Ashley's First Ever Thanksgiving Extravaganza

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays, what's not to love about the holiday? The whole family gets together, it marks the beginning of the holiday season, and there are no gift obligations (I love to give gifts but it is nice the holiday isn't quit dont e as commercialized as christmas).  As 99% of you are well aware I am a little concerned with food. I dont mean that I count calories or constantly read the nutrition labels (really the more butter the better), I mean I am a big of fan of good food. With that being said, with the exception of Betty Crocker brownies good food does NOT come from a box. If you knew my dad you would understand this last statement. Why is this relevant? Let me elaborate, this Thanksgiving we are "hosting" Thanksgiving dinner for several members of our singles ward (long story about why we are in a singles ward), since so much of the focus of this holiday is on food I am little concerned. Dont get me wrong, I am fairly confident in my cooking abilities, I can make an edible dinner, but I am not going for edible here, I am going for out of this world amazing, and I am a little concerned about my ability to achieve that. Generally, when we have someone over for dinner I "practice" in advance, meaning that night definitely isnt the first time I have attempted that particular dish. I am a perfectionist, and that trait  translates into my cooking, but I cant "practice" Thanksgiving dinner. So readers here is where you come in... I need some advice about cooking Thanksgiving, and even about what to include on the menu. I realize that Thanksgiving is different for every family so I am trying to have a pretty comprehensive menu with something for everyone. I have included it below, please let me know if there is something I missed, something you would add, or even something I should eliminate. 

Ashley's First Ever Thanksgiving Extravaganza

Turkey

Gravy (sadly it wont be as good as my mom's, hers is wonderful)

Mashed Potatoes

Stuffing (without apples, raisins, and nuts, I dont like those things)

Yams (not sure how to cook these, we always baked them like potatoes so advice is appreciated)

Green Salad

Rolls

Cranberry Sauce

Fruit Salad (do you actually think I should include this? We always had it, but I think it was because my dad really likes to have all the colors)

Pies (pumpkin, cherry, and....?) 

should we include peas and carrots? I dont eat either of those things so I dont know. 

Any advice you have about cooking a turkey would be much appreciated (yes I am soliciting advice) I have only ever cooked chickens so I am not sure how to go about doing this, my parents say turkeys are basically like big chickens but that advice doesnt really help me so be more specific. Thanks for your help and have a very Happy Thanksgiving!