For the past several years I’ve hosted Christmas for my mom’s side of the family at our house. This year will be our smallest Christmas gathering–with just 9 of us total–and here’s what I’ll be making for Christmas Dinner:
Turkey
Ham
Mashed Potatoes
Gravy
Corn (2 kinds)
Stuffing
Cranberry Sauce
Apple Crisp
Rice Pudding
Rolls
Deviled Eggs
Veggie Tray
Cheesecake
Homemade Pumpkin Pie (2)
Chocolate Pudding Dessert
That’s a lot of food for one person to make! So to keep it all straight, I rely heavily on my lists. This first one helps me keep our overall menu and the dishes/serving ware I’ll need organized:
And because there’s so much to prepare, I try to do as much as I possibly can ahead of time. I use this second list to keep track of what I need to do on which day:
And since I’m usually drinking heavily by the time Christmas Day afternoon rolls around, this last list is my lifesaver. I lose all concept of time with a bottle of wine in me–but luckily I can still read.
So that’s how I keep my crazy Christmas dinner plans straight. Anyone else hosting Christmas Dinner this year? I’d love to hear your tricks and tips!
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My Christmas Traditions
I’m Dreaming of a GOLD Christmas
Festive Holiday Packaging
Oh my Lord! I can’t believe you are making all that stuff by yourself! Doesn’t anyone offer to help bring something? You are amazing.
I keep similar lists when we host gatherings as well. The best was when my sis in law and brother hosted a Tday and she had my brother wearing a beeper or something that beeps at each “time” something else needed to be done (based on your timeline list). It was comical but kept everything on time!
You are so organized! I love it! Hopefully it will all go smoothly for you. Have a great holiday!
That is totally impressive. We do pot-luck style and since I work Christmas eve, I do simple things.
But, I’m making a breakfast spread and I did the listing for that. What is the Country Breakfast casserole???
Thanks girls!
@Kadi–I’ve asked people to bring side dishes in the past, but once I do they say, “Oh, that’s okay. We don’t need corn.” Grr. So I gave up asking.
@Kim–it is the best breakfast dish ever!! And so easy to make. Email me at allthingsgd[at]yahoo and I’ll email you the recipe!
Oh my goodness, sounds like quite the ordeal! But it sounds delicious. Do you want a 10th person? I can book a flight. I don’t even have to bring B. And if you want me to bring corn, I will.
Em, book that flight for 2 b/c I’m coming, too. Mmmkay, D? And since I grew up in the land of corn, I’ll bring…more corn?
Your menu is delish!! We’re hosting Christmas dinner, too (smaller group) and making a list like this is so helpful. Not only for prep reasons but it helps for grocery shopping too.
Thx for sharing!
Damn homie! Sounds fantastic — and impressive! MmmmMmmm breakfast casserole!
better make that 3 seats Emily…I would travel on foot for that menu…sounds like a twelve pounder. Ya know, one meal equals a dozen extra pounds on the scale
well worth it I’d say.
It all sounds fab! And I LOOOOOVE timelines!
Wow, I love your organization regarding the meal. That’s exactly what I would have to do. We just have a few family members over for Christmas Eve and everyone brings something. I will have to email you too to get that recipe. I love breakfast food.
I’m making Christmas Eve dinner for the first time ever. Last night I made a timeline for myself. Should be interesting to see if it works at all.
Good luck with your dinner!
Wow, that’s quite the list! You are far more talented than I!
That’s a whole lot of cooking! Your menu sounds delicious and you are so organized!
Good luck!
Sounds delicious. (And like you will be one busy lady.) Hope it all goes well and you enjoy your Christmas!!
I would not be able to survive without being organized – I have 3 kids!! Looks like a good time will be had and hopefully you’ll be writing about tips to loose all the holiday weight!
Oh, I love it. I just love lists. I love orginization. And I love pretty much all of the food on that list. Yum!
WoW! I’m such a holiday-host virgin compared to you!
D-your lists amaze me! I have some time this a.m. so I’m trying to catch up on all of your posts. The next time I come to visit, you should conduct a seminar at Jill’s on how to get organized. I would pay top $ to attend! Stay warm!
love
tappa