Thankful for Family

Thanksgiving morning started out with me calling my mom and asking her just how to clean this turkey carcass that was now sitting in my kitchen sink. As she walked me through it I started to get the hang of things, but was still disgusted by the whole idea of eating this thing that I just bathed. Shortly after my sister-in-law, Julie, arrived and cleaned the second turkey for me! One turkey now in the oven browning and a second turkey (Jeremy's idea ispired by who else but Alton Brown) now smoking on the grill. All was well. Guest began to arrive, appetizers were being enjoyed, laughter was abundant. Three hours later the turkeys had reached their desired internal temperature and were now ready to rest. The kitchen suddenly became a frenzy and reminded me of the set of "Iron Chef America" and I was the Iron Chef. I had an excellent staff of sous chefs and they promptly did what was asked. We plated all 11 dishes and the main dish as well - the two beautiful turkeys, and we were ready to enjoy the feast!

The dinner lasted the better part of an hour and was enjoyed by all. There was definately more food than was necessary, but this is how Thanksgiving usually rolls. Thanks to my mom, Real Simple Magazine, my sous chefs (Scott, Emily & Julie) and a great husband who hung out with Jack so I could focus on the kitchen - Thanksgiving was enjoyed by all.

The next day we spent time with my family. Jack was able to meet my aunt & uncles from out of town. We had breakfast with them the next morning as they were going to be returning home and we would most likely not see them for another year. Saturday night we went to the Dyer Farm for the Johnson's Thanksgiving celebration. And on Sunday we helped bake (and eat) cookies at the Dyer-Flaherty house. Thank goodness for the traditional "cow" cookie that Jeannie makes every year! YUM!

The holiday season has officially begun!!