Thanksgiving is a time when family and friends come together to eat, laugh and most importantly talk about those attendees whose life is still in shambles or that drunken uncle that can’t hold his tongue. While you may not have things totally together here are a few do’s and don’t’s to help you survive the Thanksgiving dinner.

The Do’s of Thanksgiving

DO SHOW UP ON TIME

It is a sign of good manners to show up on time to Thanksgiving dinner. While dinner may not start on time, at least you arrived on time.

DO COME PREPARED TO BE PATIENT

Yes, the grace will last longer than usual, and dinner will not be ready on time, the purpose of the day is about being thankful and spending time with friends and family.

DO COME PREPARED TO TALK AND BE PROBED ABOUT YOUR PERSONAL LIFE

During dinner, people love to talk, and there will always be that one family member that ask personal questions. Gracefully avoid the subject; clearly, it’s none of their business. However, because you have manners, find ways to change the subject and point out positive things that are going on in your life.

DO OFFER TO ASSIST

The person preparing the meal has slaved over the stove for at least 12 hours or more, of course, they are exhausted. Offer to assist with putting away the food, etc., they may say no, but they will appreciate the fact that you offered assistance.

The Don’ts of Thanksgiving

DON’T MENTION YOU’RE ON A DIET

It’s acceptable to want to watch your figure, just don’t mention it during Thanksgiving dinner. Politely get your plate, eat the items that are within the scope of your diet and pack the rest to go.  You will get no brownie points by telling everyone how much weight you have lost; it will only compile your family and friends to want to offer you more food.

DON’T POST EVERY MOMENT OF THE DINNER ON SOCIAL MEDIA

If you’re posting every moment of the dinner on social media, how can you enjoy the meal? Not to mention, everyone is eating turkey, if you’ve seen one turkey, then you’ve seen them all.

DON’T TAKE 2 OR 3 TO-GO PLATES

While having a plate for later when you awake from your nap is nice, try to be considerate of the other guests and save some food for the others to take home.

DON’T ASK WHO PREPARED WHAT DISH

If you decided to attend the Thanksgiving dinner, then you committed to being a good guest. Remember the old saying “God made dirt and dirt don’t hurt,” just keep telling yourself that throughout the evening.