I don't know about you, but I'm one who thinks the turkey-with-all-the-trimmings is much better the day after Thanksgiving.
As I was removing the turkey meat from the neck bone and scooping the congealed turkey juices in a container, I began thinking of leftovers and what I could make for meals that could be frozen for another time.
Tomorrow is turkey stock making day...you know, where you toss the bones and the bits of meat from the bones and the juices into a pot with some parsley, onion, carrot, celery, garlic and a pinch of freshly ground pepper. When all the flavors have been extracted and melded, I will strain it so all I have left is luscious liquid that will be used as the base for soup...add to this carrots and a host of other veggies and either rice or noodles or potatoes...and you have a yummy all in one meal.
How fortunate we are to be able to re-purpose our food into other meals. How fortunate we are to be able to share with loved ones a meal that was prepared with our own hands.
As I picked at that turkey, I also thought about leftovers in a whole different light. Growing up, I always felt like a leftover...for a while I was special, then I got put in a container, tossed in the refrigerator, and only removed when it was time to take out the trash.
My sweet darling little Boo, my rescue kitty...she was a left-over, too. She was homeless, hungry, cold, and abandoned.
It's cold out, people. Many animals and people have no homes, no food, no friends. So, when you are re-purposing your leftovers (whatever those leftovers are)Please consider sharing with those less fortunate than you. I've always given until it hurts then I give a little bit more. It does your heart good to know you've helped, even just a little morsel.
Enjoy the ending of November as we move into the anticipation of Advent and the new possibilities December has for each of us.