Wednesday

Wednesday began early due to a KMAS radio rehearsal. we began the morning with biscuits and gravy -- a family favorite!!

Then Dennis and the kids and I headed to FOFC for a KMAS rehearsal. It lasted longer than anticipated (almost 1:00pm) but we loved the fact the Dennis was able to see so much of what the kids love to do!! This show is really rough right now -- but it will come together before next week -- it always does...

By the time we got home we were all ready for the Jamb., which had been heating in the crock pot. While it was nice to have it ready when we walked in the door -- next time I woudl wait and do the rice part right before we eat. We had sour dough and ciabata bread too -- a great lunch for a rainy / icy day.

Next Nick and I got the turkey into the brine. Timing was good since it should bring for anywhere from 12 to 24 hours. Terry then reminded my that last year I purchased a free range turkey -- I was soo sad that I forgot that this year. This year I purchased a fresh butterball turkey from Ultra. We will see what it is like....

The it was time for a short break / nap for all.

Around 3:00 Miranda and I began baklava. This is a family fav. dessert which Dennis introduced us to about 3 years ago. It is a long process to prepare, but well worth the time -- it is awesome!!

As we finished making the baklava -- we noticed the Fed Ex truck pulling up -- this meant none other than Pampered Chef!!! My order from the party 2 weeks ago was arriving. While I will not be able to get everyone their things before Thanksgiving Day --at least they will be able to get things before the week is out. Of course we have to pull a few special things out of the boxes -- like the wine glasses and the wonderful cutting mats!! I seriously do not know how I have lived without these!!

Then it was time for cinnamon rolls. I decided to use Alton Brown's recipe this year -- made completely by hand (no bread machine).

While those set to rise -- I made shrimp mold. I was a little low on shrimp this year (bought a pound instead of a pound and a half) so I decided to try something new -- I added some chopped red pepper!! Survey says -- wonderful!!

Next was time for cranberry sauce -- next year I need to remember to look for the recipe with maple syrup and orange juice -- forgot about that until too late.

Finally it was time for a treat for tonight -- potato skins!! I actually had start baking the potatoes several recipes earlier I ended up using about 5lbs. of potatoes, 1 lb. of bacon, 1 lb of cheese, green onions and sour cream. These proved to be an awesome treat for everyone -- when the boys got home from taekwondo.

I love cooking in the kitchen with Miranda and Dennis -- it is always sooo much fun!!!

Finally I have just finished getting the Mogan David wine jello mold going. Now time for a rest.....

Lots of cooking tomorrow -- and I still do not know what we are having for dessert...