I have a couple of tips.  They may not be completely original, but some things can never be said enough.  1) Plan ahead!  Things are so much easier when you know what you're doing.  Get you're menu together about a month ahead of time.  Take plenty of time to pick dishes that are not just traditional, but meaningful, well liked, and farely convenient for you/the cook.  2) Don't be affraid to ask for help!  So many of us are determined to put on this elaborate feast all by ourself.  We want to prove that we know our way around the kitchen, but something always ends up disasterous.  There is nothing wrong with asking someone to help bear your burden.  If you have an open and willing family, everyone can bring just one dish.  Every little bit helps, and if you have a large family, one dish each can turn out to be a huge spread.  3) Shop smart!  I like to call it "The Grocery Game".  Watch the sale papers.  About a month ahead, start looking for those items that can be bought and stored until the big day.  More and more places are offering price-matching now, so take full advantage of it.  Clipping coupons may seem like alot of trouble, but it can really pay off.  If an item you need is buy one get one free and you have a coupon for $1.00 off 2, you come out with great savings!  4) Prep ahead!  We've all heard it, but how many of us actually do it?!  Instead of spending 2 solid days in the kitchen, practically killing yourself, spread it out.  Pie crusts, and some pies, can be made and frozen up to a month in advance.  Have all the veggies cleaned and chopped 2 or 3 days before the dinner.  Some dishes are just as good, if not better, when made the day before and then reheated.  Keep that in mind when planning your menu.  5) Think outside the oven!  My best tip is to put all of your appliances to good use.  If you have a food processor, let it do the chopping/shredding for you.  If you have a toaster oven, pull it out.  They can be used for more than just toast, so pop in your Green Bean or Sweet Potato Casserole and let it go.  Few things in life are as sweet and simple as the slow cooker.  Just fill it up, cut it on, and walk away.  It's perfect for the stuffing/dressing.  And the dear old microwave.  I have to say, for most of us, it is the most unappreciated appliance.  We think it's only good for reheating leftovers and making popcorn.  Do remember, it's a microwave oven.  Use it to steam veggies or cook potatoes.  There are numerous possibilities.  6) Try something new!  For most of us, Thanksgiving is all about tradition.  But, who says you can't get creative.  From the food, to the activities, and even the location, doing things a little different could be refreshing.  Instead of meeting at Grandma's house every year, take turns hostessing.  Not only will it make things a little more interesting, but it will help lighten the load for everyone if they're not always expected to do it.  And who says you have to sit inside and watch the parade.  There is nothing wrong with putting on a coat and going out to enjoy the beautiful fall weather.  Or if you do choose to stay in, shake things up a little.  Have some games/crafts that children and adults can all get in on.  Let the children put together place settings and make sure there is plenty to keep them occupied before, during, and after the meal.  Everyone can try their hand at making some Christmas ornaments.  And of course, there's the food. Who says it has to be that dry turkey, plain mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, canned cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.  If you like sticking with the old, go ahead, but feel free to shake it up a bit.  Add some herbs or citrus flavor to the turkey.  Doll up mashed potatoes with buttermilk, chives, bacon, cheese, sour cream, whatever or even go for a gratin.  Steam or sautee green beans and dress simply.  Roast sweet potatoes with a bit of maple syrup.  Make your own cranberry sauce, compote, relish, or jam.  I for one love pumpkin pie, but it can get overworked this time of year.  Go for spice cake, pumpkin rolls, or a trifle.  You can always stick to the most traditional recipes and swap out a few others.  Try adding brussel sprouts or spinach.  Mash a mixture of root vegetables.  Throw together a corn salad with cucumbers, tomatoes and a bit of ranch dressing.  8) Make memories!  The most important thing this holiday season is to have fun with the ones you love.  Friends and family alike are an important part of life.  Make the most of time together.  Put aside any differences and come together in love and thanksgiving to create special moments that will last a lifetime.  Happy Holidays!

P.S.  Make the most of leftovers!  Instead of just sandwiches, throw together a shephard's pie or hash.  Make potato pancakes for breakfast.  Use pie in individual parfaits.  Just get creative!