Thanksgiving Planning Part 3 : Timing is everything

A big part of Thanksgiving planning is timing. The event is stressful enough without having to worry about people showing up the day before and expecting to stay until Sunday. Not only can this be stressful but it can be expensive as well if you are expected to feed these guests for the rest of the weekend.

To save your sanity (and your money!), make it clear ahead of time when people can show up and when they have to leave. Be prepared that those coming from out of town may have to stay the night or several nights. If you have the space but not the cash to take care of someone for several nights, let them know that they can stay but that they will have to pitch in for groceries or explain that you can handle one night but no more.

Do not let yourself feel guilty about what you are financially, and mentally, prepared to do. Feelings will be hurt less if the rules are known ahead of time. So many live such hectic lives, and are short on cash, that you may be surprised just how many understand.

I often say that you are welcome to stay the night the night before or the night of but no more as this is one of the few times during the year that my husband and I take time off. I love Thanksgiving. I love cooking all the food and inviting family and friends over. This is the one holiday in which the husband and I stay home instead of traveling all over the state to see our families but the long weekend is also why I set time limits so we can also enjoy some time at home. We see our families often so if Thanksgiving is the one time a year when you all get together you may wish to make a several day event out of it.

Does your Thanksgiving planning involve a set start and stop time? Do you have tips for reducing stress with Thanksgiving planning?