* Go food shopping for the incidentals – canned cranberry sauce, soft drinks, napkins, etc.– long before you have to get them. You can hide them, they'll keep, and you'll have far less items to be concerned about.

    * To avoid slaving away in a hot kitchen, take friends to dinner at a nearby restaurant and then return to your home for dessert and drinks

    * Ask your local supermarket about holiday platters, precooked dinner packages, and delivery. Many markets offer these services.

    * If guests ask what they can bring, tell them!

    * Consider hiring part-time domestic help. It's worth $30 or so to actually enjoy the holidays. College kids home on vacation and people not of your faith might be readily available.