Basically, we have two weekends before the holiday season begins.  (The weekend before Thanksgiving is really the beginning.)  That means you have two weekends to set the stage.

If you'd like to start some shopping, that's not a bad idea.  There are Veterans' Day sales and the crowds will be less.

It's also good to spend some time doing a serious cleaning.  Do all the laundry, not just what you need to get through the week. Clean the guest room thoroughly.  Vacuum the baseboards and under the cushions and behind furniture.  Clean the fridge and freezer and cabinets, making as much room as possible.

Do whatever it takes to make sure that basic tidying can keep your house guest ready through the holidays.