trains everywhere

The World's Greatest Hobby on Tour came to the Raleigh Convention Center. Model Trains as far as the eye could see. Amazing displays with miles of model train tracks. There was even model helicopters flying over head.

Jack was inspired by the show, he now sets up new tracks and displays of his own... daily!

The Nutcracker

Another great performance by Carolina Ballet. And yes, the Rat King was dispelled once again... a concern often discussed by young attendees.

tree lighting

Leah & Jack having fun at the Christmas Tree lighting... well, maybe Jack is having a little too much fun.

Christmas village under the Tree

In keeping with Holiday tradition, the weekend after Thanksgiving, the tree goes up.

This year was a well designed vision from Momma. One large tree, small Christmas village, and two rail lines supporting two train engines and multiple cars.

The picture above shows Leah & Jack taking a breather after decorating the tree, and planning how to populate Momma's Christmas village. After completion of the Christmas village, Leah & Jack added Star Wars figures, Hello Kitties, and various Lego people.

Nothing warms the heart like seeing a Star Wars Storm Trooper ice skating with a Hello Kitty... in the Christmas village under the Tree.

smoke roasted turkey

Smoke roasted turkey, slow cooking for great flavor!

Brine turkey over night. A basic brine of sea salt and brown sugar, seasons the turkey nicely.

Then rub turkey in olive oil and your favorite spices. Turkey in the smoker for a couple of hours. Hickory is nice, or mesquite.

Now time for the roaster. A couple hours of self basting, and a great moist turkey.

I've used this slow cooking method for many a years now. Great way to have a well seasoned moist bird!

And check out The Virtual Weber Bullet, lots of information on smoker cooking.

wait'n

Autumn is well under way, a fun start to the school year! Jack is digging Pre-K and Leah is settling into 1st grade. Amazing busy, with two kids in school.

Great adventure, and fun to see them grow!

Summer ending

Summer has moved quickly by. Getting ready for Autumn... and of course more bbqing!

I have a new back patio, working on completing it with potted plants and of course a bbq area. More to come on that... and of course, I will continue the couch battle.