If you’re reading this in real-time, IT’S TIME TO THAW THE TURKEY IN THE FRIDGE! As I mentioned in my last post, I’ve been blessed to have a father who is a retired chef. He makes the main dishes for Thanksgiving but lets us bring a few side dishes to the table. This year I am in charge of the salad, cranberry sauce, asparagus, ham, and Justen is making gluten-free dairy-free biscuits.
Although dad does most of the heavy lifting, I still need a simple system to keep things organized. I suppose I could use an app to keep track of the menu; the truth is, I love to write and make lists! When my dad was working as a chef, he explained that all the planning started with a function sheet. This sheet had every event listed. From there, he would create his work list. This work list would have the items needed for a particular party/event. Lastly, there was a requisition sheet that they used to place food orders. I suppose hearing all of this inspired my love for making lists, not to mention the daily list that I would see my dad write out at home.
This printable worksheet is meant to be used like my dad’s work list; it’s great for any occasion. You can use the columns to list menu items, who is bringing what, or items that you need to buy. I like to add notes about games that are necessary to bring, as a reminder to start infusing water with fruit by a specific time, when to put out appetizers, etc. The day of the event, and for a week leading up to it, this sheet is handy for me to add to or make notes on. I guarantee it will help you get everything in order and will free up your mind from having to “remember to” or “don’t forget.”

A few things to remember to do or to try this year on Thanksgiving:
1. Print out a handful of thankful for cards. Ask each guest to fill out and share before dinner.
2. Bring a new game to play after dessert.
3. Create a new dish to try.
4. Pick names for Secret Santa gifts.
5. Play Thanksgiving trivia, here’s a great link full of fun facts.
I hope your Thanksgiving is full of blessings, love, friends, and family. “We must find the time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives.” – JFK


Here’s the link to my cranberry sauce recipe…enjoy!
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