2. Traditions are important. Don't fuck with more than one.
3. Try out a new idea each year. Maybe choose one dish from the year that was exemplary and add that to the menu. You never know what may catch on.
4. Don't eat alone, no matter the reasons. Trust me.
5. Since the main part of the holiday focus is the meal, make it a long event. Focus on courses, even if you're serving buffet-style. This is most important at the dessert course: make coffee and after dinner drinks. Enjoy the evening together.
6. Everyone must participate. Everyone must bring something. It's important. It's about demonstrating our thankfulness for the abudance we have been given, even if that has been slighter this year. Bring what you can, even if that's paper plates or ice, or a song for the table after dinner.
