Keep It Simple

A happy host will have a wonderful party, even if the mashed potatoes are too chunky and the gravy gets cold. So if you're overwhelmed by the idea of hosting this holiday feast, then keep it simple:

• Ask your guests to bring something. Assign a vegetable, dessert, or appetizer to each family member or guest. You can worry just about the meat and potatoes.
• Ask for help in the kitchen. Thanksgiving has been a group effort since the beginning. Most people will be happy to stir the gravy, pour drinks, and replenish the cheese and cracker plate.
• Use dishwasher-safe dishes. It's tempting to break out your formal china and silverware, but that just means someone has to wash it by hand. Today your dishwasher is your best friend.
• Let someone else take care of the leftovers. As the host, you should linger at the table, relax, and enjoy your wonderful accomplishment! Let your guests clear their own plates and pack up the leftovers. They can even wash the dishes that don't fit in the dishwasher.
• Keep it simple. Try these menus for a streamlined Thanksgiving gathering that you can enjoy.

Simple Thanksgiving Menus

10 Stress-Busting Tips for Hosts

We are a nation of overscheduled, stressed-out folks. And the holidays, with the family gatherings, work parties, and endless lists of gifts to buy, are no exception. Try these ideas to help you reduce your stress this holiday season.

A Stress-Less Season

No matter how hard we try to avoid talking about politics or debating sports rivalries, sometimes family spats get the best of all us, especially during holiday chaos. These tips will help you cope with the tension.

Family Tension Tamers

If you have to travel to your Thanksgiving gathering, either by car, plane, or train, you've got an entirely different set of stresses to deal with -- especially if you're traveling with children. Here are some holiday travel tips to make your journey a smooth one.

Holiday Travel Tips

The best stress buster of all is exercise. In the weeks leading up to your Thanksgiving gathering, try this walking program. It will give you some much-needed quiet time away from the hustle and bustle. Plus, you'll feel better about indulging when the big day arrives.

Walk Off Your Weight

Overeating is one of the great joys of Thanksgiving. And the guilt you feel the next day is one of the major drawbacks. But here's the good news: You can overeat without feeling so guilty! Here's how:

Bank Your Calories

Now that you've created your menu, simplified your plans, and worked out your stress, it's time for you to host your party! Thanksgiving is a time for great food, but it's also a time to make new memories with your family and friends. So no matter what you plan to serve, remember that your guests will be thankful for the opportunity to connect with each other, and with you. And that's a healthy Thanksgiving.