That means it’s time to start confirming the guest list, rounding up the recipes you want to make, and dusting off all the servingware you reserve for special occasions such as this. But before I jet off to Chicago to prepare enough food for the small village that is my family, this weekend will be spent celebrating the birthdays of two of my best friends. Their birthdays are two days apart, and even though one of them lives on the opposite coast, it’s tradition that there’s a big bash to celebrate life together in New York City. I’m not exactly sure when it started, but it’s a great way to get into a festive mood for the upcoming holiday. This week will probably be a little busier at work than usual given the fact that everyone will mentally check out come Friday, so be sure to not be so hard on yourself or others if you find yourself getting stressed out. Oh, and happy Veteran’s Day to all of those that have served our country!

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