Actually, there are many secrets to a good family gathering, and since I am trying to get you to the delicious turkey, I am only going to share a few.

If you are the chief cook and bottle washer this year…relax.

Take it slow and plan it out.

There are always a few dishes that can be made the day before!

If someone offers to help…say, YES!

Have them do something, anything to help. Folding napkins, setting the table, basting the turkey, or taking the trash out. They get that warm feeling knowing they contributed to a beautiful meal, and you have one less thing on your proverbial plate!

Clean-up! In one word…delegate! OK, two words. DELEGATE!

You have shopped, prepared, and cooked. Now, tell your crew what to do!. The secret is giving your cleanup crew a plan of action. What to clean, what to do with left-overs, and what to leave soaking in the sink are the most important. (Super-secret right here; it doesn’t have to look perfect. It just has to be livable and somewhat better than the food explosion that it was!)

While your soon-to-be professional Christmas Elves are cleaning up, check out our store for Black Friday Savings on Thanksgiving Day!

Again, follow the instructions, check the bird’s temp when done, add some garnish to the platter, and have some delicious turkey!

Now, one quick secret for the meal itself.

Don’t try to force that Hallmark moment.

Let it unfold in the natural, goofy, slightly dysfunctional family that you are! Tell everyone you are thankful for them and fill up that plate and eat!

May your family and mine be blessed and grateful this Thanksgiving!

Tony

PS: How do you cook yours? Do you have a special Turkey hint?

Bonus Secret! Save time! Go out to eat and shop our store for Black Friday specials starting Thanksgiving Thursday!