I didn't actually know about the 10 minute wait period, but I set the timer for 7 minutes and when it went off, I finished something I was doing (that took 2-3 minutes), and then I lifted the lid slightly. I always leave the lid "off center" for 5-10 minutes at this point. Even still, I did kind of move things along a little faster than usual, because I had to leave the house unexpectedly. The lids all sealed, or appear to have sealed. They're all indented. I don't want to poison anyone though. It's the first time I've ever canned stock.

I make neck pillows...they are about as big around as a softball and about 8 inches long. I just tuck them under my neck. Even in the car or in the recliner I tuck them behind my neck (when I am a passenger) All of my cousins have them and use them...and a couple of friends. I can't sleep without mine. But I still often have stiff necks. I have for years... I think it is because of the time I tripped and rammed the top of my head into the door. I always make grand entrances...lol Hope you find a solution Glenda. patti

Try not to worry. I always cook a bird that big or bigger if I can get them. This year since I ordered my groceries online, I got two turkeys and the biggest was only 19.08 lbs. It's our standing joke around here that to me that's a small turkey. The key to having juicy turkey is always to not overcook it, no matter the size. Cook the breast at the thickest part to 160 and the thick part of thigh can be 165. I stuff my bird and it still only takes between three and a half and four hours at 350 or 375. I'm sure the high heat people will advise on that aspect but I don't see why it would be a problem. Sometimes if I have a really large bird and I'm worried about the thigh cooking I might leave it untrussed so the legs can spread a bit and it cooks more evenly. I loosen breast skin, put some butter under it, salt the bird all over, stuff and put in an open roasting pan. Always have a nice juicy bird, with plenty of fond in the pan for a giant batch of gravy.

I dread fireworks too. I adopted my Boxer in early August. He was a stray picked up in mid-July. The shelter had a big influx of dogs right around that time because of all the fireworks scaring pets out of their yards. This dog has not once tried to get out of my fence and the few times I have accidently let go of his leash (don't use the retractable kind with an active dog :) ) he hasn't even noticed he was loose so I know he isn't looking for ways to get loose. Now when its time for fireworks I don't let him out into the yard by himself during the day, and at night I just put him on a leash to take him out. Its a PTA but I don't want to take any chances. My one cat is terrified of fireworks and she will stalk around the house for the next few weeks acting like she's afraid of what might go bang next. Its pitifull and I hate it. So much for a celebration of freedom, its a miserable time in my world.