Top 10 Thanksgiving prep tips

Two weeks from today you may be gathering together with family and friends for thanksgiving.  If you are the host this year, here are some tips and resources to help you prepare.  

1. Sharp knives/carving tools:  If you don't have a well made cooks knife, consider purchasing one.  Yes, can be expensive, but you may find that it is the best purchase you ever made.  If you already own a good solid knife, make sure it is sharp.  Check with your local butcher.  Byerly's will sharpen two knives for free.  You will have to leave them with the butcher and it typically takes a day or two to get them back.  (www.Byerlys.com)
   
2. Cook and bakeware:  What condition are they in?  Do you need to clean or replace anything?  Does your crock pot work?
   
3. Cooking tools:  Do you have all the cooking tools you need?  How is that baster working these days?  Is your thermometer working?  Is it substantial enough to check the turkey temperature?
   
4. Oven:  Now is the time to clean your oven.  My favorite product for cleaning is the oven and grill cleaner from Norwex.  No fumes and it cleans great.  (https://shannonjohnson.norwex.biz)  Personally one of my favorite cleaning tools.
   
5. Cold storage space:  Do you need to edit your refrigerator(s)?  Remember, turkeys and leftovers take up a lot of room.  Are there condiments that need to be tossed (or replaced)?  Do you need to adjust your shelves?
   
6. Table linens:  Do you know where they are?  What condition are they in?  Do you need to wash or iron them?  Ditto for placemats.
   
7. Bedding/towels:  Are you having guests?  If so do you have enough bedding and towels?   You might also want to keep a few sample sizes of shampoo and other toiletries on hand.  Toothbrushes and toothpaste are also greatly appreciated!
   
8. Pets:  Are your pets stranger friendly?  if not, do you have a place for your pet to go while you visit?    Do you have toys or chew  to occupy them?  Check out www.chuckanddons.com 
   
9. Outside precautions:  If you live in an area where the potential for inclement weather is high, make sure to have supplies on hand.  Salt for the driveway, shovel and sand.  You want to make sure your guests are safe when walking to and from your home.  www.acehardware.com, 
   
10. Children:  Do you have something for your/your guests children to do?  If age appropriate what about a puzzle or game?  Consider putting together a kid's kit.  Crayons, paper, coloring books, videos and simple crafts can occupy children for hours.
    

If you have any other Thanksgiving preparation tips, I would love to hear them.  Please share in the comments section!

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