Thanksgiving is such a special time of the year to sit back and intentionally reflect on all to be thankful for. Here are 10 time saving tips for making it through turkey day with plenty of gratitude, thankfulness and your sanity still in tow.
- Make a To-Do List. To-do lists are a must for big events and helping you not forget those important essentials. Try getting your to-do list organized a week or two before the beloved turkey day. And if you are Black Friday shopping, work on getting that to do list spiffed up and ready as well. Don’t forget to add pediped to that Black Friday schedule.
2. Clean your fridge and oven and sharpen those knives- Don’t forget to clean out your fridge to create space for all of your Thanksgiving dishes. Also, a clean oven prevents the unwanted smoking and fire alarm mishaps as well as it helps your oven function at the proper temperatures. Sharpen those knives, you will thank us later.
3. Have your big kids take photos of the family to capture memories. Sometimes we get carried away in conversation and realize not many pictures were taken. This is a fun activity for the older kids to go around and take pictures with their phone cameras or Mom and Dad’s phone. Create a list of images you want to have taken and assign them to each kid. Make it a game, who can bring back the completed photo log first.
4. Thankful Table Set- It’s always easier if you can get the table set a day or two before so that way on Thanksgiving you are just worrying about getting the food ready. Using Brown Butcher Paper as the tablecloth is a great way to set the table. Include a jar of sharpies in the center of the table for each guest to write down the things they are thankful for. Then before you eat take a moment to read your portion to your loved ones.
5. Give Thanks. Spreading love and thanks to others is another wonderful way to keep the spirit of Thanksgiving at the forefront of the holiday. Look to surprise a friend, coworker, neighbor, or stranger with a special Holiday drink, cookies, or a note telling them you’re thankful for them.
6. It’s ok to ask for help. Guests are usually always happy to lend a helping hand whether it’s bringing side dishes, helping with set-up or clean up. Or if you are the guest, make sure you offer a helping hand.
7. Use disposable cooking pans. Disposable cooking pans largely eliminates the amount of dishes to wash. Don’t forget to recycle!
8. Board Games and outdoor Games are great for the whole family. If the weather outside is frightful, have a table of fun interactive board games for both kids and adults to partake in while the food is baking. If it’s lovely outside, set up a game of crochet, football, or family soccer.
9. Tried and True Recipes will keep your guests full and satisfied. Leave Thanksgiving for those special family recipes that have been tried and true over the years. This is not the best day to try something new, unless of course, it’s coming from a tried and true source.
10. Most importantly, enjoy all the moments. This is such a great day to intentionally focus on what we are Thankful for and spend time among those you love most. Don’t let any of the day mishaps, if there are any, spoil the fun. Imperfection is perfection to a beautiful perspective, and what some of the most memorable memories are made of.
Happy Thanksgiving from your pediped family. We are sure Thankful for you.
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