Make an inventory of valuables for insurance purposes

Dear Readers: This is a good time of the year to remind you again to make an inventory of valuable items in your home for insurance purposes. You might need to update from the last one you took.

Take note: Home fires increase during the winter holidays.

Use your smartphone to create a household inventory, which will be really important if your house is robbed or if there’s a natural disaster or fire. Record your household items for an insurance claim.

As you videotape the items, verbally describe (note the history and value) the antiques, jewelry, high-tech equipment and other family items of value.

Be sure to show the sides or manufacturer’s mark to help identify them. And read aloud the identification or serial number.

— Heloise

Dear Readers: Tired of the same old turkey and want to jazz it up? Try this quick and easy peanut oil and paprika baste. (Note: Highly refined peanut oil can be safely consumed by many people with peanut allergies. But check with your doctor first.) Your turkey will taste yummy.

Take these steps: Slather the turkey with peanut oil. Then rub lots of paprika over the top of the entire turkey. Make an aluminum foil tent and place over the top.

Cook at 300 F to 325 F for as long as is specified for the size of the turkey.

Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes.

— Heloise

Dear Readers: If you are going to be a guest at a holiday gathering, it’s customary to bring a hostess gift. Because you know your friends well, you could bring something that you know they will love.

Or you can call the hostess and ask if there is something that she would really like you to bring. Otherwise, you can consider traditional hostess gifts like flowers or plants, their favorite liquor, holiday candies, exotic coffees or fabulous cookies.

— Heloise