The Easter Chicken
I wanted to make this Easter feel at least a little normal in the middle of this abnormal era.
We managed a pared down egg hunt in the backyard and worshipped as a family with our church’s livestream. I even put on a dress (although, as comfy as it was, I don’t know that it counts).
And I planned a mini-feast for our celebration. I felt VERY fortunate to have found a whole chicken in our freezer. Thanks for the BOGO deal a few months ago, local grocery store!
I held back my gag reflex to retrieve the innards from within the bird. I tried not to think too much about it when I rubbed the outtards with butter and sprinkled on the seasonings.
I put the hen in the pan and threw her in the oven.
When she reached temperature, I even had the patience to let her rest for 30 minutes before carving her. (When Martha Stewart gives an order, follow it. You don’t want to make that woman vexed.)
We set the table, put the veggies and potatoes, etc into nice serving dishes, and even remembered the napkins.
Then I sunk the knife into the chicken.
But there was no meat in the breast. None. It was just skin and weird looking fatty stuff. I tried on the other side, hoping that maybe it was just an asymmetrical critter.
Nope.
“What is wrong with this chicken?” I said, clenching my jaw.
I wondered if it was possible for a chicken to be flat chested.
I did my best to pick off as much meat as possible, glad that both wings were in tact, even if the drumsticks fell apart.
Then I flipped over the bird, hoping for something. Anything.
That was when I realized that I’d cooked the chicken breast side down. I. Felt. Stupid. But at least there was plenty of meat!
The feast was delicious (even the upside-down chicken). The kids ate like beasts (because they’re all growing like monsters). Jeff said everything was great (because he’s kind).
This morning, when I finally let myself laugh about the boob-side-down bird, I thought about how this is a story I don’t want to forget. One that I’ll want to tell about the Easter we spent in distance because of Covid-19.
These stories we’re living at this time have the power to draw us near to the people we love. They’ll work to form new bonds to the friends and family we haven’t even met yet. And they’ll be great to help us process this time.
These are the stories that bind us.
So, I’d love to hear from you. What made yesterday especially memorable for you? What made the day special? What stories did you create yesterday?
susiefinkbeiner.com 
I think this Easter was about the best I’ve had I also thought I should dress better for the live stream and not wear pjs. I had contact with people I normally wouldn’t have. I watched several faith based programs. The Lord was very near. It was so good to hear from you again. Love your chicken story.
God bless you and your family.
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We had a nice Easter too! Watched Franklin Graham and our church on livestream. I was able to get a yummy ham from HBH…quite large. I guess I didn’t think about the size of my crew. I ordered what I always do! So, ham for days over here! We made all the good stuff to go with it. The hubby and I set up a challenging egg hunt for the kids. We were able to Zoom with almost all of my family(25)! Ended the night with games! It was a really good day!
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I’m so happy that you all had a great day. I miss you!
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I’m so glad to hear that, Anita! Sometimes it’s a gift when we’re forced to slow down, huh?
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I think you did the Chicken right. I was at a friend’s in FL at Thanksgiving time and she told me always puts her Turkey in up side down. It makes the breast juicy.
I also worshiped on line and dressed up more than I would have on a regular day.
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Well, this makes me feel better! It really was very juicy. I had a little of the leftovers today and it was still pretty great! You just made me feel better. 😉
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Hi Susie!
So we actually cook our fowl breast-side down on purpose so the white meat is nice and juicy and doesn’t get dried out!
My daughter told me she thought it might be the best Easter in her memory bc we got to spend so much together. No rushing around bc of church or food prep for a house full of people. Just us doing fun Celebratory hanging out time. And no stress.
Elizabeth
Sent from my iPhone
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Elizabeth! Hi! How are you, friend?
I’m so glad to hear that I’m not crazy and that it’s okay. It really was very juicy. 🙂
I think it’s sweet that your daughter said that. What a gift.
I hope you’re well!
Susie
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The laughter – that’s what we remember. Thank you for sharing about the chicken. I bought eggs, because they are a good source of protein. I bought brown so I didn’t have to color them. I dressed them up in black tie and bow and then I cracked them and enjoyed egg salad for lunch. Talked with my aging parents and brother via Zoom and we had a nice visit. Watched my oldest son play guitar for a big-box online church worship service – never had to leave my living room.
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I love that you dressed the eggs up. That’s so adorable!
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