Even if you haven't been asked to bring something for the Thanksgiving dinner, you should definitely pick up a can or two of cranberry sauce. There can never be enough cranberry sauce and if there are any cans left allow the host to keep them for future dinners.
Brown and Serve dinner rolls are always a hit, even if the cook is making her own special breads. With your rolls on hand, she will have plenty to serve should unexpected guests arrive.
If you are one of those people that 'only' drinks diet this or caffeine free that then bring your own. Don't expect the host/hostess to cater to every ones particular taste. It's work enough to provide for everyone and this is a small way you can help.
Whether it's a case of beer or a bottle or two of fine wine brings some added cheer. Of course, you know your family best so you may want to opt for non-alcoholic cheer. Why not bring some eggnog or a box of hot cocoa for relaxing after the dinner.
Of course, bring your appetite. Thanksgiving day is not a time to be shy or dieting so bring your appetite. Nothing says Thanks like a cleaned plate. Eating, enjoying the food and cleaning your plate are truly the highest forms of praise you can give any cook.
One of the nicest things you can do for the host is offer to clean up and follow through. My kids know that anytime we go to a family dinner they are expected to be the clean-up crew. They have learned to recruit other kids for this chore and tend to make a game of it and they get the job done.
I think this list may have gotten around. I have several cans of cranberry sauce left. But hey, cranberry sauce goes quite well with ham, right? ;)
I am glad to see this in a post. I only know what *I* care about bringing...but, I KNOW that I should do better than that...good job!
Jeannie, you are such a nut! ((Hugs))
I'm sending this list to all my guests!
Thank you all for the wonderful comments! :)
Great list! I absolutely love your final thoughts. It teaches kids at a young age appreciating and respect. Great job Elaine.
One other pet peeve of mine. As a hostess, I do so appreciate getting flowers when guests walk in the door but then please don't expect me to find a vase, cut the ends, arrange them, etc. It's best if you walk in with flowers already in their vase. Great list, Elaine.
Bringing your own drink to a Thanksgiving Dinner is a great idea.
I love the cranberry sauce and dinner roll idea. Seems like you can never have too much of either. I am a diet soda and red wine lover....I definitely bring my own. Great and necessary list.
I agree with your final thoughts! I think everybody should enjoy the holidays so everyone should pitch in cleaning up! 5*
The more food the better. I always bring stuff, great ideas here.
Cranberry sauce is my weakness. (My daughter works for Ocean Spray) Your suggestions are well thought-out.
Your family can come to my house anytime! You offer great suggestions of what to bring to the feast.
When people bring to the Thanksgiving dinner time the things on your list, everyone enjoys those items. I always offer to help to clean up too. Your suggestions are great ones.
I LOVE the idea you included in your final thoughts....what great kids you must have! Tell your kids they are invited to my house!
select one here...