Thanksgiving For 13 Doesn't Have to Be Unlucky

This year my husband and I are hosting Thanksgiving at our house for 13. I'm talking people are coming from across the country for this shin dig. And we're excited because it's rare to get this many people to visit Arkansas. Especially all at the same time. We'll have 8 adults and 5 kids. But I'm hoping this year 13 won't be unlucky for Thanksgiving! Here's my strategy:

1. Distracting: Because people tend to revert to childish behavior around family, we're going to treat them like the toddlers they are. My daughter and I came up with all kinds of games and activities that can be pulled out the first time someone utters: "What's that supposed to mean?"

2. Delegating: My MIL is bringing the stuffing, red cabbage, and appetizers. (Also probably half of the Dallas Whole Foods, but it'll be cold right? We can store the extra food on the deck.) Everyone else is bringing booze. Lots of it. I'll put the kids to work on the green bean casserole that day. Who can't handle that?

3. Making Ahead: I will be making the mashed potatoes and sweet potatoes this week and freezing them. I'm thinking of doing buttermilk rolls and freezing those too, but that may just be overkill. What's Walmart for after all?

4. Purchasing Desserts: I am not a baker. Just not. Therefore I will be purchasing most all the desserts.

5. Accepting Chaos: It's going to be nutty. I know that. But we'll all sit down at the table (well, the two tables pushed together) for at least an hour. As for the rest of the 5 DAYS!!! (did I mention these people are staying 5 days?) we'll be eating spaghetti and going out for Chinese buffet - and watching lots and lots of movies in the TWO different, totally separate viewing areas. For sanity's sake.

That's my plan and I'm thankful for it. What's yours?

PS - This post was written for Parent Bloggers Network as part of a sweepstakes sponsored by Butterball. If I'm quick I'll win a free turkey!