Thanksgiving may look a little different this year.  Full homes filled with loved ones might be just a few sitting around an intimate dinner table instead.  The sound of laughter and chatter throughout your home, might be traded for video chats or warm conversation between just a few.  Today we’re sharing 3 simple ways you can enjoy Thanksgiving during this challenging time.

#1: Plan Ahead for Phone Calls and Video Chats

Pick a time to chat with your loved ones in advance. It doesn’t have to be a specific time. Simply decide if you’ll call before, during or after the big feast.  If you’re the one in the kitchen doing all the cooking on Thanksgiving Day, planning ahead will give you peace of mind that you’ve set some time aside for connecting with your loved ones. You’ll also prevent being interrupted when you’re just about to take the turkey out of the oven.

#2: Prepare for Dinner in Advance

There’s so much joy to be had on Thanksgiving Day and the days leading up.  Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be chaotic and overwhelming. Plan your menu in advance. Set aside some time to do your grocery shopping, and avoid the mad rush that happens on Tuesday and Wednesday at your local grocery store.  We want to help you avoid the stress of last minute scrambling, so we’ve created a Thanksgiving Day menu template just for you.  You can find it in our free holiday planner. Go ahead and add it to your cart – the discount will automatically be applied at checkout!

#3: Include Fun Family Ideas

We have a few fun activities to share with you no matter how big (or small) your guest list is this year.  Watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and hours of football are usually a given, but we also have some other activities for everyone to enjoy.  

Card games and board games are always a fun crowd pleaser.  Keep a few of your favorite board games out for guests to choose from.  Have a stack of cards handy for a spontaneous game of Go Fish for the kids or Spades for the adults.  Uno is always a fun favorite.

Show your loved ones just how much they mean to you by giving the gift of gratitude.  Write a short, personal note for each person sharing why you’re thankful for them.  Tell your spouse something you appreciate about you them, even if it’s something as simple as giving the kids a bath. Let your kids know they’re special, kind, and loved. You can also do this for those that are not able to celebrate in person.  Pop a quick handwritten note in the mail to let your loved ones know they’re thought of and missed.

Lastly, start a family tradition by writing handwritten recipe cards for one of the dishes you prepare.  Are you “famous” for making the most delicious ham? That would be the perfect recipe to share. Have each guest take a recipe card home with them to add to their very own collection. Can you imagine the special memories those cards will bring in years to come?

With the holidays upon us, keep these 3 simple ways to enjoy Thanksgiving in mind. Head to The Shop and grab your copy of The Holiday Planner by Simplicity at Home.

You might also enjoy: Five Simple Ways to Make Your Home Feel Cozy, Benefits of Family Meals Around the Table, Get Cozy with Hygge in 3 Simple Ways

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