h the ast. Driving
in snowy conditions. Pay attention to whether the road is shiny or dull — a shiny road is much more likely to be slippery. And be especially careful when crossing any bridges or overpasses; that’s where ice is most likely to form. Know your ABS system. Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) use an onboard computer to optimize the car’s ability to brake during extreme conditions, and they have been required on new cars in the U.S. since 2012. If your car has an ABS and you lose control, slam the brakes as hard as you can and hold the pedal down. The pedal will generally shudder — this can be frightening the first time it happens, but it’s totally normal and you shouldn’t lift your foot. Your car will not stop immediately, but rather as quickly and safely as it can. Continue steering your car as you brake and trust your ABS. With these best practices in mind, you can keep your family safe and enjoy a happy winter. Most importantly of all, if the trip is unnecessary and the roads seem dangerous, stay home! You’re always better safe than sorry. Most years, between 20,000 and 60,000 people die in the U.S. from the flu. That number last year hit an all-time low, with less than 1,000 deaths reported. The steep reduction was likely due to masking and social distancing implemented as protection against the coronavirus. With most U.S. adults now vaccinated against COVID and gathering more frequently, experts aren’t quite sure what to expect from this flu season. But many doctors are concerned about a possible “twindemic.” If COVID-19 surges again and this year is a bad flu season, hospitals could be overrun with patients from both viruses. Since coronavirus, flu, and cold symptoms are all so similar, anyone who develops them is likely to experience extra anxiety. High numbers of influenza cases could also result in crowded doctors’ offices and testing sites. Plus, experts (and most employers) recommend you stay home if you show any symptoms that could be coronavirus related, so being vaccinated against flu makes you less likely to develop a cough or runny nose that could make you miss work. The same goes for your kids, who could be kept out of school. As with all vaccines, getting your flu shot won’t guarantee you don’t get sick. But you’re about 40–60% less likely to become ill with the flu — and if you do, you’ll likely experience a milder case than someone who wasn’t vaccinated. Contrary to popular myth, the injectable flu vaccine cannot give you the flu.
TAKE A BREAK
DIY Holiday Eggnog
Inspired by TastesBetterFromScratch.com
Making your own eggnog is easier than you think! This creamy, delicious drink will be a hit with your holiday guests.
INGREDIENTS • 6 egg yolks • 1/2 cup sugar • 1 cup heavy whipping cream • 2 cups milk
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg • 1 pinch salt
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract • Cinnamon and whipped cream, for garnish
DIRECTIONS
1. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until light and creamy. Set aside. 2. In a saucepan over medium heat, stir together the cream, milk, nutmeg, and salt. Bring to a simmer. 3. Add a spoonful of the milk mixture to the egg mixture. Whisk vigorously and repeat, one spoonful at a time. 4. When most of the milk is whisked in, add the egg mixture to the saucepan. 5. Whisk until the liquid thickens slightly or reaches 160 F. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract. 6. Pour the eggnog into a glass container and cover. Refrigerate. 7. When the eggnog has thickened, pour it into glasses, garnish, and enjoy!
Do everything you can to stay healthy this winter by getting a flu shot. Your friends, family, and community will all appreciate it!
3
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator