Countdown to Thanksgiving!

"Freedom From Want," Norman Rockwell, 1943

Can you believe Thanksgiving is only two days away?  I'm hosting this year and preparations are already underway.  The Buttercup Squash and Leek soup was made and frozen two weeks ago, and I moved it to the fridge to start defrosting it this morning:

Buttercup Squash and Leek Soup, Ready to Puree

I've also made and frozen my maple spiced pecans, which get chopped up and added to my stuffing:

Maple Spiced Pecans for Stuffing

The fresh organic turkey we ordered from Whole Foods was picked up this morning and crammed into the refrigerator as well. 

Sherry Shallot Herb Butter, for Smearing Under the Turkey Skin

The herbed butter and roux for thickening the gravy have been made, and the Cranberry Citrus Compote is in the fridge, just waiting on scallions to be stirred in right before serving. 

Cranberry Citrus Compote, Scallions Will Be Added Just Before Serving

I've got another grocery store run to do today for perishables, even though I know it's going to be a madhouse.  I think of these pre-Thanksgiving grocery store trips as akin to invading Russia right before the first snowfall of winter.  You know you're in for it, but sometimes it just can't be helped. 

Anyway, Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.  May your turkey be moist and flavorful, your stuffing be thoroughly cooked, and most of all, may your dinner conversations remain cordial and politics-free!