Turkeys & Turtles

Happy Thanksgiving! I was thrilled to host Thanksgiving this year in our new home. We had quite the house full, but enjoyed every minute. In attendance was Troy's Mom & Sister, my parents, Kim (my baby sister), and Amber (my preggie sister), and Nick (Amber's hubby), and my kids and hubby (of course). The food was great! The menu:





Turkey (oven bag baked to keep it moist)


Stuffing (MIL special)


Potatoes & Gravy


Cranberry Relish (Fresh cranberries/Orange/sugar)


Sweet potatoes (crock-pot style with brown sugar & butter)


Cream Corn (made w/ cream cheese & butter)


Rolls (mom's special)


Jello Salad (had to have something green)


Dutch Apple Pie (my new specialty- not too shabby)


Pumpkin Dessert (a new favorite my parents introduced)





I'm suddenly craving left-overs. Speaking of which... I was wondering if there was something special y'all did with your leftover turkey. Please share your favorite turkey left-over recipe with me! I tried one last night that turned out okay:





Turkey Salad Sandwiches:


Chopped up apple


Chopped up Stalk of celery


Chopped up turkey


Leftover veggie dip or ranch


Heaping scoop of mayo


Shredded cheese





I don't usually dedicate a whole blog about food. I really was so busy in the kitchen, that I forgot to take photos! The boys had a great thanksgiving. They were happy for all the company- mostly for the fact that we could actually run a decent football game or two. We also had a great time playing cards.





A side note: I am so excited for my sisters! Amber and April are both expecting babies! Amber is due the first week of January, and April is due in July. We threw Amber a baby shower a few weeks ago (since my mom was in town). I was in charge of the invitations. Here is my creation:

She is expecting a girl, and wanted a turtle theme. It was tricky, but turned out cute. She had quite the showing. About 65 people came to the baby shower. We played the candybar melted in diapers game, and a favorite features game (Amber picked which features the baby should have from Nick or her and people guessed her preferences). So fun! I wish April would be around for a shower. She up and moved to Georgia last week. Any ideas for a long distance baby shower?

I'm off to enjoy what little bit is left of my long weekend. Nice to have a bit of a break for sure. Having company inspired me to actually finish unpacking the last few boxes laying around in the kitchen, and hang up some pictures. My home feels a little more homey now.