Countdown To Thanksgiving: Turkey & Gravy Goodness!

{ Via: Williams Sonoma }

We've covered the cocktails, appetizers, and sides. Now it's time to talk turkey. Of all my years of cooking one, I have had two "fails." My first married Thanksgiving, I cooked the bag of "giblets" in the turkey with the stuffing. The second turkey turmoil was the bird that never got done. In the end it was great, but the crowd was "hangry" by the time I served it. I have two tips I can offer from experience. First, cook a fresh organic turkey and second, create a compound butter of your choosing, and slather it under the skin of your bird.  Let's get cooking!

Prosciutto Wrapped Turkey Roulade

We start off this recipe roundup with my favorite of the bunch. The recipe author says it best: "The delicate sweet/salty flavor really elevates the turkey into a memorable dish that will get you all the oohs and aahs from your delighted guests."
Olivia's Cuisine

Turkey Breast With Blueberry Balsamic Glaze 
Why not blueberries? We use cranberries liberally on Thanksgiving. Not only is this a beautiful dish, the pops of flavor are said to be incredible.
Feasting At Home

Ina Garten Says You Should Make Your Turkey Ahead Of Time
I would second this (e)motion! Click the link below or image above to see how to do this.
Williams Sonoma

Mayonnaise Roasted Turkey
Before you turn your nose up, mayo adds moisture to anything you mix it into. I have never made a cake without adding some. This was a hint from my mother-in-law. The author promises this method produces the the most moist turkey you ever made.
She Wears Many Hats

Make Ahead White Wine Gravy
This recipe had me at the words "make ahead." Nothing can make me more nervous than making the gravy at the last minute, while your kitchen is full of hungry people. This recipe can be started before your guests arrive and finished with the pan drippings.
Half Baked Harvest

Herb Orange Turkey Breast With Roasted Pear Gray
Doesn't this sound like the perfect blend of sweet and savory. It looks delightful!
Salt & Wind

Mulled Wine Turkey
Don't you love the aroma of mulled wine simmering? Then you can imagine how the scent of this turkey will fill 
your home. 
Runway Chef   

Bouchon Roast Turkey
Every year Thomas Keller serves a Thanksgiving feast at his Napa Valley restaurant, Bouchon Bistro, for veterans in the community. What a guy! Before cooking he divides the turkey in pieces to maximize flavor and texture. Click below to get the recipe of heroes.
Saveur

Cider Glazed Turkey With Perfect Gravy
Pretty as a picture isn't it? The preparation of this turkey begins with dry brining, which is something I had not heard of until now. The cider glaze is sure to add Fall flavor!
How Sweet Eats

Pancetta Sage Turkey With Pancetta Sage Gray

In my view, a turkey can't have too much sage. I can just imagine how this turkey smells as it cooks. The pan gravy pairs perfectly with this roast.

Bon Appetit

Maple Bourbon Glazed Turkey
Sounds like a wonderful combination, doesn't it? I have done Maple before, so I know it does work. This recipe is for those of you looking for a shortcut. I personally would use a fresh turkey.
Foxes Love Lemons

Red Wine, Pancetta & Rosemary Gravy
An Italian brown gravy recipe that is perfect for Thanksgiving turkey and mashed potatoes. The rosemary must really add a depth of flavor.
Gourmet Project

Red Wine Lacquered Turkey 
There is one thing you can count on, my turkeys always have wine involved. This turkey is gorgeous! Heather has slathered the turkey (under the skin) with cinnamon orange butter (yum) The red wine used is Zinfandel which is reduced and then becomes the glaze. Sounds so good!
Heather Christo

Bacon Wrapped Smoked Turkey
Have you ever had a grilled turkey? My sister is a master at this technique, and it is so good! Fire up the grill and leave the oven for your sides.
Fine Cooking

Massaman Curry Turkey Osso Buco
If you want to be really unconventional, this is an exotic choice.
Food and Wine

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Travel Treats: Little Things That Make Your Travels Easier

Oh the poor travelers who were caught in the travel nightmare that yesterday's snow storm caused. That included my sweet sister. Having the right travel tools and accessories would have eased the pain of the  weary travelers. I am taking stock of my own needs, as we will be traveling for Thanksgiving.   This edit promises to get you anywhere in style!

Michael Michael Kors Bedford Bags

Aren't these fun? From carry-ons to long haul bags, Kors will get you there in style.

Michael Kors

Ted Baker Rolling Carry On

I don't know about you, but my carry on bag gets very heavy. I always pack my laptop, iPad, chords, a book, cosmetics, etc. It all adds up to "hefty." This rolling bag is so good looking and wouldn't be heavy at all. I love the idea of it, and it fits overhead or under your seat. The gold handle and trims elevates the look.

Nordstrom

Snowe Travel Candles

I travel with candles. Do you? They come in handy in freshening a hotel room, or setting a romantic mood. They are small but feature a 25 hour burn time of 25 hours each. Their signature scents are fun: Staycation, Tastemaker, Speak Easy, Pillow Talk and Rinse & Repeat.  They come pleasantly presented in a black box. 

Madewell

Animalia Passport Holder & Luggage Tags

In a sea of black luggage, it is always a good idea to have easy identifiable luggage tags. Sold separately, but each item is equally fun and practical. The Passport holder is nice and secure. Not to mention good looking!

Anthropologie

Pretty Useful Tools Power Bank

I need this! My iPhone runs out of power after 2 texts. This handy helper will power your phone and more on the go. It also features a lighted compact mirror. Pretty useful indeed!

Neiman Marcus

Skinn's Ribbed Jersey Travel Set

Everything you need to rest comfortably in a hotel room or in your host's home. It's covered up and comfy. Perfect for answering room service at the door, or going down to breakfast. The set includes a robe, chemise, tank, and 

pajama pant. Exclusively sold at 

Net-A-Porter

Travel Set

Oh how I have wished for something like this while traveling! Here's everything you need to make life easier while away from home. Freshen your hotel room. spot clean that dinner stain, hand wash your silk cami, and then store your dirties in the included laundry bag. Lovely!

The Laundress

Airplane Mode

Set yourself ( and not just your phone ) to airplane mode and be comfy and cozy while taking flight. And if you are stuck at the airport with delays, this affordable set will give you a little privacy while you wait it out.

Shopbop

The Pillow Bar Travel Companion

We all have seen those travelers with their blow up pillows hanging from their neck as they walk through the airport. What's up with that? This pretty personalized set is made from cashmere like cotton and features a pillow, sleep mask and travel blanket. A lovely gift!

Horchow

Bag-All Travel Accessories

These chic canvas accessories are also tongue in cheek cute. If you have a special dress or any piece of clothing, that you don't want to check, the hanging bag will do nicely for carrying on. And who doesn't need a boot bag for your tall boots? These affordable and adorable pieces will come in handy.

Shopbop

How To Elevate Your Denim

Light Their Fire With A Chic Candle

{ Via: Vogue }

  As we head into the gifting season, candles always come to mind.  I burn them all Fall and Winter at home. Your host and those on your gift list most likely do, as well. Notice that the post title uses the word "chic."  I have seen some tacky candles "out there." Please don't gift one of those. When selecting a candle for yourself or someone on your list, be mindful of the packaging, the look of the candle itself, the scent, and the burn time. It's all important. Here's inspiration for the most illuminating gifts you can find.

Stoneglow Cinnamon & Orange Natural Wax Candle

This warm and woodsy fragrant candle features a  heartwarming combination of zesty orange, spicy cinnamon, nutmeg and clove. tThen it is finished with a woody base of patchouli, vanilla and musk. It is a perfect kitchen candle made in London and offered at a reasonable price.

Amara

Lele Sandoughi Candles

Black and white is always chic in the right space. These ceramic votive holders and ceramic candle, make a striking statement. The packaging is gorgeous in black and white, as well.  The tall ceramic candle has a 20 hour burn time, and features soft notes of orchid.

Shopbop

Ralph Lauren Rhinelander Candle

Have you ever stepped into the Ralph Lauren Madison Avenue New York City flagship? It is a magical place that smells divine. This candle's aroma is just like the store. It's a blend of Valencia orange, clove, cinnamon bark, and red amber.  The container is reusable, making it a gift that lasts long after the candle melts.

Ralph Lauren

The Collection By Phuong Dang Candles

 Sophisticated and very cool looking. These candles have the most interesting names, like Black Dessert. They are created by perfumer, Bertrand Duchaufour, and are said to be irresistible. Now on sale at....

Barney's New York

Costa Brazil Candles

Lift your spirit or theirs and elevate any mood with the soft scent of the Amazonian Rain Forrest. This botanical candle has an exotic scent like none other. Most of all, I love the mirrored container. 

Now that's chic!

Need Supply (on sale )  or Bergdorf Goodman

Uno Candle Set By Ferm Living

I still love a taper candle, especially on the dining table.  This set of sixteen have been made from palm wax, which is healthier for your indoor air. The colors are just lovely.

Burke Decor

We Took To The Coast Candles

I am totally smitten with these coastal chic candles. They have been hand poured and expertly crafted in South Carolina. The packaging is so very creative, and instantly tells a story. Inside the lovely round boxes are plain ceramic candles. With titles like Coastal Christmas,  Pines By The Sea, Nantucket Stroll, Low Tide, We Took To The Coast and We Danced In The Sea, We Took To The Coast Candle - Blue Jeans, White Shirt and more, these candles and their scents are super unique.

Serena and Lily

Cassis Cuvée

New from this brand and ever so festive! The packaging is as special as the scent. It comes in a crocodile embossed presentation box with Antica's signature matches.  The scent is perfect for cocktail parties with notes of cassis liquor, champagne, berries and mandarin. This candle screams holiday host gift.

Antica Farmacista

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