Q: My husband and I are marriend for three years. All his simblings live about 4 to more hours away from our house. They have never visited us. This year, just so happen his brother and family are coming for thanksgiving. I just saw them once and I know nothing about them. They called and asked what they should bring. But, besides themselves I am not sure what to say. So my question is, when you have people over for thanksgiving, do they usually bring anything? They will probably stay for a couples of days or more. They have two girls around 15 years old. I am so lost. Please help.
A: If the family was close by, as mine is, then yes it is ok to ask them to prepare a dish. But coming from 4 hours away may be difficult for them. If you are able to purchase everything then I would do that. Once they are there, if the volunteer to help prepare the meal, I would accept. It will give you a chance to get to know them without have to think up conversation. You will have preparing the meal in common. Have fun. We do every year and I look forward to it.