Meridian Source - Season's Greetings

SEASON’S GREETINGS A SUPPLEMENT OF THE

2023

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Embracing the holiday spirit A message from Mayor Aalbers

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mbracing the festive spirit, I extend warm greetings to everyone in our beloved community.

As the holiday season gets closer, our streets are aglow with twinkling lights, and the aroma of freshly baked Christmas treats fills the air, I am reminded of the joyous moments that define this special time.

In the tapestry of our lives, faith and family are the steadfast threads, and traditions are the

colourful patterns that weave together our shared journey.

Whether it’s the age-old debate of fresh or frozen turkey or the playful discussions that bring both joy and laughter, these moments form the heart of our home and lives.

Reflecting on my own memories, I recall the joy of Christmas spent with my grandparents; the fact that they lived nearby added an extra layer of warmth.

This year, we won’t have any of our children with us on Christmas Day, but we are grateful to celebrate in advance and share with other relatives as everyone can.

Each year, we create a new experience and have opportunities to experience old and new traditions that connect us across time and space.

In our diverse community, we extend a heartfelt welcome to those who have recently joined us from different areas of the world.

May you find a home in our city, in our traditions and add your unique threads to the rich fabric of our area.

Christmas is a time for compassion and generosity. Our community’s history is marked by support for local organizations aiding those in need.

Thank you for all that you do to make Christmas brighter for others.

Let’s reflect on the past year’s accomplishments, challenges, and triumphs, reaching out to ensure everyone feels the warmth of the holidays.

If you find yourself alone, I urge you to

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extend an invitation to friends, distant relatives, or neighbours. Let no one feel isolated during this season of togetherness and goodwill.

On behalf of my wife, Christine, and myself, I wish you and your loved ones a Christmas filled with blessings, joy, and the embrace of cherished traditions.

May this holiday season draw you closer to those you hold dear, fostering moments of kindness that resonate throughout our community.

Warm regards, - Mayor Gerald S. Aalbers, City of Lloydminster

Happy holidays to all!

EDITOR TAYLOR WEAVER

It’s hard to believe another year has come and gone at the Meridian Source, and what a year it’s been!

Things seem to be on the up and up in Lloyd, and I’m not just talking about the fluctuating price of oil.

Whether it’s new car dealerships, or a new wand/auto wash to clean your new vehicle, there’s growth everywhere you look.

The Cenovus Energy Hu b cont inu es t o t ake shape every day, which is not only exciting for the athletes who will one day play there, but it’s also

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exciting for this sports reporter.

Speaking of sports, did you know the Lakeland College Rustlers women’s basketball team is hosting the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association national finals from March 13-16?

The ladies are currently ranked first in the country and want to see the Lakeland gym packed with fans.

See you there!

There’s also been growth within the walls of the Source with a handful of new staff, bringing fresh ideas to the table every day.

The Keebaughs have been pumping out newspapers for over 60 years in Lloydminster, here’s to another 60.

Stress-free holiday hosting

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he holidays are a time of joy and celebration, but they can also be a time of stress.

If you’re hosting a holiday gathering, you don’t want to be so busy running around that you forget to enjoy yourself. Here are some tips for stressfree holiday hosting.

Plan and create a checklist Start by creating a detailed checklist that includes everything from the guest list and menu to decorations and cleaning tasks. Begin early to allow ample time for preparation and to avoid a last-minute rush. Break

down the tasks into smaller, manageable steps and set deadlines for each.

Having a well-organized plan will help you stay on track and reduce the chances of forgetting anything important.

Simplify your menu While you might be tempted to prepare an elaborate feast, remember that the holidays are more about spending time with loved ones than impressing them with an extravagant spread. Simplify your menu by choosing dishes that can be prepared in advance or that require minimal last-minute attention.

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Look, feel your best this holiday

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he holidays are meant to be a time of joy and merriment for many of us.

Whatever you celebrate, from Hannukah to Christmas, to the Winter Solstice, here are some tips to help you enjoy them to the fullest.

Embrace the spirit of the season Even if you’re more of a natural grinch than one of Santa’s elves, leaning into the festive season can help you appreciate

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small joys – which in turn could improve your mental health.

Getting involved with your family and your neighbourhood can help you feel more connected to others too.

By building a gingerbread house with the grandkids, spearheading a Secret Santa gift exchange at work or doing a charity clothing drive, you can warm hearts at home and in your community.

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HOSTING FROM PAGE 5

Don’t hesitate to ask guests to bring a dish or dessert, making it a potluck-style event, which adds a fun and communal touch to the gathering.

Set up a self-serve beverage station Set up a designated area with a variety of drinks, including water, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages, if appropriate. Include all the necessary items like glasses, ice buckets and cocktail napkins, so guests can help themselves without constantly asking for refills.

This frees up your time and allows you to focus on other aspects of hosting.

Delegate and ask for help You don’t have to do everything on your own.

Enlist the help of family members and friends

or hire temporary help, if needed. Delegate tasks such as setting the table, greeting guests or hanging up coats. Letting others assist you eases your workload and gives them a chance to contribute and feel more involved in the holiday celebration.

Create a cozy ambiance A warm, inviting ambiance can work wonders in reducing stress during holiday hosting. Create a cozy atmosphere with festive lighting, candles and seasonal decorations.

Play soft background music to set the mood.

Arrange comfortable seating areas where guests can relax and socialize. A relaxed environment will make your guests feel at ease and contribute to the overall enjoyment of the event.

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Choose a go-to outfit you feel great in Uncomfortable clothing can quickly ruin what should be a good time.

Instead of scrambling to find a decent fit right before the occasion, go through your closet a few weeks beforehand and put together at least one look you feel confident in.

This could be like something of a uniform for seasonal celebrations to come – knowing you’ve got this look in your back pocket can eliminate a major source of stress and leave you feeling great even at a last-minute event.

Be kind to yourself It’s easy to overextend yourself with parties, festive dinners, gift shopping, children’s recitals and more all demanding attention at this time of year.

So, make sure you set

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aside time to let your mind and body rest and recharge in positive ways.

Try reading a book, playing with your dog or talking to a friend.

Don’t give yourself too hard a time if things don’t go quite according to plan.

Aim for moderation The holiday season can be extra hectic, making it easy to let your otherwise average or healthy eating habits slide and then feel sluggish or moody as a result. But, even if we indulge in more sweet treats than usual, it’s always a good idea to strive for balance. So don’t forget about your f ru it s and veggies and try to keep a short list of easy, pantry-based meals on hand for nights when you’re at risk of chowing down on cookies, chocolates and chips for dinner – your body will thank you later.

Reduce travel stress over the holidays

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ravelling can be a stressful experience, from catching flights to getting around in new environments. If you live with a chronic health condition or an autoimmune disease like arthritis, there might be added pain, fatigue and discomfort to worry

about. These tips can help you prepare for travel over the holidays: Shoes wisely Choose shoes that provide a firm grip for your heel. If the back of the shoe is too wide or too soft, your foot will slip, causing instability and soreness.

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Look for shoes with great arch support, or that can be worn with orthotic supports. Lack of arch support can cause your foot to flatten and can affect knee, hip and back pain.

Bag it up It’s easier on your body to carry a bag with an across-the-shoulder strap (or a backpack), than to carry a handbag.

Additionally, suitcases, backpacks and briefcases with wheels reduce the physical stress maneuvering luggage can have on your body.

Drive smart When preparing your car for a trip or when choosing a rental car, consider adjustable components like the steering wheel and seatback.

Bring a beaded or vinyl seat cover to make it easier to get in and out of the car and look for extra features like a swivel seat and wheel grips.

Keep meds handy Your medication should be at the top of your packing list for any trip. Be sure to pack medication in your carry-on luggage, as checked luggage could go missing. When book-

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ing your stay for a trip, ask for a mini fridge in your room to store medication that requires staying cool.

Pack a snack Travelling often means you can’t always control what – or even when – you will eat, so make sure you pack a snack before you head off. While you’re travelling, try to eat fish, skinless poultry and meatless proteins more often than red meat, and opt for vegetables, fruits and whole grains when possible. Keep water with you and sip throughout t he d ay – whe n y ou ’r e well hydrated, your body functions better, your joints feel better and you have more energy. To reduce the risk of inflammation, limit your intake of alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks.

Get moving Your joints may be sore after a long flight or drive, so it’s essential to get moving by walking or doing simple stretches.

If your trip involves a lot of walking, remember to take some breaks, and consider bringing a mobility-assisting tool, such as a cane to help you stay active on your trip.

Gifts to feel good about C

olourful Christmas lights, festive music and holiday parties are just some of the joys of the season, but, for many, the anxiety of finding the right gifts, the cost and the obligation of giving to everyone on our list can feel excessive and take the shine off of the holiday season.

Here are a few gifts you can give this year that will give you just as much joy as the recipient.

Homemade from the heart

We all have a talent – hidden or otherwise – and the holidays are the perfect time to share your special skill with friends and loved ones.

Tap into your creative side and share a personal gift: a knitted toque, a sketch of your friend’s home decked out for the holidays or a tin filled with your signature baked goods.

Repurpose with purpose When we think of re-gifting, it’s usually in a negative context: CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

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Someone gave you something you didn’t really want, so you pass it along to someone else on your list.

But regifting can be positive if you do it for the right reasons. Some options include sharing jewelry you no longer wear, offering up your favourite board game or deck of cards for a game night with friends or giving a nice bottle of wine to someone who will appreciate the gesture.

Charitable donations Many of us feel more generous over the holidays. And for the friend

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or loved one who truly has it all, what better gift could there be than to share the wealth with those who need it most?

Organizations like Canadian Feed The Children have gift catalogues that make it easy to choose items that will provide food, opportunities to generate income or education support for families in need around the world and even here in Canada.

For many items, donations are matched onefor-one. You can find the organization’s gift-giving catalogue at bestgiftever.ca.

Winter, the perfect time to give back

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h i l e many o f us look forward to holiday parties, festive meals and time with family, for some, the cold, dark days can be a little depressing, especially for Canadians experiencing food insecurity. Giving back to those in need can help beat those winter blues.

With the increased cost of living, giving back may look a bit different this year. A no-cost option is to volunteer your time.

You can help sort supplies at a local food bank, dish out meals at a soup kitchen, organize a clothing drive or spend time at a retirement home.

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With rising inflation and interest rates, food insecurity is a growing concern for many Canadians. In fact, in 2021, nearly 6,000,000 of us lived in a food-insecure home.

Winter is especially hard because gardens are buried under snow, and much of the fresh produce we consume at this time of year is pricey imports.

The situation is even more severe in many Indigenous communities. Almost a third of Indigenous people who

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live off-reservation and nearly half who live on-reservation do not have access to affordable, healthy food.

But there are organizations like Canadian Feed The Children who provide food support, as well as income and educational opportunities, for families in five different countries including 30 Indigenous communities across Canada.

Learn more about how you can help feed children and give back to families worldwide at canadianfeedthechildren.ca.

Stretch your gift-giving budget

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he holiday season often brings out the best in people.

We want to help those in need. We want to spread Christmas cheer. Sometimes, we want to do more than our bank account will allow.

If you’re in this situation, don’t resign yourself to being a Scrooge. With a little creativity, you can share your festive spirit with those who need it most.

Here are a few gift ideas

for $30 or less.

Share edible treats If you know your way around the kitchen, you can give the gift of a home-cooked meal or treats. Maybe make a bulk batch of your soup or pasta dish that your friend loves. Put it in freezable containers for a readymade meal. Or premix the dry ingredients for your favourite cookie or brownie recipe and share in a decorative container.

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Volunteer There are many volunteer activities you can participate in at this time of year, including working at a food bank, collecting winter coats for people experiencing homelessness or wrapping toys for children in need. If you can’t do it in person, there are volunteer activities you can do behind the scenes or online, such as using your writing or organizing skills. Volunteer.ca lists opportunities across Canada.

Give a gift that multiplies in value Many charitable organizations partner with governments and corporations to provide matching donations, so your individual contribution is multiplied.

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Re-gift Re-gifting has gotten a bad reputation as something you do to people you don’t like. But it can be meaningful. What book inspired you? What holiday decoration brings back memories? Wrap it and share it.

Give of yourself Sometimes in the busyness of the holidays, what gets lost is focused time with family and friends.

Booking some time with loved ones or devoting your attention to someone one-on-one can be the most caring gift of all.

Items they won’t want to re-gift

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orried that special gift for that special someone isn’t just right this Christmas? Fear not with these three strategies for outstanding gift-giving!

The perfectly practical With budgets tight and the cost of living high, there’s nothing like getting a break on practical purchases that take a regular chunk out of your wallet.

Ask your family and friends what they need this year and tell them you’re good for it. Think about their lifestyle and what makes a difference.

If they have a draining commute to work or school, a gas card will be appreciated.

If they work outdoors, give them a nice pair of warm socks. Treat coffee lovers to a break at their local café.

The enticing activity Perfect for a minimalist who despises clutter or an adventurer looking for something new, turning any gift into an activity or event is a great way to treat the recipient to something fun and spend some quality time together – plus it can’t be re-gifted.

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There’s everything from tickets to a concert or sporting event to activities like rock climbing. Learning together in a cooking class can be fun, too.

You can also think further outside the box – and maybe closer in line with a budget – and create your own experience for them by offering to cook their favourite meal.

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The kind causes Donating to a worthy cause on behalf of someone else is always a meaningful gift, and it won’t require the recipient to do anything or store anything at home.

Many of these gifts will be multiplied by governments and corporations to total up to seven times the amount of your gift. No re-gifting in sight.

Give gifts that keep on growing

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rying to find the perfect gifts for your friends, family and co-workers gives many of us anxiety as the holiday season approaches.

This year, rather than fruitlessly searching for something that may quickly be stored away and forgotten about, consider these three gift options that will each grow in their own ways for years to come.

Give the gift of greenery After the holiday lights and decorations are packed away, and the greenery is all covered in snow, winter can feel a bit dreary. Help brighten up the indoors by gifting a plant.

For your foodie friends, consider an assortment of fresh herbs or a kit for growing mushrooms at home.

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Amanda Richard

Production Manager/Graphic Designer Meridian Source

HAYSTACK COOKIES Ingredients:

• 3 cups oats* • 1 cup shredded coconut** • 1/2 cup unsalted butter

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, stir together the oats and coconut.

2. Add the butter, milk, cocoa and sugar to a medium saucepan over medium heat.

3. Whisk gently as everything melts together, then bring the mixture to a boil for 5 minutes while gently whisking.

4. Pour the chocolate mixture into the bowl with the oats and coconut and stir together.

• 1/2 cup milk • 1/2 cup cocoa powder • 2 cups sugar 5. Drop tablespoon sized spoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with wax paper and place in the fridge for 30 minutes to harden. *Old fashioned or quick oats work well. I don't recommend steel cut oats. **Sweetened or unsweetened coconut.

Got a friend who’s a little forgetful? Cacti are low-maintenance, durable plants that can bloom into astonishing colours.

Support post-secondary schooling Whether you’re a parent or grandparent, aunt or uncle, one gift you can give children now that will help nurture their future is a contribution to their Registered Education Savings Plan or RESP. The investment made now will grow over time until the child needs to withdraw the funds to further their education. Plus, the federal government contributes up to $500 a year in grants to the fund.

Seek donations that multiply Many charitable organizations have partner-

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ships with governments and corporations that provide matching donations, so your contribution is multiplied. One example is World Vision’s gift catalogue which includes items like an emergency food package that will be multiplied seven times by the World Food Programme, helping a $25 gift grow to $175.

Other multipliers in the catalogue contribute to education, gender equality and food security.

Holiday flying tips for families

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re you flying this winter with kids, pets and gifts in tow? Air travel can be tricky, especially during the holiday season.

Before you start packing, here are some tips to help you journey through the airport like a pro from the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority.

Leave gifts unwrapped Gift wrapping can be an art, with ribbons, bows and holiday-themed paper. Don’t let your hard work go to waste by taking wrapped gifts through airport security. Screening officers may have to open them to see what’s inside, so leave the gift wrapping on your to-do list for when you reach your destination.

Keep valuable items close

If you are planning to pop the question over the holidays, or you are gifting something special, keep the valuable item close. Pack fragile or valuable items in your carry-on baggage.

Consider the toys Most toys and games are welcome on your flight. But, whether you’re keeping your kids entertained or surprising them with a toy at your destination, check out the rules for bringing batteries on board before you fly. Some go in checked baggage, some in carry-on and some are not allowed to fly at all. And if you have any toys that look like weapons, such as water guns or toy grenades, it’s best to leave those at home.

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Lose the layers Canadian winters are famous for freezing temperatures and an abundance of snow, but bundling up at security will slow you down. Jackets, scarves, hats and bulky winter boots will need to be removed before you reach the checkpoint.

Find a line When you arrive at the security checkpoint, find out if a Family/Special Needs line is available. It offers better maneuverability for wheelchairs and strollers, and screening equipment that can accommodate larger items. Screening officers are also at the ready to offer additional assistance if you need extra time or help with your belongings to get through security.

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Festive food for the flight As the holiday season gathers steam, travelling with homemade desserts and meals is common.

And it can keep little tummies happy. Just remember, solid snacks are ready for take-off, but anything in liquid form must be in containers of 100 millilitres or less and fit in a clear, resealable one-litre bag. This includes hot cocoa, spreads, gravy and soup.

If you’re travelling with an infant younger than two years of age, baby food, milk, liquid formula, water and juice are allowed in greater quantities. You can bring more than 100 millilitres of breast milk whether your child is travelling with you or not, along with ice packs to keep it cool.

Sticking to that holiday budget

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he holidays are supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but worrying about your finances can put a damper on the joy, particularly if you’re stressing about looming bill payments due early in the New Year.

Here are six ways to create a holiday budget you’ll stick to.

Create individual spending plans The only way to effectively stay on track with your budget is to create one in the first place.

Start by making a list of everyone you’d like to buy a gift for. Then, think about any other holiday-related expenses, such as cocktail parties and travel. Figure out how much you can actually afford to spend and pare back as necessary.

Propose a gifting group Rather than buying individual gifts for all your friends, colleagues and family members, why not encourage each group to hold a Secret Santa gift exchange?

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That way you cut down on the number of gifts everyone needs to buy – and the stress of finding the perfect item for everyone on your list.

Plan a potluck Going out for dinner and/or drinks with multiple different groups of people can quickly break the bank. Cut back on costs by hosting a potluck and asking everyone to bring their favourite dish and beverage. Ideally, you can make this an annual tradition with hosting duties rotating through the group.

Take advantage of sales You don’t have to wait until Boxing Day to get the best deals. Today, most retailers offer steep discounts on purchases well before the holidays actu-

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ally roll around. Two big sales events have become mini celebrations of their own: Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Get crafty Whether your hobby is knitting, baking or arranging flowers, a homemade gift is one that comes from the heart. It can also save you some money over store-bought gifts. Consider creating gifts that tie into the season, such as decorations that can be used year after year, or some tasty holiday cookies.

Book early If you’re going to be travelling for the holidays, it’s best to book any flights or accommod at ions as soon as you can. Not only will you avoid missing out, but prices for flights and hotels generally rise closer to the date of departure.

What to get those hardto-shop-for people

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iving holiday gifts should be a joy. But the pressure to find that perfect gift for some of the people in your life can add anxiety to an already stressful time of year.

Instead of wandering the mall in search of inspiration, many Canadians turn to not-forprofit organizations for

meaningful gifts that take the stress out of holiday shopping. They provide goods and essential services to children and families in need.

And there are many unique gift options to choose from, potentially solving what to get for those hard-to-shop-for people on your gift list.

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For the G.O.A.T. in your life The gift of a goat to a family in need is the perfect solution for the person who’s the “Greatest of All Time” in your life.

It may be the most unique gift you give this year, and it can be life-changing for the recipients. Goat’s milk can provide important nutrients for growing children, and the sale of a goat’s offspring means income to pay for essentials like education. Donating a goat costs $80, and you receive a tax receipt for the full amount.

For the woman who is changing the world Finding a gift that’s about unleashing the power in every girl to change the world and the lives of those around them is not as hard to find as you might think. A $50 Girl Power gift provides

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nourishment, education and protection for girls around the world. It helps create safe schools and helps ensure that girls are not forced into early marriages. Each donation is matched eight times by government or foundation partners, so your gift delivers $450 in value.

For the teacher helping kids thrive A memorable and cost-effective teacher’s gift is a donation of daily meals for an entire school.

This gift supplies school kitchens with cookware, nutritious ingredients like rice and beans, and clean water for cooking and washing, helping to ensure good nutrition for students.

A $10 donation is matched five times for a $60 value. Plus, there is an option to download a printable gift card for your child to give to their teacher.

Reduce gift-giving stress this holdiay

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inding a great gift for a friend, family member or office Secret Santa can prove challenging.

Sure, there’s the worry of the gift selection itself when attempting to buy for the person who has everything, or for some-

one you barely know.

Add in the stresses of gift wrapping, timely delivery if you’re ordering online, and trying to score a just-right item that suits your budget, and you’ve got a perfect holiday anxiety storm.

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Fortunately, reducing holiday stress is very possible. Here are four ways that can help: Whittle down your list.

Even if it feels like your people-to-shop-for list is set in stone, know this: it’s okay to reassess each year.

Buying for kids instead of adults in a family-and-friends dynamic is a great way to minimize spending. Or, incorporating an ornament exchange with hard-tobuy-for types will keep the spirit of giving alive without sacrificing your sanity in the process.

Be a purposeful shopper. A great way to avoid buying items your recipients don’t want or need or spending over your limit?

Make a list.

Whether you prefer to shop in-store or online, being prepared before you buy will help minimize unnecessary purchases. And making a list early on will also help you determine if you’re planning to buy too many gifts, period.

Get emotional. A study published by the Journal of Consumer Psychology found that many participants chose to give a

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personal but predictable present, assuming the recipient would prefer it.

Interestingly, the study found gift recipients valued emotional presents that tugged at their heartstrings instead. So, consider choosing a meaningful gift that helps others through tough times.

Shop early and shop smart. Sometimes it’s not possible to finish your holiday shopping well in advance.

So, whenever possible, set aside a few hours on a weekend or after work to chip away at your list online or in person and avoid the chaotic last-minute rush.

For those who prefer to shop online but are concerned about delivery dates, shopping early (and with reputable retailers) is even more important.

Don’t forget to look after yourself this holiday season

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ew things fill the heart like the knowledge someone else cares about how you’re feeling and doing, but many feel their stress and anxiety intensify during the holiday season.

Some of us have experienced a loss that is mag-

nified this time of year, or we come to this season exhausted or dreading the busyness ahead.

During this often pressure-filled time, how can we guard our own mental health, while looking out for others?

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Dear readers and advertisers This holiday season, we wanted to express our heartfelt appreciation and thank you for your continued support throughout the year.

Our team wishes you a wonderful holiday season as well as a healthy and properous new year.

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Here are a few ideas.

Get your steps in. While exercise may be the last thing you feel like doing, just 15 minutes of aerobic exercise is said to have a profound effect on your mood.

Find the right support.

211 is the Government of Canada’s 24/7 hotline that provides free access to a mental-health professional. It can also connect you with resources in your community.

Confide in someone.

Trust a friend, neighbour, co-worker or family member with how you’re doing.

Let them know you would welcome an invite for coffee or a chat on Zoom, on the phone or in person.

Help others. Doing something for others in need can help us feel like we’re making a purpose-

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ful difference.

Lean into gratitude.

Even in the darkest times, we can find things and people to be thankful for that help us keep going.

Bringing loved ones t og e t he r and t hank i ng them for kind gestures can improve the mental health and well-being of everyone.

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