Serve pumpkin squares instead of pumpkin pie. A 9 x 13-inch pan serves 12 and saves time, rather than baking two pies.

 

Watch the coupons all month long in November. Buy ahead when you have room in the freezer.

 

Buy frozen turkey rather than fresh to save money with only a slight sacrifice of taste.

 

Never buy frozen food covered with frost. It has probably been defrosted, then refrozen.

 

Buy a larger turkey and savor the leftovers. There is more meat per pound on a large whole turkey or chicken than a small one.

 

While shopping for the meal, add leftovers to the list. Plan ahead by having bouillon cubes, celery, onion and uncooked noodles on hand for that post-Thanksgiving soup.

 

Buy canned items such as cranberries and sweet potatoes to save time and money.

 

Use partially-baked dinner rolls that require only a few minutes of baking time.

 

Save money by making a salad with fruits stocked year-round such as grapes, apples, tangerines and oranges.

 

Ask family members to bring their favorite dish--something they would miss if it wasn't served. Other guests can bring wine or a vegetable dish.