Cincy Personal Shopper

Take a vacation. Yes, schools do close for Thanksgiving break, and many families use it as a getaway opportunity. Savvy travelers avoid those crowds by starting their vacation a few days before school closes. If being surrounded by hordes of other people's children is something you want to avoid, consider boarding a cruise before school lets out.

Have a movie marathon. Unless you're football fanatics or find the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade of interest, you won't find much to watch on TV. If you don't already have a DVD player and belong to Netflix, what are you waiting for? Start preparing for the day and reserve your copy of Pieces of April early. (If you really want to treat yourselves, spring for a new HDTV set.)

Host an "orphans" Thanksgiving. Still feel the need to sacrifice a turkey? Open your home to friends and co-workers who won't be with their families this year. Cast a wide net, sending out word that friends of friends are welcome, too.

Glom onto another family's Thanksgiving. They say you can pick your friends but not your family. Let close friends know you wouldn't mind an invitation if there's room at their table. If you're invited, be sure to bring a dish that contributes to the festivities. If you don't cook, bring a store-bought delicacy. A bottle of Beaujolais Nouveau or box of designer chocolates make welcome gifts.

Volunteer. There are many needy people eager for a warm meal and a friendly smile. If you want to get back more than you give, contact your local municipality for information on where volunteers are needed this Thanksgiving to prepare and serve meals to those less fortunate.