The Verdict

     And the verdict is......BEST TURKEY EVER!  Seriously-not to pat myself on the back or anything, because I didn't do anything except follow directions, but the brining was a huge success! So much flavor, and while you could taste the salt it wasn't too much-it just tasted well seasoned. The girl at Williams-Sonoma said that they also have a dry brine that is supposed to be even better-maybe I'll try that next time.

      I also experimented with the pies.  The Cream Cheese Pecan tasted great, but was a little bit runny. I don't like my pecan pie runny, so we will have to work that bug out (not my recipe).  The Raisin Fudge was perfect-also not my recipe-but I won't have to mess with that one. It tasted like the rum raisin fudge I make at Christmas. I also made my usual apple pie with streusel topping, but mixed coconut into the streusel. That was my favorite! The coconut toasted as the pie baked, and it was soooo good. 

     Although I really missed having our family this year, it was a nice, relaxing day and now we have tons of yummy leftovers and an entire four day weekend to enjoy them!
     Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!