I don't know if you know this, but food costs, prepared for Thanksgiving Day, can really get out of control. Here are some ways that we can do better.  It seems that at Thanksgiving time, people and families think they are obligated to make all kinds of dishes that most people won't even consider eating. Just so you know, we really don't have to relive the photo's we see on a Norman Rockwell painting if we're not planning to eat the stuff anyway.

Today on the Top 5 at 7:45, I'll highlight 5 things for us all to consider, in order to save some money, as Thanksgiving approaches.

  1. Have A BYOD (Bring Your Own Dish) Dinner - If everyone brings something, then that will save the host money and everyone else too. There is nothing wrong with prearranging who will bring what on Thanksgiving Day.
  2. Go Non-Traditional - If you want to mix things up, you can bring or host different ethnic dishes such as: Mexican, Indian, Korean or even Vegetarian! Of course, the family would need to agree before hand as you wouldn't want everyone to show up and you have Kim-Bob, Sushi and Kimchee out on the table.
  3. Keep It Simple - It can be quite the load when it comes to making everything you usually have on Thanksgiving. A fall chili and some good bread makes for a good, hearty meal. Give it a shot.
  4. Use Natural Decorations - You could send the kids or grand kids outside to gather red, orange and yellow leaves for the table. If you add a few candles to the mix, it makes for some great, semi-homemade decor.
  5. Buy Now, Buy Early - Try not to wait until the last minute to buy all of your supplies for your big feast. About a month or two out, start picking up items on sale and stock up. By the time Thanksgiving comes around, you'll have everything you need.

The Top 5 at 7:45 airs weekdays with me, Gary Freeman and is sponsored by First Education Federal Credit Union.

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