First off, I’m so happy Mr. Deetjen, one of my favorite schoolteachers, reads my column. He wasn’t shy about telling me that I forgot to tell you guys how long to cook last week’s Rangers cookie recipe and the right temperature. LOL, please folks forgive me. Cookies need to cook 10 minutes at 350 degrees.

I’m hoping everyone was able to spend time with your families and friends. It was so laid back at my cousin’s house. We enjoyed every minute.

What to do with leftovers? Well, I only cook a turkey. My oldest daughter Cody was given one from her second job at the Village and she asked me to cook it if I would make her a turkey pie. Of course, I said yes.

First, I took all the white meat for sandwiches for my one and only (that would be Richard), then I put the rest of the carcass in a big stock pot with celery, onions and carrots and boiled it for at least three hours. Here comes the messy part — after it cools, it’s time to clean and get rid of the bones and your undesirables (junk). Make sure you save all of the liquid — it’s messy but unbelievable turkey stock.

I had two pie crusts from Hannaford. In a regular size pie plate, put the first crust in and add your carrots, celery and onion from the stock pot. I keep it whole then cut it up and put it in a pie or soup. Yes, I made soup also. Place your turkey in and add your goodies. I had a box of frozen peas. Make sure you microwave your peas before adding them to your pie. I added leftover mashed potatoes — why bother chunking more potatoes when ya have mashed? If you have extra stuffing add that, too. The more goodness, the better. Now add some of the plain stock, too. I don’t like dry turkey pie. Place your top crust, like any other pie, and bake at 350 degrees for about 45 minutes or until it’s golden brown. Let it rest for a good 15 minutes and dig in. It goes well with a nice green salad or on its own.

I’m busy with lots of Christmas parties — whoohoo, it’s that time of year. I hope no one stresses over gift giving. Just spending time together is what’s so cool. Lots of snow in the forecast, please be safe out there.