How to entertain at Thanksgiving without feeling like a Turkey

I promised myself that I would not think about Thanksgiving before November 1.  I just thought that being in the moment, dealing with first things first (my Stephen Covey training) told me to do that.  This morning as I was taking my 6am walk before driving my son to high school at 7am, I thought about Thanksgiving.  Here are my thoughts.  Now I am ready to look at my magazines at all the yummy, delicious pictures of Turkeys, stuffing, and side dishes for the Holiday.  I have my mind set on making my famous apple pie and carrot cake for sure.  In line with my newly acquired learning from Harold Taylor (www.taylorintime.com)I can set out on my organizing principles.
Firstly, have the Vision, ask yourself what is it you want.  What are your goals and priorities? Second, planning, what do you need to do to make the evening a success?  Who do you want to invite, what do you want to serve, what items do you need to buy,  Third,  your action, How can you get things done, who needs to help you, where will you buy, rent, shop, call for that evening. And Finally Schedule, Look at your day planner and write out all your "to do's" and schedule something for each day of the week counting to the Dinner Evening itself.  Spread the actions over time so you will not be rushed nor go crazy making things the last minute.  Remember, It's all in the planning… which means THE VISION, THE PLANNING, THE ACTION, THE SCHEDULING.  Take it slow and Enjoy.  You will have a great meal with good company and be ready for my December's Holiday tips.