Holiday Song Book 2021

Special Advertising Supplement to Montour County’s hometown newspaper

dailyitem.com

The Danville News An edition of The Daily Item

Thursday, December 2, 2021 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Page 1

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O Come, All Ye Faithful It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas Hark! The Herald Angels Sing Little Drummer Boy The First Noel The Twelve Days of Christmas Frosty the Snowman O Christmas Tree Silent Night O Little Town of Bethlehem Deck The Halls God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen Away In A Manger The Holly and The Ivy Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town Let it Snow!

19. We Three Kings of

Orient Are 20. Joy To The World 21. Sleigh Ride 22. We Wish You A Merry

Christmas 23. Jingle Bells 24. Jolly Old Saint Nicholas 25. Rudolph The Red

Nosed Reindeer 26. Her Come Santa Claus 27. Auld Lang Syne 28. Stick To A Budget 30. Workplace Gifting 31. Holiday Aromas 32. Celebrate a Merry

Month 34. Gifts For Seniors 36. Holiday Recipes 38. How To Involve Kids 40-45. Kids’ Pages 46. Santa Letter-Writing

Secrets

PEACE ON EARTH Good friends and neighbors like all of you make the holidays truly wonderful.

570-743-5433

INCOME TAX SERVICE • MONEY SPECIALISTS

3924 Penns Drive, Selinsgrove - Winfield Area

1/2 mile off County Line Road 1 mile north of Kratzerville Bridge

Page Page 22 •• Holiday Holiday Songbook Songbook & & traditions traditions •• Thursday, Thursday, December December 2, 2, 2021 2021

O Come, All Ye Faithful

from

“Your Better Furniture Store”

Christmas Furniture is on Santa’s List: • Glider Rockers • Sofas • Clocks • Recliners

• Jewelry Cabinets • TV Consoles • Curios • Lane Recliners

• Pictures & Mirrors • Accessories • Desks & Lamps • and much more.

35 S. 4th St., Sunbury • 570-286-4751 • www.moyersfurniture.com Mon., Tues., Weds., Thurs., Sat. 9-5, Fri. 9-8 Thursday, December 2, 2021 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Page 3

It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas Everywhere you go Take a look at the five and ten, it's glistening once again With candy canes and silver lanes aglow It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas Toys in every store But the prettiest sight to see is the holly that will be On your own front door A pair of hop-a-long boots and a pistol that shoots Is the wish of Barney and Ben Dolls that will talk and will go for a walk Is the hope of Janice and Jen And Mom and Dad can hardly wait for school to start again It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas Everywhere you go, There's a tree in the Grand Hotel, one in the park as well It's the sturdy kind that doesn't mind the snow It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas Soon the bells will start And the thing that will make them ring is the carol that you sing Right within your heart

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320 Packer Street Sunbury, PA 17801 Tues - Thurs 11 am - 10 pm Fri & Sat 11 am - 11 pm Sunday 11 am - 10 pm Closed Monday Page 4 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Thursday, December 2, 2021

Hark! T he Herald Angels Sing

Season’s Greetings From The

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Thursday, December 2, 2021 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Page 5

Little Drummer Boy Come, they told me, Pa-rum-pum-pum-pum Our newborn King to see, Pa-rum-pum-pum-pum Our finest gifts we’ll bring, Pa-rum-pum-pum-pum To lay before the King, Pa-rum-pum-pum-pum Rum-pa-pum-pum, rum-pa-pum-pum.

So to honor Him, Pa-rum-pum-pum-pum, When we come.

Baby Jesus, Pa-rum-pum-pum-pum I am a poor boy, too, Pa-rum...

I have no gift to bring, Pa-rum...

That’s fit to give a King, Pa-rum...

Rum-pa-pum-pum, rum-pa-pum-pum.

Shall I play for you, Pa-rum-pum-pum-pum, On my drum?

Mary nodded, Pa-rum-pum-pum-pum

The ox and lamb kept time, Pa-rum...

I played my drum for Him, Pa-rum...

I played my best for Him, Pa-rum...

Rum-pa-pum-pum, rum-pa-pum-pum.

Then He smiled at me,

Pa-rum-pum-pum-pum,

Me and my drum.

Merry Christmas To all and may God bless s our tro oops and military personnel worldwide!

Routes 11 & 15 • Shamokin Dam, PA Page 6 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Thursday, December 2, 2021

The F irst Noel

Thursday, December 2, 2021 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Page 7

On the first day of Christmas, my true love sent to me a partridge in a pear tree.

On the second day of Christmas, my true love sent to me two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree.

On the third day of Christmas, my true love sent to me three French hens, two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree.

On the fourth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me four calling birds, three French hens, two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree.

On the fifth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me five golden rings, four calling birds, three French hens, two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree.

On the sixth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me six geese a-laying, five golden rings, four calling birds, three French hens, two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree.

On the seventh day of Christmas, my true love gave to me seven swans a-swimming, six geese a-laying, five golden rings, four calling birds, three French hens, two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree.

On the eighth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me eight maids a-milking, seven swans a-swimming, six geese a-laying, five golden rings, four calling birds, three French hens, two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree.

On the ninth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me nine ladies dancing, eight maids a-milking, seven swans a-swimming, six geese a-laying, five golden rings, four calling birds, three French hens, two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree.

On the tenth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me ten lords a-leaping, nine ladies dancing, eight maids a-milking, seven swans a-swimming, six geese a-laying, five golden rings, four calling birds, three French hens, two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree.

On the eleventh day of Christmas, my true love gave to me eleven pipers piping, ten lords a-leaping, nine ladies dancing, eight maids a-milking, seven swans a-swimming, six geese a-laying, five golden rings, four calling birds, three French hens, two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree.

On the twelfth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me Twelve drummers drumming, eleven pipers piping, ten lords a-leaping, nine ladies dancing, eight maids a-milking, seven swans a-swimming, six geese a-laying, five golden rings, four calling birds, three French hens, two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree.

Page 8 •• Holiday Songbook & traditionss • Thursday, December 2, 2021

Frosty the Snowman Frosty the Snowman was a jolly, happy soul, With a corncob pipe and a button nose And two eyes made out of coal.

Frosty the Snowman was a fairy tale they say, He was made of snow, but the children know How he came to life one day.

There must have been some magic In that old silk hat they found, For when they put it on his head He began to dance around.

Oh, Frosty the Snowman was alive as he could be; And the children say he could laugh and play Just the same as you and me.

Thumpety thump, thump, thumpety thump, thump, Look at Frosty go; Thumpety thump, thump, thumpety thump, thump Over the hills of snow.

Happy Holidays from everyone at

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O Christmas Tree

’Twas The Night Before Christmas

Let this holiday be one worth waiting for. Wishing you and your family the joys of the season.

Rts. 11 & 15, Selinsgrove (570) 743-2100

¼ mile north of the Susquehanna Valley Mall Hours: Monday-Saturday 10:00-9:00 Sunday 12:00-5:00

FACTORY DIRECT TO YOU! Serving the Valley for over 25 Years

Page 10 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Thursday, December 2, 2021

Silent Night

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Thursday, December 2, 2021 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Page 11

O Little Town of Bethlehem

Page Page 12 12 •• Holiday Holiday Songbook Songbook & & traditions traditions •• Thursday, Thursday, December December 2, 2, 2021 2021

Deck T he Hall

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God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen

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Page 14 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Thursday, December 2, 2021

Away In A Manger

Thursday, December 2, 2021 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Page 15

The Holly and The Ivy The holly and the ivy, when they are both full grown, Of all the trees that are in the wood, the holly bears the crown.

Oh the rising of the sun, and the running of the deer, The playing of the merry organ, sweet singing in the choir.

The holly bears a blossom, as white as any flower, And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ, to be our sweet Saviour.

Oh the rising of the sun, and the running of the deer, The playing of the merry organ, sweet singing in the choir.

The holly bears a berry, as red as any blood, And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ, to do poor sinners good.

Oh the rising of the sun, and the running of the deer, The playing of the merry organ, sweet singing in the choir.

The holly bears a prickle, as sharp as any thorn, And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ, on Christmas day in the morn.

Oh the rising of the sun, and the running of the deer, The playing of the merry organ, sweet singing in the choir.

We Have A Complete Line of Paper Products For Your Holiday Celebrations!

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Merry Christmas!

Paper Party Supply Colonial Village Plaza • Shamokin Dam

570-743-6704

Tues.-Weds. 10-5, Thurs.-Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-5, Closed Sun. & Mon.

www.careedparty.com Page 16 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Thursday, December 2, 2021

Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town

Thursday, December 2, 2021 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Page 17

! w o n S t i Let Oh the weather outside is frightful, But the fire is so delightful, And since we've no place to go, Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

How I'll hate going out in the storm!

But if you'll really hold me tight, All the way home I'll be warm.

The fire is slowly dying, It doesn't show signs of stopping, And, my dear, we're still good-bying, And I've bought some corn for popping, But as long as you love me so, The lights are turned way down low, Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

When we finally kiss goodnight,

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Page 18 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Thursday, December 2, 2021

We Three Kings of Orient Are

T-shirts and Gift Certificates Available

448 1/2 Market St., Sunbury 570-863-2117 Your Main Squeeze Since 1945 Thursday, December 2, 2021 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Page 19

Joy To The World

From the Entire Staff at

Dental Care Associates Stephanie Varljen, DDS, Ph. D. Jenny Sherpa, DDS • Marvin Berger, DDS, Periodontist Donald D. Dinello, DMD • Kaitlyn Lotti, DDS

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Sleigh Ride Just hear those sleigh bells jingling Ring ting tingling too Come on, it’s lovely weather For a sleigh ride together with you Outside the snow is falling And friends are calling “Yoo-hoo” Come on, it’s lovely weather For a sleigh ride together with you Giddy-up giddy-up giddy-up let’s go Let’s look at the snow , We’re riding in a wonderland of snow Giddy-up giddy-up giddy-up it’s grand , Just holding your hand We’re gliding along with the song , Of a wintry fairy land Our cheeks are nice and rosy , And comfy cozy are we We’re snuggled up together like two , Birds of a feather would be Let’s take the road before us , And sing a chorus or two Come on, it’s lovely weather , For a sleigh ride together with you There’s a birthday party at the home of farmer Gray It’ll be the perfect ending of a perfect day We’ll be singing the songs we love to sing without a single stop At the fireplace while we watch the chestnuts pop. Pop! Pop! Pop! There’s a happy feeling nothing in the world can buy When they pass around the coffee and the pumpkin pie It’ll nearly be like a picture print by Currier and Ives These wonderful things are the things , We remember all through our lives

Season’s Greetings May your holiday season be filled with peace and joy, and may the New Year hold wonderful surprises.

MARKS, MCLAUGHLIN DENNEHY & PIONTEK 570-275-3541

rlmarksr@mmdlawoffice.com 42 W. Market St. • Danville, PA 17821

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We Wish You A Merry Christmas

Spreading

Good Health & Cheer th hroughout the Coming Year.

Season’s Greetings from our Family to Yours What can we do for you?

136 Market St. • Sunbury, PA 17801 800.677.2478 • 570.286.5855 • www.purdyinsurance.com Page 22 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Thursday, December 2, 2021

Jingle Bells

2824 Old Turnpike Rd, Lewisburg, PA 17837

Thursday, December 2, 2021 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Page 23

Jolly Old Saint Nicholas

Page 24 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Thursday, December 2, 2021

Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer You know Dasher and Dancer and Prancer and Vixen, Comet and Cupid and Donner and Blitzen.

But do you recall the most famous reindeer of all?

Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer, had a very shiny nose, And if you ever saw it, you would even say it glows.

All of the other reindeer, used to laugh and call him names; They never let poor Rudolph join in any reindeer games.

Then one foggy, Christmas eve, Santa came to say, Rudolph, with your nose so bright, won’t you guide my sleigh tonight?

Then how the reindeer loved him, as they shouted out with glee, Rudolph the red-nose reindeer, you’ll go down in history.

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Thursday, December 2, 2021 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Page 25

Here Comes Santa Claus

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Page 26 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Thursday, December 2, 2021

Auld Lang Syne

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Wishing You All A Safe And Happy Holiday 413 Market Street, Sunbury 570-286-4150 M-T-TH-F 9AM-5PM, W 9AM-1PM TonysTailorShop.com Thursday, December 2, 2021 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Page 27

6 ways to stick to a holiday budget

T

he holidays are an exciting, fun and joyful time of year. And for many people, the holidays also are expensive.

According to the Motley Fool Company, a financial wellness resource, the average American spent $882.45 on Christmas gifts, food, decorations, travel, and other holiday-related expenses in 2019. Around 56 percent of gift shoppers set a budget for holiday spending, but only 64 percent stuck to it. In addition, 21.5 percent of respondents went into debt due to holiday shopping.

Who doesn’t want to have a super holiday with delicious foods on the table and lots of presents to share with family

and friends? While that’s tempting, such a bounty should never result in financial peril.

These six strategies can make it easy to establish and stick to a budget this holiday season.

1. Budget for everything.

When working out holiday spending plans, factor in all of the expenses associated with the holidays not just the most obvious, like gifts. Costs for gas, parking lot fees, greeting cards, postage, travel expenses, and much more should be included in your final number.

2. Determine how much you can spend. Money for gifts and other holiday expenses should ideally come from your disposable income. Look at your finances in advance of the holiday season

Page 28 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Thursday, December 2, 2021

and figure out how much extra cash you have for the holidays, and use that figure to determine how much you should spend.

Find ways to make up any deficit by curtailing expenses like dining out or entertainment extras. Many people plan to use credit cards to pay now and worry about the aftermath later.

Only use credit cards if you have the money in the bank and can pay off the entire bill when the balance due is in January.

is some risk with carrying around cash, but that risk may be offset by the benefit of spending only what you can afford to spend.

3. Set a spending limit for individuals. Based on your numbers and how much you plan to spend overall, start allocating money to categories, including gift recipients. Come up with a spending range for each person and stick to it.

6. Shop sales and deals. Highend stores may have the impressive tag, but their prices can set you back. Instead, look for comparable gifts at discount stores and other retailers. Also, if you must use a credit card, use one that earns you a cashback bonus for added savings.

4. Pay in cash as much as possible. It’s easy to know what you’re spending when using cash as opposed to credit. There

5. Track all purchases. Save the receipts and keep a running total of expenditures so you can see how your spending is measuring up to your budget.

If necessary, scale back on one category if you’ve tipped the scales in spending on another.

A holiday budget is a must to avoid overspending and finding yourself in debt early next year.

Thursday, December 2, 2021 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Page 29

Workplace gifting etiquette: Get giving right Gift giving in the workplace can be challenging territory to navigate. And as anyone who has received an inappropriate gift or something that really wasn’t useful can attest, he or she probably doesn’t want to face a situation in which a gift leads to office gossip.

According to a poll conducted by Harris, around half of workers plan to gift at least one business associate around the holidays but are confused about what to give.

Too often it’s up to workers to navigate these etiquette minefields on their own, but the following tips can help the process go smoothly.

Keep it impersonal. Impersonal doesn’t mean it’s acceptable to grab anything off the shelf. But the gift should not be something that would offend tastes or sentiments. Avoid clothing, perfume, jewelry, or accessories.

Lotions and other scented items are also ill-advised.

Skip your boss. Etiquette experts say that gifts should flow downward not upward in the realm of employment ranking.

That means it’s best to stick with gifting colleagues who are on the same level as you. Buying a gift for the boss may look like you’re

simply trying to score brownie points instead of offering a meaningful gift.

Give group gifts. Rather than gifting individuals, it can be safer to give a group gift from which many can benefit. This can include coffee and pastries from a nearby bakery, or a bouquet of flowers to brighten up the office environment.

Keep prices modest. Office giving is not about illustrating who can afford the most expensive gift. Remember, some people will not be able to reciprocate, and they shouldn’t feel uncomfortable for being on the receiving end of a lavish gift.

Follow the rules. Gift exchanges should be cleared with supervisors or human resources professionals. It pays to check if there are rules in place for gifting others.

Avoid cash gifts. Giving cash or checks is not a good idea.

Money should only come by way of bonuses from higher-ups. If you’re stuck on what to give, a gift card to a store that a coworker visits is acceptable.

Gifting at work is complicated, and certain etiquette should be followed so no lines are crossed.

Page 30 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Thursday, December 2, 2021

Decorate with a nose toward inviting holiday aromas

Holiday decor is as much about the sights and sounds as it is about the scents of the season. Few things evoke the holiday spirit as much as the aroma of fresh evergreen or spicy cinnamon and cloves.

Incorporating inviting aromas into holiday decor can make homes feel even more special.

Filling a home with fragrant decor takes a little ingenuity and planning.

Here are some ideas to incorporate the scents of the holiday season into your decor.

Use a real Christmas tree. An easy way to create a pine-like scent indoors is to select a real Christmas tree. Ask the tree farm which varieties are the most fragrant. If a fresh tree is not possible, fill a decorative basket with pine cones and evergreen boughs for that woodsy appeal.

Create a seasonal scented simmer. Take to the stove to make a homemade air infusion from ingredients in and around the house. Simmer pine branches, citrus peels, vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, and whatever else can be placed in a pot or slow cooker with water. The scents will permeate the house for hours if enough water is added to the mixture.

Experiment with scented candles. Scented candles can be found at various stores during

the holiday season. Select among popular holiday aromas like pine, cinnamon, apples, and Christmas cookie varieties.

Utilize essential oils. Natural food stores and other retailers may sell essential oils, which can be diluted and sprayed on surfaces or into the air. Exercise caution around upholstery, or test for staining before use.

Spend more time in the kitchen.

Add delicious scents to the home by way of freshly baked goods or holiday meals. Nothing beats the smell of cookies right out of the oven, and the scents can linger for hours.

Make beeswax ornaments. Add scented oils to melted beeswax and pour into molds. Hang these creations as ornaments on trees or in other areas of the home.

Craft some “gingerbread” ornaments. A mixture of cinnamon, applesauce and glue can be used to make ornaments or gift tags that resemble gingerbread cookies, and these ornaments have more staying power than actual cookies.

Design a pretty pomander. Stud an orange with cloves. Cut off the top of the orange and hollow out a place for a small tea light. The warmth of the flame will produce more scent.

Rich and inviting aromas can fill a home with the holiday spirit.

Thursday, December 2, 2021 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Page 31

30 ways to celebrate a 8 The holiday season begins in late November and runs through New Year’s Day. It is marked by various gatherings of friends and family, decadent foods, cocktails, traveling, and gift exchanges. The National Retail Federation says consumers will spend an average of $967 during the holiday season. However, the joy of the holidays also is about all of the memorable experiences that tend to make the season so beloved.

With that in mind, here are 30 ways to make the holiday season that much more merry.

Take a ride or walk around the neighborhood to look at decorated houses.

9

Make a fire in a fire pit in the yard and toast marshmallows while sipping hot chocolate.

10 11

Binge watch holiday movies.

1

choir.

2

Help a friend decorate his or her home.

Visit with an elderly or housebound neighbor and share conversation.

Donate gently used toys to a children’s hospital.

3

Research the history of the holiday and share it with people you care about.

4

Make handmade Christmas tree ornaments.

5

Donate money to a charity or other good cause.

6

Encourage “pay it forward” movements in your community. Start by doing something simple like buying a coffee for a complete stranger.

7

Feed birds facing the cold, winter weather.

Attend the concert of a children’s

12 13 14

Host a tree-trimming party.

Schedule a day for baking cookies.

15

Sing Christmas carols at a nursing home.

16

Put together care packages of items and send them to troops overseas.

17

Share the holidays with a military family whose spouse is in service and can’t make it home.

18

Offer to shop for someone who is homebound due to age, a chronic illness or injury.

Page Page 32 32 •• Holiday Holiday Songbook Songbook & & traditions traditions •• Thursday, Thursday, December December 2, 2, 2021 2021

e a merry month 19 28 Visit a large city to look at Christmas window displays.

house.

20

29

21

30

Buy and hang real mistletoe and use it.

Make a new friend and invite him or her to a holiday party for the first time.

Construct a gingerbread

Teach someone how to make a cherished family recipe.

Surprise a distant relative with an impromptu visit.

22

Babysit a newborn so his or her parents can get errands done or just catch up on rest.

23

Volunteer at a soup kitchen.

24

Share the religious traditions of your holiday with someone of a different faith.

25

If weather permits, go sledding, build a snowman or have a snowball fight.

26

Share favorite memories at family holiday dinners.

27

Remember a deceased loved one with a special tribute.

Thursday, December 2, 2021 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Page 33

Great gifts for beloved seniors

By the time they reach senior status, many adults have amassed a ton of stuff along with their irreplaceable knowledge. Come their golden years, grandparents and other aging loved ones probably don’t need much in the way of material possessions, which can make it challenging to find them holiday gifts.

Finding great gifts for seniors may take a little more effort, but with these ideas at the ready, it’s likely gift-givers can make this holiday merry for everyone on their shopping lists.

Family photo memories Many seniors love to talk about their life histories. What better way to be the catalyst for conversation than to create a photo album that chronicles their lives? Photos can be included alongside historical documents, such as old school projects, military discharge papers, awards, and even genealogical information. Photo puzzles, photo calendars and any home decor with a photo printed on it are variations on this theme.

Assistance gifts Seniors want to remain as

independent as possible. By giving items that help them do just that, you can bring smiles to their faces. One idea is motionsensing light switches and fixtures. If and when nature calls in the middle of the night, hallways or bathrooms can be illuminated effortlessly. Shower and bathroom grab bars are another idea. These provide extra security and stability when getting in and out of the shower or when using the toilet. For seniors who just need a little extra reach, a grab tool can easily snag packages from a top shelf or pick up items that may have dropped to the floor, eliminating bending or straining.

Practical technology Seniors may not be as immersed in technology as young people, but they purchase their share of gadgets and increasingly rely on tech to get through the day. To free up more time for rest and relaxation, invest in an iRobot Roomba Robot Vacuum.

This simple device will clean floors easily, moving from room to room without the need for a bulky canister or upright

Page 34 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Thursday, December 2, 2021

vacuum. Consider an easy-to-use tablet, pre-loaded with handy applications. Grandparents can use video chatting to keep in touch with grandchildren living across the country. Easily refill prescription medication with a pharmacy app just a click away. Stream favorite movies or channels through video streaming sites, like Netflix or Amazon Prime. Tablets tend to be lightweight, portable and userfriendly.

Personal care Even independent seniors

may benefit from a little extra companionship and assistance when family members are not able to make frequent visits.

Hiring a visiting care worker, who can do everything from organizing pills to making dinner to tackling some laundry, can provide the help seniors need with their daily errands.

Seniors are a thriving and growing demographic. It may seem challenging to purchase gifts for older loved ones, but with a little know-how, it’s easy to find the right present.

Gift-wrapping tips and tricks Much of the focus of each holiday season is on gift-giving, but all those gifts will eventually need to be wrapped. Stacks of presents just waiting to be covered with paper and ribbon can overwhelm gift givers, prompting them to put off wrapping gifts until the last minute. Hesitant wrappers with a pile of gifts to wrap can use these tricks to make the process go smoothly.

Find inspiration. Instead of looking at wrapping as yet another chore, try to envision how the recipient will feel peeling open the paper and finding the gift inside.

Wrapping can be the prelude to the gift itself, and intensify the anticipation. The wrapping paper or style also may draw on aspects of the gift itself. For example, a knit scarf can be placed in a crocheted stocking.

Handle oddly-shaped items.

Wrapping rectangular boxes can be a snap, but what about something that’s round or full of angles? Think about placing oddly-shaped items inside another item to make the shape more uniform. Shoe boxes, coffee cans and even paper towel rolls can hold items. Then place the wrapping on these containers.

Cover prices. To enable easy exchanges or returns, do not cut off the price tags of gifts. Instead, place a festive sticker over the dollar amount, but leave the

scan bar visible. This way the gift recipient can return the gift with ease if necessary. Keep supplies at the ready.

Devote a bin or bins to wrapping supplies and tools. Having scissors, paper, tape, ribbon, and more in a designated spot will cut down on having to hunt and peck when it comes time to wrap. Martha Stewart suggests getting a rotary cutter to cut long straight or decorative edges on wrapping paper. Rotary cutters may be easier to use than scissors, especially when paired with a ruler.

Wrap on a firm surface. Devote a table or counter to wrapping gifts.

This will keep the paper taut and neat and make it easier to cut and position. You risk tearing the paper or puncturing it when working on carpeting or bedding.

Color- or pattern-code gifts. It’s easy to visualize who gets what gift when each recipient has his or her own special wrapping paper.

This is also a handy idea when wrapping gifts from Santa, as it will differentiate the Santa gifts from the ones being given by Mom and Dad. With a few helpful pointers, wrapping gifts can be easy. And for those who prefer to skip the wrapping themselves, many malls and retailers offer complimentary wrapping for a small donation to charity.

Thursday, December 2, 2021 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Page 35

Eggnog is a classic for holiday celebrations

Cranberry-Orange Muffins ingredients:

1 1 1/2 1/2 1 ¼ 1 2/3 ¼ 2

Nonstick Canola Oil Cooking Spray cup Ocean Spray® Fresh Cranberries cup All-Purpose Flour cup Whole Wheat Flour cup Brown Sugar tablespoon baking powder teaspoon Iodized Salt Large Egg cup 2% Milk cup Canola Oil teaspoons orange zest

Prep: 15 minutes plus cooling Bake: 17 minutes Makes: 12 (1 muffin) servings

prep:

1. Preheat oven to 375°; spray 12-cup standard muffin pan with cooking spray.

2. In a food processor, pulse cranberries until small pieces remain.

3. In a medium bowl, whisk flours, brown sugar, baking powder and salt. In a large bowl, whisk egg, milk and oil; stir in flour mixture until just combined. Fold in orange zest and cranberries; divide batter into prepared muffin pan.

4. Bake muffins 17 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center of muffins comes out clean; cool 10 minutes then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.

Approximate nutritional values per serving: 149 Calories, 6g Fat (1g Saturated), 17mg Cholesterol, 185mg Sodium, 23g Carbohydrates, 1g Fiber, 10g Sugars, 9g Added Sugars, 3g Protein

Page 36 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Thursday, December 2, 2021

quick brandy eggnog No beverage is more associated with holiday cocktail parties than eggnog, which is a beloved beverage come the holiday season. While it’s perfectly acceptable to purchase store-bought eggnog in the dairy case and dress it up with a favorite spirit, most eggnog recipes only feature a handful of ingredients and are quite easy to make at home. Rum, whiskey and brandy are customary liquors to use in eggnog recipes.

ingredients:

1 ounce Brandy 1-1/4 ounces Milk 1/2 ounce Simple Syrup 1 Egg Yolk Grated nutmeg or cinnamon for garnish

prep:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the brandy, milk, simple syrup, and egg yolk.

2. Dry shake without ice.

3. Fill shaker with ice, then shake vigorously for about 30 seconds to ensure the egg is well mixed.

4. Strain into an old-fashioned or cocktail glass.

5. Add a dash of grated nutmeg or cinnamon as a garnish.

Note:

Only use a fresh egg. Test the egg’s freshness by placing it in a glass of water. If the egg floats, discard it, as this indicates the egg is too old. Only use eggs that rest on the bottom of the glass. This will ensure the most flavorful drink and helps to reduce the risk of salmonella.

Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal & Dried Cherry Cookies ingredients:

2 cups white whole wheat flour 1 tsp. Baking Soda 1/2 tsp. Baking Powder 1/2 tsp. Iodized Salt 1 cup Granulated Sugar 1 cup Unsalted Butter (2 sticks), softened 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar 2 Large Eggs 1 tsp. Pure Vanilla Extract 2 cups Old-Fashioned Oats 1-1/2 cups Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips 1 cup dried cherries 1/2 cup chopped Walnuts or Pecans

Nonstick cooking spray

Prep: 25 minutes Bake: 16 minutes per batch Makes: about 32 cookies

prep:

1. Preheat oven to 350°. In medium bowl, with whisk, stir together flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. In large bowl, with mixer on medium speed, beat sugars and butter 2 to 3 minutes or until creamy, scraping bowl occasionally with rubber spatula. Add eggs 1 at a time, beating after each addition until well combined; scrape bowl. Add vanilla extract and beat until combined. Reduce speed to low, and gradually add flour mixture, beating until well combined; scrape bowl. Stir in oats, chocolate chips, cherries and nuts.

2. Lightly spray cookie sheet with nonstick cooking spray. Using 2 small spoons, drop about 2 tablespoons cookie dough 2 inches apart onto prepared cookie sheet. Bake cookies 16 to 18 minutes or until edges of cookies are golden brown and centers are slightly soft. Cool cookies on cookie sheet 1 minute, then transfer to wire rack. Repeat with remaining cookie dough.

Approximate nutritional values per serving: 201 Calories, 10g Fat (5g Saturated), 29mg Cholesterol, 88mg Sodium, 27g Carbohydrates, 2g Fiber, 3g Protein

Thursday, December 2, 2021 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Page 37

How to involve kids with holiday baking

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The holiday season is steeped in tradition. Many holiday traditions are centered around food, with much of the focus on all of the decadent treats and desserts taking center stage at many family gatherings.

Many parents hope to involve their children in as many family holiday traditions as they can. Holiday baking is one kid-friendly tradition, and parents can make it even more so by taking a few simple steps before they get started.

Purchase kid-friendly baking equipment. Bakers rely on lots of tools to make cookies, cakes and other delicacies. That equipment is even available in kids’ sizes. Kids may be more excited about baking if they have their own equipment, and such gear also can make it easier for them to lend a hand. A spatula made for youngsters can make it easier for kids to move cookies from a baking sheet to a platter, while colorful measuring cups and their own whisk can excite youngsters about baking.

Plan ahead. Seasoned bakers know that it’s imperative to have the right supplies, including ingredients, on hand before beginning a baking session. That’s even more necessary when baking with kids, who might not be as patient as moms and dads hope if a baking session has to be paused to run to the store for a missing ingredient or to dig out some tools from the back of the pantry. Plan ahead by setting everything out and assembling all the necessary ingredients the night before you plan to bake.

Delegate wisely. Young kids may want to do everything mom and dad do, but baking is a delicate science that requires careful attention to detail and a strict adherence to recipes. So it’s important that parents delegate wisely when involving children in holiday baking. Whisking, stirring and topping off cookies with frosting and sprinkles are fun, kid-friendly tasks.

Add some fun foods to the menu. If you plan to bake holiday cookies, purchase kid-friendly holiday cookie cutters before your baking session so youngsters have as much fun as possible. Kids may have more fun if they get to make Santa Claus, Frosty or Rudolph cookies.

Make a mess. Don’t be afraid to get a little messy when baking with children. Moms and dads may love a clean kitchen, but kids tend to have more fun in the kitchen when things get a little messy. Douse each other with a little flour and make a joke of things if some ingredients find their way onto the counter or the floor instead of into your mixing bowl.

Parents can make the holiday baking that much more fun by letting their kids pitch in this year.

Thursday, December 2, 2021 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Page 39

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The Night Before C hristmas Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care in the hope that Saint Nicholas soon would be there.

Then, what to my wondering eyes should appear, but a miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer, a little old driver so lively and quick, I knew in a moment it must be Saint Nick.

More rapid than eagles his reindeer all came as he shouted, “Oh Dasher” and each reindeer’s name. And so up to the housetop the reindeer soon flew with the sleigh full of toys and Saint Nicholas, too.

Down the chimney he came with a leap and a bound; he was dressed all in fur, and his belly was round. He spoke not a word but went straight to this work, and filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk.

And laying his finger aside of his nose, then giving a nod up the chimney he rose. But I heard him exclaim as he drove out of sight, “Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”

Thursday, December 2, 2021 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Page 41

Santa SantaClaus Claus Is Is Coming ComingToToTown Town Word WordSearch Search

“Santa Claus Is Coming To Town” was written in October 1933 by Haven Gillespie and John Frederick Coots, reportedly on the New York subway while traveling to a music publishers office. It was an instant hit when it was released in November 1934. Audiences went wild for the song and requests for the sheet music reached 400,000 by Christmas that year!

Z H D O O G R O D A B Z B B O L D T N R N A

G P U K K A J W F K K E J S O W O G L C W L

W N O N I M A K L H K L U D B Z O R S W O D

R I I L K T T U T A D A B G A L G L H M T E

Z V G M C C O S W M L H F C N F E Y T M O R

YOU BETTER WATCH OUT NOT CRY NOT POUT TELLING YOU SANTA CLAUS COMING TO TOWN MAKING A LIST

P A Q H O Y F A I C N R E T T E B U O Y T A

T Y O H S C E Q A L Q N N N P G H K H W G A

O U J E R R S T M R A Q A I B E S P I N N N

T K E J U Q N I Z J B G N U X X F C P Q I D

O S K O T A Z B X B N G N O G C E D T F M E

CHECKING IT TWICE GONNA FIND OUT NAUGHTY NICE SEES YOU SLEEPING

W M Y D S D A G O B A H K I T H V R G I O N

N H D T E L L I N G Y O U N K P T L R N C I

K J K N O W S W H E N W F O E A O Y F D T O

N E E B E V U O Y V D V M T N D M U L O H O

B G O O D N E S S S A K E C D T L M T U V T

J T I G N I K C E H C P B R O N I C E T T A

L M U S T A F A R Z M X H Y R G O N N A H T

KNOWS WHEN YOU’RE AWAKE YOU’VE BEEN BAD OR GOOD BE GOOD GOODNESS SAKE IS COMING TO TOWN

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Page 44 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Thursday, December 2, 2021

Holiday Baking Word Find

Thursday, December 2, 2021 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Page 45

Santa letterwriting secrets A

t the tip of the North Pole resides a jolly man who collects letters from children asking him to deliver all of their hearts’ desires.

Although Santa Claus does a thorough job of making sure children’s treats are delivered on the same night, sometimes he needs assistance with reading and responding to the thousands upon thousands of letters sent to him each year. That is why he often relies on an extensive list of helpers to handle much of his holiday correspondence.

According to Smithsonian, the practice of writing to St. Nick dates back more than 150 years. Early depictions of Santa show him as a disciplinarian.

The first Christmastime Santa letters were actually sent by Santa, rather than the other way

around. Such letters encouraged children to be good boys and girls. Eventually, an illustration

by Thomas Nast depicted Santaclaussville, N.P.Ó as Santa’s address, providing children with a place where they could send their correspondences to the big guy in red.

The Universal Postal Union, an intergovernmental organization that coordinates postal policies across 192 member nations, indicates that 1,350,000 letters to Santa were sent by Canadians, while Americans sent more than one million and Britains mailed roughly 800,000 such letters in 2012, the most recent year from which figures are available.

To account for the staggering number of letters sent, various post offices and postal programs were established to help Santa with the task of tackling children’s wish lists.

Page 46 • Holiday Songbook & traditions • Thursday, December 2, 2021

The USPS instituted a new letterwriting option that enables parents or guardians to include a personalized response letter back to children who address letters to Santa. The package can be postmarked to: North Pole Postmark Postmaster, 4141 Postmark Drive, Anchorage, AK 99530-9998. Many other letters to Santa end up routing to various post offices where thousands of volunteer “elves” can adopt letters and make children’s wishes come true. A “Letters to Santa” program enables children in serious need to get items that can help keep them safe and happy.

Parents may also investigate a number of services that will provide letters from Santa, Mrs. Claus or elves for nominal fees.

These letters can be personalized with details. Santa has even gone high-tech with personalized videos and pictures as well. A

quick web search can yield the instructions on how prospective helpers can get started.

Children can improve their chances of letters being read and received, with these tips.

• Identify who is writing the letter and share some details about your life.

• Make sure you’ve been nice and well-behaved.

• Ask Santa how he has been and engage in some polite conversation.

• Politely ask for the toys you’d like. Understand that Santa is busy, so keep the list brief.

• Thank Santa in advance for his kindness. Hopefully, he’ll have time to reply.

• Write and mail the letter as early as possible, as things tend to get busy as Christmas nears.

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