Sorry for the absence.  It was a combination of holiday festivities and a problematic internet connection at home.

We'll have our usual countdown on Thursday, but here are a few things to keep in mind for the week ahead:

• If you saved your turkey carcass from Thanksgiving, you need to make it into stock today or tomorrow.  Just put the carcass into your largest pot and cover completely with cold water.  Add some roughly chopped celery, a quartered onion or two, salt and pepper, and fresh herbs you have on hand (parsley and thyme are especially good).  If you don't have fresh herbs, you can use some dried poultry seasoning.  Bring the pot to a boil, then turn it down to simmer.  Check it on occasion to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom and burns.  After a couple of hours, turn it off and let it cool slightly.  The fat will solidify on top, making it easier to remove.  Strain the contents of the pot into another pot or a couple of large bowls.  A pasta strainer lined with new Handiwipes works like a dream.  Discard everything that remains in the strainer.  The broth can be frozen in zipper lock bags to make lovely soup on cold winter days.
• Today is the beginning of December.  That means it's time for panic to set in!  In truth, it means it's time to be reasonable about your plans and expectations.  Make a list of everything you want to do.  Now, delete at least a quarter of the list.  I'm serious.  Either delete it or find a way to outsource it.  For example, you can hire someone to clean your house.  You might be able to hire someone to put up your outside decorations.  You can buy at least some party refreshments pre-made.  Whatever you decide to delete, it's a sure bet that people will remember your calm and joy far more than they would miss the deletions.
• Carve out tiny blocks of time to do things you love.  Walk around the neighborhood and enjoy others' Christmas decorations. Take a hot bath while listening to Christmas music or drink some hot chocolate in front of a fire.  Bonus points if you make smores.