This year’s Thanksgiving plans took an unexpected plot twist. Due to some developments on the homefront (read: life happened), our trip was canceled, and we’ll now be celebrating right here at home.

DEAR MISS MANNERS: My boyfriend and I live together, with roommates, in a big house. We share the cooking, and due to shift work and other reasons, dinner can be anywhere between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Food is a focus for many on Thanksgiving, and that can be a little overwhelming, if not intimidating, for those tasked with hosting the celebration. Guests might come to expect certain Thanksgiving ...