A recap: turkey & thanks for giving 2013.

Thank goodness my mom was here to assist in the turkey preparations because there was absolutely no way I was sticking my hand in that raw, beheaded bird. Oh, and did I mention the story of how we ended up with two? For the sake of posterity, I will explain.

I'm a complete novice when it comes to purchasing a turkey. I'm vaguely aware that there are two key differences: fresh or frozen. After milling around the grocery store for a good two hours, about a week or so ago, I went over to those vast bins in the meat department and proceeded to select a turkey. I had a coupon for Butterball, so I immediately zoned in on that brand and started by searching the tags for the right weight. When I felt confident in my selection, I lifted the 18 pounds by that little mesh loop they so kindly provide for easy maneuverability. Into the cart it went and soon enough I found myself shoving the bird into my refrigerator's freezer. That's when I noticed it.

It didn't quite feel rock hard. The outside of the bird felt.. soft. Like it had thawed a bit. I immediately called my mom, a bird buying pro, and asked if that was normal. She assured me that no, after all her years of buying turkeys, they're always distinctively solid and cold.

So then I called the grocery store to make sure I wasn't losing my mind. The meat department guy confirmed that yes, those bins are freezers.

And then, to the exasperation of my husband's nerves, I continued to worry and discuss my angst over the possible spoiled turkey. I mean really. What is more critical to hosting your first Thanksgiving dinner than the centerpiece itself!?

Eventually, at the insistence of my husband, a second bird was purchased. And for the record, the second bird, much to my relief, turned out just fine.

Phew.

A brief picture diary of the day/evening:

Champagne gelee cocktail, to kick start the day. Recipe available here.

                

Delicious, freshly plucked pomegranates.

                                       

Finally, an excuse to bring out my PotteryBarn cheese markers.

                

My loving husband & I.

       

My beautiful sisters & mom. Sorry Dad & Brandon, somehow you managed to escape my camera's flash.

       

The table, prior to the serving of the main dish. And the mock "kids table" for my youngest sister. HILARIOUS doesn't even begin to describe her reaction :)

A late Thanksgiving dinner makes for the perfect ambiance.

A tinkling of glasses and the beginning of a beautiful evening.