preparing for thanksgiving

Since we live in a small apartment, cooking and preparing for the holidays is a little different. Because I also like lists, I thought I might write down a list of things I'm attempting to keep in mind and learn myself, in the hopes that you can share in my adventures.

1.  Don't get overwhelmed.  The apartment is small, the kitchen is two feet wide (literally), there are books everywhere (sorry I'm not sorry), food to cook, spaces to try and decorate, and cleaning to get done. It's alright. Breathe. It'll be okay.

2.  Do something fun or relaxing every day. In between the preparing for holidays, it's nice to do something just for yourself or just with your significant other or family that is relaxing and fun.

3. Start with a clean workspace. I don't enjoy doing this. I don't particularly like handwashing all the dishes, cleaning the bathroom, washing the rugs, hanging all the darn laundry in the teensy closet, and changing the sheets, etc., but holidays, cooking, and life are all made easier if your workspace is reasonably tidy when you start.  Expecially the kitchen.  If you're cooking, starting with a clean space is sooooo much easier.  And there are less gross germs that way. Ew.

4.  Make lists. Or set calendar reminders. Or make a diagram. Or set a million alarm clocks, one for each task. Whatever you do, organize yourself for a plan of attack.  I'm currently in the process of finishing choosing recipes and sending the husband out for the last of the ingredients -- he has the days off (I don't) and it transfers things from my to-do list to his, which is occassionally helpful.  Whatever cooking you're doing, have a plan.

5.  Eat food. Seems silly, no?  But while you're doing all that cooking and cleaning and organizing, eat some food.  Don't forget to eat just because you're standing over the stove all day.  And no, cookies don't count as a meal. 

A short list, but I have to start somewhere.  This is my first Thanksgiving without the large extended family, so the cooking and cleaning are divided between just the hubby and I this year.  The good news? I can use all the butter I want and I'll have food to last me for ever.  The bad news? Making Thanksgiving food for two is actually pretty difficult.  Everyone creates recipes for 10 or 20 or 592 instead of just for two. Oh well. Guess we'll just have to eat it all!