During the month of April, I participate in the Blogging from A to Z Challenge. That is 26 posts in one month, for each letter of the alphabet, time off for good behavior on Sundays. Over 1800 bloggers are participating this year. Last I checked, I was #835. This year, Millie and Willie Cottonpoly, my sock puppet creations, are here to tell you their story and share reviews, ideas, and inspiration with you. They’re also helping to teach theatre classes for kids in the Brainerd area, and continue to view and review theatre productions and some books. This retired couple doesn’t just sit around watching reruns on MeTv. (Although, Willie does like to put up his feet whenever Petticoat Junction comes on. It’s that sound of the train whistle. Millie makes no apologies for watching the Lassie marathon while holding her dog Tillie on her lap.)

TT is for turkey, smoked turkey, that is. Yum. The Biker Chef grabbed a couple birds while they were on special, and still affordable, and set up his smoker. With the horrible spreading of bird flu, we might have a shortage come Thanksgiving (another great T word). He pre-seasoned the turkey with a dry rub, and smoked it, using apple wood and Kingsford charcoal, trying to keep the heat around 180-200 degrees Fahrenheit, for at least six hours. We ate some of the meat with homemade gnocchi and Alfredo sauce. He put some of it into a creamy pasta salad and soup, and froze the rest for future consumption. He’s promised to make a turkey ala king soon!

Millie and Willie drooled over the finished product.IMG_0566

Millie: Mmm. Biker Chef, you’re the best. This looks scrumptious.

(Willie can’t talk because his mouth is full.)

Millie: Your spice blend is perfect.

(Willie just nods and keeps chewing.)

Millie: And, the meat is succulent and divine.

(Willie makes moaning noises.)

Millie: When you make the turkey ala king, we’ll have to invite Mr. Happy.

Willie: (nods and wipes his mouth with a napkin, and burps.) ‘scuze me.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: Do you like turkey? What do you do with the Thanksgiving leftovers?