Have you noticed all the movies named after holidays out there? New Year’s Eve, Ground Hog Day, Valentine’s Day and even A Christmas Story come to mind-- but what about Thanksgiving?

I don’t know about you, but one of my favorite things about Thanksgiving is the leftovers. Don’t get me wrong, I love the big "turkey with all the trimmings" dinner and I look forward to spending time with my family, but the leftovers are the best!

If there is one type of food almost all kids like its Mexican. I was reminded of this just the other day when I brought a meal to a neighbor who was going through a difficult time. He has three boys ranging in ages from 11 to 19 years old.

Alas, it’s true, for most of us in Minnesota we just can’t grill year round. My husband claims it’s possible, but somehow we never get around to shoveling a path through the snow to the grill. It’s just too cozy inside by the stove. So, to celebrate our final grilling weekend, we invited a few friends over and made a Brined Chipotle Orange Turkey Breast.

My son Kyle’s senior year of college football is in full swing. Because he is living off-campus this year I knew I would be getting more than one last minute phone call asking if some of his teammates and he could come over for dinner. I wanted to be prepared so I decided I needed to stock my freezer with some easy-to-get-on-the-table entrees. Pasta is always a hit so I went to work preparing Stuffed Pasta Shells to have on hand for the “can we come over for dinner” request.

By far, one of my favorite days of the whole year is Thanksgiving morning.  I can't explain it.  There's just something very special and satisfying for me about waking up early to put the turkey in the oven, whipping up some cornbread dressing, mashed potatos, green beans, giblet gravy, rolls, and on and on...I just love it!