Let’s Talk Turkey

Do you think I’m shallow if my all-time favorite holiday is completely focused on food consumption? Thanksgiving makes me so happy.

I look a lot like this when I say the word. “Thanksgiving,” I say, and then I make my hands into a prayerful pose, tie on my checkered apron, and look over yon to the setting sun. I also lose 15 inches around my waistline.

Speaking of waistlines, don’t you love Thanksgiving? Yes, you do, or you would be a bitter, unAmerican, frightfully thin person and those kinds of people hate my blog. So you do love Thanksgiving and if you’re anything like me in a checkered apron, you love the food. Turkey, yes, but the side dishes. Joy in a serving dish, that’s what they are. I’m talking mashed potatoes, cornbread stuffing with toasted pecans, homemade rolls, green beans with shallots and bacon, cranberry sauce…And the desserts? Pecan pie, loved ones. (Time to put hands in prayerful pose). Cinnamon apple crumble pie. Or one of my recent favorites, Brown Sugar and Chocolate Chip Pound Cake with Maple-Espresso Glaze.

I am feeling very, very thankful.

And can we just agree to eat happily this year? I have read multiple times this week in newspapers and mags that we should all be super careful (read: depressed) and not eat too much on Thanksgiving or we will either lose more jobs to China or perish by the winter solstice. I might be combining current issues here, but I still think we’re overdramatizing. Sure, go for a walk if you must, or toss the football around in the backyard. But then re-assume prayerful hands and sit down for another round of side dishes. Do your part. The Pilgrims nearly croaked so you’d have this privilege.

So who’s cooking at your house? What side dish makes you want to dance happy?

I’d love to know what and how you’re eating. Happy Best Cooking Week of the Year!