Last Minute Gifts 2018 by Northern Virginia Daily

The Northern Virginia Daily

Last Minute Gifts 2018

Great gifts for holiday hosts H osting family and friends during the holiday season is a big responsibility, especially for those men and women welcoming overnight guests into their homes. Hosts anticipate opening their homes to loved ones during the holiday season and would never ask for anything in return. But guests who want to show their appreciation to their gracious hosts can consider these gift ideas this holiday season.

Decorative vase: The holiday season is colorful, and many people deck their halls with poinsettias or other plants and flowers during this time of year. A decorative holiday vase is a thoughtful gift that can be part of hosts’ holiday decor for years to come. Wine rack: Wine makes a perfect complement to holiday meals, and hosts might appreciate a place to store their collections. Guests unfamiliar with the layout of their hosts’ homes may want to choose a countertop wine rack, which won’t take up much space and can be a convenient place to store a bottle or two before dinner. Guests who want to go the extra mile can bring along a few bottles of wine so the wine rack is presented fully stocked. A night out: While it might not be a gift in the traditional sense, paying for a night out is a great way to show hosts you recognize and appreciate all of their hard work. Call your host in advance of your visit and insist on taking everyone out to dinner one night during your stay, even splitting the tab with other guests if a lot

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Last Minute Gifts 2018

And all through the house there arose such a

of people will be staying overnight. Holiday photo frame or album: Men and women like to host family during the holidays because it’s a great chance to make lasting memories and reconnect with loved ones. Help hosts commemorate those memories by giving them a photo frame in which they can place a picture of the whole family, or an album where they can place various photos of the family from this holiday season.

Did you know that the holiday season between Thanksgiving and Christmas is the

Spa day: Of course, gifts for holiday hosts need not tie in to hosting. A certificate for a day at a local spa can be just what exhausted hosts need to refresh once all of their guests have come and gone. If a day at the spa is beyond your budget, put together a home spa package with bubble bath, scented candles and a bottle of wine.

Refresh Ornaments by swapping with friends or neighbors or visiting a thrift store. Donate Cards. Find out more at stjudesranch.org. The 2.6 million sold each year would fill a football field 10

Holiday hosts deserve a little extra for inviting family and friends into their homes during this joyous time of year.

single most wasteful period in the U.S.? Each year, we generate 25 percent more trash in this country during this time, about one million extra tons. Here are some tips for clearing out the holiday clutter in an environmentally thoughtful way.

stories high.

Consider replacing old light strings with LED lights. LEDs use 90% less energy. Recycle your old lights and cords at eCycle.

Recycle gift bags, shopping bags, boxes, tins, wrapping paper in good condition, and fancy ribbon. If every U.S. family recycled just two feet of holiday ribbon, the resulting 38,000 miles of ribbon would tie a bow around the earth! Recycle wrapping paper and tissue paper free of excess tape at any convenience site. Recycle your cut tree at one of the county’s citizens’ convenience sites Dec. 27 - Jan. 31. All sites accept trees free of decorations, tinsel, and wire except Greenwood. Organic waste is ground into mulch and re-used! Recycle your used cooking oil. Visit the landfill’s citizens’ center to recycle used vegetable oil. (5-gal.max) Avoid the temptation to overcook. Reduce food waste. Send leftovers home with guests. Compost food scraps from holiday dinners. (Leave out meats and dairy products.) Also, compost your holiday greenery. Reward your garden and flower bed in the spring with homegrown humus.

Don’t trash your treasures. Remember local charitable organizations when cleaning out closets to make room for new gifts. Make sure donations are in very good condition. Save-a-Sole recycles shoes, luggage, backpacks, etc. in any condition! ReThreads recycles gently used clothing, linens, drapes, fabric & stuffed animals. Visit your neighborhood convenience site. SAS collection boxes can also be found at the Workingman’s Store/Total Image and the Frederick County Animal Shelter. Shipping a gift? Reuse packing peanuts or try unbuttered popcorn. Carry reusable totes when shopping. Recycle old electronics. Updating electronic gadgets? Bring e-waste to eCycle 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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Last Minute Gifts 2018

The Northern Virginia Daily

Get Christmas crafty with homemade ornaments

andmade gifts, trinkets and treats help make the holiday season special. Although cookies and other baked goods are some of the most popular homemade creations this time of year, gift-givers young and old can put their talents to use with various craft projects. Ornaments and decorations are one such idea. Here are some clever and, not-too-time-consuming craft projects to try this holiday season.

covering a foam board with fabric. Use paper tags or small ornaments and write a number on each for each day of the month. Hang these all from the board. As each day passes, move the tag or ornament to the tree.

Popcorn garland: Garland made of popcorn is a classic handmade holiday project. For a new twist, toss the popcorn with food coloring and allow it to dry before stringing for some bright color on the tree.

dough.

Wooden snowflakes: Have children collect small twigs from outdoors, as well as holly leaves and some sprigs of evergreen. Arrange similarly sized twigs in the shape of snowflakes and glue toMini sleighs: Create miniature replicas gether, or tie with twine. Embellish with stickers, glitter, dried berries, and more. of Santa’s famous sleigh. Paint several popsicle sticks to form the main body of Dough ornaments: Anyone can have the sleigh and glue them together. Put fun molding their own ornaments, letone at the top perpendicular to the oth- ting them dry and then painting them. ers to serve as the steering rudder. Two Use cookie cutters to get perfect holiday silver-painted popsicle sticks placed on shapes. Craft stores sell various types of their thin sides act as the blades of a modeling clays and lightweight modelsled. ing materials. Or, make your own salt

Photo ornaments: Print out several different photos that you love. Purchase round or square thin wood pieces from a craft store and attach the photos with Mod Podge®. When dry, drill a hole through the top and thread with twine.

Reindeer bottle topper: Put to use any wine corks you have lying around. Attach googly eyes and a small fuzzy nose to the front of a cork. Insert twisted, brown pipe cleaners to make the antlers up top. Add ribbons, small snippets of faux fur or any other extras you desire.

Sweet sentiments: Use old Scrabble® letter tiles to form a favorite holiday phrase, like “Joy to the World.” Glue the Advent calendar: Make an Advent cal- tiles together and hang from the tree on a piece of ribbon. endar to count down to Christmas by Bring this ad in for 10% off your next purchase of $25 or more

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Last Minute Gifts 2018

How to keep holiday gifts secret and well hidden

urprising loved ones and friends with gifts is part of the excitement of the holiday season. It can be just as exhilarating for gift-givers to witness the gifts being opened as for the recipients who are tearing into the paper to reveal their gifts. But in order for presents to be the ultimate surprises, it is essential for items purchased to remain a secret. Whether shopping online or in-store, gift buyers can do their best to hide gifts from others. Online shopping The popularity of online shopping has now made it possible for just about anything to be purchased from the comfort of home or while on-the-go. This same convenience has created a new obstacle pertaining to keeping gifts a secret, especially from a spouse or children living in the same house. Gift-givers have to essentially be package ninjas, intercepting parcels from delivery people and burying the digital trail leading back to the purchase. Here are some tips for success. • Clear your web search history and computer cache frequently on shared devices. This way

you avoid loved ones stumbling across past searches for gifts as well as seeing all of those advertisements that seemingly pop up magically in accordance with your search history. • Use your work email for receipts and purchase correspondence. This helps when spouses share one email account. • Investigate if online retailers have private shopping modes, which may mask purchases from others. • Create a family account to mask orders. Retailers like Amazon enable you to set up family sharing. This way each family member can have a unique log in, which will then separate order history logs among relatives. This helps relieve the stress of wondering if the kids saw your long history list of past purchases. • Turn off push notifications of purchases or when the items will ship. This is key for those who share digital devices and accounts. You’ll avoid the message of “Name item has just shipped” from being shared with others. • Opt to have items shipped to the store for in-store pickup, or arrange for an alternate

delivery address. In-store purchases Shoppers who do the bulk of their shopping at brick-and-mortar shops may have an easier job of keeping purchases a secret. • Invest in a nondescript, opaque shopping tote that will not draw attention to where you have shopped. Retailers love to emblazon their shopping bags with names and logos, and that can cue savvy kids and adults as to where you shopped. • Pay in cash as much as possible. Reduce the paper trail of purchases by purchasing the more secretive gifts with cash. • Tuck receipts into a well-hidden place that others will not think to look. • Consider shopping on lunch hour at work and hiding gifts in the office until they can be brought to the house when others are not home. Regardless of how gifts are purchased, make sure to promptly wrap and hide presents so they are not discovered before the big day.

The Northern Virginia Daily

Last Minute Gifts 2018

Great last-minute gift ideas T radition is a hallmark of the holiday season. Religious services, family gatherings and trips to see Santa Claus are just a few of the many traditions people adhere to during the holiday season. Many holiday shoppers also adhere to the time-honored tradition of last-minute

shopping. The perfect gift can sometimes prove elusive, especially as the sand in the holiday hour glass keeps dwindling. These last-minute gift ideas may be just what shoppers need to put smiles on the faces of their loved ones this holiday season. Books: Books are often overlooked, especially

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Last Minute Gifts 2018

on Christmas morning informing them that their books are ready to be downloaded to their devices. Experiences: A 2017 survey by the global research firm NPD Group found that roughly 40 percent of holiday shoppers planned to give experiences as gifts last year. Experience gifts open up a host of possibilities for last-minute shoppers stuck on what to give those loved ones who seemingly have it all.

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Food/beverage: Television channels such as The Food Network have changed the way many people look at food. When gifting the family foodie, last-minute shoppers may not need to look further than the latest hotspot restaurant or specialty grocery store for the perfect gift. Take them out for a night on the town or give a gift card they can use at their convenience. The craft beer boom has created a host of devoted and knowledgeable beer drinkers, so a gift card or growler from a local craft brewery is sure to please people who love hoisting frosty pints. Streaming service subscriptions: Many people are cutting the cord with their cable companies in favor of streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu. Subscriptions to such services can make ideal and affordable holiday gifts. A six-month or yearlong subscription likely won’t break shoppers’ budgets and will provide months of entertainment to loved ones. Last-minute holiday shopping is easier than ever, especially for shoppers willing to think outside the box.

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Last Minute Gifts 2018

Prepare for a sledding adventure Dashing through the snow in a one-horse open sleigh ...

inter holidays are made all the more merry with the addition of some outdoor recreation. Sleighs and sleds are par for the Christmas course, especially when a bounty of snow is in the forecast. Sledding has been part of snowy celebrations for ages. Sledding is a fun-filled activity, but it

during icy conditions or with hard-packed snow. Toboggans can fit multiple people, which can increase the fun factor and downhill Sled styles speeds. Saucer-style sleds are good for one or Sleds come in many different styles, each with two people. Foam liners on some saucers can its own advantages. Sleds with metal blades will absorb shock for riders, making those downhill work like ice skates, balancing riders’ weight on bumps a little easier on the backside. Keep in mind that sleds with steering mechanisms are two metal runners. These sleds can work well can be made an even better time, and a little safer, if revelers learn a little more about it.

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Last Minute Gifts 2018

easier to control, which can equate to safer sledding.

Layer up It is best to dress in layers when going sledding Even if it seems warm at home, it may be colder and windier at the top of hills. Sweating when it’s cold out can increase a person’s risk for hypothermia. According to experts at Timberline Trails, a person who works up a sweat and comes in contact with ambient air when taking a break will feel an immediate chill. This is called evaporative danger, and can be remedied by dressing in layers and trying to stay dry.

Invest in a helmet Sledding requires the use of a helmet. At high speeds, a blow to the head can cause a concussion or worse.

Let others go first Wait until some sledders have already gone downhill, allowing them to compact the snow, which should make for a smooth ride. Choose safe hills, such as those that are free of bare spots, holes, trees, and obstructions, and do not end abruptly at a road. Hills with a long, flat areas at the end make for easy, safe stopping.

Safety first Put safety first when sledding. Sled during the daytime so visibility is better. Keep arms and legs on the sled, and only sled feet-first, advises the National Safety Council. By keeping these guidelines in mind, sledders can make sure this popular winter activity is as safe as it is fun.

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Last Minute Gifts 2018

Visit these festively named locations

he weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day are some of the most anticipated, jolly and busy moments of the year. People partake in all sorts of traditions in the name of holiday festivity. Trimming the tree or caroling with friends may be some of the more standard holiday protocol. However, there are always opportunities to bring new

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People bitten by the travel bug may want to include visiting new towns and cities as part of their holiday plans. In fact, it can be fun to take in the sites at these festively named locales across North America.

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• Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

• Mistletoe, Kentucky

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Last Minute Gifts 2018

• Noel, Missouri • North Pole, Alaska • Rudolph, Wisconsin • Santa, Idaho • Santa Claus, Arizona • Santa Claus, Georgia • Santa Claus, Indiana • Snowflake, Arizona Canadian travelers or those heading north of the border can explore these locales: • Candyville, Ontario • Christmas Island, Nova Scotia • Cranberry Junction, BC • Gift Lake, Ontario • Noelville, Ontario • Sled Lake, Saskatchewan • Snowflake, Manitoba • Snowfall, Ontario • Winterland, Newfoundland and Labrador.

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The Northern Virginia Daily

Last Minute Gifts 2018

Gift-wrapping tips and tricks

uch of the focus of each holiday season is on gift-giving, but all those gifts will eventually need to be wrapped. Stacks of presents just waiting to be covered with paper and ribbon can overwhelm gift givers, prompting them to put off wrapping gifts until the last minute. Hesitant wrappers with a pile of gifts to wrap can use these tricks to make the process go smoothly. Find inspiration Instead of looking at wrapping as yet another chore, try to envision how the recipient will feel peeling open the paper and finding the gift inside. Wrapping can be the prelude to the gift itself, and intensify the anticipation. The wrapping paper or style also may draw on aspects of the gift itself. For example, a knit scarf can be placed in a crocheted stocking. Handle oddly-shaped items Wrapping rectangular boxes can be a snap, but what about something that’s round or full of angles? Think about placing oddly-shaped items inside another item to make the shape more uniform. Shoe boxes, coffee cans and even paper towel rolls can hold items. Then place the wrapping on these containers. Cover prices To enable easy exchanges or returns, do not cut off the price tags of gifts. Instead, place a festive sticker over the dollar amount, but leave the scan bar visible. This way the gift recipient can return the gift with ease if necessary. and neat and make it easier to cut and position. You risk tearing the Keep supplies at the ready paper or puncturing it when working on carpeting or bedding. Devote a bin or bins to wrapping supplies and tools. Having scissors, paper, tape, ribbon, and more in a designated spot will cut down on having to hunt and peck when it comes time to wrap. Martha Stewart suggests getting a rotary cutter to cut long straight or decorative edges on wrapping paper. Rotary cutters may be easier to use than scissors, especially when paired with a ruler.

Color- or pattern-code gifts It’s easy to visualize who gets what gift when each recipient has his or her own special wrapping paper. This is also a handy idea when wrapping gifts from Santa, as it will differentiate the Santa gifts from the ones being given by Mom and Dad.

With a few helpful pointers, wrapping gifts can be easy. And for those who prefer to skip the wrapping themselves, many malls and retailers Devote a table or counter to wrapping gifts. This will keep the paper taut offer complimentary wrapping for a small donation to charity. Wrap on a firm surface

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Last Minute Gifts 2018

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Last Minute Gifts 2018

Pets and holiday gifting

urry, finned and feathered friends help make a house a home. These companions are more than just pets; they’re often cherished family members. So it should come as no surprise that, come the holidays, people want to lavish extra attention on their animals by way of presents. The American Pet Products Association says pet owners

spend billions of dollars on their pets each year. The majority of pet owners plan to gift their pets on holidays such as Valentine’s Day, Halloween and Christmas. DogTime.com says that pet presents are not a North American phenomenon, either. Pet owners in the United Kingdom are expected to spend the equivalent of $46 U.S. per pet on gifts. While dog owners are more likely to buy their

pets gifts, cat owners have been closing that gap over the years. Some pet parents even offer Christmas cards or hang Christmas stockings for their pets. According to data from PricewaterhouseCoopers, shoppers between the ages of 17 and 21 are willing to spend more than anyone else ($70) on holiday gifts for their pets. Gifting pets has become the norm, but various animal welfare organizations advise that giving companion animals as pets should be avoided. Pets given as gifts may be at a higher risk for surrender to shelters by families who miscalculated the amount of time and money that’s necessary to care for pets. Welcoming a pet into the family is often a personal decision, and one that should be weighed carefully by all members of the household.

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Last Minute Gifts 2018

The Northern Virginia Daily

Last Minute Gifts 2018

Gift ideas from Books-A-Million BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - From stocking stuffers to big surprises, Books-A-Million’s annual Holiday Gift Guide features a variety of exclusive items and most-wanted toys for people of all ages and interests. Gift-givers can make their lists and head over to their local Books-A-Million store, or shop online, to make this holiday season one for the books! Top books of 2018

tion” ($39.99), flip through the pages of lively tales from “Magic Tree House # 1-4” ($23.96) or laugh themselves silly with the “Junie B. Jones First Boxed Set Ever” ($19.96)! Teens and adults can immerse themselves in the epic fantasy of “Game of Thrones” ($85), be inspired by adventure with the “Mark Twain Collection” ($49.95) or get swept away by love stories in the “Jane Austen Collection” ($49.95).

Brimming with fictional favorites and non-fiction necessities, Books-A-Million offers an expansive selection of bestsellers! The most sought-after books of 2018 range from Michelle Obama’s powerful memoir “Becoming” ($32.50) and Rachel Hollis’ inspirational guidebook “Girl, Wash Your Face” ($22.99), to John Grisham’s latest thriller “The Reckoning” ($29.95) and No. 1 bestselling author Nicholas Sparks’ romantic novel “Every Breath” ($28).

What kids want

Top books on the list for teens include Jenny Han’s “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” ($10.99) and “Dear Evan Hansen” ($28.95) by Val Emmich. Children can laugh-out-loud reading “The Wonky Donkey” ($7.99), or take their imaginations on an adventure with “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Meltdown” ($13.95) by Jeff Kinney and “Dork Diaries 13: Tales from a NotSo-Happy Birthday” ($13.99) by Rachel Renée Russell.

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Last Minute Gifts 2018

flavorful inspiration. Those with a passion for family and food will love Joanna Gaines’ “Magnolia Table” ($29.99), while home décor enthusiasts will be inspired by design with her new book “Homebody” ($40). Delicate and beautiful on the outside − strong and fiery on the inside! “Whiskey in a Teacup” ($35) by academy award-winning actress, producer and entrepreneur Reese Witherspoon is the perfect hostess gift for the one who loves to entertain! Fun and games Spice up the next game night with these fan-favorites that will be sure to entertain, including Cards Against Humanity ($25), Harry Potter Clue ($39.95), Harry Potter Trivial Pursuit ($49.95) and What Do You Meme ($34.99). Must-have music The vintage-inspired Bluetooth Cruiser Turntable ($69.95) brings 90’s style to modern listening, letting music lovers enjoy all their favorite hits! Records to go along include Panic! At The Discos’ “Pray For The Wicked” ($11.98), Carrie Underwood’s “Cry Pretty” ($22.98), The Greatest Showman Soundtrack ($21.98) and Queen’s Greatest Hits ($35.97). No matter the selection, these tunes are guaranteed to inspire family and friends to start rockin’ around the Christmas tree! Stocking stuffers Stuff stockings full with PopSockets ($9.99) in different colors and patterns, a wide variety of the World’s Smallest Toys ($6.99-$24.99) and Books-A-Million Gift Cards. For more information and the complete Books-A-Million Gift Guide, visit booksamillion.com/giftguide.

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In Grandmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stocking: An Apple Watch to monitor falls, track heart rhythms By Rachel Bluth Kaiser Health News

he added.

or more than a decade, the latest Apple products have been the annual musthave holiday gift for the tech-savvy. That raises the question: Is the newest Apple Watch on your list - either to give or receive - this year? At first glance, the watch appears to be an ideal present for Appleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most familiar market: the hip early adopters. Its promotional website is full of svelte young people stretching into yoga poses, kickboxing and playing basketball. But when Apple unveiled its latest model in September - the Series 4, which starts at $399 it was clear it was expanding its target audience. This Apple Watch includes new features designed to detect falls and heart problems. With descriptions like â&#x20AC;&#x153;part guardian, part guruâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;designed to improve your health â&#x20AC;Ś and powerful enough to protect it,â&#x20AC;? the tech giant signaled its move toward preventive health and a much wider demographic.

This watch could be a perfect present for those older people, said Laura Martin, a senior analyst with Needham. â&#x20AC;&#x153;People who wore watches their whole lives, plus fall monitoring?â&#x20AC;? Martin said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;VoilĂ ! It creates another on-ramp for another consumer in the Apple ecosystem.â&#x20AC;? The inner workings The fall-monitoring app uses sensors in the watchband that are automatically enabled for people 65 and older after they input their age. These sensors track and record the userâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s movements, and note if the wearerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gait becomes unsteady.

older people go to the emergency room for fall injuries each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Dr. Armin Shahrokni, an internist with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center who describes himself as â&#x20AC;&#x153;tech-savvy,â&#x20AC;? is excited that older patients might get into wearable technology. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In older cancer patients, my area of expertise, all the chemo can make them fall more,â&#x20AC;? he said, making detecting falls and balance important.

The other app, the ECG monitoring app, also uses sensors in the wristband to monitor a patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heartbeat and send alerts if it gets too If a fall is detected, the watch sends its wearer a fast or too slow. Specifically, the app is meant to notification. If the wearer doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t respond detect atrial fibrillation, which is a type of arwithin a minute by tapping a button on the rhythmia, also described as a problem with the watch to deactivate this signal, emergency speed or rhythm of the heartbeat. services will be alerted that the wearer needs Here is how the app works: help.

The watchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sensors can detect a heart rhythm in 30 seconds, creating a â&#x20AC;&#x153;waveformâ&#x20AC;? readout. It also allows the user to note how they are feeling Many geriatricians and medical experts agree - lightheaded, winded, full of energy - at that â&#x20AC;&#x153;The health care market is obviously important that this app could help older consumers. moment. This combination, according to to Apple,â&#x20AC;? Andy Hargreaves, an Apple analyst Falls can cause fractured hips and head inApple, will help people have better conversawith KeyBanc Capital Markets, wrote in an juries, but even fear of falling can prevent older tions with their doctors about symptoms and email. The fall prevention and electrocardioheart patterns. gram apps are a â&#x20AC;&#x153;play to sell people more stuffâ&#x20AC;? people from living on their own or participatand bring health-monitoring apps beyond just ing in activities. The Food and Drug Administration cleared this â&#x20AC;&#x153;fitness peopleâ&#x20AC;? to baby boomers who want to Fall deaths in the U.S. increased 30 percent for function for people 22 or older. However, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s keep themselves and their parents healthy, older adults in the past decade, and 3 million rare for anyone younger than 50 to be

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diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, noted Eric Topol, a cardiologist at the Scripps Research Institute. Doctors have expressed concern that scores of panicked Apple Watch users would flood emergency rooms with every heart rhythm notification and blip. “It’s mass use of a tool, and with that is going to come lots of unintended consequences,” Topol said. “It’ll lead to a lot of anxiety and expense and additional testing, and even then some people will get blood thinners inappropriately,” he added.

Last Minute Gifts 2018

to track vital signs, like blood sugar, and more apps that will use those numbers to help people prevent medical emergencies, said Ross Muken, an analyst with Evercore ISI. While health tracking isn’t a new concept, putting that data into an algorithm to help change behavior and get ahead of a health crisis is the next big frontier for wearable health technology products.

Experts caution, though, that while the FDA “cleared” these new apps, it hasn’t actually “approved” them, which is a bureaucratic distinction “This is the opposite of individual- that means they haven’t faced as ized medicine, where you are using much rigorous testing as somesomething on exactly, precisely the thing that has gained the agency’s right person,” Topol said. formal OK. Wearables unleashed For example, there are no findings The watch represents the beginning of what analysts agree will be a wave of new health apps and wearable health trackers. Consumers can expect more ways

from studies or trials that offer evidence of the fall prevention or ECG apps’ benefits, Topol said. “We don’t have any data to review. These are unknowns.”

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Embrace TV nostalgia with just the right retro gift By Leanne Italie Associated Press

peace and prosperity greeting on Thinkgeek.com, for $9.99. Shirts NEW YORK (AP) — There’s no nostalgia abound on CBSstore.com, including a quite like TV nostalgia, for just the right retro look for women in a yellow crew with original characters. $24.99. binge-watcher or old time fanatic, at The shop at startrek.com put the Delta least. A few ideas for retro TV gifts on a 16-ounce wine glass for $9.99 and pegged to hit shows through the offers a USS Enterprise bottle opener decades: for $14.95, cause those get lost. Gift an “THE HONEYMOONERS” ugly sweater that reads: “Trek the Search around for vintage doll sets of Halls.” $64.99. favorite characters in original packagHow about a set of Vulcan earbuds , ing, autographed photos and framed complete with pointy ears, from studio stills with show stats. Head to Anovos? $35. eBay, Amazon or other sites and shops “GOOD TIMES” that deal in collectibles. Pick up a “Dyn-O-Mite!” T-shirt. Cafe Otherwise, go for chuckles with a mousepad or T-shirt emblazoned with Press even has one in white for dogs. “The International Order of Loyal Rac- $19.95. coons” or an “Alice Kramden is my role The actor-comedian who played J.J. model” mug or onesie, for the next gen- Evans, Jimmie Walker, made that word eration. his signature. He wrote a memoir with A particular favorite on Rebubble.com: Sal Manna, “Dyn-O-Mite! Good Times, Bad Times, Our Times.” The book deA nicely done graphite pencil drawing of Ed Norton doing the Hucklebuck on tails Walker’s violent and abusive upbringing in the Bronx, his rise as a hoodies and T-shirts. $25.52. standup comedian and tensions on the “STAR TREK” set of this hit CBS program. Dig around We’re talking the original series. These for the best copy or look for digital or collectibles are plentiful. Know what audio versions to gift. you’re doing and how much you should Got a Janet Jackson fan who appreciates be paying for this stuff. her time on the show as Penny Gordon There are tons of Star Trek gift items all over the place, including an oven mitt with the split fingers of the Vulcan

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tion merch. How about a black, vanillascented Janet candle in a gifty black box? $24.95 at Janetjackson.com. “THE GOLDEN GIRLS” The gals, especially Betty White, are having a prolonged moment. There are Golden Girls branded Monopoly , Trivial Pursuit and Clue board games because, why not. There’s a Sophia “action” figure, fleece throws and Pez dispensers of the entire gang. Not good enough? How about a backpack with the cast of the NBC hit on it, a Shady Pines retirement home mug or Rose socks? Still not just right? Search Amazon for a pink sweatshirt with Blanche, Rose, Sophia and Dorothy heads that reads: “Squad Goals.”

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true-to-life likenesses of the ladies that might prompt a few turned heads from passers-by. Available at Toynk.com for $29.99. That site also sells a set of four colorful shot glasses, one Golden Girl per glass. $19.99. And thanks to a company called Funko, which makes licensed pop culture collectibles, the holy grail of Golden Girl “it” items is a purple-hued, Cheerio-shaped cereal with a toy figure inside. It was so hot that private sellers are now asking up to nearly $85 a box. “THE OFFICE” All things Dunder Mifflin are available, from tumblers and water bottles to apparel and Pam’s watercolor painting of the building. Look no further than NBCstore.com for a nice selection. How about a Schrute Farms Beets Bed and Breakfast T-shirt , in beet color. Go to Amazon. There’s a duo of gifts for a superfan

who’s also your sweetheart? The NBC online store sells an “I love you like Jim Loves Pam” throw and mug as a set. $65.95. “MISTER ROGERS’ NEIGHBORHOOD” This year is the 50th anniversary of the first airing of the iconic PBS show back in 1968. With the addition of a recent documentary, Fred Rogers is top of mind for fans. The PBS online store is ready. There’s a fabulous mug adorned with favorite quotes and song lyrics and the man himself. When you add hot water, his attire changes from his business suit to his cardigan. $13.99. There’s a colorful wood replica of the show’s famous Neighborhood Trolley for $59.99, an array of socks emblazoned with his visage, T-shirts, a magnetic dress-up set, notecards, sticky notes with inspirational quotes and even a branded bar of soap that runs $3.99.

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Empty boxes top high-tech toys on doctor-recommended list By Lindsey Tanner AP Medical Writer

kip the costly electronic games and flashy digital gizmos. Pediatricians say the best toys for tots are old-fashioned hands-on playthings that young children can enjoy with parents — things like blocks, puzzles — even throwaway cardboard boxes — that spark imagination and creativity. “A cardboard box can be used to draw on, or made into a house,” said Dr. Alan Mendelsohn, co-author of a new report on selecting toys for young children, up to around age 5. Many parents feel pressured by ads promoting tablet-based toys and games as educational and brain-stimulating but there’s not much science to back up those claims, Mendelsohn said. Their main misconception: “The toy that is best is the one that is the most expensive or has the most bells and whistles or is the most pediatrician at NYU Langone Health in New technologically sophisticated.” York. Simpler hands-on toys that parents and young children can play with together are preferable for healthy development, said Mendelsohn, a

The report published Monday by the American Academy of Pediatrics cites studies suggesting that heavy use of electronic media may inter-

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fere with children’s speech and language development, replace important playtime with parents and lead to obesity. Studies also have found that more than 90 percent of U.S. kids have used mobile devices and

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most started using them before age 1. after playing on an iPad she typically reserves for long airplane The pediatricians’ group recommends no screen time for children rides. up to age 2, and says total screen time including TV and computer use should be less than one hour daily for ages 2 and older.

“We try to keep it as minimal as possible,” Graham Stewart said. “I just tell them to go outside and play.”

“A little bit of screen time here and there is unlikely to have much harm if a child otherwise has other activity,” Mendelsohn said. But he added that screen time can overwhelm young children and is difficult to limit and control.

Erika Evers, Dancing Bear’s co-owner, said the store’s mission is to give kids an alternative to tech toys.

The academy’s website offers suggestions on ideal toys for young children, including balls, puzzles, coloring books and card games. Shopping recently at Dancing Bear Toys in Asheville, N.C., a store that doesn’t sell electronic toys, Leah Graham Stewart said she supports the academy’s advice even if avoiding digital toys and games is tough. She said she’s noticed her two young boys tend to misbehave

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“Not that video games and electronic toys don’t have their place — in moderation, in our opinion,” she said. “But we feel like kids really need opportunities to socialize and interact with their environment in a way that is hands-on and tangible.” Follow AP Medical Writer Lindsey Tanner on Twitter: @LindseyTanner The Associated Press Health & Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

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Get gifts there on time

hanks to families being more spread out than ever before, today’s holiday shoppers must figure out ways to get holiday gifts to their destination on time. The holiday season tends to be the busiest time of year for many delivery services. The following tips should help shoppers ensure their loved ones’ gifts arrive on time. Ship directly. Adobe Analytics reported that online shopping hit a record high of $108.2 billion in the 2017 holiday shopping season, and all indicators suggest online shopping will only increase in the years to come. Holiday shoppers who want to ensure their loved ones will receive their gifts on time can rely on online shopping. When checking out, have gifts shipped directly to loved ones’ homes. Many online retailers will even wrap gifts for a nominal fee.

Research shipping options. In 2018, Christmas falls on a Tuesday. Shoppers who plan to rely on two-day or overnight shipping should keep that in mind. Some delivery services may be open throughout the weekend

before Christmas, while others may only be open on Saturday. Last-minute shoppers, whether they’re shopping online or in-person, should confirm their shipping options well in advance of Christmas. Because Christmas is on a Tuesday this year, getting gifts to their destination on time may require shoppers to purchase and ship them earlier than they otherwise might. Purchase package insurance. Consumer Reports notes that UPS and FedEx shipments automatically come with declared-value coverage of up to $100. (Note: Declared value is the carrier’s maximum liability.) Purchasing additional insurance can ease shoppers’ concerns about lost or stolen packages. Just be sure to keep all invoices and receipts in case claims must be filed. Shoppers also should ask for tracking numbers on all packages so they can confirm when packages are delivered.

them won’t be able to have a company employee provide in-person confirmation that their packages are secured to company standards. Poorly packaged items may never be shipped. Visit the shipping company’s website for packaging guidelines, and include a Properly secure the package. Many business card and duplicate label inside the delivery services now have off-site drop-off boxes that can make it easy to send gifts. This is package just in case it is damaged after being a convenient service, but shoppers who use dropped off.

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How to make the holiday season more eco-friendly

instead of paper plates and plastic utensils.

ith so much to do, it can be easy for people celebrating the holiday season to forget about the environment. But no matter how hectic the holiday season can be, there are always some simple opportunities to make it more eco-friendly. Create an eco-friendly party theme. Many holiday parties have themes. For example, “ugly sweater parties” have become so popular that many clothing manufacturers now intentionally produce colorful sweaters that might otherwise draw the ire of fashionistas. Hosts planning to throw an ugly sweater party can easily transform such festivities into something more eco-friendly by encouraging guests to purchase their sweaters from thrift stores. A Christmas tree planting party is another eco-friendly party theme that can benefit the planet and revitalize local forests at a time of year when they might be depleted due to the demand for natural Christmas trees. Serve locally sourced foods. Food is often front and center during the holiday season. Whether hosting family and friends at home,

Reuse decorations year after year. Decorations need not be discarded once the holiday season ends. Come the new year, inspect holiday decorations and store those that made it through the season unscathed. Doing so benefits the planet and will save you the trouble of shopping for new decorations next holiday season. Get rid of your old holiday lights. Still using the same Christmas lights you used in 1995? Such lights are likely incandescent bulbs that are considerably less efficient than today’s LED Christmas lights. The Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy notes that LED lights consume 75 percent less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescent lighting. In addition, the OEERE says that LED holiday dining out or catering an office party, patronize lights are easier to install and that as many as businesses that sell only locally sourced foods. 25 strings of lights can be connected end-toLocally sourced foods are much more ecofriendly than foods that must be shipped from end without overloading a wall socket. afar before they land on your dinner table, and An eco-friendly holiday season is easier to such foods tend to taste fresh as well. If serving realize than many holiday celebrants may know. at home, use reusable dishware and cutlery

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The benefits of LED holiday lights Safety: LED lights burn a lot cooler than traditional incandescent lights, reducing the risk of combustion. And because they burn cool, they also reduce the risk of burnt fingers, which may make them more appealing to parents of curious youngsters and people who will be hosting family and friends during the holiday season.

seasons from now. That longevity makes them well worth the higher initial investment.

Ease of installation: LED lights are easily installed, and the OEERE says as many as 25 strings of LEDs can be connected end-to-end without overloading a wall socket. That can ease the nerves of homeowners concerned about the potential hazards of elaborate Sturdiness: Because they’re made holiday lighting displays. with epoxy lenses and not glass Energy savings: LED lights like traditional incandescent bulbs, consume considerably less energy LED holiday lights are less likely to than incandescent lights, saving break. That can be especially homeowners money on their beneficial to people with pets who energy bills, which can skyrocket might bump into the family in December thanks to interior and Christmas tree. exterior holiday lighting displays Longevity: LED lights are initially using incandescent lights. In fact, the OEERE estimates that, by 2027, more expensive than more widespread use of LED lights could traditional lights. However, the save consumers more than $30 OEERE notes that lights bought today may still be in use 40 holiday billion at today’s electricity prices.

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Christmas trees brighten the season

ecked out in tinsel, lights, ornaments, and garland, Christmas trees are enduring symbols of the holiday season that boast a rich history.

Evergreen trees have been used to celebrate winter festivals for thousands of years, and eventually became associated with Christianity. Plants and trees that remained green all year held special meaning to ancient peoples, and were purported to keep away illness and evil spirits. Germans were credited with tying evergreen trees to Christmas celebrations. In the sixteenth century, devout Christians brought decorated trees into their homes. Martin Luther, the Protestant reformer, is believed to have first added lighted candles to these trees after he was inspired by twinkling stars in the night sky. While early Americans found Christmas trees an oddity, the tradition, brought over by German settlers, eventually caught on. Today, between 25 and 30 million natural Christmas trees are sold in the United States each year, states the National Christmas Tree Association. Trees are grown in all 50 states and Canada.

The following is a look at some popular tree varieties: Living Christmas trees Living Christmas tree, which refers to those with their roots still intact, are popular among eco-conscious holiday enthusiasts. That’s because living trees can be promptly planted after they’ve served their purpose indoors. Opt for a moderately sized tree, as root balls on larger trees can be heavy and difficult to move. Living trees can typically be kept indoors for around seven to 10 days before they will need to be returned outside. Move such trees to a sheltered outdoor area for one to two weeks so they can reacclimate to the climate. So long as the ground is not frozen, trees can then be planted when the reacclimation period ends. Better Homes and Gardens suggests selecting a mild day to plant the tree. Fraser fir Fraser fir trees are typically uniformly pyramid-shaped trees that have strong branches that turn slightly upward. These trees have good needle retention and a dark, blue-green hue. Many people feel these trees

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have a pleasant scent. Because they are such a quintessential Christmas tree, Fraser fir, as well as their close cousin, Balsam fir, tend to be more expensive than others. Scotch pine One of the advantages of Scotch pine trees is their needle retention. Experts say Scotch pine needles will not drop off even if the tree is dry. Scotch pine is an introduced species brought to North America by European settlers, and it’s known for dark green foliage and sturdy, stiff branches. The Scotch pine is one of the most popular Christmas trees today. White spruce As a Christmas tree, the white spruce is known for excellent foliage color, short stiff needles and good needle retention. The bluegreen color is pleasant, but when needles are crushed, the tree doesn’t produce a favorable evergreen aroma. White spruce trees keeps their needles longer than other spruces. With proper care, any variety of Christmas tree can look beautiful throughout the holiday season.

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Keep your natural tree fresh this Christmas

atural Christmas tree afficionados love the authenticity such trees provide during the holiday season. Natural trees also provide a unique aroma that can make holiday celebrations feel more homey. When purchasing natural trees, holiday celebrants, especially those who like to buy their trees in early December, may be concerned about keeping their trees fresh throughout the holiday season. The following tips can help trees last until the final present is unwrapped and the last of the egg nog has been consumed. Buy a freshly cut tree. Whenever possible, celebrants should cut their own trees. This ensures that the tree they bring home is fresh, increasing the chances it will remain so throughout the season. If it’s not possible to cut your own tree, the National Fire Protection Association notes that fresh trees should have green needles that do not come off when touched. Trees that appear to be dried out or those that shed needles when touched should be avoided. Protect trees on the way home. The Tree Care Industry Association advises consumers to protect their Christmas trees as they transport them home. Wrap the tree in a plastic wrap so it makes it home damagefree. A damaged tree might not make it through the holiday season . Cut pre-cut trees before leaving the lot. Pre-cut trees can make it

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through the holiday season looking their best, but buyers should request that employees cut as much as two inches off the bottom of the tree before leaving the lot. Once trees are cut, sap begins to seal their base, making it hard for them to absorb water. By requesting that between one and two inches be removed from the bottom of the tree at the time of purchase, buyers are ensuring their trees will be able to absorb the water they’ll need to make it through the season when they get home. Place the tree in water the moment you get home. To prevent the base of the tree from drying out, place it in water the moment you get home. Freshly cut trees may initially need the water in their tree stands filled in the morning and then again in the evening. As the season progresses, trees likely won’t need their stands filled more than once per day. Place the tree away from heat sources. Placing trees away from heat sources, such as radiators, fireplaces, heating vents, and lights, reduces the likelihood that trees will dry out and also reduces the risk of fire. A few simple strategies can help holiday revelers ensure their Christmas trees make it through the holiday season unscathed.

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Dos and don’ts of holiday safety

t’s the most wonderful time of the year, as long as holiday happenings go as planned. Celebrants can ensure that this joyous time of year is not marred by injury, theft or accidents by always keeping safety in mind.

appropriate. Pay attention to toy recalls as well. The Consumer Product Safety Commission provides lists of recalled items.

DO roast rather than fry the holiday turkey. Burns, explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning are DO turn off Christmas lights besome of the dangers associated fore going to bed or leaving home. with turkey fryers. The CPSC, which Lights left on can overheat and discourages the use of fryers, says cause fires. Electrical distribution there have been 168 turkey-fryer and risking a break-in. or lighting equipment was inrelated incidents since 2002. DON’T drive distracted or under volved in two of every five home DON’T keep purchases in view of the influence. This is a busy time of Christmas tree fires between 2011 potential thieves. Resist putting and 2015, according to the Nayear when more people are out presents under the tree until the tional Fire Prevention Association. and about, so keep your eyes on night before Christmas. Hide large DON’T locate a Christmas tree too product boxes so they’re not visible the road at all times. close to a heating source, fireplace in the trash or recycling pickups, DO keep poisonous plants out of or lit candles, as trees can dry out reach of pets and children. These where thieves might look to see and ignite. can include Jerusalem cherry, what’s inside the house. mistletoe berries and holly berries. DO extinguish candles before retir- DO wait until after your holiday ing for the night. DON’T locate breakable ornaexcursion to take to social media about it. Otherwise, you’re simply advertising that you are not home

ments close to the bottom of the tree in reach of young children.

DO tie the Christmas tree to the car securely after purchasing it to avoid lift-off while taking it home from the lot. At home, secure the tree to the ceiling or a wall with a piece of invisible fishing line for extra security against tip overs. DON’T underestimate the things that can and will go wrong when hosting for the holidays. Take a deep breath, assess the situation and stay calm through any hiccups.

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The most downloaded holiday songs Music is integral to many celebrations during the holiday season. Whether you’re planning an office party, hosting friends and family at home or simply looking to get in the holiday spirit, you might want to explore this list of the most downloaded Christmas/holiday songs on iTunes. 1. All I Want For Christmas Is You — Mariah Carey 2. Mary, Did You Know? — Pentatonix 3. Christmas/Sarajevo 12/24 (Instrumental) — Trans-Siberian Orchestra 4. Mistletoe — Justin Bieber 5. Christmas Canon — Trans-Siberian Orchestra 6. Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree — Brenda Lee 7. Believe — Josh Groban 8. Last Christmas (Single Version) — Wham! 9. Jingle Bell Rock — Bobby Helms 10. It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year — Andy Williams 11. Hallelujah — Pentatonix 12. Wizards in Winter (Instrumental) — Trans-Siberian Orchestra 13. Winter Song — Sara Bareilles & Ingrid Michaelson 14. Hallelujah — Lindsey Stirling 15. Last Christmas — Taylor Swift 16. Feliz Navidad — José Feliciano 17. Santa Tell Me — Ariana Grande 18. A Holly Jolly Christmas — Burl Ives 19. The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas to You) — Nat “King” Cole 20. Hard Candy Christmas — Dolly Parton

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Holiday appetizers perfect for entertaining

resents may get much of the glory during the holiday season, but there is much to be said about the foods found throughout this time of year as well. During the holiday season, people frequently find that dinner invites, cocktail parties, office happy hour gatherings, and other opportunities for socialization are easy to come by. At the heart of these events are foods and beverages.

Cattlemen’s Beef Board and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, is sure to please. Paired with a cranberry barbecue sauce, these savory appetizers are bursting with flavor and holiday appeal. Mini Merry Meatballs (Serves 24)

1/2 pound ground beef brisket 1/4 pound ground boneless beef ribeye steak Whether one is hosting a holiday 1/4 pound ground beef soiree or plans to bring something (80 percent lean) to a potluck party, it’s helpful to 1 cup seasoned stuffing mix have a list of fail-proof recipes at 1 egg, beaten the ready. Tasting menus, bite3 tablespoons water sized treats and finger foods are always a hit at holiday functions — 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1/4 teaspoon salt and this recipe for “Mini Merry Meatballs,” courtesy of the 1/8 teaspoon pepper

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Cranberry Barbecue Sauce: 2 teaspoons vegetable oil 1/2 cup chopped white onion 1 tablespoon minced garlic 2 1/2 cups fresh cranberries 1/2 cup orange juice 1/2 cup water 1/3 cup ketchup 1/4 cup light brown sugar 2 tablespoons cider vinegar 2 tablespoons molasses 1/2 teaspoon ground red pepper Salt Preheat oven to 400 F. Combine brisket, ribeye, ground beef, stuffing mix, egg, water, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl, mixing lightly 1 but thoroughly. Shape into 24 1 ⁄2-inch meatballs. Place on a rack in a broiler pan that has been sprayed with cooking spray. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes until the internal temperature reads 160 F. Meanwhile, prepare the Cranberry Barbecue Sauce. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic; cook and stir 2 to 3 minutes, or until tender, but not brown. Add remaining ingredients, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until cranberries burst and the mixture has been reduced to a thick consistency, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; cool slightly. Transfer mixture to blender container. Cover, allowing steam to escape. Process until smooth. Season with salt, as desired. Serve meatballs with barbecue sauce.

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A simple, tasty holiday treat

aking is a holiday tradition in many families. Gingerbread cookies may be the first baked goods that come to mind when people envision the holiday season, but celebrants need not limit themselves when preparing special treats for their families. Macaroons are one beloved baked good that busy holiday hosts may believe are too timeconsuming to prepare. However, the following recipe for “Coconut Macaroons with Dried Cherries” from Laurey Masterton’s “The Fresh Honey Cookbook” (Storey) is easy to whip up and makes for a tasty holiday treat. Coconut Macaroons with Dried Cherries Makes 25 to 30 small cookies 1 cup unsweetened flaked coconut 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut 8 egg whites Salt 1/4 cup dried cherries 2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon honey, preferably orange blossom honey 1. Preheat the oven to 350 F. 2. Combine the unsweetened and sweetened coconut on a baking sheet. Lightly toast in the oven for 5 to 10 minutes. Keep close watch so the mixture does not burn, though you do want a nice toasted golden brown color. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool. 3. Reduce the oven temperature to 325 F. (If using a convection oven, leave at 350 F.) 4. Whip the egg whites with a pinch of salt in a medium bowl until the whites stiffen into firm peaks. 5. Fold the toasted coconut into the egg white mixture. 6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Drop tablespoon-size rounds, perhaps using a small ice cream scoop, of the coconut mixture onto the baking sheet. Press one or two dried cherries into the top of each macaroon.

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7. Melt the butter and honey together in a microwave on high for 20 seconds. Drizzle the mixture over the top of each macaroon. Sprinkle with a tiny pinch of salt. 8. Bake the macaroons for 20 to 25 minutes, until lightly browned (watch carefully to avoid burning), or for 8 to 10 minutes if using a convection oven. The macaroons should be dry to the touch. You may need to bake them longer if it is a humid day. If you live in a dry area, these will keep well for a week. Chef’s note: If you want to be really fancy, melt some chocolate and dip each one halfway into it.

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4 tips to simplify cooking for a crowd this holiday season

amilies big and small typically celebrate the holiday season together. For some, celebrating the holidays with family requires traveling, while others stay put and welcome family and friends into their homes. At some point during the holiday season, celebrants who host family and friends will no doubt prepare a homecooked meal for their loved ones. Cooking for a crowd can seem like a daunting task, especially for first-time hosts. However, there are various ways for hosts to simplify cooking for a crowd this holiday season. 1. Prepare a familiar dish. Hosts may agonize over their holiday menus, and some may feel compelled to prepare a family specialty or the same dishes their parents or grandparents prepared for holiday dinners when they were children. But holiday hosts can make things easy on themselves by choosing dishes theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve made in the past, regardless of their place in family history. Chances are the ingredients for hostsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; own specialties are already in the pantry, saving a

potentially time-consuming trip to the grocery store. And thanks to the familiarity factor, hostsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; own specialties likely wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t require as much time to prepare. 2. Share some cooking duties. Another way to simplify cooking for a crowd is

to invite guests to bring along a side dish or dessert. Guests who live nearby can make something in advance of the big meal, while hosts can hand over their kitchens to overnight guests who express a willingness to contribute their own homecooked dish to the party.

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Sharing the cooking duties gives hosts more time to connect with friends and family and serves as a great way to plan the menu in advance. 3. Only make what guests are likely to eat. Hosts also should not feel pressured to cook more food than is necessary. Holiday meals have a tendency to be lavish, but hosts donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to spend all day in the kitchen preparing food that will likely end up as leftovers or trash. Get a final headcount in the days before everyone comes over and adjust your recipes accordingly. 4. Start early. If the big is on Christmas Day, that does not mean hosts have to start cooking while everyone unwraps their presents. Hosts who are uncertain about what to cook can look for meals that can be prepared in advance so come the big day all they need to do is turn on the oven and let meals cook while the family spends time together. Hosts can employ various strategies to simplify the process of cooking for a crowd this holiday season.

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Try a different take on turkey this holiday season

urkey is a holiday dinner staple in many families. While many might scoff at the idea of altering their holiday turkey traditions, others may embrace changing things up, feeling that the joy of cooking often lies in experimentation. Those unafraid to try something new might want to cook up the following recipe for “Turkey Roulade with Cranberry Chutney” from Laurey Masterton’s “The Fresh Honey Cookbook” (Storey). Turkey Roulade with Cranberry Chutney Serves 6 1 sheet puff pastry 1 pound turkey meat from turkey breast and/or thigh meat, cut into 1-inch chunks 3 eggs 1/2 cup chicken stock 1/4 cup Marsala 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Unbleached all-purpose flour, for the pastry 1/2 cup celery sliced on the diagonal

1/2 cup sliced button mushrooms 1/2 cup Cranberry Chutney (see below), plus more for serving Fresh parsley sprigs for garnish 1. Following the instructions on the package, thaw the puff pastry. This will take 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the type of pastry. You should be able to unfold it without it breaking. Set aside. 2. Pulse the turkey in a food processor until it is the consistency of ground beef. Add 2 of the eggs, the chicken stock, the Marsala, and the butter. Pulse again briefly, until just combined. tation. Cover the indentation with the meat, forming a log once again. 3. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface 5. Wrap the puff pastry around the turkey, until it is a 12- or 13-inch square. Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the neatly folding the ends and top together, rolling or tucking the edges together, and pinching to pastry on top. seal any gaps. Make the pastry-covered log as 4. Form the minced turkey mixture into a log round as possible, like a Yule log — try to avoid and position it down the center of the prepared a flattened version, like a strudel. puff pastry. Make an indentation down the length of the turkey and place the celery, mush- 6. Preheat the oven to 450 F. rooms, and cranberry chutney along the inden- 7. Combine the remaining egg with 1 tablespoon

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Cranberry Chutney Makes 3 cups 1 1-pound bag fresh cranberries

1/2 teaspoon whole cloves 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 cup apple cider 1/2 cup honey, preferably cranberry honey 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar 1. Pour the cranberries into a 2quart pot. Add the oranges, raisins, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, salt, apple cider, honey, and vinegar. Bring to a boil, and then reduce the heat to low and simmer until the chutney thickens, about 20 minutes.

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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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9. Slice and serve, garnishing with the parsley and accompanying with a bowl of extra cranberry chutney.

1/3 cup golden raisins

8. Bake for 10 minutes at 450 F, then reduce the heat to 375 F. Continue to bake for 30 to 45 minutes longer, until the pastry has risen and is a toasty, golden color and the turkey has reached an internal temperature of 165 F. Generally speaking, once the pastry has cooked, the meat will be cooked, too. Remove the roulade from the oven. Transfer it to a serving platter, using the parchment paper to help you. Allow to rest for about 10 minutes.

2 navel oranges, unpeeled, cut into 6 wedges and then into thin slices

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water in a small bowl or cup. Stir well until completely mixed. Brush the roulade with the egg wash, being careful to brush every bit of the exposed pastry.

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2. Remove from the heat and serve warm or, if you prefer, chill and serve cold.

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4 holiday party must-haves

arties are highly anticipated events come the holiday season. Office parties, gatherings with friends and family celebrations are just some examples of the many soirees that dot the social schedules of millions of people between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day.

2. Decorations

Decking the halls is a holiday tradition, and hosts should make an effort to string some holiday decorations before welcoming guests into their homes. A Christmas tree might be the most ubiquitous decorative item come the holidays, so hosts can make their tree the Office parties might be governed by certain centerpiece of their decor. Hang some organizational protocols, but parties with friends mistletoe around the house, which also can be and families come with no such rules. That adorned with season-specific plants like holly said, holiday hosts might want to keep their and poinsettias. If kids are attending the party, guests’ expectations in mind when planning a kid-friendly decoration station can even be occupied during the party. From a safety their get-togethers. While there’s always room set up to ensure the youngsters have fun and perspective, games that engage guests might to try something new, the following are some stay busy during the festivities. prevent them from overindulging in alcohol at must-have items when hosting holiday parties. a time of year when the National Highway 3. Music Traffic and Safety Administration says drunk 1. Holiday foods and beverages Christmas music can go a long way toward driving incidents are at their highest. Games in It goes without saying that holiday hosts will be getting everyone in the holiday spirit. Utilize which participants can win holiday-themed expected to provide food for their guests. But iTunes or music streaming services such as certain foods, such as gingerbread cookies, can Amazon Prime Music or Pandora to ensure that prizes might be especially enjoyable for players. put everyone in the holiday spirit. And don’t the holiday hits keep coming throughout the Holiday parties are highly anticipated parts of forget that staple of the holiday beverage party. the holiday season. Hosts can take their parties menu: eggnog. Eggnog can be made with 4. Games to the next level by incorporating certain mustand/or without alcohol so everyone can enjoy have items into the festivities. Games can be a great way to keep guests this beloved holiday beverage.

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Last Minute Gifts 2018

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Last Minute Gifts 2018

Potatoes perfect for the holiday breakfast table

oliday dinners may get all the glory, but men and women who host friends and family each holiday season know that time spent with loved ones at the breakfast table can be just as enjoyable as breaking bread in the evening. A homecooked meal first thing in the morning is a great way to start the day, and hosts who want to serve up something familiar with a little extra flavor can try the following recipe for “Skillet-Roasted Potatoes with Mushrooms and Pancetta” from Betty Rosbot10 ounces cremini or tom’s “Sunday Brunch” (Chronicle Books). brown mushrooms, quartered Skillet-Roasted Potatoes with 6 garlic cloves, peeled and halved crosswise Mushrooms and Pancetta 2 teaspoons dried thyme Serves 4 4 ounces pancetta, cut into 1/4-inch cubes (see note) 3 tablespoons olive oil, plus more if necessary 1 pound Yukon gold potatoes, unpeeled, scrubbed and quartered Kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper

on paper towels. 3. Remove all but 2 tablespoons of the drippings from the pan. (If you don’t have 2 tablespoons, add olive oil to make this amount.) When hot, add the potatoes and sauté, stirring, until they start to take on a little color, 5 to 7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and place the frying pan in the oven. Roast for 15 minutes. 4. Remove the frying pan from the oven and add the mushrooms, garlic and the 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the dried thyme and season with more salt and pepper. Toss to coat well.

5. Return the pan to the oven and roast until the potatoes are golden brown and tender and Several fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional) the mushrooms are softened, about 15 minutes more. Remove the frying pan from the oven 1. Arrange a rack at center position and preheat and stir in the reserved pancetta. If desired, garnish the center of the pan with fresh thyme the oven to 400 F. sprigs. Serve warm. 2. In a large, heavy, ovenproof frying pan Note: If buying pancetta from a deli, ask for it (preferably cast iron) set over medium heat, sauté the pancetta until golden and crisp, 5 to 7 to be cut thickly into 1/4-inch slices. Prepackminutes. Remove with a slotted spoon to drain aged pancetta is often thinly sliced.

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Last Minute Gifts 2018

Serve up warmth for the holidays

eople often associate holiday imbibing with eggnog, but many other beverages can be enjoyed this time of year. Wassail is a hot, mulled cider that was traditionally consumed while wassailing, a ritual of Medieval English Christmas and Twelfth Night celebrations. A warm beverage and caroling go hand-in-hand. Wassail can be made in many different ways, depending on one’s tastes. But cider is an integral ingredient in most wassail recipes. Home cocktail creators can use this basic recipe and modify as they see fit.

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Wassail Serves 8 to 10 1/2 gallon apple cider 2 cups orange juice or pineapple juice 1/4 cup lemon juice 8 whole cloves 4 cinnamon sticks 1 cup orange juice Whiskey, if desired Add all ingredients to a large pot over medium heat. Allow to boil. Reduce and simmer for 30 to 45 minutes. Strain out the cloves and cinnamon sticks. For an alcoholic drink, add whiskey to desired taste. Wassail is traditionally served out of a communal punch bowl, but can also be presented in individual mugs garnished with cinnamon sticks.

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Last Minute Gifts 2018

Spending the holidays away from home Traveling during the holidays can mean being away from home for celebrations. Learn ways to reduce feelings of isolation.

Adapt family traditions. It may be challenging to find an evergreen tree to decorate while stationed in a tropical climate or a fireplace by which to hang stockings, but you can adapt traditions to your current situation. Better yet, see what the locals do and experience a few new holiday treats that you may want to revisit in the future.

he holiday season is as an opportunity for families to come together, celebrate and catch up. But thanks to work, military service, school, or other commitments, plenty of individuals won’t be home to celebrate the holidays with their families. It’s natural for people in such situations to feel homesick, but there are many ways to stay upbeat when spending the holidays away from home. Make plenty of contact with loved ones. Use devices to your advantage to stay in touch this holiday season. Schedule frequent video chats and share photos so you feel like you are right in the holiday mix. When possible, people spending the holidays away from home should schedule calls or video conferences when family has gathered so they can chat with as many loved ones as possible. Connect with people in similar situations. Connect with others who also

cannot be with their loved ones for the holidays. Plan your own celebrations and commit to new traditions this year.

Volunteer. Volunteering is a great way to reduce depression, help others and see some smiling faces. Focus on helping others if you are feeling blue about not being at home.

Find out if family can visit. Just because you can’t make it home for the holidays doesn’t Dine with a religious group. Many churches mean the festivities can’t come to you. Play host or hostess this year to family and friends or other places of worship open their doors who want to visit. during the holiday season to people who may Celebrating the holidays away from home have nowhere else to go. Take advantage of such chances to share and spread some holiday presents opportunities to embrace new joy. traditions, make new friends and help others.

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