Help me plan Christmas Dinner!

This will be the first year I've hosted Christmas.  I am so freaking excited I can hardly talk, er, write.  See, I love to entertain.  Cooking, for me, is one of the most practical means of creative self-expression I know.  There is nothing like it.  One of my favorite memories of my childhood is waking up early on Saturday morning to cook breakfast.  I would cordon off the kitchen door with sheets of paper and have a ribbon-cutting before my family could come in and eat.  I wanted to be a chef. 

i ripped this picture off from the New York Times. thanks, New York Times!

This year, since I’m kind of calling the shots, I was stoked when my mother suggested we do something different for Christmas dinner.  So here’s what I know for sure.  We’re having a standing rib roast.  Probably this one.  Then, I fell in love with the idea of these Cranberry Parker House Rolls.  But beyond that, I’m kind of at a loss.  I’m thinking about White Cheddar Sweet Potatoes.  Also considering these Creamy Bacon Brussels Sprouts.  I know what you’re thinking:  Brussels Sprouts, Lindsay?  But you must know that, until 18 months ago, I had never had them.  I was completely untainted by the typical underwhelming—nay, disgusting— first brussles sprouts experience that most people have.  Instead, my first experience was with crisp, new baby brussels sprouts, lightly sauteed with garlic, fresh pepper, sea salt and olive oil.  Delish.  And besides, this recipe calls for cream and bacon.  Seriously.

I am also making this incredible pumpkin cheesecake.  I ate it whilst in labor with Roxy and made my friend Crissie bring me more the next day in the hospital.  It is slap yo mama good.  But don’t worry, mom!  I won’t slap you.  I promise.  It’s Christmas, after all.

Anyone have any other thoughts on my Christmas dinner?  Suggestions?  I haven’t made my big grocery store run yet, so I’m open…