I had the opportunity to  treat myself today  with a reiki treatment.  It was  sure needed.  I also did a facial and soaked in the tub.  There are a couple of big work days coming up and could have thought of a dozen other work things I could have been doing.
   I had to let it all go...all the thoughts that said I needed to do more work.  Sometimes it is all about stopping and listening.  Letting someone do a nice thing for me.  So I want to say a big thanks for the treatment.   I would like the days I pamper myself to get closer together.
   But for now....I work.

    Not long ago I went to our local "Duck Races".  It has been going on for many years (around 25 or so, I think).  You can bring your own duck to race or rent one there.  They put them in these "tracks"  and hold races all day. At the end of the day you can buy the ducks to take home.  They would just be dog food at my house...so I have to say "no thank you". 
    It is quite the big deal around here, those races.  This year they had a petting zoo.  There were every size goat you could think of, some chickens and turkeys.   The thing about turkeys are they are just so ugly.  AND big!   Plus...I think a little scary.  Maybe that is why they  ended up on so many Thanksgiving tables.   To quit scaring so many people.  Whatever the reason, I like to EAT turkey.  Some American Indians believe that the turkey is the "give-away".  You give-away so others may have.  Personally, I like this concept.  Isn't it  better to give than to receive?   So, today I would like to honor all those turkeys. 

This is my entry for the Antelope Valley Fair this year.  It took third place....last year I took 2nd place.  It tasted better, but wasn't as pretty.  Third time is a charm, they say.
    I wanted to let you know how I "fancied" up the crust.  First, I ran the pie crust through my pasta machine to make it a consistent thickness.  Then I ran it through again, only in the fettuccine cutter this time.  I used the strips to make a lattice.  Then I took a very small heart cookie cutter and cut out about 25 hearts and placed them on the crust using a little milk to make them stick to the crust.  It took a lot of time, but I think it turned out very pretty. 
    What I wanted to show you is how to think outside the box when it comes to decorating, or making things a little easier.  I really like my pasta machine for making the lattice both easy and uniform in thickness and width.  Now I have people looking for small cookie cutters to dress up all my baked goods.  You know Thanksgiving and Christmas are coming...
     Just a note on the pasta maker...I think I paid $20 for it and it has 2 cutters, fettuccine and regular spaghetti.   It takes a little practice to use it but is not too hard.  Also, once you eat "fresh" pasta it is so much tastier you will want to make it for everyone.  Recipes will come later.  Promise!