I keep posting about the importance of planning ahead and using a schedule, but I don't think I've ever discussed how to build a schedule for an event — be it a dinner, a party, a vacation, a move, or whatever.  The same basic rules apply.  I'll use Thanksgiving dinner as my example.

List all the tasks involved with the event.  Be as complete as possible.  No task is too small.  Once all the tasks are listed, start sorting them.  You can do this with cut and paste on the computer, by color coding on paper, or by creating a new list.

First, gather all of the tasks that can be done ahead of time. (polish silver, launder and press table linens)

Second, list all the tasks that other tasks depend on. (You can't brine or roast a turkey unless it has thawed.)  You'll want to make sure that you schedule the tasks in sufficient order to allow parts to be finished when you need them to be.

Third, list tasks that can be done in just a few minutes or while doing something else.  Keep this list handy so you can attack something whenever you find a free moment. (I can dust my living room while I watch "Dancing with the Stars."  It takes me 3 minutes to clean the bathroom sink. so I can do that in a few before work.)  It is amazing how many tasks you can complete if you use little pockets of empty time or multitask when things don't really require your full attention.)

Finally, note all the tasks that can be skipped if need be.  Will anyone REALLY notice if there's one less side dish or if the bathroom mirror isn't polished?

Using these divisions, you can set up your schedule.  Always try to finish something as early as possible.  If you find yourself with extra time, you can work ahead as much as possible.  You'll be grateful for the free time later. 

NEVER overschedule.  If you have 3 hours worth of tasks to finish in 2 hours, you are going to stress and fail.  Far better to spread that 3 hours out over 4.  You'll have a cushion if something goes wrong.  You may be able to get ahead of schedule. Or you could just give yourself a break and have a bubble bath!