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November/December 2020
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CHIC | PAGE 1
New this year: Amanda Wilson, MD
Samantha Aabel, CNM
Demetra Heinrich, MD
Alomere means special deliveries. We’re the #1 choice of moms-to-be for miles around. The best of the best Last year alone, over 625 babies were delivered at Alomere Health. So whether you’re looking for an expert OB, a skilled midwife, or ongoing gynecological care, our experienced, world-class team is here for you. State-of-the-art birthing center The Birth Place provides a comfortable, family-friendly environment that can be customized for your birthing preferences. We even provide water birthing. 2 Chicz November/December 2020
Hospital-based care Our laboring moms have 24-hour access to OBs and pediatricians, with a Level II nursery just down the hall— for absolute peace of mind. Ongoing support We provide valuable services before and after delivery, including fertility counseling, lactation consulting, and more.
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New this year: Leann Zimny, PA-C
Our new moms love the personal care they receive from our specialized birthing teams—and we love welcoming their babies into this community.
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Happy Holidays!
Inside this issue
November/December 2020
It’s holiday time! For the Love of Coffee 7 That means the holiday edition of Chicz is here, chock full of wonderful ideas to bring a little extra sparkle to your life. Real Chicz of Inside, you'll find fun decorating ideas, including several homemade Douglas County 8 Thanksgiving wreaths and easy chalkboard art, as well as gift giving ideas for the phone junkie and for seniors in a retirement home. The Jeff Beach Diet 12 As usual, we have some Photo Tips 13 great food articles for this holiday season. Al Edenloff Puzzles and horoscopes 26 shows us that wine can pair well with casual foods such Food and drink as soup, and Cranberry ginger mocktail • 11 Jeff Beach Nantucket Christmas pie • 12 brings you a Take away autumn's chill with soup and wine • 14 tasty recipe Wines that pair well with turkey • 14 for cranberry Thanksgiving margarita • 14 salad that Olives: What's not to love? • 16 will make Andy’s Choice • 21 you turn Quick holiday appetizer • 25 away from canned cranberry sauce. Family APRYL'S Staying with the cranberry Veteran's Day thank you • 4 ADVICE D.M. DELLINGER theme, I have a fun recipe A Christmas for the books • 5 for Nantucket Christmas pie, Snail mail surprises • 22 a delicious and easy holiday dessert, then quench your Thanksgiving care packages • 23 thirst with a refreshing cranberry ginger mocktail. Gifts for the phone junkie • 24 Andy Mellgren advices you on some of the best Gifts for someone in a retirement home • 24 holiday spirits for this season and Apryl Putnam gives you some tips for National Sleep Comfort Month. DIY We have a great story by Celeste Edenloff as she 10 ideas for homemade Thanksgiving wreaths • 6 showcases Lindsey Reidenbach, a diabetes educator Easy chalkboard art • 10 who is helping her patients get their diabetes under Mommy and me • 19 control. Homemade bath bombs and bath salts • 20 These articles, and so many more, are just waiting for you in this issue of Chicz. Wellness Apryl's Advice: November is Enjoy! National Sleep Comfort Month • 15 Lori Mork, Chicz editor
““This is my wish for you: peace of mind, prosperity through the year, happiness that multiplies, health for you and yours, fun around every corner, energy to chase your dreams, joy to fill your holidays!”
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VETERAN'S DAY THANK YOU To advertise in Chicz call 320.763.3133
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Holiday entertaining
Set a lavish holiday table • 18 4 tips for serving a sanitary buffet • 18 Perfect plants for the holiday • 28
SOUP AND WINE
14
Your writers
Chicz contributing writers • 30
CHRISTMAS FOR THE BOOKS
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November/December November/December 2020 2020 Chicz Chicz 33
Veteran’s Day
Thank You
Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, is a tribute to military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Not to be confused with Memorial Day, which honors those who died while in service, Veterans Day honors all military veterans, including those still with us. Veteran’s day is a chance to thank people for risking their lives to defend America; to celebrate and honor all of America’s veterans for their bravery, sacrifice and love for their country. It’s a chance to reflect on the importance of peace. Most veterans will tell you they risked their lives to defend our fundamental freedoms, and they value peace much more highly than war. Veteran’s Day helps draw
attention to the challenges facing many veterans such as disproportionate rates of homelessness, deficits in educational achievement, struggle to find employment and often dealing with devasting wounds. We all celebrate Veteran’s Day differently. Here are some ideas: volunteer or make a contribution to a veteran organization that helps address some of the challenges listed above, or, as an employer, consider reaching out to veterans in need of work. Other ideas include participating in fundraising activities for veteran organizations, businesses offering freebies to veterans such as free meals, giving military themed gifts to veterans, shipping gifts, like home-
By Shannon Swenson
baked goods, to those serving overseas or attending an event honoring those who have served. With over 19.6 million U.S. veterans living in the U.S, it’s likely we all know someone who has served or is currently serving. They are our mothers and fathers, our brothers and sisters, our children, our friends and our neighbors. Take time to reach out, recognize and thank them for their service. To my family and friends who have served and are currently are serving, as well as all other past and current military, thank you for your bravery and for being willing to make the ultimate sacrifice to defend our freedoms.
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A Christmas for the books Welcoming the brother I never knew I always wanted
By Jasmine Johnson Headlights flickered through the spindly trees. The garage door wheezed open. I threw the novel I was reading, "Divergent," on the living room floor without marking my page. The neon green numbers on the oven read 12:32 a.m. that Christmas morning. I tried to hold our Australian blue heeler back, but Dingo was too excited and jumped all over our new visitor. The screech that emerged from the blue minivan’s back door was a higher pitch than my ears were willing to register. That scream belonged to my new brother. Welcome home, Evedson. My 14-year-old world changed faster than I could say gade, which means “look” in Haitian Creole.
Our family had been waiting for this day for more than three years of paperwork, home visits and monthly photo updates. International adoption definitely tests a person’s patience. When we heard the news that we could bring him home, my sister and I told my parents to book the soonest flight to Haiti. It wouldn’t truly feel like Christmas until every member of our family was present. This Christmas will mark seven years since he first came home on Dec. 25, 2013. It blows my mind to think that our paths may never have crossed if my parents hadn’t decided to adopt. Evedson has grown from the 5-yearold who was terrified of dogs and didn’t understand the concept of snow to a middle schooler who enjoys drawing and comprehends sarcasm. I can’t imagine my life without him. His goofiness and compassion are unmatchable. He giggles at his own farts until he can’t breathe. He wants nothing more than to wrestle me to the ground, but whenever he senses I’m upset, he
My younger brother Evedson hugs my mom while standing on the dock at the Alexandria City Park. (Jasmine Johnson / Echo Press) wraps his arms around me and wipes every individual tear away. No matter how many Christmases pass, I will always be grateful for my little brother.
November/December 2020 Chicz
5
10 Thanksgiving wreaths ideas for homemade
When you welcome friends and relatives into your home this holiday, make sure they’re greeted by a beautiful wreath hanging outside. Here are 10 festive options to adorn your front door.
1 2 3 4
A shallow, round woven basket wreath filled with faux fall foliage and small gourds A deep green silk magnolia leaf wreath dotted with silver painted acorns
A grapevine wreath embellished with faux bittersweet vines and cranberries A pine cone wreath adorned with metallic leaves, a burlap bow and copper glitter
5 6 7 8
A foam wreath wrapped in strips of orange, yellow and red tulle An olive branch wreath with dried white orchids and sprigs of la vender
A grapevine wreath decorated with fake apples, walnuts and cinnamon sticks A gathered burlap wreath with faux sunflowers and sprigs of pine
9 10
A multi-color flint corn wreath filled in with dried husks and beige tulle A floral wreath in fall colors with a “thankful” or “welcome” sign cut out of wood
Keep in mind that many of these suggestions can easily be adapted to create matching centerpieces for your dining table.
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coffee lover
Gifts for your favorite What a wonderful time of the year for a coffee drinker – it’s the holidays! It’s also fall/winter weather and most people are in great moods thinking about Thanksgiving and Christmas. It’s a magical time of year. And if you are a coffee drinker – or if you know of a coffee drinker – gift giving can be easy peasy. Coffee gifts can make any coffee lover happy. First off, you can usually smell it before you even open it and what coffee lover do you know who doesn’t love the smell of fresh coffee beans? I am guessing none. I love to grab a bag, give it a squeeze and smell that amazing aroma seeping out of the little vent on the front of the bag. It’s
New Fall
euphoric – for the coffee lover, anyway. There are so many choices for gifts, like a bag of fresh coffee beans from their favorite coffee shop. And if you don’t know what your person likes, ask the barista which ones are the most popular or which one is the most unique. Whoever is getting the gift can always adjust the brewing to accommodate the different types of beans. It’s a great time to buy a unique coffee for your person to try. Or, maybe buy a sample pack with different types of beans so your coffee lover can try different ones. Other gift options are brewers. An espresso maker makes a great gift, especially for the coffee drinker who needs that “hot shot” of extra caffeine in their coffee. A French press is also a great gift as it is a wonderful way to make coffee with its pure and rich flavor. And it really is an affordable brewer. And what about the popular brew station? This is an all-in-one that can brew either a whole pot or just a single cup. For those who like fun coffee drinks,
for the
of coffee By Tina McPherson there is always the cappuccino machine. When thinking about the coffee lover on your list, keep all these options in mind. If you give coffee, your coffee drinker will need something to put it in. Don’t forget the gift packs with really cool mugs. Most coffee lovers get a big smile on their face when drinking their favorite coffee out of their favorite mug. Mugs with their favorite picture, quote, saying or even a funny meme would make for a great gift. And what about the coffee syrups, creams, sugars, the list goes on and on. If you can’t find that perfect coffee-themed gift, remember, there are always gift cards to your favorite place or I guess any coffeehouse will work. Here’s wishing you the happiest of holidays and remember to add a little pumpkin spice to your coffee this fall or make a peppermint mocha this winter. Whichever taste you prefer, Happy Perking!
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Diabetes educator helps patients get
Lindsey Reidenbach, a registered nurse and diabetes educator for Alomere Health, stands by a table of food props she uses when educating patients about good and bad foods for diabetics. By Celeste Edenloff Ever since high school, Lindsey Reidenbach knew she wanted to become a nurse. Her aunt was a nurse and Reidenbach loved to hear her stories. For the past nearly seven years, Reidenbach, of Alexandria, has been working as the diabetes educator at the Alexandria Clinic. Although she doesn’t have diabetes herself, her grandpa had diabetes and at the time of his passing, she did not fully understand what was going on. Now, working in diabetes education, she knows and hopes she can help her patients understand so they can live a healthy life even if they are dealing with diabetes. She hasn’t always worked in diabetes education, however. After working at the clinic for a while, she was interested in trying something new and started training in diabetes education. The
8 Chicz November/December 2020
back on track
diabetes educator position opened up and her supervisor said that if she took the job, she could work three days a week. Being a mother of five children – four sons and one daughter – working three days a week was something she wanted so she could spend more time at home with her family. “It’s been a great job for me and the time flies both at home and at work,” said Reidenbach. “I hope I am helping people, but you never know what patients think when they leave your class after telling them to change their diet and exercise. But I try to be loving about it!” Reidenbach said her favorite parts of the day are getting to know her patients and listening to the stories they tell her about their lives. “It is so fun to help patients who want to learn and be healthier,” she said. “Before this, I worked in the Protime Clinic, which is used by patients to monitor their blood
thinning medications, and triage for several years where I got to know tons of patients and really enjoyed each of them.” One of the main reasons for diabetes education, said Reidenbach, is to help people get their numbers in the target range to help prevent complications in their future. If diabetes is treated and managed correctly, it is possible to have few to no complications, she said. However, if left untreated, it can cause heart disease, kidney disease, impotence, foot sores and many other problems. The best way to prevent it, she said, is by eating healthy, being physically active and being at a healthy weight. These are also ways it can be managed, along with counting carbs, checking blood sugars and taking medication as directed if prescribed. Thankfully, Reidenbach said, there are many more medication options than there used to be, which can greatly help in the treatment of the disease.
Helping patients get their blood sugar back on track is one of the most rewarding parts of my job Lindsey Reidenbach Diabetes educator She also said that if people go in for their yearly physical and have their glucose checked, diabetes can be discovered much earlier than for those who never go in. “It is good to find out about it as soon as possible so it can start being treated right away,” she said. People can buy their own glucometer over the counter and check their blood sugars themselves. She said the best thing that has helped diabetes treatment the last couple of years is continuous glucose monitoring. Nowadays, people can wear a device on their arm or abdomen that will show their blood sugar levels at any point throughout the day without having to
These are just some of the items used for those who suffer from diabetes. The items include glucose monitors, insulin pens and insulin pumps.
poke their finger for a blood test. She said this really helps people keep their numbers where they need to be. For example, she said if people never used to check their blood sugar levels in the evening after they eat, they can now see if what they ate for supper made their blood sugar go up too much or if it was just right. Continuous glucose monitoring gives people more information and knowledge of what affects their blood sugar levels. “Blood sugar levels for most patients greatly improve when they start using a continuous glucose monitor,” she said. A misconception many people have about diabetes, she said, is that it is only sugar that affects a person’s blood sugar levels. This is not true, she said, adding that all carbohydrates raise blood sugar. Carbohydrates can be found in many foods, including bread, pasta, potatoes, rice, cereal, milk, yogurt and of course, sweets. She suggests for people to read food labels and check for the amount of total carbohydrates. The higher that number is, she said, the more it will increase your blood sugar if you are a diabetic. She said another misconception is that if a person feels fine, then why does it matter. She has heard people say, “I feel fine so who cares.” She said if blood
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sugar levels are high, even if a person feels fine, it is slowly damaging the body. The best thing to do is start treatment right away. Part of that treatment is visiting with a diabetes educator, like Reidenbach. People in these positions are there to educate new diabetic patients through a series of classes or even refresher courses, along with helping patients adjust insulin plans or insulin pump settings. They can also help patients get the supplies they need, review blood sugar levels and also work with patients and their providers to find the right treatment options. “Helping patients get their blood sugar back on track is one of the most rewarding parts of my job,” said Reidenbach. “It’s so nice when patients can get their numbers right where they need to be.”
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EASY
Chalkboard art By Lori Mork
I
've always loved chalkboard art signs, but the idea of trying to create one myself felt daunting. I finally did an internet search for easy chalkboard art and was surprised by how seemingly easy these projects can be. The trick to these projects is to use your computer to create the design, then transfer the project to your chalkboard. Here are the instructions on how to create your own chalkboard designs. You can make this as easy or as intricate as you'd like.
1
Create your design on your computer – any program that allows you to use art and words will work.
2
After designing, print out your artwork in whatever size you need it to fit on your chalkboard. You will probably have to print it out in sections and tape it together.
3
For this step, you can use white transfer paper, or take the less expensive route – color all over the back of the wording and art with a piece of chalk. This will act like carbon paper.
4
Tape your design onto the chalkboard where you want it to be with the chalk side facing the board. Firmly trace over the words and art with a pen or pencil, stopping to check that chalk is transferring. You might need to trace over some areas if they haven't left enough chalk behind. Remove paper.
5
Begin filling out your design with sharpened chalk or a chalk pen, which is more permanent. (I also read that china markers looks more like chalk and are permanent.) Once you get the hang of it, you can add in decorative scribbles or designs in whatever colors you choose. When using chalk, if your design needs some touching up, just erase it using a little water and a paper towel. You
If using chalk pens, you can add dimension by going back over your design with regular chalk, then using your finger to spread the chalk dust around. can use a Q-tip to do some fine adjustments.
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Cranberry Ginger Mocktail By Lori Mork
A crisp, refreshing drink, this mocktail is filled with cranberry juice and ginger ale. Perfect for everyone! INGREDIENTS: 16 oz. lemon-lime soda 8 oz. cranberry juice 8 oz. sparkling cider Fresh or frozen cranberries for garnish Mint leaves for garnish
DIRECTIONS: In a pitcher, combine lemon-lime soda, cranberry juice, sparkling cider and a few cranberries. Mix well. Serve over ice with additional cranberries as a garnish. Serves 8-10. TO SERVE AS COCKTAIL INGREDIENTS: 12 oz. vodka could use flavored such as cranberry or ginger, but regular is fine 24 oz. cranberry juice 32 oz. ginger ale
Lime slices for garnish Frozen cranberries for garnish DIRECTIONS: Mix the vodka, cranberry juice, and ginger ale in a large pitcher. Add a
handful of cranberries and the lime slices from 1 lime. Fill the rest of the pitcher with ice, and then stir. Serve or refrigerate. Garnish glasses with lime slice and additional cranberries if desired.
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the blob
The recipe that killed By Jeff Beach
Know somebody who opens a can of jellied cranberries and just plops it on a tray with the ridges of the can still intact? Here’s a cranberry salad recipe you can share with them at the intervention. First, they will have to admit that they are serving the fruit equivalent of lutefisk. Then, introduce this salad. It’s a choir of fruits, nuts and even vegetable; red, white, green, brown; soft, crisp and crunchy; sweet and tart; all holding hands and singing “We Gather Together” in four-part harmony. This will turn them away from their bloboholic ways. Step one in the recipe is cooking the cranberries. This is an important step. This recipe was shared with a family member who skipped this step and wondered why the cranberries were so crunchy. BECAUSE YOU MUST COOK
The
JEFF BEACH
diet
Jeff Beach has spent a lifetime on the The Jeff Beach Diet and is still kickin’.
THE CRANBERRIES! Cranberries are easy to cook. For a 12 ounce bag of fresh cranberries, just put them in a pot, add ¾ water and simmer on the stove. The only question is how much sugar to add. I think 1 cup is enough, but the packaging usually calls for 1 1/2 cups. So your call. Add the sugar to the simmering cranberries and watch them pop open as they cook. Cook until done, about 10 minutes. Then let the mixture cool in the fridge.
Now, you can substitute a can of whole berry cranberries, but it won’t be as good. It will, however, be better than the blob. To the cooked and cooled cranberries, here is what you add:
1 stalk of celery, chopped 1 cup of walnut pieces 1 honey crisp apple, chopped That’s it. Stir together and serve. And never have to face the blob again.
Nantucket Christmas Pie P
By Lori Mork
erfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas, this dessert is neither a pie nor a cake. It’s a delicious sweet-tart ending to your holiday get-together. FILLING INGREDIENTS: 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup chopped pecans TOPPING INGREDIENTS: 3/4 cup butter softened 1 cup sugar 2 eggs 1 tsp. almond extract 1 cup all-purpose flour
12 Chicz November/December 2020
INSTRUCTIONS: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix filling ingredients together and pour into a 10” pie plate that has been buttered generously. Beat butter and sugar together until smooth. Add eggs and almond extract, beating until fluffy. Mix in flour until smooth. Spread or drop batter on top of the cranberry mix. It doesn’t need to be perfect. Bake for 40-50 minutes, testing with toothpick. The topping just needs to be cooked through. Add whipped cream or ice cream when serving, if desired. NOTE: A 9” pie pan will work in place of the 10” pan, but will need another 10 minutes of baking to cook.
composition: Patterns and repetition
T
By Lowell Anderson
he key to making great photographs is to not only get the technical aspects right, but to use artistic elements such as composition and creativity to make your images really stand out. Throughout the year, we’ve been looking at some of the compositional principles that you can incorporate in your photographs to make them more interesting and effective. To wrap up the series we will take a look at pattern and repetition. If you start looking around, you’ll see patterns and repe-
tition everywhere. In nature there are rows of trees, repeating mountain peaks, endless blades of grass, skies full of clouds and lakes full of waves. In cities we can find rows of signs, lines of cars, repeating patterns of buildings and streets, and crowds of people. Although not every photo needs to have patterns and repetition of elements, it can be effective to show how much there is of something. However, it can also create compositions that are just interesting and fun to look at. Just as music uses familiar patterns and repetition
Images that incorporate repeating shapes and colors can be visually interesting as well as showing how many there are of something. (Lowell Anderson / Echo Press) to create something we find pleasing and predictable, the repetition of elements in a photograph also can help create interest. Sometimes it is subtle, such as a few out of focus trees in the background of a portrait. However, it can also become the whole point of the photograph, such as in a photo of hundreds of faces in a crowd. One thing to be aware of is that it doesn’t have to be just similar shapes, such as lines, circles or squares. It can also be repeating colors, textures, shadows, or even things that are not similar but still form a pattern. One of the most effective ways to use this technique is to have a repeating pattern that is broken by one item that is different and really stands out. Some examples of this could be a crowd of people from the back with one turned around looking at the camera, or a bunch of red apples with one green one in the middle.
PHOTO
TIPS
Sometimes focus can also be the key to using repetition effectively. Although endless rows of sharp trees could show the enormity of a forest, focusing on one tree can do the same thing and at the same time emphasize the character of one particular tree. The advantage of this is that images that have parts of the scene out of focus may also be more effective in showing depth. Start looking for patterns and repetition when you’re not taking photos, and experiment with them when you are photographing. Soon, you will have one more technique that you can use to help create interesting and fun photos.
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The use of repeating shapes can often be made more effective by focusing on one, which gives the photograph depth and a center of visual interest. (Lowell Anderson / Echo Press)
1922 November/December 2020 Chicz
13
soup and wine
Take away autumn’s chill with Try these 5 pairings
By Al Edenloff With the chilly days of autumn settling in, there’s nothing that can warm the soul quite like a bowl of soup. You can transcend a humble bowl of soup by taking it beyond just a quick lunch. Turn it into an elegant meal with a perfectly paired glass of wine. It could even work as a date night. Or have some fun with it and invite some friends over for a “slurp-and-
sip” gathering, giving a prize to whoever comes with the most tantalizing soup and wine combo. Here’s five tasty pairings to try: Chili and Cabernet Sauvignon. Other full-bodied red wines that can stand up to the meat, spices and tomatoes would also do the trick – maybe a Malbec or a red blend featuring Syrah and Mourvedre. Chicken noodle soup and a light-bodied white wine like Chenin Blanc. A Pinot Gris, with autumn accents
like apples and citrus would also pair well. Minestrone soup and Chianti, which is a natural with meat-based pasta dishes. If you’re into white wines, try an oaked Chardonnay. Beef stew and Bordeaux. You also can’t go wrong with a beef friendly Cab. Potato soup and Chardonnay. The buttery Chard com-
pliments the potato just like a pad of butter. Bonus pairings for those beer lovers out there: black bean soup with a porter. Porters, by the way, also make a delicious addition to black bean soup or a hearty chili. Just add a bottle or two, depending on how big a batch you’re making.
Wines that pair well with turkey If you plan to serve turkey with all the trimmings this Thanksgiving, you’ll want to offer your guests a wine that enhances the flavor profile of this traditional holiday meal. Here are a few prime options. AROMATIC WHITES Wines characterized by strong floral or herbal notes pair well with
meals that have bold and varied flavors. This makes them an ideal match for roasted turkey and savory sides. Consider a sauvignon blanc, viognier or dry riesling. FRUITY REDS When matched with turkey and gravy, tart and fruit-forward picks like grenache, Rioja and Beaujolais mimic the role of cranberry sauce. However, pinot noir remains a go-to choice for red wine drinkers on Thanksgiving. CRISP ROSÉS The fruit and acidity of a dry rosé makes it a wine that pairs well with almost anything. The lightly spiced white zinfandel has long been a staple of the traditional Thanksgiving feast, but you also can’t go wrong with pinot noir or grenache rosés. SPARKLING WINES A light and fizzy glass of bubbly strikes the perfect balance with a decadent turkey dinner. Prosecco, cava and Champagne are festive, food-friendly options. However, the low alcohol level and fruity flavors of a moscato d’Asti make it a good choice for light drinkers.
14 Chicz November/December 2020
THANKSGIVING MARGARITA INGREDIENTS: 2 oz. apple cider 2 oz. pear juice 1-1/2 oz. gold tequila 1 oz. Grand Mariner or orange liqueur Plain salt, or cinnamon-ginger salt Simple syrup or lime wedge Ice Cinnamon sticks, apple slices for garnish INSTRUCTIONS: Pour salt on a small plate. Run a lime along the rim of a glass, then press glass into salt so it sticks to the rim. Fill glass about 3/4-full of ice and squeeze the rest of the lime wedge over the ice. Combine remaining liquid ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. Strain ice and pour into prepared cocktail glass. Finish with a whole cinnamon stick and some apple slices. For cinnamon-ginger salt: Mix together 1/8 tsp. ground cinnamon, 1/8 tsp. ground ginger and 1/2 tsp. coarse salt.
apryl’s advice
November is
National Sleep Comfort Month By Apryl Putnam November is National Sleep Comfort Month. Sleep is high up on the priority list for me. It affects so many things. From digestion, to hormones, tohow your body can act and feel, to so many more things. I cannot stress how important it is, especially with the holidays coming!! The CDC recommends at least 7 hours for adults. If you can shoot for 8 hours a night, even better. Children and teens need more, so by helping them get to bed at a reasonable time each night, you can help ensure they get adequate amounts. Here are some ways to help you fall asleep more quickly, and enhance the quality of your sleep:
Power down: Turn off all devices at least an hour before bedtime. If you must read off your device in bed, be sure to use a blue light filtering software. And for sleep’s sake, if you need an alarm, get an alarm clock and leave your smartphone in another room. Create a ritual: Doing the same things before bed each night will help cue your body that it is time to sleep. Taking a shower, making some hot tea, using aromatherapy or writing for a few minutes in a journal can help you to signal your brain that it’s bedtime. Exercise regularly: Doing regular aerobic exercise can be very beneficial to the quality of your sleep, as well as your health and well-being.
Stay consistent: Try to keep your bedtime and wake up time consistent. On weekends or days off, try not to stay up too late or sleep in too much. Make it dark: When it comes to sleep, light can actually be more disruptive than noise. Use light cancelling curtains or shades to filter out as much light as possible. Don’t eat at night: Having a large evening meal or snacking before bedtime can be detrimental to the quality
of your sleep. Get in the habit of eating earlier, and leave a window of time between your final meal and bedtime. Stay cool: Temperature can have an enormous impact on sleep. Keep your bedroom cool and choose blankets and sheets that will help you stay warm, but not too warm. These are just some things for you to try to help with getting adequate amounts of sleep, as well a restful night of sleep.
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By Lori Mork
Olives: What’s not to love?
Green, black, Greek Kalamata or French Niçoise – I love olives in whatever form they land on my table. When I was young, I’d only eat the less tangy black olives, but through the years, I’ve come to appreciate all the different varieties. Olives are high in vitamin E as well as antioxidants. Studies have shown that olives are good for your heart and may help protect against osteoporosis. Toss a few in your next meal!
BLISTERED GREEN OLIVES INGREDIENTS: 1 (15oz) can green olives, well drained 1 Tbsp. olive oil 1 tbsp. fresh minced garlic 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes (more if you like it real spicy) INSTRUCTIONS: In a sauté pan, heat the olive oil on medium heat. Add the drained olives to the pan and toss them with the oil. Sauté for 3-5
minutes or until they start to brown and blister, or skins get bubbly. Add minced garlic to pan; stir to coat. Continue to sauté olives and garlic for 2-3 minutes. Add red pepper flakes last, about 1 minute before removing olives from the pan. Enjoy hot or cold. Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.
BAKED PESTO CHICKEN WITH OLIVES AND FETA INGREDIENTS: 1 Tbsp. butter 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil 1-1/2 lbs. chicken thighs or chicken breasts 1 tsp. dried basil Salt and fresh ground pepper to taste 1/4 cup basil pesto 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup half and half, evaporated milk or heavy whipping cream Salt and pepper, to taste 1 cup crumbled feta cheese 1 cup pitted olives, rinsed and dried DIRECTIONS: Combine butter and olive oil in skillet, melt over medium heat.
OLIVE CHEESE BREAD I served this as an appetizer at a gathering of friends and it was a hit! Warm, melty cheese, tangy olives and toasty bread – the perfect combination.
6 oz. can of black olives, drained 2 stalks green onions 1 stick butter, room temperature 1/2 cup mayonnaise 3 cups Monterey Jack cheese, grated
INGREDIENTS: 1 loaf French bread About 25 Spanish queen pimientostuffed olives, drained
DIRECTIONS: Roughly chop both black olives and pimiento-stuffed olives. Slice green onions into thin pieces.
Combine butter, mayonnaise, cheese, olives and green onions in a mixing bowl. Stir together until thoroughly combined. Spread mixture thickly onto French bread that has been sliced lengthwise. Bake at 325ºF for 25 to 30 minutes or until cheese is melted and browning.
QUICK OLIVE TAPENADE INGREDIENTS: 1 15-oz. can green pitted olives drained 1 15-oz. can black pitted olives drained 3 Tbsp. sun-dried tomatoes drained 2 Tbsp. capers drained 2 cloves garlic minced 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
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Season chicken with dried basil, salt and pepper; cook in oil 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Place in baking pan. In a mixing bowl, combine basil pesto, garlic, half and half, salt and pepper; whisk until combined. Top chicken with olives and feta. Pour pesto sauce mix over chicken. Bake in 400 degree oven 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and sauce is bubbly. Garnish with fresh chopped basil, if desired. NOTE: I’ve used a mix of black and green olives or just the green, and I prefer using green stuffed olives alone.
3 Tbsp. chopped fresh basil 1/4 cup olive oil 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice DIRECTIONS: Add all the ingredients into a food processor and pulse until desired consistency. Serve with toasted baguette slices.
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Lavish holiday table
SET A
If you want your holiday feast to be a classy affair, you’ll need to take special care when you set the table. Here are a few key components you’ll need.
free of creases. Inspect the entire surface for stains, debris and hair, especially if you have pets. Use cloth napkins for a refined look.
ILLUMINATED CENTERPIECES Place an assortment of Christmas balls in vases, vintage lanterns or Mason jars. Weave miniature fairy lights between the ornaments to create a magical glow when the overhead lights are dimmed.
SPARKLING DINNERWARE Everything from bowls and plates to cups and utensils should be freshly washed and in pristine condition. If you want to use silverware, take a few minutes to polish each piece. Keep an eye out for cracked or chipped glassware and set it aside.
IMMACULATE TABLE LINENS Whether you opt for a plain or patterned tablecloth, you’ll want to make sure it’s
STYLISH ORNAMENTS To complete the holiday look, adorn the table with a variety of high-quality decorations such as pillar candles, pine garlands and crystal figurines. Use miniature wreaths, pine cones or bells to create charming place cards. Finally, remember to leave enough space for the platters of food, and set out cork trivets to protect your table from hot dishes.
4 sanitary buffet TIPS FOR SERVING A
A buffet-style meal is a practical alternative to a sit-down dinner. However, there are several precautions you need to take to ensure your guests remain safe. Here are a few basic tips to follow. 1. Plan your menu carefully. Before deciding what to serve, ask your guests if they have any allergies or dietary restrictions. Omit or substitute ingredients as needed.
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2. Keep your prep space clean. Thoroughly wash your hands before and after you handle food. Use hot, soapy water to clean utensils and cooking surfaces be-
tween recipes and after preparing raw meat. 3. Regulate food temperature. Properly cook meat to prevent food poisoning. Certain foods such as oysters must be kept cool at all times. Use bowls of ice and warming trays to control the temperature of each dish. 4. Encourage safe self-serving. Put a bottle of alcohol-based hand sanitizer at each end of the table to ensure everyone washes their hands before helping themselves to the buffet.
By Melanie Danner
PAPER REINDEER (Pinterest)
SUPPLIES: 4X6 Sheet of white paper 4X6 Sheet of brown paper Black sharpie Red marker Googly eyes Scissors Glue Stick
LEAF TURKEY INSTRUCTIONS: First fold brown paper in half. (lengthwise) Cut across the fold. Cut 1/2” strip off one of the pieces. Roll and glue into a tube shape. Put the ends of the second strip together and cut a U shape to create the feet. Bend about a 1/4” on the ends of the legs.
Glue each foot on the white paper to create an arch. (The feet should be facing forward.) Color each foot black. Use the 1/2” strip to cut antlers and glue to the top of the tube shape. Glue on googly eyes and color a face with markers. Glue head on the arch and tada!
CHRISTMAS PURSE
SUPPLIES: Leaves Brown paper Red Paper Googly eyes Scissors Glue Stick
(Elle) SUPPLIES 4X6 Sheet of of foam paper Small cut shapes of colored paper Pipe Cleaners Tape Scissors glue
INSTRUCTIONS: Cut a peanut shape out of the brown paper. Glue leaves to the back to create a fan shape. Cut a triangle from a leaf. Cut an oval from the red paper. Glue googly eyes, red oval and triangle to create the face. Happy Thanksgiving!
INSTRUCTIONS Tape foam sheet in half on each side Poke a pipe cleaner on each side of the opening and twist together to make an arch. Glue colored shapes on the front. Fill with your favorite holiday candy!
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HOMEMADE
Bath bombs
Here’s a homemade gift that will thrill the recipients of your gift-giving this year – bath bombs. Wonderful scent-filled fizzy balls to drop in the bath for a luxurious soak. Making your own bath bombs gives you an opportunity to customize the scents, colors and shapes for whatever occasion you want. They’re the perfect festive touch for any bath.
DIY
HOMEMADE BATH BOMBS SUPPLIES: Mixing bowl Measuring spoons Spoon for stirring Bath bomb molds INGREDIENTS: 1 cup baking soda 1/2 cup citric acid
DIRECTIONS: In large bowl, mix baking soda and cornstarch, breaking up any clumps. Add essential oil a few drops at a time into mixture and mix until fully incorporated. Using your hands to mix it together may be easier than using a spoon. Mix color a few drops at a time into dry mixture using your hands. The more drops you use, the deeper the color will be. Add water half a teaspoon at a time, stirring mixture in after each addition. Continue adding water until mixture becomes the texture of damp sand and holds in a tight clump. Add citric acid and combine until well-mixed. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, why not try your hand at some bath salts to go with your bath bomb gift? The two together would make a great gift basket.
Bath salts PEPPERMINT BATH SALTS INGREDIENTS: Peppermint essential oil Red food coloring (optional) Epsom salts Coarse sea salt Baking soda Gift jars
DIRECTIONS: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of epsom salts, 1/2 cup sea salt and 1/2 cup
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baking soda. Mix well. Add in 8-10 drops of essential oil and divide bath salts into two separate bowls. In one bowl, mix in one drop of red food coloring. You may need to mix with your hands if the food coloring causes clumping. Scoop 3 tablespoons of white salts into the bottom of gift jar, then add 3 tablespoons of red salts on top, alternating until jar is full. Decorate jar as desired.
1/2 cup cornstarch Food coloring Essential oil of your choice Water OPTIONAL: Decorative accents such as dried flowers, small candy sprinkles, tiny confetti, etc. If you plan to use decorative accents, put them in the bottom of one half of the mold. Pack both halves of bath bomb mold full of mixture. Pack it tightly and slightly overfill. Press two sides of mold together as tightly as you can. Gently pull off one side of the mold, flip the ball over into your hand, and pull off the other side of the mold. Handle the bath bomb very gently, as the mixture is not yet hardened. Use back of a spoon to smooth seam of the ball where the molds met. Set bath bombs aside to harden overnight. NOTE: If bath bombs crumble when removing from mold, you may have to leave them set overnight to harden in the form.
ANDY’S CHOICE:
Holiday spirits!
Stocking stuffers and centerpieces Give a great gift or go ahead and spoil yourself By Andy Mellgren Throughout the busy autumn and winter holiday seasons there are many opportunities to share the gift of a fine spirit. Rum, whiskey, tequila, cordials, vodka, gin, Irish cream and brandy oh my!
Finding the spirit. The recipient’s preferences in liquor, your budget and maybe how much you like the person all go into finding that unique and fun gift. Cordials such as Irish cream, limoncello or amaretto are fine options for the person who likes lower alcohol and specific flavors or cocktail ingredients. For the person who likes brandy consider an aged brandy, cognac or even armagnac. Armagnac is brandy from the Armagnac region in southwest France. There are several styles of rum and tequila, both varying from light to dark, and aged a little to a lot.
Vodka is not just vodka. Oh the flavors that are available! You may also choose vodka made from grains or potatoes. Gin and Aquavit are fantastic winter spirits! Don’t leave them for enjoyment only during the summer time. There are a plethora of Scotch, Bourbon, Irish and Canadian whiskies from which to choose. Each has its own distinct style and flavor profile. No matter the category of liquor, I recommend looking
for smaller distiller/producer libations. The gift feels a little extra special when the item is limited production or not easy to locate anywhere and everywhere. That said th,e larger producers make some really fine products as well. Not sure what to give or get? See your local liquor store sales associates for ideas and suggestions. We will help you lift up your friends and family spirits this holiday season. Cheers!
Shop Local. Support Local. The Money Spent Here, Stays Here in Alexandria.
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Snail mail surprises Finding fun letters from dear friends By Jasmine Johnson Break out your finest stationary and colorful gel pens on December 7. Ready or not, here comes Letter Writing Day. Side note: I don’t own either of those suggested materials, but the sentiment remains. Especially during this era of Zoom meetings, Facebook updates and email newsletters, any method of communication that doesn’t involve technology sounds like a win to me. Let’s face it, our eyes need a break. So, what better way than to send someone a good old-fashioned note? No, it’s not as immediate as a text message, but there’s something about handwritten letters that have my heart. After graduating college, I made a list of the people I wanted to write to. A number of professors and classmates made a difference in my life, and I
wanted to make sure they knew how much they meant to me. It’s been a slow process and I still have a few left to complete, but taking my time has allowed me to recognize all of them for their unique gifts and express my gratitude for the season of life where our paths crossed. Beyond thank you notes, I also love being penpals with a few of my friends. One I met at a three-day retreat in high school, and letter writing is our main form of staying in contact. Another I got to know through some college journalism courses, and she always begins her letters with funny quotes. A third is the daughter of one of my former coworkers at my first internship. When I check my mailbox and see a personalized card or letter tucked between coupons and bills, it’s a daymaker. So, even if the only materials you have are a red pen that’s running out of ink and a sheet of lined loose leaf, who will you reach out to on Letter Writing Day?
p o h S p o ne St
We are your
Ofor all your needs!
A letter I received from one of my college friends, featuring her calligraphy and quarantine pick-up line, lays on my bedroom carpet. (Jasmine Johnson / Echo Press)
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Thanksgiving care packages:
what to include If a family member or friend can’t make it home for Thanksgiving, consider sending them a care package to let your loved one know they’re on your mind. Here are a few things you might want to include.
SNACKS AND TREATS Put together an assortment of the person’s favorite snacks or wrap up some Thanksgiving-themed baked goods. If the package has a long way to go, you could print or write out a recipe for pumpkinspice cookies and fill a jar with the dry ingredients. SELF-CARE SUPPLIES It’s difficult to be away from family at this time of year, so send your loved one everything they need to unwind. This can include a novel or new journal, a pumpkin spice scented candle, a fall-themed coloring book or an assortment of soaps, scrubs and bath salts.
WINTER WEAR As the cold weather sets in, cozy clothes are the next best thing to a warm embrace from a loved one. Visit local shops and craft fairs to find hand-knitted socks, scarves, hats and mittens. Toss in an insulated travel mug so they can enjoy hot beverages on the go. LETTERS FROM HOME A handwritten note to your loved one can help close the distance between you,
whether it’s a lengthy update on day-today life or a simple reminder of how much you love them. Encourage other family members who live with you to write their own notes. Finally, carefully wrap each item in fallcolored tissue paper and embellish the inside of the box with festive wrapping paper, plastic autumn leaves and felt pumpkins.
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GIFT GIVING
�is holiday seaso�
For the phone junkie
If you’re looking for a gift for someone who loves their phone, here are a few suggestions that are sure to please.
1. A portable Bluetooth speaker for use at home and on the go. 2. A solar phone charger for the tech-savvy environmentalist. 3. A portable power bank for charging any time or place 4. A touchscreen cleaner keychain to put an end to smudges. 5. A compact smartphone
projector for an at-home cinema experience. 6. A pair of touchscreen gloves for winter texting. 7. A smartphone car mount for safe, hands-free navigation. 8. A wallet case to keep all essentials in one place. 9. A smartphone lens to capture stunning photos. 10. A set of wireless earbuds or headphones that block out ambient noise. For these smartphone accessories and more, visit your nearest electronics store.
Great gifts for someone living in a retirement Are you wondering what type of gift to get for a relative who lives in a retirement home? If so, here are a few ideas. • A best seller. If your loved one likes to read, look for a new release they can add to their collection. Be sure to pick a book in a genre they enjoy such as historical fiction or action adventure. • A potted plant. Whether you opt for a lush fern or a flowering species, the greenery is sure to liven up their space. Opt for a modest-size, low-maintenance variety. • A warm accessory. Keep your loved one comfortable this winter with a plush bath
robe, soft slippers or wool socks. Alternatively, choose a quilt or blanket for their bed.
• A goodie basket. Purchase a gourmet gift basket or assemble one yourself with treats your relative loves. Make sure to avoid perishable items if their room doesn’t have a fridge. • A decorative item. Visit local shops and craft fairs to find unique pieces that will add character to their home. Consider pairing a handmade frame with a new family photo. While all of these presents are sure to be well-received, remember that the best gift you can give a loved one is time spent together.
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home
Quick holiday appetizer
If you're looking for a quick, but delicious appetizer for your holiday party, this might be the perfect recipe for you. Not only is it tasty, but it has just four ingredients and can be whipped up in a flash. It also looks attractive on any table. I found that crackers with cranberries and nuts or rosemary flavored crackers add a little extra flavor to the appetizer, but bagel crisps or toasted french bread slices are also good.
GOAT CHEESE WITH HONEY, FIG AND PISTACHIOS INGREDIENTS: 1 medium log fresh goat cheese 1/4 cup roasted pistachios, chopped 2 Tbsp. honey 1 Tbsp. fig spread Crackers or bread for serving
Wendy Oksness :: LPL Financial Advisor
DIRECTIONS: Spread chopped pistachios on a plate. Roll goat cheese in pistachios until sides and top are coated. Transfer cheese log to a serving tray. Drizzle honey over cheese log. Microwave fig spread for 10 seconds until softened then drizzle over cheese. Serve with bread or crackers.
Get Ready for the Holidays.... Scandinavian Style!
Financial Independence I am committed to helping you pursue financial independence and a successful retirement. Call to schedule a consultation today. Alexandria | (320) 762-2686 | mmfcu.org (between Walmart & Fleet Farm)
Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance products offered through LPL Financial or its licensed affiliates. Mid Minnesota Federal Credit Union is not a registered broker/dealer nor affiliate of LPL Financial. Not NCUA Insured
Not Credit Union Guaranteed
May Lose Value
www.scandinaviangifts.com or 320-763-6363 604 Broadway Street Alexandria, MN 56308
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CLUES ACROSS 1. Cold War player 5. Flat-bottomed sailboat 10. Jamaican tangelo 14. Debauched man 15. Less covered 16. Require to live 17. Patrick and Aykroyd are two 18. Mixes 19. Insurance claim expenses 20. Tries to persuade 22. Equal (prefix) 23. Czech name for Prague 24. London soccer team 27. Greek letter 30. Small Eurasian deer 31. Swiss river 32. Miller beer 35. Less appealing 37. 8th month (abbr.) 38. __ Alto, California city 39. Grandmothers 40. American time 41. NW Chinese people 42. ‘Westworld’ actress __ Rachel Wood 43. Northeastern US university 44. Poplar trees (Spanish) 45. Hip hop legend Kool Moe__ 46. Not or 47. Corpuscle count (abbr.) 48. Comedienne Gasteyer 49. Fonts 52. Female cattle mammary gland 55. Down time 56. Spiritual leader 60. Small brown and gray American rail 61. Trimmed by cutting 63. NY Giants owner 64. A long narrative poem 65. Old World lizard 66. Product for sale 67. Shut Your Pie Hole (abbr.) 68. Pacific Island country 69. Whale ship captain
CROSSWORD
DIABETES WORD SEARCH
SUDOKU
ACETONE ADRENAL ADVERSE ANTIBODIES ASYMPTOMATIC AUTOIMMUNE BASAL RATE BLOOD CALORIES
CARBOHYDRATES DEHYDRATION ENDOCRINOLOGIST EYE DISEASE FRUCTOSE GLUCAGON GLUCOSE HORMONES
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INSULIN KETOSIS LANGERHANS LEVEL NEUROPATHY PANCREAS SWEETENER
CLUES DOWN 1. Language 2. Fly high in the air 3. Made musical sounds 4. Organized again 5. TV channel 6. Unable to fly 7. Get up 8. Air traveler 9. Married woman 10. Take weapons from 11. Sicilian city 12. Actress Remini 13. Thought 21. Infections 23. Golf score 25. Hill or rocky peak 26. Witch 27. Adjusted 28. Succulent plant 29. Forearm bones 32. Hot fluid in the earth’s crust 33. Subatomic particle 34. Part of an organism 36. 007’s creator 37. Burned material residue 38. Brain layer: __ mater 40. Unable to partake 41. Lesion 43. Historic railroad company (abbr.) 44. Basics 46. Scottish port 47. Flower cluster 49. Instruct 50. Untamed 51. Moth genus 52. Utilizes 53. Foolish 54. Fall in small drops 57. A place to get clean 58. La __ Tar Pits 59. Metrical foot 61. Semiliquid food 62. Small crow
HOROSCOPES for NOVEMBER
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 This week you will display the utmost competence and mastery at work. This could provide an opportunity for supervisors to see what you are made of.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 I you are in a relationship, it is possible that this week you will reach a particular level of intimacy that many couples aspire to. You are definitely in an intuitive space.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 The hard work you put into your education will pay VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 dividends shortly. You may find it will give you a leg up Family obligations leave you with little free time for rest and recreation for the next several days. It can be soover others seeking to advance their careers. bering to give up the fun, but duty calls for a little while. GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 It may be time to have a conversation with your family LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 about resources or finances. The conversation may be Let your imagination run a little wild and enjoy being tedious, but it is absolutely necessary. spontaneous. You can use some time to fantasize about what the future holds. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 It is alright if you feel weighed down by a heavy con- SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 versation with someone. Not every interaction can be You may seek out the advice of a role model who emlight and airy. Distract yourself if you need a mood bodies a lifestyle that you admire. Don’t hesitate to put reboot. your own spin on things if you want to do so.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Your gift of gab could help you secure a raise or even a better job. Demonstrate that you can fill the role well and not just talk your way through. CAPRICORN –– Dec 22/Jan 20 You may find yourself opening up to new ideas or beliefs. Remember to take everything at face value until you have had ample time to do your research. AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Like so many people you have been spending more time at home lately. You may get back into the groove of socializing and interacting with others soon enough. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Carve out some time to have an important conversation with a loved one about future plans. It is time to take a few serious steps.
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Perfect plants
for the holidays
Whether you want to add greenery to your home this winter or offer a potted perennial as a hostess gift, here are seven plants that are perfect for the holiday season. Poinsettia. With its red and green leaves, this plant is a Christmas classic. Christmas kalanchoe. The flower clusters on this plant come in a variety of colors and last for months. Amaryllis. The large, beautiful blooms on this tropical species are most common in red and white.
Christmas cactus. The vibrant, bell-shaped flowers on this sprawling succulent are sure to catch the eye. Persian cyclamen. The wispy blooms that sit atop long, thin stems are reminiscent of butterflies. Orchid. This delicate, ornamental plant adds a touch of elegance to any space. Christmas chili plant. While too spicy for most, these edible hot peppers resemble colorful holiday lights. To find these plants and more, visit a local garden center or flower shop.
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contributing writers Lori Mork of Lowry is a mother, grandmother and dabbler in all things food, photography and decor related. Lori Mork
Melanie Danner of Alexandria is an at-home mother and craft lover. Melanie Danner
Shannon Swenson is a Life Coach at Encompass Coaching in Alexandria. She enjoys cooking and reading and is a nature, animal and classic car lover. Shannon Swenson
Apryl Putnam is a mother of twin boys. She loves anything fitness related, singing, baking and watching her boys play sports.
Jasmine Johnson is a reporter for the Echo Press. She cherishes long drives with the windows down, dance parties with friends and cold press coffee.
Celeste Edenloff
Lowell Anderson
Al Edenloff of Alexandria and his wife, Celeste, were married in the heart of California wine country and enjoy sipping wine on their weekend date nights.
Tina McPherson is a mother and grandmother originally from Texas and is learning everyday how to live her life to the fullest in Minnesota. Coffee helps. Tina McPherson
Celeste is a reporter for the Echo Press. She enjoys perusing her social media accounts, running and participating in races with her husband, Al.
Jeff Beach has spent a lifetime on The Jeff Beach Diet and is still kickin’. Jeff Beach
Apryl Putnam
Jasmine Johnson
Lowell Anderson is a photographer at the Echo Press newspaper.
Al Edenloff
Andy Mellgren is the Director of Operations for Plaza and Downtown Liquor. Andy Mellgren a Magazine for FUN wome
n! TM
a Magazine for
a Magazine for FUN women!
30 Chicz November/December 2020
May/June 2020
May/June 2020
March/April 2020
TM
TM
a Magazine for FUN women!
FUN women!
Working wonders out of
WOOD
Spring
REFRESH
WAYS 15 to empower yourself
Lovin’
LEMONADE
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High quality name brand items at thrift store prices clothing, purses ,shoes, jewelry, household, misc. items, furniture and so much more. Mon- Fri 9 AM - 5 PM • Sat 9 AM - 2 PM
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Showcase your local business! Contact The Echo Press to Reserve Your Space for 2021
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CRAZY CONVENIENT FOR YOUR HOLIDAY PARTIES!
Crazy Fresh produce and specialty items make it easy to stay on top of your busy holiday schedule and keep healthy eating a priority for you and your family. All products are guaranteed fresh-cut daily and ready-to-eat. With a wide variety of items ranging from fruits and vegetables to soup starters, prepared salads and salsas, you’ll find convenient, healthy choices the whole family can enjoy any time of day. See you at Elden’s!
OPEN 6 AM - 10 PM, 7 DAYS A WEEK! 707 Third Avenue East, Alexandria, MN 56308 320.763.3446 | eldens@rea-alp.com | eldens.com
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