Parenting Pointers: Stress-Free Thanksgiving

While Thanksgiving represents a time of tradition and family, it can also spell S-T-R-E-S-S for those planning a big feast. From figuring out how long to cook the turkey to putting together the perfect table setting, getting it all right can be really hard!  To help you celebrate and prepare for your Thanksgiving feast, entertaining expert and cookbook author, Brooke Parkhurst has some great ideas and tips for a trouble-free turkey day. That way, when guests arrive - everyone will be able to relax, gobble, and enjoy!

Some of Brooke’s tips include:

• THANKS-GRIA- A delicious glass or two of wine is welcomed at any holiday gathering! Even easier? Put it in a pitcher so everyone can serve themselves. Lightly chill red wine and add a few spices and seasonal fruit to make a soon-to-be favorite holiday libation-- Thanks-gria!
• FORGET ABOUT FLOWERS, BUT DON’T FORGET YOUR HOSTS- Unless you have your own garden, decorating with fresh flowers can cost more than your meal. Instead, create centerpieces from seasonal fruits and vegetables, fresh greenery and berries. After the party’s over, make a meal from your centerpiece! And don’t forget about gift baskets for the hosts.
• JUICY WHITE MEAT- Who needs to roast the whole turkey when you can just bake the best part? The turkey breasts and legs cook at very different rates, which means that one will not be properly cooked. Instead, focus on cooking the turkey breast perfectly, roasting it at just the right temperature and saving a lot of time in the process. 
• FRESH & FAST- It’s chilly out which makes us gravitate towards creamy, cheesy, heavy dishes. Want a little balance? Make your favorite potato casserole but off-set it with a delicious & easy arugula-pomegranate salad or butternut squash and ricotta crostini. Fresh dishes are usually the fastest to prepare!