KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – Start planning for Thanksgiving

It’s the first week of November already! Boy, does time fly. Thanksgiving week will be here before we know it. Now that we have enough time it’s good to plan for an easy and stress-free holiday.

Think about your menu. You probably have some idea of how many people you are having so plan accordingly. Thanksgiving is a most forgiving menu. Add or subtract a few guests and you are still good.

Turkey and fresh baked goods like pies should be ordered at least two weeks ahead. Plan now for quantities. Bakery pies yield 8 servings. As for turkey, 2 pounds per adult and 1 per child is good and will yield sufficient leftovers. Make sure to stock disposable containers in various sizes for guests to take food home.

There is plenty of time now to try a few new recipes. We all have our family favorites but it’s great to introduce at least one new item a year. Roasted root vegetables are easy and appeal to many eaters with their sweet taste. They can also be made ahead of time for ease on the big day. Mashed skin on red potatoes with garlic are delicious. Sweet potatoes are yummy too. Go online and search. I love americastestkitchens.com and foodnetwork.com.

Go through all your dinnerware, silverware and serving pieces. I bet last year you thought you could use a few more. If you are doing a buffet for a large gathering, see about renting. For one time a year it’s more cost effective than buying. Borrow slow cookers in various sizes to keep side dishes warm. You can buy small slow cookers small enough for hot dips! 

If you work as much as I do it’s hard to find the time to do a thorough house cleaning. Now there is enough time to take it one room at a time. Don’t forget baseboards and ceilings. Check for carpet cleaning specials. Declutter as much as possible. Less to dust! Better yet spurge on a cleaning professional. For around $200 you can get your house cleaned in one day. Money well spent I say!

The sooner you plan for the holiday the less stress you will have. Imagine everything going so smoothly and having enough time to enjoy yourself and your guests. It can be done!

KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO