time saver
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2009-12-21: time saver

If I've said it once, I've said it a thousand times: there are not enough hours in the day to do what I want -- and need! -- to do. Some days there are fewer hours than others, and some even less than those! Days that occur in close proximity to significant holidays generally fall into the latter category.

I have never really been a huge fan of pre-made, boxed meals. I cook most of what I make from scratch and enjoy the whole process of making lists, checking things off and keeping myself on schedule while making a large meal. Of course, there are times when I just can't find the time or the energy to put together a lavish meal and there are guests descending upon us with little or no notice.

The holidays this year seem to have come on fast and furious with very little time to spare for much other than the usual. I haven't really had the time to cook huge meals lately and so I try to find cut-able corners on some of the less "important" evenings.

I found one way to save a bit of time but still end up with a fantastic, home-made festive dinner on a night when I have spent the morning at work, the afternoon making cookies with Leith and the evening packing up said cookies and making food for the following day's work potluck.

I love turkey dinner and don't like to save them for only the few (and far between) dates when I have two whole days in a row to take care of everything that goes along with serving a whole, roasted turkey for dinner. That's where Longo's swoops in and saves the day with their Turkey Kit.The kit includes a slow roasted fresh and juicy turkey (approximately 12 lbs), gravy, herb mashed potatoes, butternut squash, multigrain stuffing and cranberry sauce, all ready to heat and serve in under 2 hours serving 4-6 people. It also comes with complete and simple cooking instructions, carving tips and even ideas on what to do with your leftovers...if you have any.

So, while I don't know that I can hand the reins over to anyone else on Christmas Day, I am happy to allow the Longo's team into my kitchen on the weekend before Christmas so that I can get other more important things done.

And, please don't forget about Menu for Hope - Pim has compiled a great list of prizes that are "hot" (lots of bids on it) and "cold" (few bids on it; better chance of you winning it!!).