Deep Dive
What are some last-minute host or hostess gift ideas for Thanksgiving?
Graza olive oil in squeezy bottles paired with sourdough bread, Taza chocolate discs in various flavors, Tony’s Chocolonely chocolate bars, and Bananagrams, a Scrabble-like game. These gifts are practical, enhance the gathering experience, and can be easily picked up the day of Thanksgiving.
Why is it helpful to bring your own apron to Thanksgiving as a guest?
Bringing your own apron shows proactive willingness to help the host, especially if they seem overwhelmed. It avoids the host having to find an apron for you and demonstrates thoughtfulness in contributing to the meal preparation.
What are some practical items guests can bring to Thanksgiving to assist the host?
Guests can bring their own leftover containers, a portable stain remover like a Tide pen, and ice in a cooler. These items help the host manage leftovers, address spills, and avoid the hassle of finding space for ice in their freezer.
What are some family-friendly podcasts and audiobooks recommended for Thanksgiving travel?
Recommended podcasts include 'Wow in the World,' 'Brains On,' 'Once Upon a Beat,' 'Radiolab for Kids,' and '99% Invisible.' Audiobooks like 'Mouse and the Motorcycle' and 'Montgomery Bonbon: Murder at the Museum' are also great for engaging listeners of all ages during road trips.
How can you improve your TV setup for watching Thanksgiving Day events?
Change the TV’s picture mode to 'filmmaker mode' or 'movie/cinema mode' for better accuracy, turn off motion smoothing to avoid the soap opera effect, and adjust the sound mode to 'Amplify' or 'Dialog Boost' for clearer dialogue. These settings enhance the viewing experience for shows like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade or football games.
What should you do if a toilet clogs during Thanksgiving?
Locate the water valve at the base of the toilet and turn it off to stop water flow. Use a bulb-shaped plunger, filling it with water before plunging to avoid splashback. If the clog persists, call for help or a plumber. Having a plunger readily available is key to handling the situation quickly.
What are some creative ways to use Thanksgiving leftovers?
Use leftover turkey meat with gravy to make a savory toast topping, and use the carcass to make turkey stock for dishes like turkey gumbo. Gumbo can be prepared a day or two after Thanksgiving and improves in flavor over time, making it a great way to extend the holiday meal.
Why is it better to wash wine glasses in the dishwasher?
Washing wine glasses in the dishwasher reduces the risk of dropping and breaking them. Adjusting the dishwasher rack height can accommodate long stemware. However, glasses with gold or hand-painted elements should be washed by hand to preserve their design.
What are some tips for taking great family photos during Thanksgiving?
Plan ahead by deciding who will be in the photo, the time, and the location. Use natural light outdoors for the best results, or position the group opposite a window indoors. Take multiple photos to ensure everyone’s eyes are open, and assign someone to operate the camera for better control.
Why does Ben Fruman recommend starting Christmas preparations early?
Ben Fruman, Wirecutter’s Editor-in-Chief, loves the warmth and charm of the Christmas season. He sets up artificial Christmas trees as early as November 3rd to extend the festive period, creating a cozy atmosphere for family gatherings. This approach allows for more time to enjoy the holiday spirit.
- Graza olive oil as a stylish and practical gift
- Taza chocolates and Tony's Chocolonely as delicious options
- Bananagrams as a fun, easy-to-play game
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