SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Thanksgiving is quickly approaching and if you are anything like me, there is still a ton of things on your to-do list.
Between Friends-giving and family traditions, there is a lot to do in preparations for the holiday. There's food to cook, apartments or houses to clean and guests to manage.
So, whether you are hosting for the first time or attending a family function you go to every year, we want to make your dinner runs as smoothly as possible.
We took to the ABC10 Facebook page to ask our followers "What is your best advice for a successful Thanksgiving?"
1. Prep as much as you can ahead of time - Kathy Storment
There is A LOT to do. It can be incredibly overwhelming. Take some of the smaller tasks, like setting the table, cleaning the house or making some of the side dishes and desserts ahead of time.
Pro-tip: Make a to-do list and highlight everything you can take care of before Thursday.
2. Bring a side dish or a pie to take some of the heat off of the host/hostess - Galina Tetoff
So you got an invite to someone else's house for Thanksgiving. It is so nice to not host, but keep in mind while you are relaxing someone else is stressing. Take some of the heat off of the host or hostess by bringing a side dish or a pie for dessert.
Pro-tip: Be sure to talk to your host/hostess before bringing anything in order to avoid any allergies or surprise them with a favorite of theirs.
3. Buy a pre-made meal from a nice grocery store. - Heidi Westby
Worried about burning the turkey or just even making a turkey? I don't know about you but the idea of sticking my hand up a raw turkey does not scream "good morning!" Grocery stores such as Raley's and Whole Foods will have entire dinners prepared and ready for purchase.
Pro-tip: Be sure to call and place an order a few days in advance in case the demand is high.
4. Avoid talking about politics and religion - Ellen Catris Victoria
Some subjects may lead to divisiveness and anger. Try to avoid hot-button topics and enjoy the time and company of your friends and family.
Pro-tip: This tip is especially important to keep in mind when alcohol is involved.
5. Just relax and enjoy yourself! - Margie Aquilar
Things are going to go wrong, it is inevitable. The issues can often be something out of our control but what we can control is how we react to them and if we will let them ruin the day. Don't sweat the small stuff. Enjoy the day, the dinner and the time you get with your loved ones.
Pro-tip: Play some smooth jazz, no one can be stressed with a sick saxophone playing in the background.
There you have it! These tips from ABC10's Facebook Followers can hopefully help you sidestep any Thanksgiving disasters. If all else fails, follow Melissa Langer's advice:
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Parenting advice from real, actual moms: Brittany Begley sits down with four mothers to get their advice on how to deal with the holiday season and kids.