I saw this on Alton Brown's show a few years back and it looked good...
Good Eats Roast Turkey Recipe: Recipes: Food Network
One of my coworkers says that he always brines his turkey and it turns out awesome. When googling the subject, everyone raves about brined turkeys.
Part of my problem is fridge space... so in addition to the 5-gallon bucket outside, I'm thinking of defrosting (if I can't get a fresh bird) the turkey in a cooler with ice.
This is my first time hosting Thanksgiving for my family (although we're doing it next Sunday since everyone is so busy), and I'm a little nervous! I've cooked a turkey before and it's turned out fine (I used a bag), but I'm still anxious. Even worse, my mother has volunteered to come help me and she's a TERRIBLE cook. My goal is to do as much as possible before she shows up and starts getting in my way.
Anyone have any tips on surviving Thanksgiving???