Winter mushrooms. Not to eat.
Last week, I learned how to roast a turkey. It was easier than I thought it would be. I shoved onions and celery and garlic into the turkey’s backside, stuck it in a hot oven for about five hours, then stabbed it in various places with a meat thermometer to make sure it wouldn’t make anyone sick. That was all there was to it! The hardest part was manhandling the bird into the roasting pan; it was unwieldly, cold and clammy. There were some humorous moments when I was removing the giblets and neck.
Brian deferred on carving, even though I suggested it was a Man’s Job. He didn’t buy into the tradition, so I ended up wielding the knife. Huge, greasy mess, but satisfying. I still have issues after being attacked by a turkey when I was small.
I also made some amazing gravy, which was good enough to eat all by itself. Or with anything else. Even cranberry sauce.
Aya had some very specific requests for gifts this year, courtesy of the WalMart Toy Guide and hours of HORRIBLE BRIGHT FLASHY toy commercials on TV. I’m sick of holiday commercials. It’s to the point that I grit my teeth every time I hear an advertising jingle set to the tune of a Christmas carol.
That said, almost all of my holiday shopping was accomplished on Friday. At WalMart, even. I spent $65 and still need to find Aya a unicorn Beanie Baby. Compared to previous years, $65 is a paltry sum, but I’m cheap by necessity this year. We have too much material junk, anyway.
Brian snarked at Aya and me over a something stupid: whether or not the Christmas tree should have lights. (Does it even matter?!) I don’t know if it was holiday stress or what. As a result I spent most of the weekend avoiding him: sleeping, reading, or playing Lord of the Rings Online. I probably spent too much time last week playing LotRO, but I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it.
We have a parent-teacher conference this week and just got Aya’s report card; she is a straight 3 student, with a 3+ in math and a 3- in what are apparently oratory skills. 3 is apparently the equivalent of a B, i.e., proficient.
Note to self: visit Dad this week and see how his doctor appointment went.
recent comments