Thanksgiving Prep: Like a Boss (or at least like someone who looks like one)

It’s Thanksgiving crunch time, but don’t sweat it—we’ve got your back. From taming the chaos (looking at you, kitchen counters) to keeping the kids out of the pie early, here’s how to crush Thanksgiving and still have time for a second glass of wine.

Decluttering: The 3 Things You Actually Need to Do

Your house doesn’t have to look like a showroom, but it should feel welcoming. Focus on these:

1. The entryway: Make space for coats, shoes, and Uncle Bob’s extra-large casserole dish.
2. The kitchen counters: Ditch the clutter so you’ve got room for pie and side dishes.
3. The living room: Toss stray toys into a stylish basket and call it good.

Shortcut: If it doesn’t scream “Thanksgiving,” toss it in a closet and deal with it next week.

Snacks to Keep the Kids Happy (and Out of the Kitchen)

Hungry kids + hours until turkey = total meltdown. Try these:

• Veggie Turkey Platter: Carrots and peppers arranged to look like a turkey. Healthy, cute, and Instagram-worthy.
• Mini Cornbread Muffins: Easy to grab, no mess, and super tasty.
• Cheese & Cracker Hats: Crackers topped with cheese squares and olive slices for a bite-sized win.

Hack: These snacks double as edible decorations. Style points for the win.

Teaching Gratitude Made Simple

Thanksgiving isn’t just about the food (though, yum). Here’s how to make gratitude the star:

• Gratitude Tree: Cut out paper leaves and write something you’re thankful for on each one. Display it as a festive centerpiece.
• Family Gratitude Jar: Add notes all week, then read them aloud at dinner.
• Thank-You Notes: Have your kids write to someone who made their year special. (Hint: Teachers LOVE this.)

Why it matters: Gratitude teaches kids kindness and perspective—and it’s a tradition worth keeping.

Teacher Gifts That Won’t Break the Bank

Teachers deserve some love this time of year! Here are a few budget-friendly ideas:

• Personalized ornaments: Sweet, sentimental, and something they’ll keep forever.
• Homemade treats: Cookies, muffins, or whatever your kids love making.
• Gift cards: Think coffee, books, or a quick Target run—practical and always appreciated.

Finishing touch: Pair it with a handwritten note from your little one for max impact.

Outro:

That’s it for our first issue! Next week, we’ll help you tackle post-Thanksgiving cleanup and turn leftovers into meals your family will actually want to eat.

Until then, take a deep breath—you’re doing great. (And maybe sneak a slice of pie before the kids find it.)

Thanks for joining us on this OhSoStyled journey. We’re so glad you’re here.