My husband and I hosted the Family Thanksgiving event this last Thursday at our place. I took great care to shop early, clear the "to do" list, and made plans on serving the meal promptly at noon (for those traveling from out of town, so we could eat early and then enjoy visiting before all had to be back on the road). I am usually right on target with the committed time...but not so this day.

I had, for the first time, used a portable roasting pan versus the traditional oven method that I was very comfortable and familiar with. I read the instructions carefully the night before, and planned the roasting time for the weight of the turkey precisely as the guidebook indicated. When the appointed time came, and I checked on the turkey, the temperature button had not popped up and you could tell by looking, the foul wasn't done! Oh no!...All the sides were ready to go, folks were hungry, and there was no bird to eat. Help!!!!

Unbeknownst to me, my sister (who LOVES to cook and watches many shows about it) informed me that in a roaster, you are to put the turkey breast down...what?! The instructions didn't say that!!! Sooooo, an hour and one-half later, Mr. Turkey was ready. Yikes! Oh well, no bigs, the family was having a good time visiting, and I kept the sides warming in the oven.

Does remind me though, that just reading the directions, or studying for a test, or orienting to something new, doesn't always translate to perfection, even if you have properly prepared. It's always a good idea to ask those "who have gone before" about their experience, wisdom, and advice...like many moons ago when I was caring for an open heart patient for the first time..I had studied, read everything I could get my hands on, and observed closely during orientation. Then I was on my own...I experienced a situation that I was not expecting and definitely relied on a veteran clinician to assist. Okay, okay, I'm probably taking this example too far, ie, what does preparing a turkey have to do with recovering a patient?...well, you get the point. Rely and lean on notable others, ask questions, and holler for help when needed.