but my lot know that hey won't be getting a turkey out of me - I can't stand the stuff really, so I've made my choice early and got beef, which leaves everyone else to fight over whatever meats are left.

as much as you can beforehand is the way to go, for absolutely sure. Any vegetable can be mashed beforehand and reheated in a microwave on the day, stirred up a bit and with butter and/or garnish it's as good as it would be fresh. The sauces and stuff - aim to buy reasonable quality (preferably brands you're familiar with). If your speciality is savoury dishes get others to bring desserts and vice versa - always play to your strengths. Take as many surprises out of the equation as you possibly can and expect to be utterly uptight. If this is the first time you've done a big family celebration nobody (except maybe you and your MIL, depending on her personality) will be expecting perfection, so improvise whatever isn't vital.

I love Jenny's suggestion about asking your MIL for her input - the perfect way to stay out of trouble and earn brownie points all at once. Ask any other more experienced family members for their input and put EVERYTHING into separate lists that you can follow without having to think too hard. If you list it all down carefully you'll be less likely to forget things because you're panicking.

And BREATHE goes at the top of all the lists!

don't do the big Christmas shop on Friday either... plan a deep bubbly bath, a long drink, and putting your feet up with a good book for several hours. That way you might not be swearing to never do it ever again!

Kerri.