Here in America we’re gearing up for Thanksgiving this Thursday. What that means, to all of you readers outside the country, is that women across this land are stressing out about Turkey Day grocery shopping, house-cleaning, decorating, recipes, party games, transportation of family members, dinner conversation etiquette and all of the other things on our “To Do” list to be prepared for the big day.

Of course, what Thanksgiving REALLY represents is an opportunity to fill our homes with people we love and express thanks for all that we have in our lives. How wonderful to have an opportunity to pause and reflect on the good things that surround us, especially when the world has been focused so much on the bad news lately. I am thankful for the mess to clean after a party because it means I have been surrounded by friends and family!

There are plenty of simple things we can all do to reduce the holiday stress and enjoy the “reason for the season”:

1. Have a plan and get organized.
2. Make a list of everything you need and then shop early.
3. Prepare as many of the food dishes as you can ahead of time so that you spend less time in the kitchen on the big day.
4. Simplify the menu.
5. Defrost the turkey with plenty of time to spare!
6. Restaurants and grocery stores can help out your time crunch when you purchase some of their prepared foods….guilt-free.
7. Organize some crafts and activities to keep the little ones busy and happy.
8. Plan an after-dinner activity.
9. Don’t try a new recipe for the first time.
10. Clean the oven before the big day of cooking so the food doesn’t get any odd flavors.
11. Guests often want to be helpful, so don’t be shy about assigning tasks.
12. Enjoy! There is no use sweating the small stuff…and this is all small stuff.

Years from now, people may not remember what food was served, what words were spoken, or even what they did on Thanksgiving Day, but they will always remember how they FELT. Fill your home with love, kind words, and lots of gratitude.

Thanksgiving can really be broken down into 2 parts: Thanks and Giving. Fill your Turkey Day with both!

Below are some really helpful web sites that will make your tasks easier and even a little more fun and they’re all FREE!