I recently had bariatric surgery and lost 165 pounds, but I still love to cook. I just can a lot of it and give it away to family and friends now. Makes great little "care packages" and nice for all to have on hand. I love feeding big meals to good friends. Each year I cook the turkey for thanksgiving. I do the Alton Brown brining method and it has become a wonderful time for all. My parents are older now and they really are glad I cook the turkey, the dressing, and the sweet potato casserole for the whole gathering. My three sisters fill in the other side dishes. It lets us still have the family gathering without burdening our mother with the whole thing. It's by far the happiest week of my whole year! I have really mastered the art of home canning. I use a pressure cooker with Mason Jars, and can many foods for use on busy days, or for taking to work and micro-waving quickly. I love to can chili, beef stew, beef stroganoff, chicken & noodles, ham and beans, and many other foods. So handy to have on hand AND fun to give away to friends.