Warm and pleasant greetings to all. We hope you are enjoying a good week.
Last week began with warm days, turning into a couple of cooler (cold) days and on to a lovely weekend, enjoyed by most. I did get to gather one more zinnia bouquet before the first frost. I knew the flowers wouldn’t survive, according to the weather report. The zinnia bouquet is pretty in the kitchen window where the vase stays in place most times.
Leslie and grandson Ethan came and brought a beautiful bronze chrysanthemum. We were happy to see them and to enjoy a good weekend. Had not seen Ethan since he turned 14 this summer. He is 6’6” now, much over my shoulder!
We hope all enjoyed the time at the Gateway Festival. We parked for a few minutes, shortly before noon, and the crowd was flowing in from all directions.
Individuals should stay aware of the seasonal flu activity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention made the first Flu View report of the 2022-2023 season last week showing that while the flu activity is relatively low overall, there are early increases happening in most of the country. It should not be difficult getting a vaccine. CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get vaccinated each year, ideally by the end of October, but vaccination should continue as long as flu virus may circulate. There is still time to be vaccinated. Most of the flu activity peaks between December and February, although significant activity can last as late as May.
CDC recommends that you take time to get a flu vaccine, take preventive action to stop the spread of germs and take flu antiviral drugs if your doctor prescribes them. Stay safe and think healthy. Perhaps you heard this news as I did, but I listened intentionally so I could share this with you.
I experienced the flu once. It was many years back. I was very uncomfortable for several days, until it ran its course.
Turkeys are in market places now. You have a choice of several sizes. If you have been buying for years, you know what size is best for your family. If you are selecting a whole bird for the first time, here’s what you can estimate for serving: 1 pound per person, 1½ pounds for leftovers, boneless breast ½ pound per person. Here’s one important tip, and that is to allow time for your frozen turkey to thaw! Allow 24 hours for every 5 pounds of turkey to thaw in refrigerator.
I like this method better, but it takes up that extra space in the refrigerator. Thawing in cold water takes less time, about 30 minutes per pound. What you would do is place turkey in its packaging in a large bag, squeeze out air and place in a container large enough to completely submerge the turkey in cold water. Replace with cold water every half hour.
Plan to cook it as soon as it is thawed. Add to your list foil or baking bags, and, of course, you will want to have a meat thermometer to test for doneness. USDA recommends cooking turkey to 165 F. Insert thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, the innermost part of the wing and the innermost part of the thigh for an accurate reading.
I enjoy roasting the whole turkey and making a presentation. Now, I’m like many cooks, preferring to roast selected parts or cutting the whole bird in parts before baking. Either way, you want partakers to savor the flavor and enjoy a good meal.
Enjoy life today. Be blessed.
