instead of napkin rings, tie napkins with ribbon, then stick a sprig of rosemary under the bow.
• Set a small votive with a tea-light at the top of each place setting (12 o'clock at each plate).
• Place a baby pumpkin in the middle of each plate, then lean name cards against pumpkins. (Use simple index cards, white side facing out, names written with a black or silver marker.)

Okay, you know you don't have time to cook these dishes, but you can’t live without them on Turkey Day. Email one of these highly-rated traditional Thanksgiving recipes to each guest, so they can contribute to the meal. And don't forget to say "Thank you!"