Holiday Entertainment 2017 by Northern Virginia Daily

The Northern Virginia Daily

Holiday Entertainment 2017

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Holiday Entertainment 2017

Gifts for holiday hosts

he season of entertaining is in full swing, with family, friends and coworkers gathering at various locales to enjoy some holiday spirit together. When celebrating the holidays, it is customary to offer hosts a token of appreciation. During the season of giving, it may be challenging to find a gift that stands out in the crowd. However, some of the best gifts for hosts focus on their love of entertaining family and friends.

Party games: Keeping guests content often involves having plenty of beverages and food available. However, for the hosts who want to go above and beyond, game night or other entertainment-based activities can add flair to special events. Board games, physical games (like horseshoes or bean bag tosses), games for video gaming systems, and even karaoke machines can fit the bill. Cake stand or serviceware: Hosts may want to put foods on display, and a decadent cake stand or serving plate will make occasions more glamorous.

Music speaker: Music often is an integral part of entertaining, but not every party host is equipped with a stellar sound system. Today始s Bluetoothenabled music speakers run the gamut from handheld options to speakers that combine mood lighting with sound to large units. Shoppers can find speakers that suit the space hosts have to work with and ones that won始t bust shoppers始 budgets.

Spa gift certificate: Hosting can be hard work. After the guests have come and gone, hosts will no doubt need some time to rest and recuperate. This can be achieved more easily with a gift card to a nearby spa or massage therapist.

Bar tools: Toasting the season (or any occasion) is par for the course at a party or get-together. Avid entertainers can benefit from having new bar tools, such as mixers and serving glasses, to make sure guests始 cups are never empty.

Cleaning service: The gift of a cleaning service saves hosts from having to do the post-party cleanup, and giving such a gift in advance of the party can be the helping hand hosts need as the chore list grows in the days before the party.

Holiday Entertainment 2017

The Northern Virginia Daily

WAYS TO MAXIMIZE ENTERTAINING SPACE

eople who live in compact homes or apartments may find space is at a premium during regular times of the year. When the holidays arrive, decorations, trees and presents can make homes seem even more cluttered. This can make it especially challenging for holiday hosts who want to open up their homes for festive gatherings. Even if space is at a premium, all it takes is a little ingenuity to entertain successfully.

1. Put nonessential furniture and other decor away. Itʼs impossible for would-be holiday hosts to move all of their belongings out of their homes to create entertaining space. But hosts can certainly cut down on clutter. Check out the flow of a room and then move pieces around as needed to open up floor space. Push tables or

When entertaining a lot of guests, set up an all-purpose counter island and add barstools. This can be an area for food prep, eating and 2. Put benches and wide ledges to entertaining. use. Narrow benches, such as those 5. Create conversation areas. Encourage guests to spread out by common to picnic tables, can seat setting up intimate spots in various three or four comfortably. Do not rooms. This way guests wonʼt feel discount deep window ledges as the need to congregate in the same potential seats, as these areas can space. Bistro tables in a den, a few be made more comfortable with floor pillows in front of the fireplace pillows or cushions. and stools by a kitchen island will 3. Collapse tables after meals. If a sit-down dinner is the goal, set up create conversation areas. large pieces of furniture up against walls. Swap out armchairs for folding chairs. Stow knickknacks in bedrooms or in closets.

tables take up a lot of space, so serve a buffet, tapas or passed hors dʼoeuvres so guests mix and mingle rather than sit down at one large table. 8. Use all available surfaces. Invest in some sturdy serving trays that can be placed on television stands, upright speakers, ottomans, or even wooden crates. This will increase the amount of room you have to serve and store items.

9. Spread out refreshments. Avoid bottlenecks in common areas by putting food, beverages and other tables accordingly. Then break down 6. Expand outside, if possible. the tables afterward to free up more Rent a tent that can be warmed with items in various locations. Fill up the kitchen sink with ice and make it an space. Serve small desserts that can a space heater. If your home has a closed-in porch or patio space, cover oversized beverage cooler. be easily transported from room to screens with insulating plastic to room. Holiday entertaining requires some create a comfortable added room. creativity when hosting in compact 4. Use islands and countertops. spaces. 7. Skip a sit-down meal. Large Tables can take up valuable space.

The Northern Virginia Daily

Holiday Entertainment 2017

Keep safe this holiday season and avoid medical mishaps T he holiday season might not be the most hazardous time of the year, but there is an uptick in safety concerns during this season of festivity and fun.

Thankfully, many accidents that occur during the holiday season are avoidable if holiday celebrants focus on safe ways to celebrate. Choking: All of that

entertaining and partying means more food is consumed. To keep up with the hustle and bustle of the season, many people must eat on the go. The National Safety Council says nearly 3,000 people in the United States die each year from choking. Taking small bites and chewing completely, while also avoiding talking while chewing, can help. Children should be kept away from small decorations, as even pine needles can be a choking hazard. Toxic plants: Some plants, including mistletoe and holly,

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can be toxic to pets and young children whose smaller bodies may be more vulnerable than adultsʼ. When decorating, consider decorating with artificial plants instead of live, potentially poisonous plants.

readily available to holiday guests can prevent tragedies.

Medicine mishaps: Relatives visiting for Christmas may bring their prescription medications along when staying overnight. Curious children Alcohol-related incidents: may encounter the drugs and Holiday fun frequently think theyʼre candy, so involves alcoholic beverages. encourage guests to place Law enforcement officials their medications in point out that the rate of childproof bottles or driving while intoxicated tends containers. to increase during the Staying safe during the holidays. Implementing strict “designated driver” rules and holidays involves diligence making contact information for and keeping an eye out for potential dangers taxi or ridesharing services

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Components of the holiday season such as decorating, shopping, celebrating, and traveling, carry some risk. The National Fire Protection Association says 30 percent of all home fires occur during the months of December, January and February. Christmas trees and decorative holiday lighting displays contribute to the uptick in fires and other

accidents between Thanksgiving and New Yearʼs Day. But fire is not the only concern during the holiday season. Revelers who celebrate a bit too much can pose a threat, as can road weary travelers or overnight guests who unknowingly put loved ones in harmʼs way during their stays.

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Holiday Entertainment 2017

A quick and delicious holiday dessert

he holiday season is synonymous with many things, including delicious foods. While Thanksgiving turkeys or Christmas geese will be found on many a table this holiday season, baked goods and desserts are what many people look forward to this time of year.

Holiday hosts with a lot on their plates might not have the time to prepare homemade baked goods for their guests. Thankfully, the following recipe for “ChocolateStrawberry Pie” from Addie Gundryʼs “No-Bake Desserts” (St. Martinʼs Press) can be prepared in just 15 minutes, all without turning on the oven.

Chocolate-Strawberry Pie Yields 1 pie 1. Place the strawberry halves in a single layer in the bottom of the pie crust.

1 pint fresh strawberries, washed, trimmed and halved 1 store-bought (or homemade) chocolate cookie pie crust 2 ⁄3 cup sugar 1 ⁄4 cup cornstarch 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder 1 ⁄4 teaspoon minced crystallized ginger 1 ⁄8 teaspoon ground nutmeg Pinch of kosher or sea salt 6 large egg yolks 21⁄2 cups half-and-half 6 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped 1 ⁄2 tablespoon rum extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Additional strawberries for garnish (optional)

2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, cocoa powder, ginger, nutmeg, and salt over medium heat. 3. Whisk in the egg yolks to create a thick paste. Gradually whisk in the half-andhalf until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Bring to a boil and cook for 1 minute. Remove from the heat. 4. Add the chocolate and whisk until combined. Add the rum and vanilla extracts. Cool the mixture for 4 minutes. 5. Pour the filling over the strawberries and up to the top of the crust. Chill the pie for 2 hours or until set. 6. Garnish with additional strawberries, if desired.

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Holiday Entertainment 2017

Tips to simplify holiday hosting H osting family and friends for the holidays is a tall task. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, during the Christmas/New Year holiday period, the number of long-distance trips (to and from a destination 50 miles or more away) increases by 23 percent compared to the rest of the year. While many of those traveling will stay in hotels, many more will enjoy the hospitality of loved ones.

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Holiday hosting can make an already hectic time of year that much busier, as hosts must prepare their homes for guests in the midst of holiday shopping excursions, office Christmas parties and social engagements around the neighborhood and at kidsĘź schools. Holiday hosting does not have to run hosts ragged in the days leading up to guestsĘź arrival. The following are a handful of ways to simplify holiday hosting. Plan menus well in advance of guestsĘź arrival. One of the more timeconsuming tasks associated with holiday hosting is cooking. Hosts who plan their holiday menus in advance can get started on prep work several weeks before guests arrive. Choose dishes that can be prepared in advance and then frozen, so dishes need only be defrosted and cooked once guests arrive. Let guests pitch in. Some hosts may feel obligated to cater to all of their guestsĘź needs during the holiday season. But many guests want to pitch in any way they can. If guests offer to do some holiday baking or take the family out for dinner during their visits, allow them to do so. This takes a little responsibility away from hosts while also allowing guests to show how much they appreciate the hospitality of their hosts. Plan a night out. Another way to make hosting friends and family for the holidays less taxing is to plan a night out for everyone. In lieu of cooking at home, dine out at an affordable, family-friendly restaurant before taking everyone to a local holiday light display or bazaar. This gets everyone out of the house and allows hosts to showcase their hometown pride. Rotate hosting duties. The holiday season is full of tradition, and some hosts may feel beholden to tradition and offer to host each year. But family traditions are about getting together, not about getting together in a particular place each year. Families who rotate hosting duties each year can ensure one member of the family does not feel overwhelmed time and again. And sharing hosting duties means someone new gets to avoid the hectic holiday traveling season each year. Holiday hosting is an enjoyable yet sometimes difficult task. Fortunately, hosts can take steps to simplify holiday hosting without sacrificing tradition.

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Holiday Entertainment 2017

Warm up with a classic hot toddy

alcoholic beverages are no longer used as medicine, hot toddies can still chase away a chill. “Grog” is another name given to hot alcoholic drinks, or any drink in which unmeasured Hot toddies have been around for centuries. Usually a mix of a amounts of spirits are mixed with other ingredients. Grog may also spirit — either whiskey, rum or brandy — hot water, honey and refer to a water-and-rum mixture that sea merchants once drank. spices, some believe the word The water kept the merchants “toddy” comes from an Indian hydrated, while the rum drink of the same name that is produced by fermenting the sap prevented the water from of palm trees. Other sources say spoiling during voyages. the hot toddy was created by Dr. The classic hot toddy can be a versatile drink used to keep Robert Bentley Todd, an Irish physician who prescribed a drink guests comfortable and cheerful. This warm libation is soothing made of brandy, white and savory, mixing citrus, honey cinnamon, sugar syrup, and water. The drink was dubbed the and spices, which each have their various health benefits. “hot toddy.” ome the holiday season, hot toddies are ideal for entertaining, providing spirited fun and a means to chasing away the winter chill.

Hot drinks embellished with alcohol were long used for medicinal purposes. While

Although hot toddy recipes vary, the following is the recipe for a classic hot toddy, as culled by

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recipes from Wine Enthusiast, Imbibe and PBS Food. Classic Hot Toddy 1½ ounces bourbon, whiskey or other brown liquor 1 tablespoon honey ½ ounce fresh lemon juice 1 cup boiling water Cinnamon stick Lemon wedge Cloves or star anise Combine liquor, lemon juice, honey, and boiling water together in a mug or Irish coffee glass. Push cloves or star anise into the lemon wedge. Add the cinnamon stick and lemon wedge to the mug. Allow lemon and cinnamon stick to steep in the beverage for a few minutes. Stir and enjoy.

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Holiday Entertainment 2017

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Holiday Entertainment 2017

Festive tree-trimming tips and techniques

eople have visited forests to select their Christmas trees for centuries. While tree sellers conveniently stationed in store parking lots and artificial trees displayed in various retailers have led fewer people to venture into the wilderness, the Christmas tree is still an important component of holiday celebrations.

Long before the spread of Christianity, evergreen plants and trees held special meaning for people during the winter. Boughs and garlands were hung in homes and over doors and windows to repel evil spirits and illnesses. On the winter solstice, the greenery would represent that spring would once again arrive and banish winterʼs dreariness. Germans who decorated trees inside of their homes are credited with starting Christian Christmas tree traditions during the 16th century. Early Americans were late to adopt Christmas trees because early Puritan settlers thought the tradition — as well as carols and other concepts — were Pagan influences. It took the popularity of Englandʼs Queen Victoria and her German Prince Albert appearing around a decorated Christmas tree to eventually win over much of Europe, Canada and the United States. Trees are very popular today. According to StatisticsBrain, 10 million artificial trees are sold in the United States each year, while 34.5 million real tress are sold annually. Such trees require decorating, and the following secrets and tips can help celebrants do just that.

Prune the tree first. Be sure to shape the tree as desired, since natural trees will have branches sticking out. Wear gardening gloves to avoid being covered in sap. Position trees away from heat sources, such as fireplaces, vents or radiators, which can cause the tree to dry out prematurely and become a fire risk. For added safety, anchor a tree to a wall or ceiling, so it will not tumble over onto children or curious pets. In homage of the first German Christmas trees, decorate with natural ingredients, such as berries and pinecones. Also, use apples, nuts and marzipan candies. To free up more space for presents, place a narrow tree stand inside of a waterproof planting container. Place the tree inside. This will provide a more streamlined look

thatʼs neater than a tree skirt.

be disturbed.

The more lights the better, especially on dense trees.

Step back and enjoy your handiwork, which will also give you a chance to find any blank spots that need filling in.

For a whimsical approach, match the tree decor to home decor and the color of furniture. Make handcrafted ornaments with the whole family. Hang the most delicate pieces toward the top where they wonʼt

Tree trimming is one of the most enjoyable aspects of the holiday season, and there are no rules other than safety guidelines when it comes to decorating.

The Northern Virginia Daily

Holiday Entertainment 2017

Fresh Christmas tree care

hristmas trees are often the centerpiece of holiday decor and one of the hallmarks of the season.

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The National Christmas Tree Association states that there are approximately 25 to 30 million real Christmas trees sold each year in the United States, where there are close to 350 million currently growing on Christmas tree farms. The NCTA also notes that, when a Christmas tree is cut, more than half of its weight is water. To maintain its quality and appearance, keeping the tree hydrated is of utmost importance. There are other steps to take as well to minimize needle loss and help ensure the tree lasts through the holiday season.

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Buy a quality tree. Itʼs adviseable to buy a freshly cut tree from a local nursery or cut one down yourself. Trees available at tree lots may have been cut down weeks prior and may have already started to deteriorate. Some needle loss is to be expected, but if the tree youʼre considering loses lots of needles when shaken, go elsewhere. Fit the stand to the tree. Rather than whittling down the trunk to fit the stand, choose a stand with an adequate reservoir to fit the trunk and water. Stands should provide one quart of water per inch of stem diameter. Make a fresh cut in the trunk before putting the tree in the stand. Be careful to cut perpendicular to the stem axis, not at an angle or vshape. The outer layers of wood are the most efficient in absorbing water, and should not be removed. Keep it cool. Trees are used to being outdoors and not inside. Therefore, inside the home, place the tree away from a heat source to prolong its life. Avoid drafts from heating vents, radiators and fireplaces as well. Consider a living tree. Living trees can be planted in the yard after the season, ensuring the beauty of the

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evergreen can be enjoyed yearround. Select a tree that is hardy to your planting zone. Live trees often need to be transitioned from the outdoors to a garage and then into the house so they will not be shocked. Reverse this process when returning the tree to the outdoors. Do not keep the tree inside longer than 10 days, advises HGTV. Monitor any treeʼs condition daily, keeping it watered regularly. Select lights that use low heat. Remove the tree if it has dried out to avoid a fire risk. Following these suggestions can help trees last the entire holiday season as they serve as the centerpiece of holiday decorations.

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Holiday Entertainment 2017

11 great tools for the holiday kitchen By KATIE WORKMAN Associated Press

roasted poultry or meat, youĘźll want to remove most of the fat. There are two kinds of fat separatĘźs that time of year: WeĘźre all on the on-ramp to tors: pitchers and bottom drainers. Both work fine. (Sometimes they might be labeled gravy separathe holidays. With feasts, parties and other tors.) Choose one with a 4-cup capacity, a wide events ahead, itĘźs a perfect time to make sure strainer, and a big spout to pour off the liquid your kitchen is ready and raring to go. Here are cleanly and easily. Definitely make sure itĘźs dish11 items the well-stocked holiday kitchen should washer-safe. have: 3. TURKEY BASTER 1. ROASTING PAN AND RACK A dry turkey is to be avoided at all costs, and this For a turkey, ham or roast, youĘźll need a sturdy is where a simple baster comes into play. These roasting pan, either 11-by-14 or 13-by-16 inches come in plastic or stainless steel, and are usually (which will fit up to a 20-pound turkey, for examinexpensive. But donĘźt buy a super-cheap one as ple), fitted with a nonstick rack. The rack ensures the bulb may not have a good seal, and therefore even browning, and lets you roast vegetables in not suck up the cooking liquid as effectively. the pan below the meat if desired. Get a pan with Wash this utensil especially well after use to keep high sides to prevent splatters, and generous the bulb pliable and the baster clean (some even handles for easy lifting. Make sure itĘźs solid, and come with a cleaning brush). can also be transferred to the stovetop so you 4. MEAT THERMOMETER can finish making gravy in the pan. ItĘźs worth payWhen turkey breast meat registers 165 degrees ing more for quality on this one: A good roasting Fahrenheit, itĘźs ready to come out of the oven â&#x20AC;&#x201D; pan will last a lifetime. and you donĘźt want to be guessing at the temper2. FAT SEPARATOR ature. Some thermometers stay in the turkey (or the roast) the whole time, and some even have a To get the great pan liquid for gravy after youĘźve

remote reader that saves you from opening the oven to check the temperature. But there are also lots of great instant thermometers available, and a quick check gives you instant results, as promised. There are dial versions, digital displays â&#x20AC;&#x201D; buy one that has a screen you find easy to read. 5. CARVING BOARD WITH TRENCH If you have ever carved a turkey (or chicken or roast) on a cutting board without a trench, then you have probably spent time mopping up precious juices from the counter and floor. You want to collect those juices in the canal carved in the board and put them to use in your gravy (or just drizzle them over the sliced meat). I lean toward a good-looking, sturdy wooden board, which is also great for serving if youĘźre not going the platter route. And, of course, youĘźll be using your board for all of the slicing and dicing as you get ready for the meal. 6. SHARP KNIVES If youĘźve been wanting to up your knife game, nowĘźs the moment. Good knives donĘźt have to cost a fortune, though some can get pricey. If youĘźre going to buy one good knife, make it an 8-

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pensible for holidays and all days. The most commonly available and useful size is known as a half sheet, measuring 13-by-18 inches. You will use these for roasting vegetables, making cookies, broiling chicken, baking fish, you name it. The rimmed edge prevents drips over the side, which 7. MIXING BOWLS prevents the fire alarm from going off (very imporPlenty of choices here, from plastic to glass to tant). Buy heavy sheets â&#x20AC;&#x201D; lighter ones can warp metal. Get a nice assortment in a range of sizes; itĘźs almost impossible to have too many during the during cooking, especially at high heat or under holidays. Some have a rubber rim around the bot- the broiler. tom, which keeps them nicely in place as you stir 10. PIE PLATES and whisk away. Where there is Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, or 10-inch chefĘźs knife. Bigger knives do more work, so go for the 10-inch if possible. Shop somewhere where you can hold the knives to compare heft and feel, and talk with a salesperson about what you like.

8. BAKING DISHES AND CASSEROLE POTS Roasted vegetables, stuffing, casseroles. youĘźll need a number of baking dishes to make sure all those sides have a place to cook (or reheat). Casseroles are deeper and should have lids, and might hold anywhere from 2 to 4 quarts of food, or more. The most popular baking dishes are usually something in the 9-by-13-inch or 2-to-3-quart range, and you should mix and match shapes and depths. If you are bringing a side to someone elseĘźs home, look for a baking dish with its own snap-on lid. ItĘźs great for portability and for storing leftovers. 9. RIMMED BAKING SHEETS These are the workhorses of the kitchen, indis-

there will also be pie. With luck, it will be homemade (or at least semi-homemade â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a premade crust can be unrolled or transferred into your pie plate. Shhh...). A 9-inch pie plate is the most useful size. Metal works, but glass or ceramic tends to look prettier on the table. 11. STORAGE CONTAINERS Some of us have a pretty serious fixation about storage containers. In a perfect world, youĘźll have some â&#x20AC;&#x153;goodâ&#x20AC;? ones (for you alone to use and keep) and some that are up for grabs (bought to be packed with leftovers for your guests to take home). â&#x20AC;&#x153;Goodâ&#x20AC;? ones might be made of durable plastic or glass, should be stackable and dishwasher-safe, and have sturdy lids to keep things

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Be prepared for unexpected company T he latter part of the year is full of social engagements with family and friends. Pew Research Center says 92 percent of all Americans plan to celebrate Christmas as a holiday, with 69 percent using it as an opportunity to spend time with family and friends.

While many social occasions surrounding Christmas are anticipated for months in advance, unexpected pop-ins are also the norm this time of year. Rather than being caught off guard, individuals can take steps to prepare for unexpected guests.

happy holiday season is the norm during this time of year. Toasting requires hosts have some spirits on hand. Stock the bar with a few staples, such as red and white wine, vodka, rum, whiskey, and mixers. Also, you may just want to create a signature or seasonal cocktail that can be served when guests arrive, such as a spiced punch or a holiday eggnog.

Cue the musical playlist. Put together a playlist of favorite holiday music that will provide the ideal ambiance should guests ring your doorbell. Thanks to services like Have food available. Even if guests pop in Spotify, Amazon Music and Pandora, holiday music that fills a home with the sweet for a little while, itʼs nice to be able to offer sounds of the season is now always accesthem something to eat. Keep cheese and sible. crackers, fresh fruit, pretzels, and other Keep things neat. Set aside a closet or snacks on hand. Make-ahead, crowdfriendly foods can be prepared and frozen. space that can serve as a catch-all where errant items can quickly be stored should Casseroles, pasta dishes and stews are guests arrive. Gather loose toys, books or hearty and can serve in a pinch when unexpected visitors arrive. Simply take out stray papers in a basket and then stash the to defrost and heat up. Keep cookies in air- basket in the closet until guests depart. Routinely empty the dishwasher so dirty tight tins and purchase a premade frozen dishes left in the sink can be quickly loaded son can refresh stale indoor air. Butter pie to serve, if necessary. In a pinch, you can always order out, but over time the before guests arrive. cookie, apple pie and cinnamon scented cost of having food delivered can add up. Create an aromatic atmosphere. Scented candles can make it seem like you just finished some holiday baking. Keep the bar stocked. Toasting to a candles that evoke the aromas of the sea-

Guests tend to drop by on a momentʼs notice come the holidays. Preparing for the unexpected can make such visits more enjoyable.

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Baking shortcuts for time-pressed entertainers

is the season for baking cookies, cakes and other treats. However, during the holiday rush itʼs easy to get side-tracked or tired, and perhaps even a little bit overwhelmed at all the things to do in such a short period of time. Holiday baking doesnʼt have to add to seasonal stress. With these several tips and shortcuts, there will be plenty of sweet treats for the family.

Stick with tested recipes Although holiday bakers may want to branch out a bit with their culinary creativity, recipes that have previously been prepared with great success can take some of the work out of holiday baking. Preparing recipes you recall preparing in the past is much easier than trying something new. If youʼd like, add sparkle to old standards, such as oatmeal or chocolate chip cookies with colored sprinkles.

Cookies are fast-baking Did you know that cookies were originally made to test oven temperatures? Culinary historians say that cookies were first made to test whether an oven was hot enough to bake other goods. Today, cookies can be whipped up in mere minutes. Make a batch of dough and then freeze or refrigerate it, thawing it when the time comes to bake.

Also, think about baking one day and decorating the next if pressed for time.

Embrace colored candy melts Icing can be tricky to master. Simply heating colored candy melts and pouring over cakes or painting onto cookies can add festive appeal to desserts. Candy melts even come in many different colors and can be combined to achieve the tint desired.

Keep ingredients in top form Donʼt let poorly performing ingredients or lack of supplies be your undoing. Butter can be softened quickly in the microwave when needed for recipes. Eggs can be brought to room temperature by allowing them to sit in a bowl of warm water. Ensure that brown sugar stays soft by putting a piece of sliced bread in the container. Donʼt forget to stock up on other baking staples, such as vanilla and almond extracts, baking powder/soda, molasses, and confectionerʼs sugar.

Donʼt bake from scratch Every recipe does not need to be made from scratch. Boxed cake mixes can be embellished and turned into delicious desserts without much fuss. Substitute melted butter for oil, buttermilk for water,

and add an extra egg for a rich cake. Mix in parchment paper for easy dessert release chocolate chips or nuts, or experiment with and quick cleanup. Parchment paper and even foil can help lift cakes or cookie bars garnishes for a festive look. out so they look neat and do not stick. Parchment paper is key Holiday baking can be made much easier Line cookie sheets or cake pans with with a few tricks of the trade.

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This year, pass the turkey AND the family photos By MELISSA RAYWORTH Associated Press

hen extended families lived closer together, it was easy to pass on family stories and anecdotes, maybe while cooking dinner or putting children to bed.

Many Americans could walk or ride to relativesʼ homes, and shared meals often. That created a natural place for passing on family history and re-telling the stories that help us understand where we come from.

seem the perfect place to gather stories, tread carefully, especially with older relatives, says Dr. Elisabeth Burgess, director of the Gerontology Institute at Georgia State University. “Being in large groups of people, while exciting, can be overwhelming and can cause people to withdraw,” she says. Consider finding a quiet room to talk, or invite one or two older relatives to arrive before other guests.

“If Great Aunt Susie is coming over before the meal and sheʼs going to sit Now, holiday meals can be among the in the kitchen with you while you prepare the meal, thatʼs a great time to only opportunities to ask relatives talk,” Burgess says. “Asking her about about their lives and their recollections meals when she was growing up and of previous generations. holiday dinners she cooked while you This holiday season, along with planare preparing your own meal may ning menus and decorating, consider draw out stories that youʼve never collecting family stories and bits of pre- heard before.” cious data that otherwise might be lost Let older relatives know in advance forever. that the rest of the family would be glad START GENTLY to hear their stories, she recommends: Although a room full of relatives might “Saying, ʻI donʼt think the younger gen-

eration has heard your stories about World War II. Do you think we could make time to tell those stories?ʼ” PLAY DETECTIVE

photos with more context, like those taken in a public place, even if theyʼre not as attractively composed as the staged portraits. Street scenes can offer nuggets of information about the location and date of photos, and about community history or historical context.

Ask family members to bring old photos, and reassure them that youʼll treat these fragile prints gently, says Heather Parker, associate dean in the Have a magnifying glass handy, says School of Arts & Sciences at Saint Leo Parker, to “look in the background of the picture, because thatʼs going to be University, in St. Leo, Florida. where some of the story is going to If there isnʼt a scanner where your emerge.” gathering is happening, consider bringASK ABOUT OTHER PEOPLE AND ing a portable one. Relatives might be EVENTS more willing to bring vintage photos if Itʼs often hard to get elderly relatives to they know they wonʼt be asked to open up about themselves, Baick says. leave them there. If a scanner isnʼt possible, then use a good smartphone “If you can, get them talking about other things, other people.” camera with plenty of memory, and take clear, well-lit digital photos of the vintage prints.

For example, he says: Ask your grandfather, “What was it like for Grandma to You may find that older relatives want take care of Dad?” rather than asking to discuss the portraits and photos that him about himself. “That could lead to are mainly of faces. But those images a dam bursting,” Baick says. To help coax memories out, prepare will only tell you so much. Examine

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some printed photos of historical events that occurred during your relativesʼ lifetimes. If they discuss their impressions and experiences during those moments in history, personal details may emerge.

Family members interested in gathering stories can brainstorm ahead of time, Burgess says, to discuss “what are some of the things weʼre interested in knowing about Great Uncle Bobʼs childhood or Momʼs work life?”

Music also works well toward that end. “With our phones, thereʼs no reason why we canʼt identify the top songs of any era really fast,” Baick says. “What was it like to listen to the radio? What was it like to own an album?”

RECORD RESPECTFULLY Itʼs important to record the stories and details that bubble up, but be respectful.

than “Did you like your childhood?” or “What was life like when you were young?,” start with something open but specific, like, “What toys do you remember having when you were a child?”

And remember that earlier generations were raised in a generally more reticent, less confessional time, Parker notes: “Theyʼre not as comfortable baring their souls as we are.”

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In any family, “sometimes things are going to come out that no one expectAlso, ask relatives in advance to bring ed or no one is going to want to talk old correspondence to spark conversa- about,” Parker says. “You have to be tions. prepared to understand how far you can push someone in the conversa“Often they have written letters and documentation,” Burgess says. “Thatʼs tion.” another source of family history that we Relatives may feel more comfortable if donʼt think about, especially because we they know what youʼre planning to do live in this email, texting world.” with the memories and facts you gather. They also might find audio recordLastly, avoid “yes or no” questions or very broad, open-ended ones. Rather ing less intimidating than video.

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Holiday menus are heavy on nostalgia By MELISSA KOSSLER DUTTON Associated Press

in many Polish, Czech, Slovak and Hungarian households.

The demand is so great that Stanʼs stops taking pierogi orders two weeks before Christmas. SrodekJohnson has had people show up at the bakery with tattered recipes or lists of ingredients asking whether she could help reproduce their grandmotherʼs pierogis.

hen Devin Kidner was a child, she looked forward to the box of goodies her aunt sent from England each December. In addition to chocolates and gifts, the box contained powdered mustard and custard, pickles and other foods that her father needed to prepare the familyʼs annual Christmas meal. A British native who moved to the United States, Graham Kidner relishes the chance to share the foods of his childhood with his family, said his daughter, now 31 and living in Chicago. “This is his way to feel connected to his family,” she said. “It keeps him tied to England.”

Shearon was delighted to discover She and her family use their great that a grocery store in his new home auntʼs traditional recipe. town of Charlotte, North Carolina, had started stocking the Deweyʼs “We have found a lot of people just cake at the holidays. It offered him a canʼt reproduce grandmaʼs handiwork at home,” she said. “Many peo- way to share stories about his childhood with his son and daughter. ple tell us that ours are as good or better.” “Itʼs a connection to my past, and a

The Kennedy clan in Beresford, South Dakota, is determined to keep their potato sausage recipe in the family. Every December, the various The meal, along with regular visits generations gather to make the “across the pond,” helped Kidner sausage that Katie Kennedy appreciate her heritage. She canʼt imagine eating anything other than a Westraʼs great, great grandma brought from Sweden. traditional English roast on Christmas. “Grandma tells us all what to do,” “It wouldnʼt be Christmas without the food,” she said. Holidays meals are an easy way for children to absorb lessons about their ethnicity and ancestors, said Amy Bentley, a professor of food studies at New York University. Because eating and dining together involve all the senses, it creates powerful memories, she said.

she said. “Itʼs always such a hoot.” They serve the sausage with mustard and lingonberries at their Christmas celebration. While the meal remains a way for Westra and her siblings to stay connected to their roots, they recently discovered that their family in Sweden no longer makes the sausage.

“I have a cousin over there who never even heard of it,” said Westra, “Itʼs nutrition, but itʼs also culture,” she said. “Itʼs a way of saying, this is 35. “She asked me to send the recipe.” who we are, and this is whatʼs important.” Regardless, she said, the tradition has already taken hold in her famiThe internet and the popularity of lyʼs next generation. “My oldest is in import stores and specialty grocers 4-H and she wrote a speech about have made it easier to access her Swedish heritage for the state beloved foods at the holidays. fair,” she said. “Sheʼs very into it.” Leslie Srodek-Johnson of Stanʼs Northfield Bakery, which sells handmade pierogis in Northfield, Ohio, says the shop increases production of the potato-filled dumplings tenfold in December. Pierogis are commonly served at Christmas and during Lent

to Deweyʼs Bakery in his hometown, Winston-Salem, North Carolina. The cinnamon and sugar coffee-style cake, which was brought to the region by Moravian settlers in the mid-1700s, remains a local favorite. Many children are introduced to it during school field trips to a living history village known as Old Salem.

Dustin Shearon, 45, would never attempt to make Moravian Sugar Cake, his favorite holiday treat, at home. For him, the store-bought version brings back memories of his mother and grandmother taking him

way to talk about the life I shared with my mom and grandma,” he said. He serves the cake on Thanksgiving and Christmas: Not having it, he says, “would be like not having

sweet potato casserole on Thanksgiving. I would be distraught if I could not get my Moravian sugar cake.” Josh McCutchen, Deweyʼs vice president of marketing, said the company ships the cakes all over the country during the holiday season. Ann Jones, meanwhile, ships cinnamon sticks to her grandchildren in New York every Thanksgiving and Christmas to give them a taste of Ohio, where she grew up. She also keeps some of the cinnamon sticks — made from layers of sweet dough and cinnamon at The Original Goodie Shop in Columbus — in her freezer at home in Jupiter Island, Florida. “My grandchildren have never been to Ohio. They donʼt have any connection to Columbus, but they love cinnamon sticks,” she said.

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Rudolph Small Engine Repair, LLC Quality Parts, Service and Equipment, You Can Count On! WE HAVE GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE! HOURS: Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 8am-5pm Wed. and Sat. by Appointment Only . Closed Sunday April 1-Oct 1 Evening Hours: Mon. & Tues. 7pm-9pm April - July: 2nd & 3rd Sat. of the month 10am-2pm August -September: 3rd Sat. of the month 10am-2pm

ANY PURCHASE UP TO $ 600

All Pets wants our fur-friends at local Shelters to have a joyful holiday season. For the fourth year in a row we will be receiving pet food donations from November 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; December 16, 2017.

10% OFF Valid only at Rudolph Small Engine. Expires 12/31/2017

www.rudolphsmallenginerepair.com

2360 S. Pifer Rd., Star Tannery, VA â&#x20AC;˘ 540-465-2644

All pet food received will be matched pound per pound by All Pets Cremation Center. Since we began this campaign, we have donated over 12,800 pounds of pet food to our local shelters and rescues. To help support our shelters and feed our fur-friends this holiday season, please drop off your pet food Monday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Friday 9AM â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5PM and Saturday 9AM â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1PM.

1560 Amherst Street Winchester, VA 22601 (540) 450-2262

www.allpetscremationcenter.com

Holiday Entertainment 2017

The Northern Virginia Daily

18 ideas for making holiday memories

Streaming movie services often put and hot chocolate. classics and obscure titles into rota- 8. Trim a tree: Get together with tion during the holiday season. adult friends at a tree-trimming 4. Christmas concert: Host a gath- party. Rotate the hosting house each year. ering of children where they can sing or perform their favorite tunes 9. Play dress-up: A gentleman can for an audience. Take it on the road dress up as the man in red and pop to a nearby nursing home. into a friendʼs holiday gathering. 5. Dine out: Take a break from 10. Wilderness walk: Enjoy the cooking, shopping and hosting and crisp air and snow to see a local park from a winter perspective. 1. Annual memento: Have the kids stop into a restaurant youʼve been meaning to try. Keep it local to sup11. Acts of kindness: Choose any or adults make one new handmade port nearby businesses. act of kindness and make it happen ornament each year. This way the tree is always evolving and every6. Adopt a child/family: Volunteer this Christmas. It can include feeding the hungry or helping a disabled one can track milestones. with a charitable organization that provides for less fortunate families. person shop for the season. 2. Cookie day: Devote one day to Answer the Christmas desires of a 12. Kidsʼ Secret Santa: Spread the making Christmas cookies. Invite needy child or family by purchasing joy of giving by having the kids friends or family members over. an item on their wish lists. Distribute some cookies to elderly choose a sibling or friendʼs name neighbors. from a hat and purchasing/making a 7. See the sights: Pack the children into the family car to tour near- gift for that person. 3. Holiday classic: Spend a night in and watch a classic Christmas by areas and look at Christmas 13. Hand out hot chocolate: Make flick youʼve never seen before. lights displays. Bring along cookies a big thermos of hot chocolate and ounting down to Christmas Day means many different things to people across the globe. Although people likely have several different traditions they anticipate each year, it can be fun to incorporate some new merrymakers into the festivities. Here are some festive ideas to include in the days up until Christmas — a special family calendar of fun finds.

How Many People Can You Please this Holiday Season? • Aunts and Uncles • Babysitters • Brothers and Sisters • Clergy • Clients • Coaches • Dance Teacher • Dentist

• Doctors and Nurses • Employees • Friends • Grandparents • Hair Styllist • Handyman • Housekeeper

• Paper Carrier GREAT • Mail Carrier • Neighbors STOCKING STUFFER! • Parents • Teachers • School Bus Driver • Scout Leader

• Music Instructor

.. . h t i w m l of the

! s e t a c i f i t r e Gift C 540-636-6146

138 West 14th St., Front Royal

give it out to shoppers or workers who have been out in the cold. 14. Read religious stories: Understand the true meaning of the season by reading Biblical passages. 15. Camp-in: The first night the tree is decorated, allow the kids to sleep beside it under the glow of Christmas lights. 16. Scavenger hunt: Plan holidaythemed trivia questions and hide small trinkets for children to find. 17. Surprise box: Put a gender and age non-specific gift into a box. On Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, the person who finds a hidden gift tag under their chair at dinner gets to open the box. 18. Family portrait: Wear your holiday finery and pose for a portrait that actually will be printed and framed.

The Northern Virginia Daily

Holiday Entertainment 2017

WYMERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S AUTO REPAIR LLC. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Your One Stop Shopâ&#x20AC;?

â&#x20AC;˘ Computer Diagnostics â&#x20AC;˘ Alignments â&#x20AC;˘ AC Service â&#x20AC;˘ Brakes â&#x20AC;˘ Shocks & Struts â&#x20AC;˘ Tires â&#x20AC;˘ VA Inspection â&#x20AC;˘ Express Lube Phone: (540) 436-3340 Hours: Mon-Fri 8-5pm â&#x20AC;˘ Sat 9-1pm

27362 Old Valley Pike Toms Brook, VA 22660

Canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think of a gift for that someone who has everything? We have

Gift Certificates Available! Stop in Today!

SHEN VALLEY TIRES, LLC 24815 Old Valley Pike Maurertown, VA

(540) 436-9166

Holiday Entertainment 2017

The Northern Virginia Daily

How to make holiday travel more enjoyable and affordable

or many people, no holiday season is complete without traveling. While traveling might not be as enjoyable a holiday tradition as decking the halls or exchanging gifts with loved ones, there are ways for travelers to make their Christmastime excursions more enjoyable and affordable. DonĘźt go it alone. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, 91 percent of holiday travel is done by personal vehicle, such as a car. College students driving home for semester holiday breaks can invite fellow students heading to the same area to share a ride home. Traveling in pairs or groups can make long trips less monotonous and more affordable, as drivers and their passengers can split the cost of fuel and tolls. Men and women can offer to pick up relatives who live along the way to their destinations so no one has to drive unnecessarily. Book early. Travelers taking to the air or railways for their holiday traveling should try to book their plans as early as possible. The earlier travelers try to book, the more likely they are to get a favorable itinerary. Travel experts

vary with regard to when is the best time to book a flight, but travelers who try to book early and are willing to book indirect flights might find the most affordable deals, regardless of how far away from their desired travel date they book their trips. Pack meals. Drivers can save time and money by packing their own meals when traveling for the holidays. Rest stop eateries tend to be overcrowded during the busy holiday traveling season, and such restaurants may not provide many choices for health-conscious travelers. Bringing along their own meals allows drivers to adhere to their personal diets and eat foods that wonĘźt make them drowsy on the road. Simply eat in the car during stops to assuage hunger. Travel during off-peak hours. Drivers who can muster the energy to begin their trips before sunrise can get a head start on the millions of others heading home for the holidays. Kids can sleep in the backseat during early morning hours, making the trips less taxing on youngsters. Less time spent in traffic can also conserve fuel, saving drivers money.

The Northern Virginia Daily

Holiday Entertainment 2017

Think Furniture! Think Bedding!

Think Kiblers! Ole Timer’s Antiques & Collectibles Open House Today! 25% Off Storewide (excludes trains)

All Serta Mattresses On Sale!

ASHLEY LIVING ROOM SALE! Larkinhurst Earth Sofa & Recliner F in an ci n g Ava il ab le

Refreshments

Other Sofas starting at $499 & Recliners at $399

*$100 Gift Drawing with Purchase VOTED “BEST ANTIQUE SHOP” 6 YEARS IN A ROW! Open 10am-5pm, Closed Sunday & Tuesday 220 E. Main St., Front Royal • 540-636-9444 “Like” us on Facebook to see new items everyday!

GIFT FOR THE KIDS? A NEW DOG? GIFT TO YOU? A WELL BEHAVED PET!

We’re Tempur-Pedic. We reinvented the mattress and now we’re cooler than ever! Other Tempur-Pedic bedding & accessories available. Introducing NEW Cooling Technology

DOG TRAINING CLASSES

Manners Classes, Puppy Classes, Specialty Classes, CGC / Therapy Dog Testing, Canine Conditioning

$10 OFF

GROUP CLASS PACKAGE OR SPECIALTY CLASS SESSION Sign up by January 31, 2018

Head of the Class Dog Training LLC Winchester’s Premium Professional Pet Training

(414) 881-0779

www.headoftheclassdogtrainingllc.com

Kibler’s Furniture

24065 Senedo Rd. (1/2 mile west of I-81 on Rt. 42) Woodstock • 540-459-2992 www.kiblersfurniture.com Hours: Mon.-Sat. 9 A.M.-5 P.M.

The Northern Virginia Daily

Holiday Entertainment 2017

The most wonderful time of the year starts right here...

Jewelry & Accessories, Women’s Clothing, Home & Christmas Decor, Candles, and Gifts Galore!! Follow us on Facebook & Instagram for Holiday Promotions! 28 West Piccadilly Street • 540-722-2669 www.simplycharmingonline.com Mon.-Fri. 10am-6pm Sat. 10am-5pm • Sun. Noon-4pm

GIVE THE GIFT OF

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

HEAR THEM ALL! Children laughing, excited whispers, telephone calls from loved ones far away. Hear once again the things that make the Holidays memorable!

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

January 12-21 2018

March 9-24 2018

Hearing Aid Services & Sales

May 11-26 2018