Thanksgiving Lunch for 30

[TOGWT]

Thanksgiving

If you’re reading this, it means that I have survived Thanksgiving. Normally one of my favourite holidays with family (an occasion I learned to celebrate in the US, and carry over to England) I was apprehensive this year because the meal was occurring at my house, for nearly 30 relatives.

This large group of family members has shared Thanksgiving together for as long as I can remember and the venue rotates every year throughout Florida state and London, England. Selection is akin to being the host city for the Olympics, so it is not a request one turns down. Understandably, I was nervous about preparing a high-quality meal for that many people, even though I’m a professionally trained enthusiast chef, as some may already know, and a guaranteed good time for everybody.

Why did I accept? Like many of us, I tend to think I can do everything and meet every challenge — at home and at work. I rarely say, "No" figuring that the task will eventually be completed; even if it kills me.

Since I was emulating my "can-do" work behaviour at home, I thought to apply the tools I use in the office to get things done. The meal became more manageable when I approached it like a project and outlined the tasks. I also delegated responsibility for side dishes, beverages and desserts to willing family members. ("Can I bring something?" they would ask. "Sure! How about appetizers for 30?" I enthusiastically responded.)

Most discussions about balance focus on the intrusion of "work" on "life." In this case, it was the lessons learned at work that provided balance (and in this case, a huge amount of fun) in my life.