why can't turkeys fly

It is just about 10:30pm. We were supposed to pick up the bird at B's Uncle's home, but there was a change of plans while we were on our way, having just stopped at the grocery store for the final ingredients. Life happens. He is a doctor. I get it. Really I am not upset.

The truth is we had no problem getting a turkey and cooking it. They aren't that expensive. Why cart it back and forth across the San Gabriel Valley? It's really kind of silly. I am more than capable of going to a grocery store and purchasing a turkey.

We offered to cook it as their home is undergoing a renovation. What started as a simple project has turned into an 8 month project, with no end in sight. The kitchen was still covered in plastic the last time we were there. We'd offer to have them over here, but last time we did that, there was some sort of issue and I ended up carting the cooked turkey across the San Gabriel Valley.

Now there is a helicopter flying overhead. Maybe I am supposed to stand outside and wait for a turkey with a parachute to land in the backyard? The house phone is ringing. Hmmm?

Nope. B's Uncle is on his way. Turkey should arrive shortly. At least the cranberry sauce is done:

Cranberry Walnut Sauce (from The Martha Stewart Cookbook, 1995)

1 pound of fresh cranberries, washed and picked over
1 cup water
1 1/4 cup sugar
1 12 oz jar of red currant preserves (black current is fine, avoid jelly if possible)
1 cup chopped walnuts
zest of one orange

Combine cranberries, water, sugar and preserves in a large pot. Cook over medium heat until you hear them 'pop', then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Skim off top (although I don't see much of a difference if you don't.

Remove from heat and add walnuts and orange zest. Stir to combine. Let cook and put in airtight container and refrigerate overnight.

It's so tasty (and easy) you will probably want to make two batches. Besides, it is great on sandwiches. Don't be surprised if it just disappears. I always joke that you may need to check your guests bags before they leave.

on the night stand :: The Girls