Turkey Day in the Taylor House

That was Sunday, November the 23rd for those of you that didn't know.


The meal was a big success. I decided on the turkey recipe from Alton Brown and I DVR'd his special "romancing the bird" and watched it about 4 times. We soaked the turkey in a brine and it really did make a difference. I think the only thing I'd do differently is to leave it at the high setting a little longer or take the little cover over the breast off earlier so it would have gotten browner on top. Other than that - it was juicy and great - not too bad for a 1st attempt.


Besides the bird hoopla, it was really fun to be with my husband, son, mom, and sisters. Everyone pitched in and the food was great. I blew my "diet" but I'm back on the wagon again. At least until Thursday when we do it all again at my mother-in-laws.

Making Halloween Memories......or Emotional Scars?

I sure hope Halloween goes better for Jackson than the preparations for the holiday..... We started with making some pumpkin shaped sugar cookies (many thanks to the Nestle corporation.) Well soon after this happy pic - Jackson somehow managed to fall off the chair he's standing on. He didn't hit his head, but tears were plentiful.

THEN - a few nights later we decided it was time to carve the pumpkin. I found a really cool haunted house design online (I'm not paying $5 for a picture) and Jason bought a strobe light to go inside. Jackson was into it and we were letting him use a PLASTIC spoon to scoop out some seeds. He managed to slice his finger on a little sharp edge that only he could find. More tears, a band-aid, and some kisses.

Here is the final result - we were pretty proud. (Jason did all the work) Hopefully tomorrow will come and go without any tears shed. Wish us luck!