While tucking in for a chat with a cabin neighbor, I noticed a plaque hanging in her kitchen, just outside of dining room guests’ view: “Be like a duck. Remain calm on the surface and paddle like crazy underneath.” The quote, often attributed to actor Michael Caine, reminded my neighbor—who was brimming with Southern hospitality—to host with aplomb while hustling behind the scenes to make it all happen with apparent ease and poise.
While the signage provides a bit of a giggle, the truth is that hosting, especially during the holidays, can require a juggling act that can delight and amaze guests while leaving the host with a heavy dose of exhaustion and a stack of dirty dishes. Here’s where I struggle. While I embrace preparing and cooking holiday meals, I know that time with my out-of-town family is fleeting, and gathering for each major holiday isn’t a given. When I can, I want to have the freedom to relax and savor the holidays right alongside everyone gathered in our home.
Thankfully, there are ways to continue with holiday traditions while also employing some time-saving strategies that can go a long way in making hosts and guests alike feel festive. We share a selection of local markets and restaurants that can help complete your at-home menu—whether you want to order a few side dishes or the entire meal. Discover ways to keep meal presentation refined and elegant by setting a lovely table. And for those who are partaking in a shared dining party, Edina Magazine editor Feroza Mehta and I have a Friendsgiving of our own—magazine style—and share some of our favorite easy-to-transport recipes.
As we prepare for Thanksgiving, our entire team is extraordinarily grateful for our new and loyal advertisers, devoted readers and supportive friends of Lake Minnetonka Magazine. Happy Thanksgiving—may your holiday be filled with good company, good cheer and good food.
Until next time,
—Renée Stewart-Hester
