Well, guess who had dinner duty this year? Yep, me. It's okay though, with the amount of cooking shows that I watch, it'd sure be a waste of time if I didn't actually enjoy cooking. My mom actually offered to help but... -secret agent voice- I work alone.

Chicken Roast Checkpoint #1

I didn't take a picture of the raw chicken because.... I didn't think any of you would be really excited to see a raw chicken... unless you were, in which case I extend my deepest apologies. Maybe next year I can do a blog post on trussing and dressing  the chicken to make you strange psychopaths happy. I guess it's not everyday you get to see someone shove garlic, an onion, and an orange up a chicken's butt... sometimes I really question the sanity of culinary wisdom.

Chicken Roast Checkpoint #2

In case any of you were wondering (for the randomly curious) how far apart these checkpoints are supposed to be, it's about 20 minutes. I cook the chicken at a high heat for 10 minutes and then bring it down to 350F for 20 minutes before you throw the veg in; cooking for another 20 minutes for every pound of chicken you have. I also cook the chicken upside down for the first 30 minutes so the white meat stays succulent. 

Turns out, when I'm in charge of thanksgiving dinner, most of the dishes come out orange. My mom made the broccoli in the corner because there wasn't anything green on the table besides the 7up. 

Dishes (clockwise from broccoli): mashed potatoes, stuffing, butternut squash, gravy, pumpkin/chicken noodle casserole, pumpkin pancakes, sweet potatoes. 

Before you all get on my case for not being thankful on thanksgiving, I'll say that I'm very thankful for the privilege of cooking and eating food so easily. I'm thankful that those who are dear to me are in good health. I'm thankful for people who love me regardless of how I look or how much I eat. I'm thankful for being able to write this post in a warm bed with a full stomach with no fear of having an empty one tomorrow. Thanks, God.