Okay, foodies, I need your help building a real menu

[Beretta]

Sounds like you are well on your way, but have you thought of making a meatloaf and/or a lasagna this weekend and freezing? You can defrost and bake when they are here. I also like making a make ahead breakfast casserole or french toast that anyone can pop in the oven in the morning.

Have fun and enjoy the holiday!

[JustJulia]

That's a good idea, Beretta. I made a lasagna last week that my husband loved. He told me last night that he wishes we still had leftovers.

My in-laws are taking us out to dinner on Friday, and we might get Italian food from a local place. Now that I think about it, my husband got lasagna from that place a few weeks ago and commented that mine is better. Maybe I should make a lasagna and freeze it. Then we can eat it instead of going out to dinner (but I love going out). If we don't, I can thaw and cook it the following week.

[Beretta]

These are also so darn good to have on hand (if they last that long). You can bake, cool and freeze until they arrive. Pecan Pie Muffins

I wish we were having some company because I love to fuss over folks. Please tell us how it went afterwards!

[nALgirl]

Hey JJ,
I thought about you today---I was in Whole Food's near Nashville and saw plenty of kumquats.
Happy cooking!
nALgirl

[gentlearts]

I would just make an awesome roast pork loin, and what ever potatoes, salad and veggies you want. Then have homemade applesauce, and some kind of apple dessert like Apple Wraps or Apple Pie.
My feeling is that by that time, after all the cooking you will have done by Saturday, you can get away without anything too complicated. Even though I love to cook and be creative, I would be pooped out by the weekend.