Thanksgiving re-do

The only downside to vacationing in Cabo over Thanksgiving break is missing out on a big home cooked turkey dinner. So, for the second year in a row, I invited the family over while Papa was in town to have a Thanksgiving re-do meal once we were back in town. With two successful years now, I'm pretty sure this has become an annual tradition.

I started the turkey that afternoon, and got to work on making the side dishes. Everyone showed up after the Seahawks game that my uncle and grandpa were lucky enough to go to (bummer it was one of the games they lost). After some snacks and drinks, the turkey was ready to be carved and served.

turkey covered with a butter and wine soaked cheesecloth
while it baked

Clint as my helper mashing potatoes

one nice lookin bird

me supervising while Mom carves the turkey

sweet potatoes, green bean casserole, stuffing (regular
and gluten free), mashed potatoes, gravy, rolls, cranberry,
and of course turkey

Papa taking a photo of the fam

Mom brought over a couple pies (pumpkin and pecan) for dessert, which of course were also a hit. I was definitely stuffed once everyone left, and crashed on the couch in a tryptophan coma.

Like last year, I ended up with a ton of leftovers. Uncle Bub gave me a recipe for turkey noodle soup, so I made that the next day. I kept the turkey carcass to use to make the broth, then added turkey, carrots, onion, rice and noodles. It turned out great, and I still have some in the freezer for later.

boiling a turkey carcass

mmm, soup

Cooking a big meal like this can be a lot of work, but I have so much fun with it. I love hosting, and can't wait for next year!