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GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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Thursday, December 11, 2014

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

www.pgcitizen.ca | Thursday, December 11, 2014

GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Saving money on your holiday shopping list

(BPT) - The holidays can get expensive, especially if you have a large list of family and friends to shop for, or if you are planning to host a party or two.There are some ways, however, that you can save money this year and potentially make your planning for the season a bit easier as well. Be sure to start early so you can take advantage of as many money-saving opportunities as possible. And while you’re at it, try some of these ideas to keep more money in your pocket: * Keep an eye on your email. Click on the promotional emails from your favorite retailers letting you know about special holiday discounts. If you have your shopping list - and gift ideas - already planned out, you can take advantage of these special promotions. * With your list in hand, use your computer to compare prices quickly on those items.You can search several stores in a matter of minutes, and also discover coupon codes or cash-back options through Ebates.com, resulting in additional savings. Plus, you don’t need to drive all over town wasting time and gas money! * Thanks to the Internet and shipping, you can shop at almost any store in the nation. Use Ebates to find specialty stores and boutiques all across the country that

may offer an item at a cheaper price than if you were to shop at a retail store with a middleman markup. * Take advantage of holiday free-shipping offers, and have those gifts or decorating supplies for your upcoming parties delivered to your home or office - or the recipient’s house. Some stores also will have gift wrapping available for a minimal cost, helping you to save additional time and money on wrapping supplies. * Get some money back when you’re all finished. Ebates not only provides you with free shipping discounts or coupon codes, but also will give you a check back in the mail for a percentage of your purchases. It’s a nice way to celebrate the holiday season, knowing that you’ve saved money and have some extra funds left when you’re all done with your shopping. With these money-saving tips, you’ll be able to stick to your budget.This holiday season, you’ll be the family member who’s relaxed and enjoying the festivities happening all around you, because you will have accomplished everything on your to-do list and saved some money in the process.

GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Thursday, December 11, 2014

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Get wrapped up in

holiday spirit T

here’s something about the thrill of waking up on Christmas morning to a mountain of gifts decorated with brightly coloured paper, festive ribbons and bows, inspired tags and unique accents. Make sure your gifts don’t get lost among the myriad of boxes stacked under the tree this year. Let them stand out with truly original gift wrap, like these:

Remarkable wrapping Start with a roll of blank kraft paper or a gift bag and freezer paper, which is made from a special plastic-coated material great for iron-on crafts. First, cut holiday-themed stencils from the freezer paper. Instead of making traditional reindeer, snowflake or snowman stencils, opt for something different that still has the essence of the holidays like holly leaves, pine cones or candles. Position the stencils on the kraft paper and use a dry iron to adhere them.Then, spray the paper with Krylon ColorMaster spray paint. Use the ‘satin white’ for a subtle effect, or ‘gloss burgundy’ for a bit more drama. Allow the paint to dry before removing the stencils and revealing the end result.

Ribbons, bows and other embellishments After wrapping the gift with your custom-made paper, turn your attention to the ribbons, bows and other accents that will make your package pop.

For a unique approach to these details, take a look around your home and repurpose old or unused items to accessorize.There is inspiration everywhere. Funky-patterned napkins can be used inside boxes to cushion delicate items or in gift bags to replace tissue paper as decorative stuffing. Use an unworn belt or shoelaces instead of ribbon to keep contents secure. Jazz up a lacklustre package with a glitzy brooch or an old ornament, transforming something ordinary into something extraordinary.

Gorgeous greetings Once your gift is wrapped and beautified, it’s time to think outside the box…specifically about the message you want to relay to the lucky recipient. Store-bought gift tags are convenient, but not very personal.Try your hand at some easy handcrafted and thoughtful greetings that speak volumes. Spray paint wooden letters or holiday-themed shapes with another Krylon product called Chalkboard Paint, or write your favourite yuletide message. Not only will these make your gift seem extra special, but the recipient can reuse them again and again.You can also use leftover kraft paper to create cards. Spray paint with a flashy colour like ‘glitter blast diamond dust’ or ‘lucky green’, and embellish with baker’s twine, decorative buttons and winter-themed adornments like snowflakes. Don’t forget to write a personal message inside. With a bit of ingenuity and holiday spirit, you can transform a boring gift into a piece of art sure to stand out underneath the tree. Instead of tearing open the package, eager for what’s inside, the recipient will appreciate the time and effort you put into it. More information and additional project ideas can be found at www.krylon.ca. www.newscanada.com

www.pgcitizen.ca | Thursday, December 11, 2014

A cut above the rest: How to make the perfect holiday cookie

GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE (BPT) - Many of our fondest childhood memories consist of spending time with friends and family, baking delicious holiday cookies and eyeing the beautifully wrapped presents under the tree. Embrace nostalgia and create the perfect holiday cookie that tastes delicious and is easy to decorate. Instead of displaying a gingerbread house, cut sugar cookies using some snowman, tree and star cookie cutters to set up a festive and tasty holiday scene. Scatter some coconut shavings or crinkled strips of paper for snow and place holiday candies behind the cookies, so they stand up all night long. When making holiday cookies, remember to: * Cream the butter and vanilla together. Doing this beforehand will encapsulate the vanilla and prevent flavor loss. * Chill the dough in the fridge before shaping it.This will make for a softer, moister cookie that is less likely to spread when baking. * Remove cookies from the oven a few minutes early, as they will continue to cook on the sheet. * Let the cookies cool completely before you begin to ice them. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 6

GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Thursday, December 11, 2014

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www.pgcitizen.ca | Thursday, December 11, 2014

GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

H How to make the perfect holiday cookie Cont’d from page 4 Try this recipe to make three dozen perfect holiday cookies, using vanilla and peppermint extracts to provide a completely unique flavor your entire family will enjoy.

Classic Holiday Sugar Cookies Ingredients 3 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 3/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened 1 cup superfine sugar (purchase at store or process granulated sugar for about 20 seconds in a food processor) 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream 3 1/4 teaspoons Vanilla Extract 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract 2 eggs 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar (for dusting work surface) 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dusting work surface)

Directions Position oven rack in the center of oven and preheat to 350 F. Line two large, heavy light-colored baking sheets with parchment paper; set aside. In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder and salt until blended; set aside. In a large mixing bowl, add butter, sugar, cream, vanilla and peppermint extracts; beat with a handheld mixer on medium speed until fluffy, which should take about two minutes. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed. Reduce speed to medium-low; add eggs one at a time and beat after each addition. Using a rubber spatula, fold in the dry ingredients one half at a time. Divide dough into two even pieces, then press each piece into a disk shape. Wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for one hour. Dough should be cool and firm but easy to work with. In a small bowl, whisk confectioners’ sugar and flour until blended; set aside. Working with one piece of dough at a time, place on a clean, dusted surface. Roll dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut shapes and transfer with a thin offset metal spatula to prepared cookie sheets. For even baking, do not overcrowd cookies. Gather remaining dough, cover with plastic and chill. Continue with second chilled dough. For best results, bake one sheet pan at a time until done, which should take about 10 minutes; remove and

place cookies on wire racks to cool. Decorate and store in an airtight container.

Peppermint Glaze and Peppermint Piping Icing Ingredients 1 1/4 cups confectioners’ sugar 1 tablespoon meringue powder 2 tablespoons water 1/2 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (may substitute with Vanilla Extract) Variety gel food colors

Directions In a small bowl, whisk together sugar and meringue powder. Add water and peppermint extract, stir until smooth. Glaze cookies in desired colors and set aside to dry before piping. For the piping icing, remake the glaze recipe and add additional confectioners’ sugar, one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached. Divide icing into small bowls; add desired gel colors. Select pastry tips, prepare pastry bags and creatively pipe icing onto glazed cookies.

GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Go traditional

Thursday, December 11, 2014

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Looking for holiday gifts they’ll still love next year?

(BPT) - Popular wisdom would have you believe that the best holiday gift must have a battery, a touch screen and wireless capability.Technology gifts, however, rarely stand the test of time. Give your loved one a smartphone or tablet in December and it may already be obsolete by spring. What’s more, market research firm MarketTools found 14 percent of us return consumer electronic gifts after the holidays. “There’s a reason why certain types of gifts and accessories become thought of as ‘traditional,’” says Karen Smith, senior buyer for Cracker Barrel Old Country Store.“Their appeal and usefulness endure long after the holiday season ends. They speak to the recipient’s heart.They may create a warm sense of nostalgia and comfort by reminding the gift-receiver of a simpler time in their lives.” Need another reason to go traditional, rather than tech? Consider this: a Stanford University study of gift-givers and recipients found that the price of a gift had no influence on the recipient’s level of appreciation. How much the gift cost actually meant more to the giver than it did the receiver. For far less than you might spend on the latest technology gift, you could give a wide range of no-tech, traditional and nostalgic gifts. • Delightful holiday decorations - Giving holiday decorations is a great way to make the season even more festive for everyone on your gift list - and give something that will be used for years to come. Personalized ornaments or ones that celebrate a hobby, occupation or favorite sports team gently remind recipients that you know - and love - who they are. Unique holiday decor items such as items made from all-natural materials, a beautiful wreath for the front door, or hand-crafted lanterns with a winter theme make memorable, affordable and useful gifts. • Home decor - Many people agonize over how to personalize a gift, yet if you’ve ever visited someone’s home, you probably already have an idea of their home decorating style. Look for home decor pieces that mesh with items already

in their home. For example, if your sisterin-law has decorated her home in a rustic style, she might welcome some rooster tableware or a beautifully crafted quilt. • Bed and bath - Everyone sleeps and everyone bathes, but does everyone on your holiday list already do both in style? Gift items that make for a more luxurious bathing experience - or even just put a touch of lux into everyday hand washing - can deliver a sense of caring, comfort and relaxation. Companies like J.R. Watkins, which has been around for more than 100 years, offer products that are practical and pampering, such as Lemon Mint Cream moisturizer. In the bedroom, accent pillows and quilts can remind the recipient of your care all year long. • Timeless toys - Shopping for kids can be a challenge, especially if the child on your list has everything from a tablet to a battery-powered scooter. While last year’s tech toy may already be collecting dust on the shelf or broken beyond repair, traditional toys like old-fashioned musical instruments and simple dolls are timeless. This year, why not give a classic doll like Raggedy Ann or Andy, or a stuffed lovely like Sock Monkey? Or, try games that are as challenging now as they were decades ago, such as Simon, or those that travel well like mini Foosball or air hockey. Cracker Barrel stores are known for their wide variety of nostalgic toys, many of which are available on their website, www.crackerbarrel.com. • Food favorites - Food can be a deeply personal gift, especially if you opt for something that not only tickles the recipients’ taste buds but his or her sense of nostalgia as well. Childhood favorites like Necco Wafers, salt water taffy, peppermints or traditional root beer are flavorful reminders of a simpler time. Pantry staples such as gourmet pancake mix and syrup or premium vanilla extracts feed the recipients’ body as well as their sense of creativity. Or, save someone a step on her holiday meal prep by providing dessert; a homemade pie or other baked goodies will be a welcome addition to any host’s holiday table.

“Some gifts will fade in favor just as winter fades into spring,” says Smith. “Everyone wants to give a gift that will be loved, used and remembered - and nothing accomplishes that better than a gift that appeals to our sense of nostalgia and tradition.”

www.pgcitizen.ca | Thursday, December 11, 2014

GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

How to find just the right fashion gift for him Browsing the blazers and navigating the neckties can be a stressful experience for any shopper.This season’s fashion trends for men mix classic with casual for a look that is relaxed and elegant.To find the right look for your dad, big brother, hubby or friend, follow these five fashion tips for his nomination to the ‘best dressed’ list this season: 1. Layering is all the rage with quarter-zip sweaters paired with a plaid shirt underneath.Think harvest colours in a cottage cozy feel with marled yarn and corduroy accents. 2. Cashmere cotton blend sweaters keep things warm and good-looking.The blend creates softness and warmth with added durability. 3. Great denim is a fashion must-have in any man’s

wardrobe.Think Levi’s classic fits like 501, 505, and 514 that never go out of style and are perfect for lounging around a fire on a snowy winter night or dressing up with a smart blazer for a fun night out. 4. Preppy styles, reminiscent of east coast polo matches, channel sophisticated casual. Mock neck and cable-collared sweaters with sherpa lining from the U.S. Polo Association collection, will keep any man on your list fashionably warm while making the Holiday rounds with friends. 5. Don’t forget the basics. Classic pajamas, and robes never go out of style, and socks and underwear are perfect stocking stuffers. And remember, these must-haves are often a great deal when bought in multipacks. www.newscanada.com

GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Gifts

Thursday, December 11, 2014

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for the trend-setter, go-getter and romantic-at-heart

Trend-setting gifts for the women on your holiday shopping list (BPT) - Gift-giving doesn’t come naturally to everyone. If you’re struggling to find the perfect present, or if you just need some inspiration, Los Angeles-based celebrity stylist Lawrence VonRompf has tips to help you please all the women on your holiday shopping list. What makes a great gift? - A little pampering goes a long way. Put together a sampling of her favorite bath and body products and fragrances and personalize it to show you put thought into the gift. For example, include a monogrammed item like a scented candle or put all the products in a monogrammed gift box. For the fashionista who has everything - Don’t waste time and money trying to find the latest and greatest in style - she probably already has it. Instead, VonRumpf suggests enhancing her collection with nail polish or lipstick in the season’s hottest colors and shades. Nail polishes make great gifts because the unique colors add a personal touch,” he says.“I love the colors in the Limited-Edition Mary Kay At Play Hail to the Nails Mini Nail Trio for this season. On the New York Fashion Week runways, navy blue was clearly the new black and Mary Kay’s nail lacquer in Inky Blue aligns perfectly with this trend!” Match her personality - It’s easier to find the right gift if you know her tastes in fashion, style, music or even favorite colors, VonRumpf says. Also consider her interests - would she prefer a spa day or a camping trip? A good rule of thumb is to choose a gift she wouldn’t expect - or purchase herself. For the woman who does everything - Moms are the epitome of hardworking women and deserve a little “me” time. Surprise her - or another under appreciated woman in your life- with a pampering gift to make her feel special and loved. “I’d like to give my mom two things: a chance to unwind and time we can spend together. My favorite product for her is the Limited-Edition Mary Kay Pomegranate Satin Hands Pampering Set,”VonRumpf says.“For a personal touch, pair the set with a gift card or a trip to her favorite nail salon and get a manicure together.” Under the mistletoe - Whether it’s a budding romance or a long-term relationship,

surprise her with something thoughtful and personal. A scented gift works perfectly, as it offers a touch of personality and will also remind her of you every time she smells it. Mary Kay’s Limited-Edition Winter Wishes Fragrance Wand has citrus, jasmine and snow apple notes, so it is festive for the season but also smells great on anyone,” says VonRumpf.“The fragrance wand is easy to travel with, so for a truly memorable gift, I suggest pairing it with a little weekend getaway for you and that special someone.” With these tips, finding the perfect gift for the lucky ladies on your list will be a cinch this holiday season. So get your shopping done early, relax and wait to see the look of joy on her face when she opens your present!

www.pgcitizen.ca | Thursday, December 11, 2014

GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

How to give top tech gifts on a tight budget Technology tops many wish lists at this time of year, but finding affordable tech gifts can be difficult, particularly with multiple people on your list.This is changing however. Due to rapid advancements in processing power made possible by companies like Intel, you can now get high performance at an attractive price, allowing for the purchase of multiple devices. When shopping this year, use the following tech tips to get the perfect gadget for everyone on your list: • The casual gamer: Fast is fun, so make sure you find a tablet that is quick and responsive. Gamers come in all shapes and sizes, so you can let everyone on your list pick-up and play in their spare time wherever they go. • The movie lover: A tablet is the perfect gift for someone who is passionate about the latest movies and TV shows. Give them an amazing on-the-go media experience that they can take in a backpack or purse. At home, they can watch their movie on the big screen by connecting to their TV with a wireless adapter.

• The social butterfly: Social networking is an immersive experience and being able to switch quickly and seamlessly between your favourite platforms is crucial. A tablet’s larger screen and faster processor makes quick work of running multiple social apps and browsing the web. • The worker bee: Look for a high performing tablet. With a powerful processor and extended battery life, the worker bee can keep up with the demands of a busy day, including multi-tasking, scheduling meetings and running multiple programs. • The grandparents: Grandparents want to Skype with their grandkids, see the latest family photos and maybe play a little Sudoku. With a light design and large screen, a tablet combines accessibility with utility. No matter what category your loved one fits into, finding a tablet with a powerful processor is an important indicator of the quality and performance you can expect from your device. www.newscanada.com

GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Thursday, December 11, 2014

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GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Thursday, December 11, 2014

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Helpful tips when shopping for tech gifts for the holidays

(BPT) - Today’s holiday wish lists certainly have a lot more digital items than they used to. Whether it’s for school, work or personal use, everyone wants the latest technology. If you’ve started your shopping search already, you know the market is full of different types of devices. So how do you know which technology is the right option for the loved one on your list? It can be confusing, but don’t worry; the information below can help you make a wise choice and ensure your gift is the star of the holiday season.

Tablets Available in various designs, sizes and operating systems, tablets offer users all-day battery life, lightning-fast Web browsing and performance, and responsive applications.These devices are good for multitaskers of all ages, especially kids and teens.The KurioTab, for example, is ideal for children because it is packed with popular apps, games and e-books not to mention equipped with a protective covering for accidental slips.This tablet also makes it easy for parents to apply Web browser filters to ensure their kids enjoy a safe browsing experience.

Portable All-in-Ones Portable all-in-one systems like the Dell XPS 18 combine the performance of a PC with the flexibility of a tablet, meaning your loved one will be able to enjoy the device throughout the home thanks to the battery housed behind the screen. Equipped with fun apps like Wheel of Fortune or Jeopardy, these devices can redefine family and friend game night, or their flat screen can be

used to watch a movie at home or in a college dorm.

2 in 1s 2 in 1 devices, which are a laptop and tablet in one device, are perfect for people who like to keep their options open. A 2 in 1 device can function as a tablet when you want to relax and be entertained or it can be used as a laptop when a project must be finished. With a longer battery life, 2 in 1s are a great option for busy teens, college students or adults who are always on-thego.The Microsoft Surface Pro 3 is built for productivity and has a great detachable keyboard so it’s ideal for any age that needs a computing device for daily school or work assignments.

Chromebooks Chromebooks are perfect for students and educators. Offering a smooth, efficient and affordable Web browsing experience to consumers, Chromebook boots up in seconds and updates automatically.That means you’ll always enjoy a first-rate Internet experience and you don’t have to worry about your machine slowing you down.

Smartphones Let’s face it: Most people are addicted to their tablets and smartphones. So how can you go wrong by giving one that is the best of both worlds to your loved one this holiday season? The ASUS PadFone X mini is the first smartphone in the U.S. with an Intel processor and LTE solution that transforms from a 4.5-inch smartphone

into a 7-inch tablet when docked into the tablet docking station, offering consumers the benefits of two devices for less than $200. When looking for a smartphone for a holiday gift, look for one that is blazing fast and has a long battery life like the ASUS PadFone X mini, which also runs on Android with thousands of apps that can meet just about anyone’s needs. One thing that makes new technology so exciting is the numerous options that become available every single year. But with so many options this can be overwhelming. If you’re looking to make the right technology purchase this holiday season, check out Intel’s Holiday Buyers Guide to learn more about the technology options available for you.

www.pgcitizen.ca | Thursday, December 11, 2014

P O SH

E D I S OUT X O B E TH

GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

SHOIDPE

OUTS THE BOX

Thursday, December 11, 2014

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GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Project Life:

GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Scrapbooking made easy Keep track of your memories with an innovative system

With our fast paced lives it’s becoming increasingly difficult to capture and keep up with the memory-keeping we would like to do, especially during the holidays. Sure, there are the countless pictures we’ve taken, but when can one find the time to properly document and scrapbook all these fond memories? This is the dilemma Becky Higgins, a busy wife and mother found herself in when she created Project Life, a revolutionary back-to-basics scrapbooking system for capturing treasured memories. It’s an ultra-simple and affordable way to get your photos into albums: you just slip your photos into photo pocket pages and add designed cards. “It’s a back-to-basics approach to documenting your life,” explains Shelli Gardner, cofounder and CEO of crafting and décor company Stampin’ Up!, who partnered

with Higgins to offer the Project Life line of products.“In a nutshell it’s all about spending more time making memories and less time scrapbooking them.There’s no requirement to cut or glue or embellish anything. And yet, the end results are spectacular.” Project Life makes memory keeping easy and fun with card collections, accessory packs, albums, photo pocket pages, pens and other accessories. Gardner explains that you can keep things simple when you need to, and when you have more creative energy you can dress it up with the coordinating accessory pack. “With this collection you can finally get caught up with your scrapbooking,” Gardner adds. More information is available at www.stampinup.ca. www.newscanada.com

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GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Thursday, December 11, 2014

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5 simple strategies to shop smarter online this holiday season (BPT) - â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Tis the season for holiday shopping, and the top trend for 2014 is to skip the crowds and long lines and purchase holiday gifts online instead. In fact, the average shopper will do 44 percent of their holiday shopping online, according to the National Retail Federation, spending just over $800 total on holiday goodies. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 21

GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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H SHOP SMARTER ONLINE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON Cont’d from page 20 If you plan to shop online for your friends and family this year, technology can help you save time, money and keep you organized - so long as you know the best tips and tricks of savvy digital shoppers. Here are five ways you can make the most of your online holiday shopping:

1. Organize email clutter Your inbox is likely to grow this holiday season, and according to Experian Marketing Services’ shopping analysis, 89 percent of emails contain offers.Your goal is to discover the best deals without unnecessary clutter filling your inbox. Email organization tools like, Outlook.com’s Sweep option, allow you to keep just the latest emails from your favorite brands, or you can file email from designated senders into specific folders automatically. By creating sorting rules, you’ll stay organized and ensure you never again accidently delete an emailed receipt.To create a rule, simply choose “rules for sorting new messages” under the options menu.

2.Track discounts If you get holiday emails from brands and stores you follow, you’re sure to uncover some incredible deals. In fact, 67 percent of deals will only be offered for online purchases, according to Experian. Never miss another bargain by setting up a folder called “shopping,” and then create a rule to filter all emails with certain key words, like “free” or “discount.”Try to check it every day, as some deals are valid only for a very limited time! Again, tools like Sweep can help you track the latest mail while removing old ones.

3. Shop safe and securely Shopping online can be a safe and secure process if you take a few proactive steps to ensure your personal information is protected. When it’s time to check out, use sites that display the lock symbol on the status bar and have “https” in the URL.This means the site has SSL (secure sockets layer) encryption - an industry standard for security. Additionally, never give businesses more of your personal information than is necessary to complete a transaction. For example, you should not be required to enter your Social Security number or birthday to make a purchase online. Furthermore, never provide financial information through email; vendors requesting this are likely scammers.

4. Keep holiday purchases private Don’t let your browser history blow your surprise gift! Because so many families share computers, you can keep your online holiday shopping a secret by adjusting your browser’s privacy features. In Internet Explorer, you can use the “InPrivate” browsing option to keep your shopping a secret. By clicking on this option, the pages you visit will not show up in the browsing history and ads won’t follow you - or anyone else - when on the Internet.

5. Make a list and check it twice When holiday shopping, always have your gift list accessible so you don’t forget anything. Skip the pen and paper and create a list in OneNote, which automatically saves to OneDrive and allows you to access your list from your computer at home or on your mobile device.You can even share the list with others who can check things off once they are purchased so you always have the most updated list.

www.pgcitizen.ca | Thursday, December 11, 2014

GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Last-minute gift ideas to score you big smiles

As the holidays inch closer, there’s still time to pick up a gift that’s sure to please any friend or family member still left on your list. Start by focusing on items that are used most often – and in that case you can’t go wrong upgrading someone’s smartphone.To minimize the panic of last-minute shopping, these top smartphone picks are bound to impress your loved ones: BlackBerry Passport: The BlackBerry is back and better than ever.The lucky recipient of this gift can stand out in a sea of rectangular touchscreens with the Passport’s square 4.5” display and qwerty keyboard.This device is great for small business owners or self-proclaimed workaholics. Reading spreadsheets and documents is a breeze on the 1:1 ratio display and because the keyboard does double duty as a mouse, it’s easy to navigate a long list of unread emails. Samsung Galaxy Note 4: There’s nothing worse than a dead smartphone battery. Maybe that’s a bit of an exaggeration, but it can be hugely inconvenient to run out of juice in the middle of the day.This phone’s adaptive fast charging feature lets you recharge 50 per cent of your battery in just 30 minutes and combined with its ‘Ultra Power Saving mode’ lets you receive calls and texts for up to 24 hours at a 10 per cent charge.The convenient S-Pen lets you select contents on the screen to share and save.You can also use the Photo Note feature to snap a pic of the boardroom or classroom whiteboard and instantly convert it to digital notes that can be edited and added too. Nokia Lumia 830: The latest Windows Phone 8.1 experience comes to life on this model.The lucky recipient can download new imaging apps like Nokia Camera, Lumia Storyteller, and Nokia Creative Studio to share perfectly edited holidays pictures taken with the 10MP, PureView camera with its optical image stabilization.The best part is they’ll feel like a VIP with Cortana, a personal assistant that gets to know their interests over time. Cortana will provide proactive recommendations, remind them of important events and appointments and even get them home on time by telling them to leave early when there’s traffic. More information is available online at rogers. com/devices. www.newscanada.com

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GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

e v i t a e Cr g n i v i g gift

GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Many of us feel anxious when tasked with getting the “perfect” gift for those on our list, so here are some easy and inexpensive ideas to get you started: Cont’d on page 27

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GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

H CREATIVE gift giving Cont’d from page 25

For the teacher Instead of giving your child’s teacher an apple or a “Number One Teacher Mug” try to choose a more personal gift. Items like a stylish picture frame, a holiday cookbook, or a gift card to a local restaurant are all great and easy gift ideas for teachers.

For the foodie For friends who love to indulge and try new foods, give them the gift of chocolate. For example, President’s Choice® black label collection has a new lineup of gourmet and artisan chocolates available right in time for the holiday season. Ranging from Maple Brown Sugar Caramels, Chocolate Covered Sea Salt Pistachios or Chocolate Covered Arabica Espresso Beans your foodie friends will appreciate the rich high-quality milk chocolate made with cocoa butter.

For the pet lover Do you have a friend or neighbour who

is obsessed with their furry friend? Make them D.I.Y. dog treats to give to their pal. There are many recipes available online for you to try and they are typically inexpensive and easy to make.

For the coffee lover Whether you’re gifting a budding barista or a latte lover, coffee lovers will appreciate the latest and greatest coffee accessories.Things like a new specialty coffee grinder, or a compact French press. Pair these with a bag of their favourite coffee beans or a beautiful new mug for the perfect gift.

For the host Never show up to a party empty handed. While a bottle of wine or flowers will make do in a pinch, why not choose a more personalized gift for your hostess to show your appreciation for her hard work. Gift ideas like an engraved wine stopper, an attractive cheese platter, or an artisan vase are guaranteed to keep your name at the top of everyone’s guest list. www.newscanada.com

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Clever time-saving

gift ideas for busy people

(BPT) - Time isn’t just a commodity during the busy holiday season - it’s precious all year long. While you can’t give actual time to your friends and family, you can give gifts that help them save time and

streamline their busy days. Here are five gift ideas that will help open-up time for your loved ones. Cont’d on page 29

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H clever time-saving gift ideas for busy people Cont’d from page 28

Cut the commute and make it less stressful: Getting places quickly can mean more time with family, loved ones and a whole lot less stress.This yea, give the gift of time - whether it’s getting to mom’s for Christmas dinner or helping dad get home from work faster after the new year - with the TomTom GO 600.The 6-inch 3D touch-screen displays traffic in real time, so you can always get to where you need to go as quickly as possible. Visit www.TomTom.com for more information.

Streamline cooking conundrums: Everyone needs to eat, but not everyone has hours to whip up gourmet din-

ners. Help time-crunched friends in the kitchen by gifting recipe books that focus on dishes with minimal ingredients and take 30 minutes or less to create. Another option is gifting time-saving kitchen gadgets, like a food processor that eliminates time-consuming chopping and blending, or a pressure cooker, which uses steam to cook even frozen meat fast. Finally, gift a membership to a meal club that delivers ingredients and instructions to your loved one’s front door - no grocery trip necessary.

Eliminate home maintenance headaches: There’s a lot of pride in owning a home, but there is also a lot of work required. Cut down the homeowner’s to-do list and help open some weekend time for fun by gifting home maintenance

services. Who wouldn’t want to receive a month of maid services and kick off the New Year with a tidy home? For those who live in snowy regions, hire professional shoveling services that clear the white stuff every time it snows. No more getting home late from work only to spend hours shoveling the driveway!

Smart gadgets save time and money: Household gadgets that save time can be lifesavers, especially during the busy New Year. For the coffee-lover, gift a new instant coffee machine with different settings so he can select a favorite morning brew - no more trips to the coffee shop. For the business professional, a quality steamer eliminates wrinkles in a snap and cuts down on frequent visits to the dry cleaner. Finally, a hands-free vacuum can

be set to clean floors even when you’re away, picking up dust and grime while at work.

Get rid of the health excuses: Busy people often don’t have time for the gym, but that doesn’t mean you can’t help make health simpler for them with the right gift.Things that encourage health at home are ideal, like exercise videos, a set of compact dumbbells, exercise bands and a mini-trampoline. For your favorite runner, the TomTom Runner GPS sports watch is like having a personal trainer on your wrist. Set distance, time, calorie goals, progress and more on an extra-large screen with a built-in heart rate monitor, eliminating the need for a chest strap. Program alerts for mile markers and activate the ‘race yourself’ feature to try to beat a personal record.

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The Best Holiday Storage Items By Laura Depta | CTW Features

This year, make a vow to put away everything perfectly Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 33

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H the best holiday storage items Cont’d from page 31

ommon sense dictates that the ease of holiday decorating depends largely on the organization of last year’s storage. The problem is, oftentimes people are so exhausted after the holiday season, all they want to do is shove everything in boxes and deal with it later. It’s time to change all that.This year, make a commitment to store everything in a neat and organized manner. Here’s how:

The Origins of Organization

Good storage starts with good containers. Jodie Watson, founder and president of Supreme Organization in Sherman Oaks, California, recommends large, plastic, durable storage bins. “You can get them in the color of the holidays,”Watson says.“If you wanted a Halloween orange or a Christmas red, you can do that. Just try to keep them consistent.” The experts at Coppell, Texas-based The Container Store agree, and point out that clear containers and labels can be used as well for easy identification of contents. Label the contents clearly before storing.You may take a photo of how items are arranged and store it in the box so you know where everything goes next year, they suggest. Displaying a live tree will of course eliminate the need to store one of the largest items, but if using an artificial tree, Watson advises keeping the original box. “They’re usually packed really compactly, and it’s designed to fit that particular tree,” Watson says.“But if that’s long gone, there are different types of plastic bags that you can buy that can actually hold even really large trees – they’re artificial tree bags.” Cont’d on page 36

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H the best holiday storage items Cont’d from page 33 Depending on the available storage space, Watson recommends hanging as an option for wreaths or fabric items. Dry clean fabrics like tree skirts, table clothes and blankets at the end of the holiday.Then, purchase a hanging storage box – the type typically used for clothes – to neatly pack them away. With ornaments, use a cardboard box that comes with adjustable dividers. For any ornaments or items that are particularly fragile, however, Watson suggests storing that in its own container. “It’s almost as if you’re packing it for a move,” says Watson.“Packing peanuts are a really good way to store fragile items, or wrapping them carefully in tissue paper with a layer of bubble wrap around it.” The Container Store experts also caution that ornaments made with natural materials – such as paper, or kid’s craft projects with dried food like pasta –always should be kept in airtight containers to keep pests away. Archival storage boxes protect items made from natural fibers from yellowing. Cont’d on page 37

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H the best holiday storage items Cont’d from page 36 Lights can be frustrating to unpack the following year if they were not stored correctly. Simply winding each strand around some type of spool – either store-bought or a homemade piece of cardboard – will do the trick.The same tactic also should be used for garland. Don’t forget about gift wrap. According to the Container Store, wrapping paper is best stored in a closet or under a bed. Keep tape and scissors stored with the gift wrap and ribbons, and you’ll have everything you need to start wrapping again next year at your fingertips. If that overwhelming feeling sets in, consider downsizing. Or, ask a friend for help. Watson points out:“If we’re not particularly organized, we all have a friend who is – somebody that can help you and can help make it fun.”

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3 holiday tech gifts

that can help your kids in the classroom

(BPT) - Toys and games are sure to be on kids’ gift lists this holiday season. Many parents will hope to mix in something practical with all the fun, aiming to give a gift that can help children of any age do their best in school. With technology in common use in classrooms across the country, many parents will shop for laptops, notebooks or other devices that can help facilitate learning. Fifty-eight percent of students use a laptop, notebook or Chromebook for school at least twice a week, according to the 2014 Pearson Student Mobile Device Survey. In fact, 71 percent of elementary school students, 67 percent of middle school students and 56 percent of high school students would like to use mobile devices more often in the classroom than they do now. With the wide range of learning tasks students tackle daily, it’s important for parents to choose devices with maximum flexibility. Windows is the most commonly used operating system in the workplace and a vast library of educational materials are Windows compatible, so it makes sense for children to learn on Windows 8-enabled devices with Intel inside.Three types of devices stand out for parents looking for computing flexibility: Cont’d on page 40

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H holiday tech gifts that can help your kids Cont’d from page 39

Notebooks Smaller, lighter and more economical than full-sized laptops, today’s notebooks still pack a great deal of computing power in their compact frames. Products like the HP 210 G1 Notebook PC allow students to perform basic word-processing tasks, access online learning tools, and share notes and assignments with peers and teachers. Durable yet lightweight, their typical small size allows them to fit easily into backpacks and be used in classroom settings without taking up too much space.

Tablets With their versatile touchscreen interface, tablets inspire creativity and facilitate collaboration among students and educators.Teachers who use tablets in class are able to personalize lessons to appeal to the learning styles and interests of multiple students, rather than approaching a lesson as one size fits all. For younger students who have not yet mastered a keyboard, touchscreen tablets provide an easy way to accomplish tasks. Styles like the Dell Venue 11 can also feature handwriting recognition, making note-taking fast and easy for older students and helping younger pupils practice handwriting skills.

2 in 1s For older students who do more typing, 2 in 1 devices like the Lenovo Yoga or Asus Transformer provide the convenience of a notebook and the flexibility of a tablet.These devices are lightweight with a touchscreen interface, like a tablet, but can be also used like a traditional laptop through a detachable, flippable or rotating keyboard. Having both functionalities within one device facilitates creativity, note-taking and collaboration. Not sure which of these device types might best suit your student’s needs? Consult with your child’s teacher. In many classrooms across the country, teachers are already using technology in their lessons.Your child’s teacher may be able to advise you on what type of device would best mesh with what he or she is already using in the classroom.To learn more about how educators are using technology to enhance student success or about the best device for your student, visit www.k12blueprint.com or follow @IntelK12Edu on Twitter.

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From chore to cheer DIY gift wrapping parties

help connect friends, family

There are few holiday traditions as time honoured as wrapping and preparing gifts for loved ones. More and more creative do-it-yourselfers are taking this special tradition a step further by adding a personalized touch to their gifts with handmade wrappings and cards. In fact, creative types are even organizing “wrapping parties” to take advantage of this special time to connect with friends and family. According to “When people get together to be creative, wonderful things happen, says Shelli Gardner, cofounder of Stampin’ Up!, a crafting and décor company.“And it’s not just because they are stamping. Although our products definitely make creativity easy and fun, the stamps, ink, paper, and accessories are only the vehicle for the real magic that happens—the connecting. Whether we’re getting together to make cards, create decorations, or have a wrapping party, reaching out to others is what makes the great memories.” To help create these memories Gardner adds that there are

some beautiful new and exciting materials to help create personalized cards, décor, and packaging to make the holidays merry and bright. Here are a few of this season’s popular trends:

Tasteful treats Offering homemade festive cookies and treats is a great way to show someone you care, but they become even more heartfelt when packaged in handmade gift wrapping and boxes. With the Under the Tree Tag a Bag accessory kit by Stampin’ Up! you can wrap treats, desserts and gifts in handmade coordinated gift bags and boxes decorated with your choice of designer series paper, ribbons and fabric in fun festive colours such as cherry cobbler, crumb cake, garden green and pistachio pudding.

Personalized DIY greeting cards According to Gardner, options also abound for those looking to put a personal touch on their holi-

day cheer with handmade greeting cards.“You can choose the stamp set, the colour palette, and the eyecatching accessories as you create a unique, customized card that reflects your personal taste, style, and even greeting.” To give your family Christmas cards a timeless feel you can try the Filigree Frame Textured Impressions Embossing Folder to create that classic design look. You can create your own festival of trees with the versatile two step stamp set with tree punch where cards, tags and gifts can feature different variations of tree designs. For the comedic person on your list, add a dash of whimsy for an offbeat take on the traditional holiday season with the Santa & Co, Visions of Santa and Get Your Santa On product sets.These fun designs will surely brighten spirits. Do-it-yourselfers looking for new techniques and more inspiration can visit www.stampinup.ca to book an appointment with a local demonstrator. www.newscanada.com

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Kick the stress out

GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

of holiday shopping

(BPT) - Traveling, cooking large meals, planning and surviving holiday office parties, and managing relatives - the holidays are stressful. Add in the time and money demands of holiday shopping, and you may be tempted to keep a therapist on speed dial. While you may not be able to avoid difficult relatives or the annual end-ofyear trip to a client you’d rather not see, it is possible to reduce holiday shopping stress. “In my opinion, the best deals are postBlack Friday,” says Peggy Blum, a former retail trends forecaster, past Seventeen Magazine editor, and current lead instructor for the Fashion Retail & Management program at The Art Institute of Austin, a branch of The Art Institute of Houston. “Black Friday will have some deals, but it won’t be the end-all of sales through the season.”With that in mind, here are three holiday shopping tips that are sure to help. You have no idea where to start or what to buy: Kate Campbell, a former buyer for Dillard’s, suggests starting with a search of hot lists or top-pick lists. Campbell currently serves as the director of the Fashion Marketing & Management

program at The Art Institute of Tampa, a branch of Miami International University of Art & Design. Whether it is toys, apparel or electronics, major retailers and brandspecific websites are publishing “hot holiday lists” and top picks for almost anything.“I’ve seen top picks by Amazon, Toys R Us, and PC Magazine for electronics,” says Campbell.“There are even top pick lists for cosmetics and best buys for kitchen ware.” Blum adds that novelty gifts are also a great way to make an impact and a good place to start. She challenges shoppers to step away from the large retail stores and buy from privately owned businesses like local boutiques and mom and pop stores. “People really respond to unique gifts, and it puts the magic back into giftgiving,” she says.“Think outside the box, anything from craft beers, to personalized yoga mats, to craft jewelry could all make great gifts.” Looking to save time and money: If you’re constantly on the go and prefer to rely on some preliminary shopping via your cellphone or mobile tablet, many apps can make shopping a bit more organized and convenient. Cont’d on page 46

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H KICK THE STRESS OUT OF HOLIDAY SHOPPING Cont’d from page 44 “There are apps for apparel such as Wanelo and Wish, and major retailers or brands also have their own apps such as Pink Nation for Victoria’s Secret,” Campbell says. Need to keep track of all your online purchases? There’s an app for that! The larger shipping services like UPS and FedEx have their own apps, but you can also try the Slice app or the Posted app depending on your needs. Campbell warns that shoppers should plan for extra time on their delivery schedule when purchasing online or via an app.“Online and app shopping will save you the hassle and time, but you need to plan for shipping delays,” she says.“Some of your items could easily be coming from China and take a whole month to arrive.” Blum recommends surfing products online for a cost difference from store prices. If you print out the shopping cart you intended to purchase, and bring it in store, the retailer will often honor the price savings. Knowing and shopping the promotions before you go to the store is a

different way of couponing. Want additional savings? Blum recommends the Amazon app for your smartphone. Just scan the in-store item’s barcode and the app will tell you if Amazon has the same item for less. She cautions that the Amazon app doesn’t work with generic brand items. Complete your shopping in one place or in one day: Pick and choose where you think you may spend the majority of your holiday budget, and join the loyalty programs for coupons and reductions.“Be choosy and make sure you register with the loyalty programs that will really deliver savings and unique purchases as opposed to spam mail,” Campbell says. The key to holiday shopping is to avoid impulse buying. Make a list, and start early. Go online or ask your loved ones and friends about their hobbies. Stress relief and savings are the result of doing the homework. If you don’t, the worst will happen - you’ll force yourself to buy out of desperation.

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Melt-in-the-mouth

shortbread meets its match

Try this all-time taste sensation if you dare “Shortbread gets an upgrade in this recipe – perfect for the holiday season,” says Anna Olson, celebrity chef and host of Food Network Canada’s Bake with Anna Olson.“The dough can be made up to three months ahead and then frozen, to be thawed in the fridge before baking for a perfect mid-winter pick-me-up.”

Skor Bits Shortbread Slice Cookies Makes about 4 dozen cookies Prep Time: 15 minutes Chill Time: 2 hours Bake Time: 16 minutes

Ingredients: 1 cup (250 mL) unsalted butter, at room temperature ½ cup (125 mL) icing sugar, sifted 1 tsp (5 mL) vanilla extract 2 cups (500 mL) all-purpose flour 1/3 cup (75 mL) cornstarch ½ tsp (2 mL) salt ¾ cup (175 mL) Hershey’s Skor bits

Directions: 1. Using electric beaters (or a mixer), beat the butter for a minute, then add the icing sugar and beat until incorporated and fluffy, about 1 minute. Beat in the vanilla, then add the flour, cornstarch and salt and beat on low speed. Once incorporated, beat on medium-high speed (or more vigorously by hand) until the dough

comes together. Add the Skor bits and stir in. 2. Shape the dough into 2 logs about 10 inches (25 cm) long (1 ½-inches/3.5 cm across) and wrap tightly in plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours until firm. 3. Preheat the oven to 325(F (160 (C) and grease or line 2 baking trays with parchment paper. 4. Unwrap and slice the dough intocookies ¼-inch (5 mm) thick and arrange them on the baking trays leaving at least ½-inch (1 cm) between them. Bake for about 16 minutes, until the cookie barely start to show a little colour at the edges. Cool the cookies completely on the baking tray before removing.The cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. More information and baking inspiration is available at www.hersheyskitchens.ca.

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The ultimate holiday gift guide for every person on your list

GATEWAY Last MinuteHOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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ift shopping is consistently ranked as the most stressful part of the holidays. Swapping sizes, picking colours, keeping on budget and fighting massive crowds can only lead to one thing: gift-buying brain-

freeze. But never fear! Here’s your essential gift guide for this holiday season, whether you’re buying for your social media-obsessed niece, your kale-eating brother-in-law or your wannabe-chef husband.

The Pinterest Princess: Her hobbies include staging desserts, picking photo filters and inventing creative hashtags. Her food has to be as beautiful as it is delicious. Gift suggestion: Breville’s waffle maker is the ultimate in luxury, while remaining easy-to-use. It’s equipped with an LCD interface and crispiness/darkness control so she can cook to perfection.The progress indicator allows her to track the cooking. With this amazing gift, you’ll be #trending in no time. The Gym Master: He’s got a meticulous morning routine that includes crafting a healthy shake and completing 100 push-ups. He never misses a chance to run around the block on a sunny day. He’s working on his pecks right now. Cont’d on page 52

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H The ultimate holiday gift guide Cont’d from page 51 Gift suggestion: The ultimate in superblenders has arrived. Its versatility and strength mean endless options like healthy green smoothies, soups, almond milk, nut butters, fine ground spices, hummus, fresh milled flour, pastes and pâtés, dips, sauces, and more.

The Busy Mom: She’s got a doctor’s appointment in an hour, 15 minutes to return calls to clients and until end of day to pick up her daughter’s birthday cake. She’s the ultimate multitasker, but could use any help she can get. Gift suggestion: Breville’s All In One immersion blender slices, mashes, chops, shreds, whisks and blends food without the clutter of six kitchen appliances. Her countertop space will be appliance-free with the convenient storage of this multi-purpose appliance. Finally, a gift that’ll simplify Super Mom’s life!

The Lazy Student: He’s thrilled to be away from home – the late nights, the parties, the freedom. It’s a dream come true.The only drawback? He hasn’t eaten a full meal in a week. Gift suggestion: Breville’s Quick Touch Microwave will quickly become his new best friend.This new, easy-touse microwave knows the power level and time that best suits his food, so he’ll never have to endure overcooked lasagna edges or exploding oatmeal again.This intuitive microwave comes with smart settings and preset functions so he won’t have to second guess a thing. Which leaves even more time for studying, of course.

The Top-Chef Wannabe: He juliennes, dices, minces and chops like a pro. He’s got all his favourite Food Network shows queued up every night. He worships David Chang and Mario Batali. Gift suggestion:The Sous Chef food processor by Breville performs like a set of helpful hands in the

kitchen. Chop, julienne, or slice your fruits or veggies into any desired size; the customized slices result in delicate scalloped potatoes, fine coleslaw, or sliced salami for a gourmet panini sandwich.The ultimate gift that keeps on giving.

The Espresso Savant: She knows the difference between ristretto and macchiato. She has a regular barista. She owns her own cupping spoon (it’s engraved). Gift suggestion:The world’s first automatic manual espresso machine, the Oracle by Breville delivers freshly ground coffee, dosed to the right volume and tamped to the right pressure – no barista skills required. It has stainless steel espresso and steam boilers for simultaneous espresso extraction and milk steaming. She may never leave home again. www.newscanada.com

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Create kid fun in your holiday kitchen: the more sprinkles the better

From confetti-decorated sugar cookies and taffy pudding to gingerbread houses and hot chocolate, holiday treat-making is the best combination of delicious and messy – especially if children are involved. Whether you are baking with kids or a kid-at-heart,‘tis the season to create delightful family traditions --- and clean up later. After all, memories are made in the kitchen, so enjoy every dropped egg and scattered cup of flour along the way. Here’s a simple recipe that is as fun to make, as it is yummy to eat. Sure to become a favourite, Pretzel Sweets use easy-to-find ingredients and are a breeze to whip up. They are also a no-bake treat so little hands can help. Customized with toppings like sprinkles, these super-easy pretzel snacks are a perfect way to surprise and delight family and friends.

Pretzel Sweets Ingredients

• Bag of pretzels (salted or un-salted) • Chocolate chips (white, dark, milk chocolate are great, or try butterscotch chips) • Toppings of choice (sprinkles, chocolate-coated candies, flaked coconut)

Procedure • Line two baking sheets with wax paper or parchment paper • Place pretzels in a large bowl • Sort toppings of choice and place onto individual plates • Place chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and melt to a creamy texture • Dip pretzels into chocolate and shake off any excess • Take your chocolate-coated pretzels and roll them in toppings of choice • Set on baking sheet to cool • Enjoy

Clean-up While a water rinse may be necessary for surfaces that come in contact with food, an easy-to-use product like Green Works Compostable Cleaning Wipes are always a handy must-have.They’re versatile, naturally derived and will have every last drop of ooeygooey ingredients gone in a matter of minutes. www.newscanada.com

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