Dear Gala Guru,
Help! Thanksgiving is fast approaching, and we have six couples coming for dinner. My husband is not a good cook and has insisted on cooking the dinner this year. His cooking is the worst, and I worry about how this dinner will turn out. Every time he cooks, it is a test of our smoke alarms and our marriage vows. Any advice?
Frantic in Franktown
Dear Frantic,
I understand your stress. Thanksgiving dinner is traditionally about gathering our friends and family and giving thanks for our blessings. The actual stress should be about how many calories we consume that day.
So, try to see his willingness to help as a blessing. Here’s a strategy that might help save your dinner and your marriage.
First, suggest that cooking “every dish” would be expensive and rob your guests of the opportunity to contribute. Then, ask each guest to bring their favorite holiday dish so it is more of a potluck.
This plan takes some of the load off the chef and ensures a few tasty dishes.
Second, Become his sous chef. Every great chef needs a trusty sidekick. This way, you can “help” him avoid confusing the sugar with the salt.
You could also show your support for his culinary endeavors by getting him a fancy meat thermometer and a chef’s apron.
Third, let him handle the main event (the turkey) while you “support” his vision by handling the pesky side dishes.
This experience may spark an interest in cooking. I suggest watching cooking shows together. It’s like couples therapy but with more butter and less talking about feelings.
Remember, the goal is to support, not criticize. A successful Thanksgiving dinner takes a team. Here’s to love, laughter, and hopefully an edible turkey! Happy Thanksgiving!
The Gala Guru
Remember, there’s always a reason to celebrate!
www.thegalaguru.net
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