Christmas Checklist: Menu Planning for Holiday Meals

Get organized for Christmas with this Christmas planning checklist based on the Christmas Countdown organizing plan by Cynthia Townley Ewer:

• Consult with family members to plan holiday meal locations.
• If you'll host a holiday meal, enter details on the family calendar.
• Review recipes, or research new ones.
• Print a holiday menu planner form for each holiday meal. Decide on main dishes, side dishes and desserts. Note location of recipes needed.
• Contact family members to delegate menu items.
• Make a list of ingredients needed on the holiday menu planner. Check the pantry or food storage, then make a shopping list for items to buy.
• Order poultry or special roast needed for holiday meals.
• Buy holiday meal staples during the pre-Thanksgiving supermarket sales.
• If using a frozen turkey, defrost in refrigerator 3 to 4 days before needed.
• Set the table 2 or 3 days ahead of time. Note contents of serving dishes on sticky notes.
• Prepare the meal. Enjoy!