Our family likes the traditional favorites. I wouldn't dare try switching out more than 1 dish each year to try something new. I like the fact this holiday doesn't require a lot of menu planning, but it can get a little boring if you don't try something new once in a while.
My 87 YO mom doesn't like to travel any more, so my sister and BIL come here for the holidays. I don't mind cooking, and try to make something everyone likes. We do a cider-brined fresh turkey, a baked leek fondue (our stuffing), mashed potato casserole, a green veggie, baked squash, some cranberry relish, rolls, gravy and dessert of course. This year, it's a pumpkin-pie gelato pie, an apple-cranberry pie and some pumpkin pie cupcakes. Need to send leftovers home with the sister, so the cupcakes will work well for a take-home dessert.
The thought of venturing to the stores on Black Friday just scares me to death. Loved to do it when I was younger, but now you couldn't pay me to do it
I'll spend my extra time this weekend making cookies to put in the freezer for Christmas.
