Thanksgiving Day Countdown

To help take the stress out of the holidays, plan ahead. I start 4 weeks out and make to do lists for each week.
Here's my list...


4 Weeks Before
Create a guest list and phone or send out invitations early. Write the menu. Order the turkey. Invite your guests to bring along one of their favorite dishes to contribute to the feast. I handle the turkey and mash potatoes and anything else on the menu that doesn't travel well. Be sure you have enough tables, chairs, linens, dishes and glassware, if your short, order from a rental company or borrow from friends and family.
3 Weeks Before
Polish the silver and press the linens. Make a Thanksgiving dinner music play list. I put task on my daughters to do list. Pick up candles and firewood. Clean out the freezer
2 Weeks Before
Finalize your shopping list. Clean out the refrigerator. Make place cards and a centerpiece. Get the kids involved! Make rolls, pie crusts, casseroles, and soups, and freeze 'em up. Test out any new recipes.
1 Week Before
Pick up your turkey if it’s frozen begin the thawing process. Refrigerator thawing takes 1 day for every 5 pounds of turkey. Order pre-made fruit and vegetable arrangements.
http://www.fruitfreshup.com/catalog.asp?prodid=597308
http://www.fruitfreshup.com/catalog.asp?prodid=593027&showprevnext=1
2 Days Before
Pick up that fresh turkey you ordered. Purchase fresh produce. Make pie crusts and refrigerate (if you haven't gone the frozen route). Set the table or decorate the buffet. Set up the bar. Lay out serving pieces and utensils.
1 Day Before
Wash and prep produce. Remove giblets and neck from turkey cavity and make turkey stock for gravy.
Bake pies. Arrange frozen dinner rolls on a sheet pan and thaw overnight in the fridge.
Thanksgiving Day
Relax and enjoy your company. Yes, there might be dishes to be prepared on the day, but you won't be in a panic.
Stuff and roast turkey (or bake dressing). Mash potatoes. Make gravy. Toss salad. Warm or bake bread and rolls. Reheat frozen dishes. Arrange appetizer platters. Whip cream for desserts. Chill or open wine. Make coffee.