Gobble Gobble

Pretty much everyone loves Thanksgiving. What's not to love about friends and family coming together to give thanks for the good things in our lives and then sharing a scrumptious meal. But before the bird gets stuffed and the sweet potato pie gets baked there's the all important ritual of setting the table.  A beautiful tablescape not only sets the tone for the meal to come it tells your guests how much they mean to you. Here are four suggestions for making your holiday table a little more special and a whole lot more fun.

1.  Platter Chatter. So what if you only use it once a year, think of a turkey platter as an heirloom piece that will hold turkey memories for Thanksgivings yet to come.  If you can't find one to suit your design style consider heading for a ceramic shop where you (and the kids) can make your own. And be sure to check ebay for one-of-a-kind ideas.

Go Traditional

Do It Yourself

It doesn't have to have a turkey on it.

2.  Salt and Pepper Style.  A simple way to spice up your table.

3.  The Name Game.  Rather than everyone standing around asking, "where should I sit?" place cards make getting started so much easier.  For an extra treat tuck a lottery ticket behind each card and have your guests try their luck before dessert is served. Might end up with something extra to be grateful for!

Woodland creature make perfect place card holders. Tuck a lottery ticket behind each card to add to the holiday fun.

4.  Cranberry Crisp:  Side Dish or Dessert??  Whenever you decide to serve this tasty dish you can't go wrong. It makes a nice change from the usual jellied canned variety or a tasty alternative to apple pie. If you go with the latter, a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream is a must.

Cranberry Crisp Recipe

4 med apples (use Granny Smith for a slightly tarter crisp)
1 can whole cranberries
1 tsp cinnamon
1 cup uncooked oats
1/2 c flour
1 c brown sugar firmly packed
1/2 cup butter melted

Peel apples, slice thin and arrange in a glass baking dish.

Sprinkle with cinnamon.

Spoon cranberry sauce over apples.
Mix oats, flour, and brown sugar, add melted butter and mix until somewhat crumbly. Spread over cranberry layer.
Bake in 350 oven about 40 minutes until top is brown.
Serve at room temperature.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!