Simple Thanksgiving side dishes move stress to back burner

We know that Thanksgiving can produce high anxiety. That’s why we’ve come up with simple — yet spectacular — sides and a host of little tips that will produce a dinner that’s as flavorful and stress-free.

• Common gives thanks — even when things don’t go his way

  The dictionary defines gratitude as the quality of being thankful ­— readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness. I try to show gratitude every day. I’m thankful for my family, my friends and for all the experiences I’ve had throughout my career. You …Read More

• Irish immigrant baked her own Irish soda bread till age 101

  Kathleen Clancy, an Irish immigrant who died in her sleep Sunday, Nov. 11, at her home on Chicago’s North Side, believed in the power of prayer and holy water, and hot tea and Irish soda bread — which she baked until she was 101. She lived to be 105, nearly every one of those years in good health.

• Pie dough has secret and surprising ingredient

  Making your own pie dough is, well, easy as pie. The ingredients couldn’t be simpler: flour, salt, butter or shortening, and ice water plus — surprise — vodka.