Duck!

Dan ate duck in New Orleans on a trip he took back in high school. He has mentioned a few times since then how much he enjoyed it. After learning we'd be home for Christmas, I picked up a duck for Christmas dinner. A bit nontraditional and maybe even a little gross, but why not? After all, it wouldn't have to turn out very well because Dan's brother and wife already had dinner plans. Once we got word that their plans had changed and they were available to come over, pressure was on to make it at the very least, edible.

Mom: "We're having duck for Christmas dinner."
Ryan: "How could anyone catch a duck for dinner?"
Mom: "Just like you would a turkey. We have one in our fridge at home right now."
Ryan: "There's a duck in our fridge?!"
Braden: "Ryan, it's dead."
(I guess I skipped over that distinguishing detail. Thanks for clearing it up Braden.)

The dead duck after getting a seasoning massage:


The dead duck sporting its new tan:


It turned out just fine, and tasted similar to dark turkey meat. Phew! I guess we shouldn't have been so worried. But, we've had lamb before - Ew! Some animals just aren't as tasty as others.

Just before we ate, Joe & Nikki surprised us with their traditional "crackers" for everyone to open. Two people take a hold of either end, then pull. Accompanied with a bang, the crackers open up to reveal paper crowns and fun treasures inside.