Herald Holiday 2015

HERALD

HOLIDAY STUFF STOCKINGS with loads of local

INVENTIVE

ADVENT CALENDARS

Unique ways to countdown to Christmas

ENTERTAINING WITH EASE

5 Tips for simple soirees

MUST-HAVE

themes for 2015 décor

NOW OPEN IN MIC MAC MALL

CONTENTS COVER STORY

Must-have trends | Page 9 A look at the hottest decor for the 2015 holiday season.

BY Debra Wells-Hopey

Publisher Sarah Dennis

President And CEO Mark Lever

Vice President, Business Development Jeff Nearing

Editor Lindsey Bunin lbunin@herald.ca

DESIGN Julia Webb

Heather Laura Clarke

“WE’RE BORED!” Five festive projects to keep your kids entertained over the winter break. | PAGE 5

DECOR

FOOD & DRINK

GIFTS

ENTERTAINING

DO IT YOURSELF

TASTES OF THE SEASON

ETIQUETTE

GREEN CHRISTMAS

DEBRA WELLS-HOPEY

MARK DEWOLF

HEATHER LAURA CLARKE

HEIDI TATTRIE RUSHTON

Don’t know who should be on the gift list or how much you should spend? This guide will help.

Celebrate in eco-friendly ways this season.

PAGE 15

PAGE 46

Affordable, yet sophisticated, do it yourself holiday decor ideas from a local expert.

PAGE 11

Kick up your holiday entertaining with the colour and zest of cranberries.

PAGE 37

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 3

An East Coast Christmas Songs of the season

By Barbara Cameron

I

t’s that time of year again; time to add some holiday spirit to your playlist! You needn’t look further than right here on the East Coast for your holiday soundtrack this season.

Here are some of my favourite holiday albums by East Coast artists and when and where you’ll want to be listening to them this season.

It’s Christmas David Myles Last year, David Myles, best known for his smooth, era-jumping sound, released It’s Christmas.

This is the first holiday album we’ve seen from the Fredericton, New Brunswick native and is the perfect combination of timeless Christmas classics sprinkled with a few upbeat holiday ditties. The album features three original songs, which showcase Myles’ knack for songwriting and, in time, are sure to become classics. The first single off the album, Santa Never Brings Me a Banjo, is written from a child’s perspective and their desperate desire for Ol’ Saint Nick to bring them a banjo Christmas morning. The song is humorous and charming and has a mustsee animated video, created by Copernicus Animation Studios in Halifax.

Jimmy Rankin released a holiday album and in 2012 he did just that. Tinsel Town is an album of Christmas standards and four original songs, including the title track written with Canadian country songstress Patricia Conroy. The familiarity of Rankin’s voice provides a feeling of nostalgia as he sings classics such as Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas and White Christmas while at the same time still transcends the acclaimed Rankin energy on tunes like Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree and Jingle Bell Rock.

When you’ll want to listen: This is a feel-good holiday album filled with Christmas cheer that you’ll want to have playing at this year’s holiday party!

A Cup of Kindness Yet Hey Rosetta!

In 2012, St. John’s Newfoundland’s Hey Rosetta! released A Cup of Kindness Yet — an EP comprised of holiday-themed tunes. The EP is not your standard collection of holiday songs and, to be honest, is rather melancholy throughout. The band pairs lyrics such as “This hotel is cheap and the pillows stink” with upbeat melodies and sleigh bells ringing out in the background, When you’ll want to listen: but if you ask me, it works. The sevenpiece indie rock band successfully This album will serve as your soundtrack on a night when you want to compiles three and a half original curl up in a warm and cosy blanket next tracks as well as an electric guitarfilled cover of the hymn O Come O to a crackling fire. It has a few tracks the stand out track on the recording. you will want to have playing while you Come Emmanuel to complete the four-song EP. The fourth and final prepare for the holiday season. track, titled New Year Song, starts out When you’ll want to listen: Tinsel Town as an original piece which effortlessly For those of us looking for something Jimmy Rankin transitions into a rendition of Auld a little less traditional or who may be Lang Syne with robust gang vocals — tired of listening to the same old holiday It was only a matter of time before 4 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

songs year after year, this EP is for you.

And if you’re one of the many whom, unfortunately, won’t be able to make it home for the holidays this year, this EP will provide you with a relatable and comforting soundtrack.

Five festive projects to keep the kids entertained over Christmas break Whether the kids are driving you crazy in the lull between Boxing Day and New Year’s Eve, or they’ve been out of school a day and you’re already feeling pained, we’ve got ideas for hours of fun

Parenting

By Heather Laura Clarke

T

he anticipation of Santa Claus’s arrival, the excessive consumption of holiday sugar and the abundance of sudden free time can create a perfect storm of Hyperactive Children and Over-

feeling pained, we’ve got ideas for hours of whelmed Parents. fun.

Don’t worry — whether the kids are driving you crazy in the lull between Boxing Here are five festive projects to keep the kids entertained over Christmas break: Day and New Year’s Eve, or they’ve been CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 out of school a day and you’re already

Your trusted source for great spa gifts!

TAX FREE

Sale Day!

BOGO Spa Gift Certificate

Sale Day!

Phone orders welcome!

Call us at 902.423.3888 Website: summitspa.ca

Saturday Nov 28th!

Enjoy 15% off all products in our spa store!

Not including gi 9am – 4pm

Friday Dec 4th!

Purchase one of and receive a 2nd Trio Spa Package of equal or lesser value for FREE! 9am – 10pm For more info on all of our Trio Spa Packages visit us at summitspa.ca 5495 Spring Garden Rd., NS (Inside TD Bank Building)

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 5

WITH ANY LUCK, THESE IDEAS WILL KEEP THEM ENTERTAINED FOR HOURS AND YOU CAN SNEAK IN A NAP.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

1. Make holiday gifts Holiday-themed craft supplies are on sale, so pick up packages of plain wooden or glass Christmas tree ornaments and work together to paint them into handmade gifts. Kids can dip their thumb in brown paint, press it against the surface of an ornament to make Rudolph’s face, and then use paint pens or markers to add eyes, a glowing red nose and antlers.

2. Craft a sock snowmen family Cut the toe off an old white sock and put it aside. Pack the sock with rice, wrap rubber bands around it to make nice round sections — like rolled snowballs — and secure the top of the sock with another rubber band. Tie a scrap of fabric around the neck as a scarf, and glue on beads for eyes and buttons to decorate the body. Finally, use the cutoff toe of the sock to make a little stocking cap. You’ve got a cuddly little snowman decoration, and in no time at all you’ll have a family full of snow people.

or mugs at the dollar store and let your kids go wild creating their very own “china” sets. You’ll want to use oilbased Sharpie paint markers or DecoArt glass paint markers so the ink doesn’t wash off. Once they’re happy with their designs, bake the dishes at 350F for 20 minutes to set the paint, and let them cool completely. They will most likely not be dishwasher safe because of the hot temperature, but they will wash up just fine in a sink of soap and water.

3. Make custom microwave-safe 4. Learn printmaking mugs and dishes Pick up some plain white plates, bowls 6 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

A video from The Artful Parent has

been blowing up on social media because many people had no idea it was so easy for small children to make their own prints. Flip over a glass baking dish and invite your kids to roll a thick layer of paint right onto the glass. They can doodle in the paint with cotton swabs to make a picture, and then press a sheet of paper against the glass to create their own print.

5. Whip up a batch of playdough, flubber, or glitter slime You can get a “recipe” for just about any fun gloppy substance on the internet,

and most have different formulations to adjust for what you have on hand. Glue, cornstarch, borax (in the laundry aisle) shaving cream, food colouring, flour, salt, and water are the bases for most of these fun projects. Clear off the kitchen table, roll up everybody’s sleeves, toss down a few cookie cutters, and get ready for a little messy fun.

With any luck, these ideas will keep them entertained for hours and you can sneak in a nap.

’tis the

SEASON NEW TREND! LASER PROJECTION LIGHT WILL SHOWER YOUR HOME OR YARD WITH THOUSANDS OF LASER STARLIGHTS! Energy-saving LED lights available in a variety of colours!

SACKVILLE Downsview Mall 902-864-3152 BEDFORD 150 Damascus Rd. 902-835-1060

CLAYTON PARK WEST COLE HARBOUR Clayton Park Plaza 24 Forest Hills Parkway 902-457-1001 902- 462-6100 HALIFAX 6203 Quinpool Rd. 902- 422-4922

PROUD TO

BE

SPRYFIELD 16 Dentith Road 902-477-5608

DARTMOUTH Dartmouth Crossing 902-434-2823

ELMSDALE 269 Hwy. 214 902-883-1771

TANTALLON 5130 St. Margarets Bay Rd 902-826-2800

L O C A L LY O W N E D

&

L O C A L LY O P E R AT E D

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 7

Spreading joy to all species this season Consider adding local animal rescue organizations to your holiday gift list Story By Kim

Moar

W

hen you are making your list and checking it twice this Christmas, you may want to add a few dozen eggs to your cart for wildlife in need.

Hope Swinimer at Hope For Wildlife says eggs offer much-needed nutritional needs and protein for animals that are struggling with injuries or sickness in her care.

“What a weird thing to ask for, I know,” she says with a laugh, but the reality is eggs are crucial to the diet provided at the centre.

“It’s a universal food. It’s very high in nutrition and can be fed to everything from crows to songbirds to bobcats to mammals. Everything munches on it and everything likes it,” Swinimer says.

If this winter is anything like last winter, wildlife could be struggling once again to survive.

“Winter is a time when we see a lot of starving animals. Last winter, we were just inundated with hundreds of patients, and it really was quite overwhelming.”

Swinimer says the centre was flooded with calls from concerned residents wondering what they could do to help wildlife in their area whose food source was buried under massive piles of snow and ice.

Hard-boiled eggs that have been de-shelled and dry cat kibble are among the most nutritious source of food for most animals, including birds. Swinimer says it is essential that the eggs are cooked to prevent salmonella poisoning, and that the shells are removed from the cooked eggs before being fed to wildlife as the sharp edges, which become harder when cooked, can perforate animal intestines.

“I’ve never had too many eggs, so

8 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

it’s one of those things that we need to put the call out for once in a while,” Swinimer says. “We can use them 365 days a year.”

Since 1997, the Hope for Wildlife Society has helped more than 20,000 injured and orphaned wild animals representing over 250 species. Animals admitted to the Hope for Wildlife Society receive medical care, food, shelter and whatever else is needed to ensure a successful return to the wild.

Now, more than 15 years since it all began, the Hope for Wildlife Society has grown to more than 100 volunteers and rehabilitates more than 2,500 animals per year from all over the province. Funding comes from donations as well as corporate and government grants, community groups and annual fundraisers.

If you would like to donate uncooked, fresh eggs to Hope For Wildlife, you can drop off your egg donation to the centre located at 5909 Hwy 207 in Seaforth.

But like many non-profit animal charities in Nova Scotia, the wildlife centre is always looking for monetary donations as well. As a registered charity, donations are tax deductible and can be made online and through other means.

For more information about Hope For Wildlife go to hopeforwildlife.net/ mission.html.

Pets in Need Unfortunately, wildlife are not the only animals in need of care. There are dozens of non-profit groups in this province involving hundreds of volunteers that are making a difference in the lives homeless dogs, cats and other pets that would also welcome a monetary gift or donation this Christmas.

Nova Scotia SPCA spokeswoman Courtney Zylstra says there are always supplies shelters need year-round that

would be a welcome gift this Christmas, including donations of bleach, garbage bags and wet cat food.

“We can never have enough of those items,” Zylstra says.

Other top priority items include non-clumping kitty litter, plain white photocopy paper, paper towels and toilet paper, latex gloves and small dog treats for training. The SPCA posts an updated wish list of other supplies they need on their website at spcans.ca/how-to-help/donate/wishlist.

Zylstra says anyone wanting to make a donation of any of the needed items can just drop them off at their local SPCA shelter. There are also donation boxes outside branches for drop-offs after hours.

“Any of our branches would be more than thrilled to have someone show up at their front door,” she says.

Zylstra says when their bounty is plentiful, the SPCA will also share supplies with with other animal rescue groups, especially those dealing with cats.

With so many feral cats in Nova Scotia, Zylstra says, even if you can’t give a donation, constructing a simple cat shelter for the winter months would be a huge contribution and could save a cat’s life.

And, the gift of your time is always appreciated at Christmas and yearround. Local animal shelters are always putting the call out for volunteers to walk a homeless dog waiting to be adopted, or snuggle with a shelter cat that is in need of some lovin’.

“Giving your time to the SPCA is just as valuable as gifts or monetary donations. We welcome everyone to come to walk a dog, cuddle a kitten or volunteer at the many initiatives we have over the holiday season. To find out about volunteer opportunities visit our website at www.spcans.ca or our Facebook pages,” Zylstra says.

... the gift of your time is always appreciated at Christmas and year-round.

Local animal shelters are always putting the call out for volunteers to walk a homeless dog waiting to be adopted, or snuggle with a shelter cat that is in need of some lovin’.

2015 holiday decorating trends Decor

By Debra Wells-Hopey

A

s another holiday season approaches, you may be wondering how you can up your Christmas decorating game. Tradition is important but a five-year-old, wilted, synthetic poinsettia does not an heirloom make.

We all need a make-over once in a while to refresh and stay up to date and holiday decor is no exception. Why not consider incorporating a few of the latest trends in Christmas decorating along with your sentimental favourites?

As per the rule of all decorating, most often less is more. Yes, even at Christmas time.

“Christmas decorating doesn’t have to look like Santa’s workshop,” says Charlotte Skiba, decorator, stager and owner of Charlotte Interiors in Halifax.

“Keeping your decorations in line with your home’s decor makes for a sophisticated look. For example, if you have lots of rich colours in your home, choose some gold and brown accents, perhaps incorporating some natural greenery. If you have lots of gray in your home, choose cool blues, white and silver. You don’t have to go overboard with decorating to have meaningful impact.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

SPOIL THEM THIS H O L I DAY SEASON. At Global Pet Foods, we carry a wide variety of gifts and stocking stuffers for that furry little friend you love.

HALIFAX

DARTMOUTH

BEDFORD

209 CHAIN LAKE DRIVE BAYERS LAKE 902.876.0894

100 MAIN STREET WESTPHAL PLAZA 902.434.8361

30 DAMASCUS ROAD BEDFORD COMMONS 902.835.2250

@GlobAlPetsHRM @GlobAlPetFoodsHRM /GlobAlPetFoodsHRM

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 9

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

As someone who provides full-service decorating (including holiday), colour consultation and home staging, Skiba stays on top of the latest trends in home decor and has some hints as to what’s hot for the 2015 cold season.

Plaid, Pillows and Pattern “Plaid is popping up everywhere this holiday, as a nod to the classic Christmases of the past,” says Skiba. “We are seeing it in throws, pillows, Christmas socks, wrapping paper; basically wherever there can be pattern, there can be plaid. It’s also a great homage to our Nova Scotian heritage.”

Skiba is also noticing themes that revolve around woodland animals. Owls, deer, caribou, bears, moose and fox are popular silhouettes on pillows, in ceramic pieces and on rugs. These images can be quite minimal and sophisticated or can lean more toward the whimsical. Talk about bringing the outdoors in!

Rustic, natural elements continue to be popular for Christmas decor. Birch logs, wooden decorations, acorns and pinecone garland, and fir wreaths are classics that still look fresh.

“Fur is something that has been on trend for a few years now,” says Skiba. “It’s still in for this season, as it adds dimension and texture. And of course, it creates that warm cozy feeling.”

Keep it Simple But, like most things, a little bit goes a long way.

“Simplicity is key,” says the Halifax decorator.

“You want to add Christmas decorations that don’t take over your house, but enhance it. Sometimes a simple holiday touch is enough to create the magic you want.”

Charlotte Jewer, owner of Kept Gifts and Housewares in downtown Dartmouth, agrees with Skiba’s assessment of current holiday trends. Or, more accurately, the “anti-trend” — as we seem to be gravitating toward the classic and traditional.

“My philosophy and vision for Kept has always been to offer items that were more on the classic, quality-made side of things that people will love for years to come,” says Jewer.

“I want people to have items that they can bring out to enjoy every holiday season, ones that don't necessarily follow any current trends.”

“This year I have found some really great items that feature loveable woodland characters and lean towards a more Scandinavian feel. Nordic design is a very big influence for me at the shop — this style can’t be beat for creating the perfect harmony between classic and modern design, especially at Christmas time.”

So perhaps the key to decorating for the holidays this year is also the secret to an enjoyable season overall. Keep things simple, cozy and meaningful.

Enjoy everything in moderation (in decorating and in cookie eating) and remember to have fun!

10 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

Five affordable (yet sophisticated!) DIY decor ideas STORY BY DEBRA WELLS-HOPEY

S

elf-proclaimed do-it-youself geek, Erin Trafford, takes a hit for all of us as she experiments her way around the DIY lifestyle, laying it all out in her blog, DIY Passion.

As for a DIY Christmas she says, “Our approach to holiday decor is pretty much the same as it is all year — use what you’ve got. It doesn’t have to be expensive and over the top to be meaningful.”

According to Trafford, you don’t have to spend a lot on your Christmas hall decking. And like many of us, she and her spouse don’t have lots of room to store decorations for the other 11 months of the year.

“Our decorations tend to be simple and pulled directly from nature — even from our back yard or the nearby beach.

More often than not, they’re not only disposable, but compostable!”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

SHOP IN KENTVILLE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON AND YOU MIGHT JUST

WIN BIG Kentville merchants have teamed up to create an amazing prize package valued at over $2000 that one lucky shopper will win before Christmas!

Shop in Kentville and visit participating merchants for your chance to win!

Visit participating downtown Kentville merchants including: Reid’s Jewelers • R.D. Chisholm Ltd. • Silver Horse Florist Balanced Soul Clothing & Accessories • Phinney’s Clothing • Mader’s Tobacco Grand Street Inn B & B • Kentville Farmers Market • In Style Hair Studio Paddy’s Pub • Lawton’s Drugstore • Valley Stove & Cycle

902-679-2549 • KENTVILLE.CA

Happy Holidays!

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 11

those dark winter evenings when we Talk a walk in the woods and gather some linger over a glass of wine.” tree branches (fir and twig varieties) and Switch it Up pine cones, or stroll along the water and “We love to switch out our art work and find some driftwood and shells. Apply a photos during the holidays. We strip metallic spray paint in gold, bronze or down our walls and then hang themed silver. Voila — rustic glamour to add to your Christmas decor! Or leave them “au DIY art for the month of December,” natural” and mix with other pops of colour Trafford explains. This can be as simple as wooden stars made from dowels and like Christmas bulbs or cranberries.

“One thing I’m loving this year is all the string, a giant piece of plywood painted, emphasis on natural elements like reand distressed that reads ‘Joy!’, or even claimed wood, pinecones, burlap and thrifted artwork with all the frames pine boughs,” says Trafford. “Pop them painted in a bright metallic. And why not into a vase on the mantle or on a buffet — change up your framed family photos to instant holiday glam, basically for free.” reflect Christmases past? Then, after the holidays, switch your art back and your Get out of the Red (and Green) Think beyond the traditional Christmas rooms will feel instantly refreshed.

Festive Foraging

I’m loving all the emphasis on natural elements like reclaimed wood, pinecones, burlap and pine boughs.

Pop them into a vase on the mantle or on a buffet — instant holiday glam, basically for free.

cereal boxes, an oatmeal can) in your favourite holiday wrapping paper. Place Here are some suggestions for creatthem on shelves, side tables or even put ing your own DIY holiday decor: tiny ones in the tree among the branches.

Wrapper’s Delight They can be gilded and shiny or Presents are exciting, fun and take us homespun and tied up with twine; there back to our childhood. Think outside the are endless wrapping paper choices to box and wrap tall, short and even cylchoose from to match your holiday theme! indrical shaped things (shoe boxes,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

colours. “With our winters often being so dark and dreary, the holidays can be a good excuse to brighten things up with winter whites and mirrors. Bounce the light around, light some candles — it doesn’t have to be dark to be cozy,” says Trafford. “Little LED lights with a battery pack in some mason jars surrounded by books, burlap and pinecones makes a beautiful display — perfect for

Dollar Store and Repeat One of the secrets of the best decorators is that they know there is power in numbers. Something as simple (and inexpensive) as three or five white candles set among some fresh bows (foraged of course) on a mantle creates a classy, cozy, holiday look. Remember to use different heights to add interest.

The festively delicious

&

HOLIDAY PITA HOLIDAY POUTINE

available il bl NOW

Wishing everyone a great Holiday season

Celebrating 23 years serving greater Halifax

5576 Fenwick Street • Halifax • www.darrellsrestaurants.com d ll t • 492-2344

12 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

If it’s La-Z-Boy, we have it.

COMFORT STUDIO

HUGE INVENTORY Special orders promptly filled!

J.R. RAHEYS FURNITURE & APPPLIANCES

KINGS ROAD, SYDNEY RIVER.............. 902-562-2500 MAIN ST., SYDNEY MINES .................. 902-736-9442 CHURCH ST., ANTIGONISH ................. 902-863-9200 ARCHIMEDES ST., NEW GLASGOW ...... 902-755-1966

jrraheys.com

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 13

Give cash or gift cards with more fanfare Gift giving 101

By Heather Laura Clarke

T

to do that mock-surprised face when they flip open the card and see something slide out. Ugh. Here are five ways to mix things up this holiday season by giving cash and gift cards with a bit more flair.

here’s something very ho-hum about handing over a plain old envelope during a gift exchange. Food it Everybody knows there is either a gift ’Tis the season for sweet treats and card or cash inside, but the recipient has savoury snackies, and they’re an easy

way to dress up a simple gift card or cash. Tape your gift to a classic holiday treat like fudge or sugar cookies, or pick up a bag of the person’s favourite candy.

You could also pick a food that fits the theme of a gift card, like attaching movie money to a large bag of popcorn, or pairing a bookstore gift card with a collection of different teas -- perfect for cozying up with their new book.

Volume Three Celtic Colours Live

i Volume Three

Give the gift of Music...

Front

Theme it Giving a coffee gift card to a java junkie?

Slip it into an empty paper cup from the coffee place (if you ask nicely while you’re buying the gift card, they’re likely to hand it over). Add a little raffia or tissue paper in the cup so the card doesn’t rattle around, and stick a bow on the lid.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

Celtic Colours Live Volume Three RECORDED DURING THE 2015 FESTIVAL Order online at celtic-colours.com/shop or by phone 1-888-355-7744 Also available Volumes 1 & 2

Art and Jewellery Pop-up Show!

Saturday, December 12, 5:30–7:30 p.m.

Appetizers and Avondale Sky wine-tasting!

14 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

Gift-giving etiquette Who should be on your list, and how much should you spend?

Gift giving 101

By Heather Laura Clarke

T

he first step of smart holiday shopping is making a list of everyone who will be receiving a gift. Family and close friends are at the top, of course, but it can get trickier as you work your way through the people in your life.

Teachers, hair stylists, cleaners, mail carriers, karate coaches, and more. How do you determine which ones receive a gift or tip — and, if so, how much do you spend?

Leah Ingram, author of The Everything Etiquette Book and moneyCONTINUED ON PAGE 16

Health matters most this holiday season A pair of pajama pants were Pete Stevens’ most treasured his ast holiday season. nder

He credits thee received for en nhancing s life, helping him mana e and alleviating th st

of

ec a s s, m

t During this season of giving, please donate to the QEII Foundation and make a lasting difference in the lives of patients like Pete.

“They brought Christmas to life within those hospital walls.

I’ll never I’l ev forget orget their kindness indness an and com compassion.” sion ” - Pete Stevens

co ating a g on Christ C

QE2Foundation.ca | 1 888 428 0220

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 15

a few suggestions:

“The best way to handle the situation is with a class gift. This way, the exact amount of each donor is kept private,” advises McKee. “Give cash or a general gift certificate — MasterCard, Visa gift card — so you don’t limit their choices on where to spend the money.”

Your child’s teacher

“Teachers, hair stylists, cleaners, mail carriers, karate coaches, and more. How do you determine which ones receive a gift or tip — and, if so, how much do you spend?”

Ingram says your child’s teacher “absolutely” deserves a gift, but it shouldn’t be anything apple-related — you can be certain they’ve got all the apple-shaped “World’s Best Teacher” mugs they could ever use. Instead, she recommends a gift card from a nail salon, bookstore or a coffee shop.

McKee says it’s not idea to give a teacher cash because “it feels like a bribe.”

Housecleaner Depending on their frequency, McKee suggests tipping your housecleaner the amount of one cleaning — along with a CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

Proudly Canadian

PUP-ular PUP l Gifts Gif for the Pets & Pet Lovers on your list

9

Nova Scotia locations

Who to buy for? by the government or outside service — teachers, trash collector, mail carrier.” saving blogger at SuddenlyFrugal.com, So how do you determine the value of says everyone needs to make their gift the gift? Maralee McKee, known as list based on the people who play a role America’s Manners Mentor, says it in their everyday lives. depends on your relationship with your “It’s a good idea to include on your service providers. gift list the people you deal with on a “Keep in mind the quality of service, regular basis and/or who provide regu- the length of time it takes the service to lar services for you,” says Ingram. be completed, and how long you’ve “These could be people you employ been associated with the person,” says directly — babysitter, housecleaner, McKee. Looking for more specific exlandscaper — as well as those employed amples of what’s appropriate? Here are

Arlie’s

G I F T S A N D FA S H I O N S Sydney • Glace Bay • Baddeck

902-849-1086 16 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

E

UE NT

YE

R P RO G

Buy 10 bags of any dry dog or cat food and GET 1 FREE! Pick up your free Elite Loyalty Card today! d

RA

M

R

IT’S SO SIMPLE!

U

B

Get Ready For Winter!

BEST LOYALTY PROGRAM

ELITE Loyalty CARD

CLIP & SAVE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

5 OFF

$ 00

YOUR NEXT PURCHASE OF $25 OR MORE!

Coupon must be presented at time of purchase to receive discount.

Limit one coupon per customer. Cannot be combined with any other store coupon or used towards the purchase of Gift Cards.

Expires December 24th, 2015.

Cashier: Treat as line discount.

www.pets-unlimited.ca

Cape Breton Star Reader’s Choice 2015 Best Gift Shop • Fall and Winter Jackets • Dozens of Sizes, Styles and Colors • Hundreds of Scarves • Great Selection of Colored Leather Gloves • Hats and Head Bands

Use our convenient Lay-a-way-Plan

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 17

How much should I spend? nice note thanking them for their services.

for a newspaper delivery person, depending on your relationship and how long they’ve been delivering to your home.

Mail carrier

School administrators

In the U.S., mail carriers are allowed to accept small cash gifts of up to $20 or $25. But Canada Post employees are not allowed to accept cash tips, so a safer option would be a tin of treats or box of chocolates.

“Sometimes with mail carriers, there is a maximum amount that a government employee is allowed to accept,” cautions Ingram.

“I find that usually $20 to $25 is a safe amount — enough to show you care but not enough to get the person in trouble.”

McKee says gifts aren’t required for principals, EAs (Educational Assistants), or office administrators, but that a gift is “a lovely gesture” if they’ve been especially close with your child.

“If there are so many in this group that you feel it’s too expensive to purchase a gift for each of them, an item they can share is a nice gesture — like flowers they can all enjoy, or a basket of tasty treats,” says McKee.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

Hairstylist or Nail technician Some customers tip the average amount they’d spend on one visit, and others just tip more generously during their appointment closest to the holidays — with or without bringing in a little something extra, like baked goods. But McKee warns that cash is not always an appropriate gift for the person who beautifies your tresses or digits.

“If you see this person so often you consider him or her a personal friend, then a gift is probably more comfortable for you to give and for him or her to receive than a cash tip,” says McKee. “After all, we don’t tip our friends!”

Is re-gifting OK? Maybe.

I

f you receive a gift that’s just not “you,” is is acceptable to tuck it away and pass it along to someone else at another holiday?

Leah Ingram, author of The Everything Etiquette Book, says there are three conditions she uses to

determine if a present can be regifted. “I’m OK with regifting as long as the gift isn’t personalized to you — literally personalized with your name on it — it’s still in perfect shape, or it’s a gift card with the full amount on it,” says Ingram.

Coaches, karate instructors, music teachers, etc.

McKee says a tip of around $20 (or an equivalent gift card) is a nice gesture.

Babysitters

If it’s a casual sitter you use regularly, McKee recommends a holiday gift of the amount you’d normally pay them for one evening.

A gift of a week’s pay is more appropriate for a nanny, while a small gift basket or gift certificate is better-suited to a daycare provider. She says it’s also nice to include a small gift from your child.

When in doubt, sugar them out. If you’re not sure a cash tip or gift is appropriate — or it’s just not in the budget — both experts agree there’s power in a thoughtful note and a holiday treat, like Newspaper delivery person a tin of home-baked goodies or box of McKee recommends a tip of around $20 chocolates.

opular el p e h t on ob *based rnold l ! a y b k o al storybo d music e t a n i m no *A tony

154 Bentinck Street • Sydney • NS • B1P 1G6 • Email: bestofcb@cb-bac.ca • Phone: (902) 567- 9666 / Toll Free1-855-734-7705 Shop with us online 24/7 at www.bestofcbgiftshop.ca

18 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

Like us on -Facebook.com/The Best of Cape Breton

Stuff those stockings with LOCAL LOVE Gift cards CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

STORY BY HEATHER LAURA CLARKE

Want to buy a teenaged niece or nephew some new clothes, but have no idea which dark, cologne-smogged stores “kids today” are shopping? (Me, neither.) Tape cash to a hanger and cover the whole thing in wrapping paper — what a strangely-shaped gift! Or lay the cash on top of a hideous secondhand sweater with a note that says “I have no idea what’s fashionable. Please buy yourself something nice, on me!”

G

illian Wesley and her husband decided to do all of their holiday shopping locally one year, but it wasn’t going as easily as they’d hoped.

“There were so many great local things available, but it took so much legwork to locate something and actually go out and find it,” says Wesley. “It involved a lot of running around.”

She remembered how she’d loved flipping through the Sears Wish Book as a child, and how easy it had been to choose gifts for everyone in the family.

So Wesley decided to create her own online version — LocalWishlist.ca — for Nova Scotia makers, growers and producers.

“The response even in the first year was really great. We had almost 15,000 views, which really surprised me because I didn't think it would have that big of an impact,” says Wesley, who blogs in Halifax as The Local Traveler.

Last year’s Local Wishlist was viewed close to 70,000 times and Wesley hopes to breaks that record this year. Many of the items on the Local Wishlist are less than $15, making them ideal stocking stuffers.

“There’s a misconception that buying local is going to be expensive, but that’s not true,” says Wesley.

A popular stocking stuffer last year on the Local Wishlist was The Official East Coaster by Inkwell Press.

“They take Nova Scotia seawater and mix it with the ink to print them, which is really cool, so a lot of people were sending them to ex-pats who have moved away,” says Wesley.

The Lunenburg Makery creates felting kits that include all of the materials to make a charming felt cactus. If someone on your list loves to knit, crochet or hook rugs, Wesley says there are locals who sell beautiful hand-dyed yarns and wools. Ellen Murphy’s Mule Mother Books is selling mini book-binding kits that are a great gift for a crafter on your holiday list.

“They come with everything you need to bind a book — thread, funky stickers and covering — and they’re really neat,”

Craft it If you’re feeling creative, try glueing together a cardstock envelope or oragami box to hold your card. Sew a felt pouch that looks like an iPod to hold an iTunes gift card, or use colourful duct tape to create a decorative pocket for a craft store gift card. The truly crafty can turn a mason jar into a snow globe and slip a gift card inside — but, uh, don’t try that with cash.

Basket it

says Wesley.

Kids definitely aren’t left out of the local love. Sugartown Studio’s adorable toys are handmade from polymer clay, and include whimsical creations like potted Groots and Seawoks (mermaid Ewoks). Jack + Jill Paper’s nautical temporary tattoos, created by Halifax mom Jill Jackson, have been purchased by celebrities like Tina Fey. “There are little boats and anchors, and they’re all bright and kid-friendly,” says Wesley. “They’re so much fun.”

If you’re hunting for stocking stuffers for the bearded gents in your life, the Better Beard Company sells beard oils, combs, soaps and balms without parabens, phthalates, sulfates or synthetic dyes. The slickly-packaged products include ingredients like pure argan oil, jojoba oil, and pure essential oils.

Another big hit on last year’s Local Wishlist were Salti men's’ bracelets, made in Halifax by sailor Cathy Davey.

“They were a super popular Christmas gift last year, and they’ve even been featured on the runway at New York

Fashion Week with Nautica,” says Wesley.

Wesley suggests filling a stocking with different varieties of locally-made craft beer and beer paraphernalia, like Bad Mouth Soap’s East Coast Hangover soap — made with beer, bacon fat and coffee grinds to wake you up after a hard night of partying.

The Local Wishlist makes it easy to plan out which stores, farmers’ markets, or websites are carrying the gifts. Stores like Made in the Maritimes in Bedford, Kept in Dartmouth, Dots + Loops in Lunenburg carry numerous locally-made products so you can check a bunch of people off your shopping list in one trip.

In addition to getting a unique highquality gift, Wesley says buying a local gift makes everyone feel good.

“You’re helping out the local community, and supporting people in doing what they love,” she says. “A lot of these makers are doing this on the side, and buying from them helps us to have a community of people who are working hard to add variety to the marketplace.”

Instead of spending your whole budget on a gift card, consider getting them a smaller gift card and putting it in a basket with some other presents.

A gift card to a bath/body store could be paired with scented lotions and soaps and a gift card to a home improvement store would fit in well with packages of screws and rolls of duct tape. Combine a take-out restaurant gift card with a bottle of wine or case of craft beer, and you’ve got a relaxed stay-at-home date-night gift.

Trick it Gift cards are teeny tiny, and cash has even less weight, so wrap your gift up in tissue paper and stuff it inside a box — the bigger the better. If you really want to throw them off the scent, throw in a couple of cans of soup to weigh down the box. Wrap the whole thing up and it will look like a large (but possibly awful) present.

It’s especially fun when a teenager is really hoping for cash or a gift card, but they see you heading toward them with a large box and decide you must have gotten them something lame. They seem to appreciate the cash or card even more because they’re so relieved it’s not a shirt they’ll never wear.

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 19

‘Tis the season to take advantage of exclusive holiday sales.

Countdown to Christmas: Inventive Advent calendars the $1 to $3 character-printed cardboard advent calendars filled with small chocolates. But companies like Lindt make pricit’s the most wonderful time of the er grown-up versions with much larger, year, but it also feels like it takes the higher-quality chocolates inside. If you longest to arrive — especially when want to create your own chocolatey calenyou’re an excitable child with a limited dar using hand-picked sweets, try decoratconcept of time. ing two-inch magnetic favour tins from the Advent calendars date back to the German Lutherans in the 19th century, but are craft store and arranging them on a metal used today by people of many religions as board or spray-painted cookie sheet. a Christmas countdown. They give kids — Toys um, and grown-ups — a visual of how much longer they need to wait until the You can make this easy by purchasing a big day, and they’re a fun way to have a ready-made Playmobil or LEGO advent mini celebration each day leading up to calendar that includes pieces in each Christmas. window that connect to make a full set. Or Whether you’re partial to the traditional you can stick with different inexpensive chocolate calendars or want to try items if you’re going to dole out a different something more activity-oriented, here are toy each day. You could craft a board with some inventive advent calendars you 24 hanging buckets, each containing a fun might want to try this year: surprise, or clip 24 labeled paper bags to strips running across a wall. If you want to

STORY BY HEATHER LAURA CLARKE

I

Chocolate

Many families with young children opt for 20 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

Make Halifax Shopping Centre your ultimate holiday shopping destination, and be sure to pick up everything on your holiday shopping list – including a little something for yourself!

THE BIG BLACK BOW EVENT BLACK FRIDAY SAVINGS* ALL WEEKEND LONG! Fri Nov 27 | 8am - 10pm Sat Nov 28 | 8am - 10pm Sun Nov 29 | 10am - 6pm EXTENDED HOURS Sun Dec 6, 13, 20 | 10am - 6pm BOXING DAY Sun Dec 27 | 8am - 9pm

DEFINE YOURSELF

*At participating stores only. Certain conditions and restrictions may apply.

APPLE | ARITZIA | BANANA REPUBLIC | BATH & BODY WORKS BROWNS | COACH | FOSSIL | GAP | HOLLISTER | MICHAEL KORS PIER 1 | SEARS | SEPHORA | SPORTCHEK | VICTORIA’S SECRET WALMART SUPERCENTRE | WINNERS

CONTINUED ON PAGE 21

Holiday living made easy

W

Countdown to Christmas

ith so much on our plates between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, the holiday season can be hectic. Fortunately, there are many ways to save time and make the holiday season more manageable.

If you don’t have plastic clips to hang lights around windows and to the eaves of your home, inexpensive clothespins will work just as well. If you’re concerned about the colour of the wooden clips, paint them holiday hues before

snowman, caroling, volunteering at a foodbank, baking sugar cookies or just snuggling up and watching How The Grinch Stole Christmas.

covered by a piece of paper with the date.

Pull off a paper each morning to reveal the fun photo underneath, and you’ll have a growing collection of memories on the wall leading up to the big day.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20

Puzzles give the final gift on Christmas Day, you Let them discover a new puzzle piece can tie a string from the advent caleneach day — or a handful of smaller dar over to a larger gift under the tree. pieces each day — and everyone can watch the finished puzzle slowly appear Activity prompts as the holiday approaches. Slip the pieces into labeled pockets of a hanging shoe Advent is about building anticipation, organizer, or into tiny cloth bags that you and you can do that with experiences instead of toys or treats. Fill tiny boxes hang from a miniature Christmas tree. or envelopes with different ideas for holiday activities, or write the ideas on Photos scraps of paper and slip them inside the Stretch a piece of yarn from one wall to pockets of a fabric advent calendar. another, and hang photos of your family Activities could include building a celebrating the holidays — with each photo

Baking supplies Cupcake liners one day, sprinkles the next day, and maybe coloured sugar on the third day? Parcel out ingredients to bake a holiday treat every five to seven days, or save them all up to have a spectacular cookie-decorating party on Christmas Eve to make something special for Santa to nibble.

Art supplies There are so many fun crafty items available around the holidays, from

stringing the lights.

Put a bath mat, rug-side down and rubber-side up, beneath your Christmas tree stand.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

glittery foam stickers and pom-poms to gingerbread man stamps and plain wooden ornaments that can be painted.

A budding artist would love to unwrap a new project a day — or build up supplies to create a larger project every week — and it will keep them entertained during their impatient holiday countdown.

Tiny presents Decorate a basket and fill it with small wrapped gifts, each labeled with the date it should be opened. Or glue a bunch of paper cups or cardboard tubes into a large grid, fill each one with a little gift, tape paper over the openings and label each one with a number — letting the recipient punch through a paper each day to snag their prize.

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 21

Tastes of the season Buying for the person who has everything?

You can’t go wrong with locally produced edible goodies

The Largest Selection of Pool Tables and Pool Cues in Eastern Canada

Gift guide

By Heather Laura Clarke

W

hat do you get the person that has everything — and doesn’t want any more “stuff ” to store? Something deliciously local that won’t last long before it’s gobbled up.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 25

Whether you’re a casual or competitive player The Billiard Shop has something for everyone • Pool Tables & Accessories • Table Lighting • Cues & Accessories • Cue Lathe Service On Site • Foosball, Table Tennis and Shuffleboard • On Staff Pool Table Technicians • Wall Decor • Darts • Plus Tons More Everything you need for the ultimate games room!

Mon-Fri: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Sat: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm 3123 Kempt Road, Halifax, NS www.thebilliardshop.com | 902.490.0001

22 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

SAVE BIG ON GIFTS THEY’LL LOVE AT

ALGONQUIN RESORT: $425 STAY & PLAY PACKAGE • ONLY $370

INGLIS JEWELLERS: $100 GIFT CARD • ONLY

$78

INQUISITIVE TOY COMPANY: $25 GIFT CARD • ONLY

$18

LILY’S: $100 GIFT CARD • ONLY

$75

JOHN DAVID SHOES: $100 GIFT CARD • ONLY

NURTURED: $50 GIFT CARD • ONLY

TO ORDER THESE ITEMS AND MORE, VISIT HERALDSHOP.CA

$85

$42

1-800-565-3339 HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 23

TAKEITOUTSIDE.CA Truro, Halifax & Dartmouth Crossing

O Over 150 U Unique i Sh Shops h &S Services Services, i D Delightful li htf l Seasonal Events & Always a Warm Welcome!

Canada Goose | Birkenstock | Blundstone | Kühl | Löle | Icebreaker | + many more

bove Beyond

®

furniture s home decor s kitchen

Available at the Stanfield’s Company store in Truro, Take It Outside – Dartmouth Crossing & Halifax Historic Properties and many other fine retailers.

STANFIELDS.COM

Proudly made in Nova Scotia

RISE, SHINE & SHOP PACKAGE! Until Dec. 22nd, get one night accommodation for 1 or 2 people, including hot breakfast for 2 and a $75.00 shopping voucher for Downtown Truro stores.

All for only $131.99 + tax. Advance booking only.

❆

Proud to have been voted in the Top 4 Retail Clothing Boutiques in Atlantic Canada by Progress magazine.

We carry unique clothing items you won’t see anywhere else.

Open 7 days a week until Christmas

GREAT LOOKS

Happy Holidays from the staff of Elegant Steps

for the men in your life. ❆

❅

Wear Fashions Meet Footwear | www.elegantsteps.com Womens fashions and Footwear | 58 Inglis Place Truro | 902-897-4950

24 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

AboveBeyondHomeDecor

10 Inglis Place, Truro, Nova Scotia 902. 897.0116

Truro Trade & Convention Center | 150 Willow St., Truro 902 893 4311 | Reservations: 1 800 567 4276

❄

Enjoy

Sea Shell Design

Enjoy all that Truro has to offer with our

❆

Entertain 24 Havelock St, Truro, Nova Scotia • 902-895-1445 •

Best Western Glengarry

❅

Decorate

From wool coats to leather jackets sweaters in V, crew and Zips Shirts for all occasions jeans, cords dress pants hats caps scarfs, plus many other items.

“For Men who care what they wear.”

Sandy’s Fashion for Men | 25 Inglis Place, Truro NS Open today 9-6 • Friday 9-9 Saturday 9-5 • Sunday 12-4

902.895.8447

lions for $60.

Halifax’s Cocoa and Honey prepares “So often we’re guessing what to get chocolate bars, seasonal truffles, toffee, someone as a gift and wondering if caramels, candied nuts and dessert they’ll like it, and food is something sauces all made from organic, fair-trade that’s going to be enjoyed,” says Halifax sources without preservatives or artificial flavours. blogger Gillian Wesley of The Local Traveler. “It’s an experiential gift that Rubs you know they’re going to be opening Rub That Rubs is a spicy Halifax comwithin the first few weeks.” pany with blends that include “Italian Wesley says local food is “so versatSausage” (Chile, fennel and anise with ile,” and says more people are getting other spices), “Memphis Dry” (chili, really interested in the local food scene. organic cane sugar, kosher salt, paprika “It’s nice to give a taste of Nova Scotia and other spices), and “Maritime Seaand know you’re helping people discovfood” (a salt-free, gluten-free, MSG-free er new foods — while also supporting base for chowder and tuna melts). local businesses,” says Wesley.

Their legendary “Halifax Donair” rub Here are a few of Wesley’s picks for is a blend of oregano, onion, and garlic sweet and savory gift-giving: with other spices, making it perfect for

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22

dressing, Peppered Cranberry Chive, is a mixture of extra virgin kalamata olive oil, apple cider vinegar, grainy dijon, fresh garlic, dried local cranberries, local honey, fresh cracked pepper and sea salt.

izers, main dishes and desserts in dozens of ways.

“They’re basically enhancers for your food, so you can look like a chef in your own home without a lot of work,” explains Grant.

Sea salt

Vodka

Maritime Salt Makers of Canada manufactures gourmet Nova Scotia Sea Salt made from Atlantic ocean water. The water is solar-dried in salt houses in Dartmouth, and the salt is produced May through October.

Maple syrup: PURE Infused Maple Syrup produces infused maple syrup, and varieties include vanilla cinnamon star anise, lavender and chai, and chipotle.

Steinhart Vodka’s products include maple vodka and cranberry vodka, and even an organic vodka. Everything is produced in Antigonish without artificial flavours, and the flavoured vodkas contain locally produced fruit, herbs and spices.

Kitchen accessories

“Swaine Street Woodworking has amazing wooden cutting boards. I bought a cheese board with a little anchor on it,” Spicy jellies and chutneys says Wesley. Swaine Street Woodworkbeef, lamb, chicken or roasted potatoes.

Chocolates Truro’s Pepper Head is releasing a ing also sells hand-blended cutting Jill’s Chocolates in Cape Breton sells Salad dressing special holiday trio of their three origin- board oil and beeswax polish for profour-piece boxes for under $10, and The recipes for Hope Blooms salad al products, Cranberry Lemon tecting the wood. offers a signature gift basket containdressings were created by local chef Habanero Jelly, Wild Blueberry Maple Wesley also recommends the wooden ing a 12-piece box of assorted chocolNatasha Jollymore, and the products are Habanero Jelly and Bengali Bluenoser risotto spoons and spatulas from Fox's ates, an eight-piece truffle bag, a five- put together by young people in the Hot Pepper Chutney.

Folly Woodworks, describing them as piece Glen Breton caramels, five-piece community as part of a sustainable Pepper Head co-founder Jason Grant “perfect for a host or hostess gift or a sea salt caramels and chocolate medal- farming-based operation. Their newest says each product can be used on appet- holiday gift.”

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 25

Christmas tree maintenance

N

othing can guarantee the health and appearance of a tree after it is brought into a home. But choosing a recently cut tree that has good needle retention can help. Here are other tips for a long-lasting tree.

• Use a sharp saw to cut an inch off of the trunk base to remove the sappy covering that forms from cutting. This will improve water intake.

• Fill a tree stand reservoir with warm water. Expect the tree to drink heavily in the beginning.

• Keep the reservoir filled every day and check to see how much water the tree is using.

• Place the tree far from heaters or other drying sources.

Affordable. Local.

DOWNRIGHT

DELICIOUS

Holiday Entertaining!

White Almond Bark Ingredients:

16 ounces White Chocolate 1/4 cup Pecans, toasted and chopped 1/4 cup Cranberries 1/4 cup Raisins 1/4 cup of Apricots Cinnamon or Nutmeg for sprinkling (optional)

Method: Find two pots where one will fit into the other. The smaller pot should not touch the bottom of the larger pot when it is placed inside. Fill the big pot halfway with water and place a one inch high sheet metal ring (about 3 to 4 inches) into the larger pot which will help the smaller pot fit nicely. Bring the water to a boil, which will transfer heat to the smaller pot and allow the chocolate to melt.

Chop the white chocolate into fine pieces so that they melt easier when added to the double boiler. Reduce heat to low and add chocolate in bit by bit, allowing it to melt evenly. Once only a few small are pieces left take the small bowl out of the heat and continue to stir. The rest of the chocolate will melt and this will prevent it from being burned.

Place a large sheet of parchment paper down on an even surface and pour the melted chocolate onto it. (You can pre-design the parchment paper by drawing out a rectangle if you wish to have bar like pieces instead of bark). Sprinkle the top evenly with the pecans, cranberries, raisins and apricots. It is optional to sprinkle the top with cinnamon or nutmeg but not necessary. Set aside for at least 2 hours until firm, or refrigerate for 20 minutes. Break the bark in pieces and serve at room temperature.

902-425-7400 | organicearthmarket.com 6487 Quinpool Road, Halifax

26 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

• • • • •

Local and Organic Produce Organic Dairy & Eggs All-Natural Meats & Poultry Gluten-Free & Vegan Groceries Vitamins & All-Natural Personal Care

Order Online!

Furniture with tons of wow factor. As in, “Wow, I can’t believe it’s all La-Z-Boy.”

Collins Sofa and Stilleto Stationary Chairs

If you thought you knew La-Z- Boy, think again. There are so many great-looking options, from sofas to chairs to sectionals and more — all with the La-Z- Boy comfort you’ve come to know and trust.

If you still can’t believe it, just wait until you sit down.

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 27

Tips to make your life easier this holiday season CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

This allows you to spin the tree as you hang lights and ornaments without damaging the floor underneath. It also makes it simple to undress the tree once the season is over. Use a tree skirt to hide the mat.

Squeeze artificial tree portions into concrete form tubes. First wrap the tree portions in twine and then slip them into the concrete sleeves. Each tube can be stowed in attic or garage rafters, freeing up precious space.

Use empty squirt bottles to make baking and cooking easier. Pancake and cookie batters can be squirted from the containers for less mess.

Store one or two strings of lights in a plastic shopping bag to keep the strands from getting tangled. Hang the bags from a hook in a garage or stack them in a storage bin.

Use plastic zip ties to attach garland and lights to bannisters. They’re easy to

❄

assemble and will not damage the bannisters.

A paper towel holder can be screwed to the wall in a craft room to neatly hold spools of ribbon. Simply pull the length you need from the spool and cut for easy decorating.

Mount a tree stand to a piece of wood with screws or glue. This prevents spills from reaching the floor while stabilizing the tree.

Old maps make interesting gift wrap and are a nice change of pace from commercially produced paper or newsprint.

Wrap duct tape or another type of sticky tape around your hand. Pat over fallen pine needles that accumulate around the tree. In hard-to-reach areas, wrap the tape around a broom or a floor sweeper.

When travelling for the holidays, use a brightly colored suitcase or flashy tape to make your suitcase stand out from others at the airport.

Place hardened brown sugar in a baking dish, cover it with a moist paper towel and either microwave it on high for 20-second intervals or place it in a

300F oven for five minutes. This will soften the sugar, making it easier to use the sugar to prepare your favorite holiday cookie recipes.

Save plastic bread ties, which can be used to make tags for the wires on certain devices. Such ties also can be used to organize decorating components and to keep your place on a roll of tape.

Measure the inside of your picture window and construct a wooden frame to its dimensions. Staple holiday lights to the frame and then easily slip the frame in and out of place each year.

Hang a live wreath or some boughs of evergreen in your home to give it that fresh pine scent if you have an artificial tree.

Colour-code storage containers so you can easily find holiday decorations in the attic or basement.

Pack for a holiday excursion using a collapsible clothing storage hanger for closets. Fold clothes on each fabric shelf and then collapse it into your suitcase.

When you get to your destination, unfold and hang it in a closet so all of your clothes will be at the ready.

INTRODUCING YOUR NEW NBL TEAM

28 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

#HURRICANEFORCE

❄

2016 20 SEASON ❄

❄

HALIFAXHURRICANES.CA

Use plastic zip ties to attach garland and lights to bannisters. They’re easy to assemble and will not damage the bannisters.

❄902.473.1846 GIVE THE GIFT OF COURTSIDE OR LOWER BOWL

SEASON TICKETS. CALL: CHILDREN (12 & UNDER) ............$100 ...

STUDENTS (VALID STUDENT ID)) ....$150 ...........$215 SENIORS (60+) .........................$215 ........$2 ADULTS ...................................$260

The 4 Cs of holiday baking In the kitchen with Kathleen Hunter Pages 31, 35 & 36

DO YOU PLAY? THE BRIDGE STUDIO invites you to GET IN THE GAME! Learn to play: Bridge in a Day – FREE Bridge Introduction Saturday January 16, 2016 Get in the game: Supervised Play – Thursdays at 9:30 Just Play Bridge – Monday at 7:00 New-to-duplicate 99er game – Friday 9:30

THE BRIDGE STUDIO has a TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE with our professional directors and instructors. Everyone has a good time at the Bridge Studio - Mumford Professional Centre.

CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS

12 passes

24 passes

36 passes

$

$

$

950*

1800*

2550*

Golf Passes are fully transferable valid for 2016 & 2017 season.

Power cart seat included in 24 and 36 packages.

Includes full service locker room, and warm up balls.

Gift cards also available. *

Plus HST

902-832-2991 | sue@glenarbour.com

ACBL membership – includes monthly magazine Canadian Bridge Federation membership – bi-monthly online magazine supporting Canadian bridge Bridge books- Beginner – Advanced Certificate for Lesson series Play Bridge Game passes

MCG

A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE MUMFORD PROFESSIONAL CENTRE, SUITE 160, 6960 MUMFORD RD., HALIFAX, NS (Main level between Shopper’s & Winners) 902-446-3910 • WWW.BRIDGESTUDIO.ORG HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 29

Baking for everyone and cheese on the side instead of, say, in the salad itself.”

In addition to hosting holiday meals, rom time spent on the line in ’tis the season for special baking, which restaurants to teaching cooking often includes common allergens like classes at several local Superstores, Chef Kathy Jollimore has experi- nuts, eggs, dairy and gluten.

“You likely have holiday favourites that enced many facets of the food industry hands on. Over the years, she’s designed are already allergen free. Fudge, truffles, menus to accommodate a wide variety of macaroons and chocolate bark are all gluten free, for example,” Jollimore says. allergies and special diets, and she says cooking for a diverse crowd can be easier “Some of these can also be dairy free, depending on chocolate you use. A perthan you think. sonal favourite is the PC extra dark “From nut allergies to vegans, I've chocolate bar. It is 70 per cent cocoa and cooked for it all,” she says. “Knowing dairy free, so using it for chocolate bark, your guests allergies in advance is crucial, but when it comes to the menu, try for example, provides an allergen free dessert that is easy and customizable. not to complicate things. Instead of making complicated substitutions, cook Just top with your favourite nuts, dried fruit or candy. Anything goes.” what you know. For instance, meat and Jollimore suggests opting for simple, potatoes are naturally gluten free. allergen-free recipes rather than attempt“Accommodating guests can be as ing substitutions with products you simple as providing allergens like nuts

STORY BY LINDSEY BUNIN

F

aren’t familiar with.

“It is quite easy to substitute non-dairy options for dairy. Most baking will fare well with vegan substitutions for butter, like vegan margarine or coconut oil such as the PC Cold Pressed Virgin Coconut Oil. One exception may be dough for pies and pastries since coconut oil will melt at a lower temperature, resulting in a less flaky finished product.

“Likewise, non-dairy milks can easily substitute dairy in baking though the best substitute is likely soy because of its higher protein content. This also makes it best suited for savoury applications like cream sauces. However, other nondairy milks, like almond or cashew, can also be substituted with little change to the finished product. Nut and soy milk can even be soured to replace buttermilk.”

The main restrictions for making substitutions in baking is changing the ratio of ingredients.

“Olive oil can’t replace butter without a

change in the liquid ingredients. Also, because certain ingredients provide specific attributes to a baked good, substitutions don’t always produce the same finished product. A great example is gluten-free bread. Since gluten provides elasticity to dough, gluten free bread is generally more dense.”

Eggs can also be swapped.

“A great egg substitute is flaxseed. You simply mix together 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2 1⁄2 tablespoons of water and let it sit five minutes to thicken. Use this in place of one egg in your baking.”

When in doubt, ask your guests to be sure your menu is ideal for the occasion.

“A lemon polenta cake will impress the gluten-free guests while a vegan chocolate pie (where tofu produces a silky filing) will satisfy the dairy- and egg-free ones. Again, keep things simple. Luckily with access to the wealth of knowledge on the Internet, finding allergen free ideas is merely a click away.”

Bake, eat, repeat STORY BY KATHLEEN HUNTER

D

ecember baking combines two of the greatest things: the cheerful spirit of the holiday season with the sweet satisfaction of cookies. And chocolates. And squares.

And everything else you could possibly think of.

If time allowed, I could probably spend the entire month of December creating every last sweet I could find in the depths of the Internet (or my imagination). That being said, there are a few staple categories I need to cover off every year to ensure my home is properly stocked and our tastebuds are satisfied.

There is a method to my madness. I call it the Four Cs of Christmas Baking.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 35

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 31

the kids and bake the Becel Hot Chocolate Cookie Cup which is a delicious spin on the classic winter beverage in cookie form — a fun way to engage kids in baking.

Beat margarine with sugars in large bowl using electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Beat in eggs and vanilla until blended. Gradually add in flour mixture; beat just until blended. Stir coffee granules into milk. Stir milk mixture and cocoa powder into dough. Drop by tableBecel Anything Goes spoonfuls into confectioners sugar; roll to Mocha Crinkle Cookies generously coat. Arrange on ungreased 60 cookies cookie sheets. Bake 8 minutes or until Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes edges are firm. Cool 2 minutes on wire rack; remove cookies from sheets, cool 2 1⁄4 cups all]purpose flour completely.

1 tsp. baking soda 1 ⁄2 tsp. salt Becel Anything Goes 1 cup Becel margarine 1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups 1 etween the candy canes and ⁄4 cup granulated sugar dancing sugar plums, there’s no 2 large eggs 60 cookies shortage of sweets for kids (and 1 tsp. vanilla extract Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes adults!) to indulge in over the holidays. 1⁄4 cup instant coffee granules or instant 2 1⁄4 cups all-purpose flour One of our favourite holiday activities is espresso 1 tsp. baking soda 2 Tbsp. skim milk, almond milk or water getting in the kitchen and baking with 1 ⁄ 2 tsp. salt 1 ⁄2 cup cocoa the kids. It's a great way to spend time 1 cup Becel margarine 1 ⁄2 cup confectioners sugar with the little ones. Once you've made 1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar all those goodies, why not package them Preheat oven to 375F. Combine flour, baking 1⁄4 cup granulated sugar up as gifts? Spend a “crafternoon” with soda and salt in medium bowl; set aside.

2 large eggs

Get the whole family involved

B

sugar on low speed until creamy, scraping side and bottom of bowl twice. One at a time, beat in eggs beating well and scraping side of bowl after each addition. Beat in sour cream, lemon juice and vanilla. Pour into crumb crust. Carefully pour hot water into roasting pan to come halfway up side of springform pan.

5. Bake in centre of oven for 110 minutes or until top is golden brown and centre does not wobble when pan is nudged.

6. Remove springform pan from roasting pan. Remove foil. Run a small sharp paring 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Spray knife around edge of cake. Cool in pan on 9-inch (2.5 L) springform pan with cooking rack to room temperature. Cover with spray. Line bottom with parchment paper. plastic wrap. Chill for 8 hours or overnight. t seems more and more people are 2. Make Cookie Crust: Place cookies in food 7. Make Cranberry Compote: In small going gluten-free. Serve a dessert all processor; process until fine crumbs. Add saucepan, combine frozen cranberries, your guests can enjoy — no one will butter and sugar; process until combined. sugar, orange rind, orange juice and cinnaPress onto bottom and partially up side of feel deprived when you serve this mon stick. Bring to a boil over medium heat. prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes or until cheesecake.

Reduce heat to simmer; cook for 6 to 8 golden. Cool. minutes or until cranberries are soft and Gluten-Free New York Style 3. Wrap bottom and side of springform pan liquid thickens. Cool to room temperature.

Cheesecake tightly with two layers of heavy-duty foil.

8. Remove side of springform pan. Cut cake Place in large roasting pan. Spray inside Cookie Crust: into slices; spoon compote over top of each 5 PC Gluten-Free Coconut Cookies, crumbled rim of springform pan with cooking spray. individual slice.

4. Make Cake: In stand mixer fitted with 2 tbsp (25 mL) melted unsalted butter paddle attachment, beat cream cheese with Recipe source: pc.ca 1 tbsp (15 mL) granulated sugar

Ditch the gluten, keep the delicious

I

32 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

Cake: 4 pkg (each 250) Cream Cheese, at room temperature and cubed 1-¼ cups granulated sugar 4 eggs,at room temperature 2 ⁄3 cup (150 mL) sour cream 2 tbsp (25 mL) fresh lemon juice 1-½ tsp (7 mL) vanilla Cranberry Compote: 2 cups (500 mL) frozen PC Cranberries 1 ⁄2 cup (125 mL) granulated sugar 1 strip orange rind 3 tbsp (45 mL) fresh orange juice 1 cinnamon stick

1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 ⁄2 cup PLUS 3 Tbsp Chipits Pure Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips, divided 3 Tbsp. cocoa 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 1 1⁄2 cups mini marshmallows 30 mini pretzels

Preheat oven to 375F Combine flour, baking soda and salt in medium bowl; set aside.

Beat margarine with sugars in large bowl using electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Beat in eggs and vanilla until blended. Gradually add in flour mixture; beat just until blended. Stir in 1⁄2 cup chocolate chips, cocoa powder and cinnamon. Drop by tablespoonfuls into greased mini muffin pans. Bake 10 minutes or until edges are firm. Quickly make a dent in the center of each and insert 3 marshmallows.

Top each with 1 ChipitsR Pure Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chip. Cool 10 minutes on wire rack; remove cups from pan and cool completely. Break off curved part of pretzels and make a “handle” and press into side of cup to adhere.

A cranberry topping makes it particularly festive.

At other times of the year, you could omit the cranberry compote and top with dulce de leche.

JORDAN’S H O M E F U R N I S H I N G S LT D .

9108 COMMERCIAL STREET

•

NEW MINAS (1-800)- 681-7445

•

jordansfurnishings.com

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 33

34 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

and cut tart tops. Lightly brush the outer rim of the pastry top with warm water; cover mincemeat, making sure to pinch the edge of the top piece together with the pastry bottom, sealing the tarts. Cut a small “x” vent in the top of each tart. Bake for 15-18 minutes, until lightly browned. Remove from oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes. Once cooled, gently toss tarts in fruit sugar until covered.

Classic, cute, cookies, chocolate CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31

Classic You know it well — that delicious treat seasoned with just a tinge of nostalgia.

It could be something your mom made for you as a child, an old family recipe, or just something so perfectly holiday, you can’t imagine December without it.

For me, it’s a mincemeat tart.

My mom made an army of these bad boys every year when I was growing up and for the longest time I wouldn’t try them because the word “mincemeat” alarmed me.

Learn from my mistake: these tarts are delicious.

I get together with my mom every December to make these. It just wouldn’t be Christmas without them. We may buy store brand mincemeat and use a pretty standard pastry recipe but there is definitely a deep family connection to these treats: the tart pans we use each

Tip These freeze really well, so you can make them early and have them all season long. They’re also not as common on the holiday baking scene so they add variety to your standard sweet tray. year belonged to my grandmother and my great-gram before that. A classic, indeed.

Mincemeat tart Recipe (yields about four dozen) 5 ½ cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoon salt 1 lb lard 1 tablespoon vinegar 1 egg, lightly beaten cold water 1 jar mincemeat, flavoured with rum

fruit sugar (super fine)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Mix flour and salt together. Cut in lard with pastry blender or two knives. Combine egg and vinegar in a measuring cup; add water to make one cup. Gradually stir into pastry mixture (only add enough to make dough cling together). Roll out dough in sections.

Using a small glass or round cookie cutter, cut tart bottoms and place into tart pans.

Spoon mincemeat into the pastry; about one teaspoon per tart. Roll out more dough

Cute It’s not enough to simply have delicious treats — you also need something that looks adorable, right? That’s my theory, anyway. My go-to for this category is the Oreo pop. It’s simple: Take everyone’s favourite store-bought cookie, put it on a stick, dip it in chocolate, sprinkle it with candy canes, add a ribbon and ta-da — you have a sweet treat that’s cute as can be (and rich as you can imagine!)

CONTINUED ON PAGE 36

Give the gift of theatre with one of Neptune’s amazing Holiday ticket packages!

Use any way you want to see any of the remaining plays in the 2015/16 season.

Treat someone to Neptune’s Holiday musical A Year with Frog and Toad, or get tickets to the sure-to-sell-out SHREK: The Musical!

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 35

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 35

Oreo Pops Recipe (yields about 25 pops) 1 package double-stuffed Oreos (regular or golden) 3 cups white or dark chocolate (I use white for regular Oreos, dark for golden) 4 candy canes, crushed paper lollipop sticks

Line 2-3 cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Carefully twist tops off Oreo cookies and place them on sheets. Working from the outside in, using the end of a beater (or chopstick/skewer) to dig a channel in the cream filling on each Oreo. Melt chocolate in a microwave safe bowl or measuring cup. Dip the ends of the lollipop sticks in chocolate and carefully place in the channels. Spoon a dime-sized dob of chocolate onto the blank Oreo cookie and sandwich it together with its mate. Let set completely. Once set, dip each pop until it’s completely covered, then lightly tap against the bowl to remove excess chocolate. Place pop back on cookie sheet, sprinkle with candy canes, and allow them to set.

Tip Wrap in clear cellophane candy bags and tie with ribbon for a festive treat to add to gifts.

promptly press a toasted pecan half onto each caramel. Set aside and cool completely. Meanwhile, melt chocolate with coconut oil (microwave or stovetop). Once caramels have cooled, toss them in the prepared chocolate until covered; allow excess chocolate to drip off. Transfer to your baking sheet. Let harden before serving (you can speed this up by placing them in the fridge).

GIVE THE GIFT OF NOVA SCOTIA CRAFT BEER

Tip Make extras, as these go quickly.

Cookie You can’t have Christmas without cookies — what would Santa eat?

If you’re like me, you’ll want more than one option for this category. But if you can only have one, I absolutely recommend cherry chocolate kisses. These beauties combine the delight of buttery shortbread with the sugary taste of milk chocolate. Plus: cherries. You really can’t go wrong.

Cherry Chocolate Kisses Recipe (yields 36 cookies)

1 cup butter, softened but still cool 1 cup powdered sugar 1 ⁄2 teaspoon salt Chocolate 2 teaspoons maraschino cherry juice Christmas is the best and worst time for a ¼ teaspoon almond extract 2 and ¼ cup all-purpose flour chocoholic like myself — temptation is ½ cup maraschino cherries, chopped everywhere! And so is reward. I tend to 36 milk chocolate kisses, unwrapped create a lot of chocolate barks each year as granulated sugar for sprinkling they are so simple and make great gifts, Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Beat butter but I also like to try my hand at alternatuntil creamy. Reduce speed of your mixer ives to the standard boxed chocolates. and slowly add the powdered sugar and Enter homemade Turtles.

This recipe is simple and delicious, and salt. Add cherry juice and almond extract that’s really all there is to say about it. If until combined. Slowly add flour, then cherries. Shape dough into 1-inch balls; you like a combination of salty and place on baking sheet. Gently press your sweet, this is the treat for you. thumb into each cookie until the centre is about ½-inch thick. Sprinkle each cookie with granulated sugar. Bake until bottoms Recipe (yields 40 chocolates) are lightly browned; about 15 minutes. Once 40 mini-pretzels, salted out of the oven, immediately press a 40 caramels, unwrapped chocolate kiss into each cookie. Let cool 40 toasted pecan halves completely.

1.5-2 cups dark chocolate chips 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)

Homemade Turtles

We pour our hearts into crafting our beer.

So give a gift that is so much more than great tasting beer this holiday season.

A gift that supports local communities, creativity and craftsmanship.

LIFT YOUR GLASS AND CELEBRATE WITH NOVA SCOTIA CRAFT BEER

Tip

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper; arrange pretzels neatly, then top with the caramels.

Bake until caramel is softened, not melted (about 5 minutes). Remove from oven and 36 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

These are a lot easier to make with a stand mixer. You can use a hand mixer but you will require a lot of patience, as the dough is quite thick and tends to clog up the attachments. It’s worth it, though.

NSCRAFTBEER.CA

Visit your local store or myNSLC.com for gifting and entertaining ideas to suit all of your holiday occasions.

Get out of the hors d’oeuvres jam with

cranberries

Pages 37 to 39

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 37

Kick up your menu with cranberries Savour the flavours — and spirits — of the season with these locally-inspired recipes

Essential entertaining

By Mark DeWolf

T

hree kids, two jobs and seemingly endless activities … it seems as hectic as life is, it ramps up even more during the holiday season when you layer in holiday parties. I for one am guilty of sometimes inviting guests over before thinking about all that needs to be done to entertain.

Here are a few holiday inspired hors d’oeuvres recipes that I hope get you (and me) out of your next holiday entertaining jam.

Pistachio & Dried Cranberry Crusted Goat Cheese Balls Makes 15 balls 1 large log goat cheese, room 3 ⁄4 cup chopped pistachios, lightly toasted 3 ⁄4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped 1 lemon, zest 2 tbsp honey

Directions: 1. Divide goat cheese into 1 tablespoon portions.

2. Form into balls and set aside. In a bowl combine pistachios, cranberries, lemon zest and honey.

38 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

3. Roll goat cheese balls in pistachio mixture.

4. Place on a parchment paper lined baking sheet. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Crackers with White Cheddar and Cranberry Jam 3 cups cranberries 2 large oranges, juice, zest 1 cup sugar 1 cup water White Cheddar Crackers Thyme for garnish

Directions: 1. Place cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, sugar and water in a saucepan.

2. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer.

Let simmer for 30 minutes.

3. Remove from heat and let cool.

4. Set out a serving tray with sturdy crackers such as Triscuits. Top with a slice of white cheddar and top with a small amount cranberry jam. Garnish with a sprig of thyme (optional).

5. Set out bowls with additional jam, crackers and a cutting board with extra cheese for guests to serve themselves.

Turkey Sliders with Cranberry Apple Grapefruit Relish Makes 15 Sliders 1 lb ground turkey 2 tbsp panko 1 tbsp fresh thyme Pinch each salt & pepper

Directions: 1. Combine the ground turkey, panko, thyme, egg, salt and pepper in a bowl; mix thoroughly.

2. Form the turkey into small patties. Make them the same size as your slider buns.

3. Fry the sliders in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes per side.

4. Place sliders on homemade sliders buns (see recipe below) and top with Cranberry Apple Grapefruit Relish.

Slider Buns 2 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon salt 1 1⁄4 cups buttermilk 1 ⁄3 cup vegetable shortening Vegetable oil

Egg wash (1 egg yolk whisked together with 1 tablespoon water) Sesame Seeds

Directions: 1. Add the dry yeast, flour and salt to the bowl of a stand mixer; mix lightly.

2. Meanwhile, place the buttermilk in a saucepan over medium heat. When the buttermilk is simmering add the vegetable shortening and whisk until dissolved. Remove the milk from the heat. Let cool slightly. The ideal temperature is approximately 100-110 °F. 3. Add the warm buttermilk to the flour mixture. Mix over low speed for a minute then increase to medium and mix for a further 3 to 4 minutes.

4. Lightly grease a bowl. Add the dough.

5. Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm area for 1 hour.

6. Divide the mixture in 15 pieces and form into small balls. Place on baking sheet.

Cover with towel and let rise for another hour.

7. Brush buns lightly with water and then sprinkle with sesame seeds.

8. Bake in an oven set to 400 °F for 18 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 39

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 38

Cranberry Apple Grapefruit Relish 1 1⁄2 cups diced fresh cranberries 1 ⁄2 large honey crisp apple, peeled, cored, chopped Juice of 1⁄4 grapefruit 1 ⁄4 grapefruit, seeds removed, diced 1 tsp honey 1 tsp apple cider vinegar 1 tsp ginger, finely minced

Directions: 1. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl.

Mix thoroughly.

Get Into the Local Spirit I am firm believer in having a signature cocktail for your party. Like everything, your get-together should begin with a good first impression. And what better way than to serve a delicious and colourful cocktail featuring a local spirit from one of Nova Scotia’s ever growing artisanal distillers?

By all accounts, there are now more distilleries per capita in Nova Scotia than anywhere in the country. Some of its newer producers, including Lunenburg’s Ironworks Distillery and my personal favourite, Arisaig’s Steinhart Distillery, are even gaining international acclaim for their products. The purity and freshness of Steinhart’s distillates exude a level of professionalism, detail and in the case of Thomas Steinhart, 300 years of family distilling history. I was only too happy to have a little elf drop me a bottle of his Haskap Gin, produced in partnership with LaHave Natural Farms (producers of Haskapa products). Like his other spirits, this gin delivers pure Haskap flavours and a distinctly dry, very warming finish. This one is best served in a cocktail with a light sweetening agent to deflect some if its lingering warmth.

Haskap Pomegranate Martini Recipe courtesy haskapa.com 1 fl oz Haskap Gin 2 fl oz pomegranate juice Dash orange liqueur

Like everything, your get-together should begin with a good first impression.

And what better way than to serve a delicious and colourful cocktail featuring a local spirit from one of Nova Scotia’s ever growing artisanal distillers?

Sprig mint

Directions: 1. Place liquid ingredients in an ice-filled cocktail shaker.

2. Shake and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

3. Garnish with a sprig of mint.

Other Local Spirits that are Great for Gifting 1. Ironwork Distillery Bluenose Rum, available at the distillery and at select NSLC stores 2. Steinhart Maple Vodka, available at the distillery and at select NSLC stores 3. Caldera Hurricane 5 Canadian Whisky, available at the distillery and at select NSLC stores

the green side but this wine has hit its stride with fragrant aromas mixing with a perfect balance of residual sweetness and lightning fresh acidMark’s Top Local Wines ity. It makes a great accompaniment A Sparkling Choice to a wide range of seafood dishes.

The 2010 vintage of Blomidon Silver Medal winner at The Atlantic Estate Cuvee L’Acadie Brut won a Canadian Wine Awards and recipi2014 Lieutenant Governor’s Award ent of one of three Lieutenant Govas one of the province’s top three ernor’s Awards in the 2015 competiwines. I am quite confident the 2011 tion. Available at the winery, Bishop’s was entered into this year’s competi- Cellar and most NSLC stores. tion — although I’ll never know since Crown and Glory it is a blind competition. On my Domaine de Grand Pré Riesling score sheet it would have received top honours, but in the end my love Icewine sets the bar a little higher for of this wine that carries a Chamdessert wines made in this province. pagne-like richness along with lively This is an impeccable wine that is Nova Scotia acidity at a very unredolent of sweet stone and orchard Champagne like price ($30) is one of fruit flavours balanced by linear the province’s best values. It should acidity. It took top honours at both be the toast of any holiday celebraThe Atlantic Canadian Wine Awards tion. Available at the winery and and the 2015 Lieutenant Governor’s select NSLC stores.

Awards. At more than $50 it isn’t inexpensive but comparable German For a Food Fetish versions would be twice its price.

Gaspereau Vineyards Riesling is coming of age as does the vines used This is a world class product. Availto produce the grapes in its produc- able at the winery and Bishop’s Cellar. tion. Early vintages were a little on

Best Wines for Holiday Entertaining

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 39

Visit your local store or myNSLC.com for gifting and entertaining ideas to suit all of your holiday occasions.

Let them eat ... what they want!

Entertaining guests with dietary limitations

I

f you are entertaining guests this holiday season, a simple inquiry as to whether they have any dietary limitations will go a long way in making them feel comfortable at your party or dinner table.

Although there are many dietary limitations to consider, common ones are gluten free, vegetarian and diabetes. Read on below to make sure you have options available to please all of your guests.

Gluten free: Become familiar with gluten-containing foods and ingredients (www.celiac.ca can help!).

Focus on naturally gluten-free unprocessed and unseasoned vegetables, fruit, dairy, meat, poultry, seafood and legumes.

Be mindful of cross contamination.

Toasters, cutting boards, utensils, and pots and pans must be clean and free from gluten before preparing a gluten-free meal.

Vegetarian: There are three different types of vegetarians. Find out which type pertains to your guest! Lacto-ovo

40 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

vegetarian – will eat milk products and eggs. Lacto vegetarian – will eat milk products. Vegan – includes no animal products.

Regardless of the type of vegetarian, traditional turkey, ham, or roast beef will all be off limits for your vegetarian guests. You can satisfy the protein requirement of these guests by selecting recipes using beans or lentils. Check out the vegetarian recipe section of www.pc.ca.

As above, naturally vegetarian foods include unprocessed and unseasoned vegetables and fruit!

Diabetes: Consider a buffet-style meal where guests can choose their own portions of food.

Offer a variety of vegetables, as they are low in calories and high in nutrients.

Individuals with diabetes can have dessert too! Choose a dessert recipe that is lower in sugar. Look for some options at www.diabetes.ca.

Anne Marie Armstrong is the senior manager, Dietitian Program for Atlantic Superstore.

Same quality meal, more money leftovers.

Use the Coupgon app at Atlantic Superstore and discover new savings each week.

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 41

trol,” she says. “Overspending now could take months, even years, for some to pay back.”

Salyzyn suggests starting by creating a holiday budget, which includes all activities related to the season such as gift giving, personal and professional parties, travel, and donations. She says it’s important to examine your income and determine what you can realistically afford to spend, and then stick to that budget.

While working on that budget Salyzyn STORY BY HEIDI TATTRIE RUSHTON suggests making a list of whom you hen the last holiday item you ideally want to buy for and then removing as many names as you can, or giving open is a New Year’s credit card bill detailing all the ways smaller gifts or cards to some of the you overspent, it can be a rude awaken- people. Then, when you hit the shops, bring a carefully planned out list of ing to the impact that your generous spirit may have on your upcoming finan- ideas to avoid getting swept up by impulse purchases. cial year.

Lauren Cullen of Halifax follows this There are plenty of ways to manage advice, and takes it one step further. gift giving and holiday celebrations “I’ve found in the past that if I left all without losing control or breaking the of my Christmas shopping to November bank says Leanne Salyzyn, owner of or December it became too stressful if I Salyzyn & Associates, and a licensed bankruptcy trustee and debt restructur- had to buy everything at once,” Cullen explains. “I also ended up spending too ing professional. much because I couldn't always find “The key to holiday spending is con-

Get better bang for your buck

W

gifts throughout the year. When she finds a gift for someone she buys it, even if it’s in the middle of summer, and crosses the name off to avoid buying for someone twice.

“This saves a lot of stress because I don't have to be in the mall in December. I can find things throughout the year that I know people will like and they can be picked up on sale, and I'm not spending money under pressure before Christmas,” Cullen says.

Being a savvy shopper also includes knowing how to use shopping “support tools.” Your smartphone is a great way to keep your list organized, as Cullen does, and it can also be your connection to more savings. There are coupon apps for instant savings, personalized retailer apps, and online codes that can be swiped right from your phone at the checkout. Salyzyn suggests scouring the flyers for deals, watching for tax-free events, and asking store clerks about sales or couldn’t find something the sales that might be coming up. person would like, but had to get The homemade holidays are another something.”

She started making a list of gift recipi- great way to save and they’re making a ents on her smartphone in January of each year and adds ideas and notes for CONTINUED ON PAGE 43

It’s important to examine your income and determine what you can realistically afford to spend, and then stick to that budget.

Relax Cool Red, $14.49 Relax Riesling, $14.49

Relax During the Holidays

The holidays are stressful.

The wine selection doesn’t have to be.

5 Air Miles reward miles with purchase November 16, 2015 - January 3, 2016 42 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

Stay safe STORY BY PARTNERS IN POLICING

‘T

is the time of year for peace, joy and good cheer but don’t count on every Grinch’s heart growing three sizes this festive season.

Halifax District RCMP and Halifax Regional Police — your Partners in Policing — encourage you to make sure your holiday story has a happy ending by following our Grinch-proof holiday safety tips:

Holiday Shopping Always lock your vehicle.

Park in well-lit, well-travelled areas.

Keep valuables out of sight. Thieves will look for people storing valuables in their vehicles. If you’re going to drop off your purchases and return to the store or the mall, you should lock your packages in the trunk and move your vehicle to another location in the parking lot.

Don’t leave high-end purchases in your vehicle. Thieves will watch shoppers exiting a store, especially if they’re carrying a high-end item. Shop strategically; wait until the end of your shopping trip to make high-end purchases, or make a special trip to take high-end items home and then return to continue shopping.

Protect your PIN when using bank and debit machines. Cover the keypad to prevent someone from observing your key strokes or from recording your PIN. It’s a good idea to change your PIN frequently.

Monitor your bank and credit card and statements online. Electronic statements allow you to review your purchases and payments as they happen rather than waiting until the end of the month to review your paper statement.

Immediately report any discrepancies to

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 42

comeback with Pinterest providing endless options to those with crafty ambitions. Salyzyn suggests having an “old-fashioned” Christmas and giving the gift of time or making gifts for people. Crafting can also extend to a savings in festive home décor.

Patricia LeBlanc agrees. She owns

Tips to ensure a happy holiday

your bank or to the company that issued the credit card.

Online Shopping Shop only from your home computer — it’s much safer than shopping at a public terminal.

Use different user ID and passwords for different accounts. Go directly to a store’s website by manually typing its address into your web browser. Don’t click on links in an e-mail message even if you know who sent it.

Verify secure connections. When shopping online, don’t enter any financial information if you see a broken-key or open padlock symbol on your Internet browser — this means the transaction is not secure and could be intercepted by a third party. When the key is complete or the padlock is locked, your browser is indicating a secure transaction.

Consider using a company acting as escrow (reliable third party), a credit card with a low credit limit or a single use payment card.

Unlike secure order forms on a web site, email messages are not private.

Don’t send confidential personal or financial information by email.

secure your valuables so they’re not visible through windows and/or doors.

When putting your recyclables to the curb, cut up large boxes from new purchases and fold inside out so you’re not advertising to criminals what new electronics/valuables might be in your home.

Holiday Home Safety Etch an identifying mark, such as your initials, on valuable property and record After a day of shopping, don’t leave parthe serial numbers. In the event such cels or valuables in your vehicle upon items are stolen, these steps may inreturning home. Remove all valuables such as purses, laptops, GPS devices and crease the chances of police returning the items to you if they’re recovered. other electronics, and keep your vehicle free from clutter; even an empty shopping If you’re out for the evening, ensure it bag can create the appearance that there’s looks like someone’s home in by leaving lights and a television or radio on. Resomething in your car worth stealing.

Don’t display gifts in your home where member to lock all doors and windows. they can be seen from outside. Hide or If you’re travelling this holiday season,

Cranberry Vine Studio in Rawdon where she makes and sells holiday crafts, and offers classes for others to learn to make their own to cash in on the savings.

“Obviously making my own holiday crafts (for) gifts saves me money because I already have the supplies, but when I make gifts I do it because I can make a gift personal and unique to the

person I am giving it to,” LeBlanc explains. “Getting together with friends and making a holiday craft is a gift of spending time together during the busy holiday season.”

Salyzyn says the bottom line is that it is your own personal finances that are what you must be accountable to when making a holiday spending plan.

“Everyone has a spending threshold,”

put automatic timers on your lights, both inside and outside your home. Ask a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on your property. Have them shovel your walkway and driveway, and remove snow from any vehicles on your property.

Ensure they take in your mail, newspapers and packages; a stack of mail in your mailbox or pile of newspapers in your driveway is a sure sign you’re not home.

Don’t announce that you’ll be away from your home on your answering machine or any social networking sites.

Report any suspicious or criminal activity to police. You’re our eyes and ears in the community and we rely on you to let us know if you see anything out of the ordinary.

Salyzyn says. “Know yours and don't equate the amount of the gift with how much you care about someone.”

Budgeting carefully and spending responsibly allows the opportunity to have a wonderful holiday without sacrificing personal financial goals, and, perhaps, results in that first credit card bill of the New Year not being so scary after all.

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 43

Winter holiday driving tips STORY BY KELLY TAYLOR

W

ith Christmas just around the corner, many Canadians are planning road trips to see friends and family.

Some of that planning should include making sure you get there and home safely.

With that in mind, here’s a Top 10 list of winter-holiday tips.

10. Pack a winter safety kit This isn’t a small endeavour: you should include blankets and sleeping bags, insulated pants and extra jackets, snow shovel, space blankets, candles

and matches, a metal camping cup to melt snow for water, non-perishable food that won’t be affected by freezing, flares and a “HELP! Call police” sign to alert passersby.

Your kit will stay in the trunk, so stuff that will freeze and not be usable is out.

You can carry water if you take it in at night: it will take too long to thaw a frozen bottle of water, but only a short time to melt snow, hence the candles.

Take a moment to locate your car’s exhaust pipe and remember its location.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 45 Actual model suite interior

‘Tis the Season for Seapoint.

Seapoint at Harbour Isle invites you to come see us over the holiday season! This is a beautiful place to live and play in a glorious setting with active lifestyle amenities, next door to the Dartmouth Yacht Club with oceanside trail, great shopping and Burnside Business Park nearby. Visit the Seapoint Sales Office and tour our Model Suite today!

Waterfront Condos from the mid $200’s and Towns & Townhouse Lofts from the low $380’s.

Artist concept.

44 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

GetTheSeapoint.com

Be safe on the roads this winter only to find nothing but low-value, hard-to-fence items under that blanket.

For overnight stops, consider taking 9. Plan your trip to include your stuff in to the room. Nighttime fuelling stops offers crooks more privacy and more The best precaution against frozen fuel time for fishing expeditions. This is lines is a tank of fuel that doesn’t go below half-full. Same for a diesel, but if when they might be more likely to break you have a diesel, carry antigel with you in not knowing what they might get. too, to be safe.

6. Park, the herald, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 44

8. Check your battery and antifreeze

angels sing …

Glory be to those travellers who park Batteries adhere to Murphy’s Law better their cars in the middle of an open than most components of your car: if it space. Not only does it help protect you from the criminals mentioned above can go wrong, it will go wrong at the worst possible time. For batteries, that is (it’s bleedingly obvious someone is trying to break in), it will also help keep when they are freezing cold. For you, that is also when it’s freezing cold. Your your car free from door dings. trusted mechanic can tell you about 5. Don’t drink and drive your battery, and if you know enough to Should go without saying, but police test it yourself, you probably haven’t ready this far. Antifreeze needs to be at forces are on heightened alert at Christthe right strength, not too much water, mas, and while the increased chance of getting caught is a pitiful reason for not too much antifreeze, to do its job. doing the right thing, it’s also an incent7. Fight crime along the way ive. Also, since the police do have the right to do roadside checks, there’s no Crooks know Christmas is when cars guarantee the only thing they’ll notice are full of presents, particularly cars are drinking drivers. bearing out-of-province plates or the So, it’s a good excuse to make sure sticker of a distant car dealer at malls or your car is in working order, with no hotel parking lots. But they’re also failed lights, broken lenses or other opportunistic, particularly in daytime obvious traffic-code violations for which when a lengthy forage might be too you could get a ticket. obvious. So don’t make it easy: hide your presents. Even if your car still looks Again, all this is something you should full, a thief is unlikely to risk breaking in be doing regardless of enforcement, but

it’s a good incentive to make sure.

4. White knuckles, dark times If the weather turns nasty during your drive, your stress levels will rise along with the risk of a mishap. If you’re having trouble managing it, find a place to exit the roadway, park and let the weather pass.

Or find a room for the night.

Stress increases the odds you’ll make a bad decision, plus it’s just not fun.

Don’t pull over on the highway: if you can’t see, chances are greater people behind you won’t see you, and if you can’t see where the roadway ends and the shoulder begins, it’s a good bet they can’t, either.

3. Keep your distance, but do keep up Staying too close to the cars ahead increases the road spray on your windshield and reduces your chances of stopping in time should something occur. Yet, when visibility is bad, it’s never more important to maintain uniform traffic speeds: if the car ahead of you is pulling away quickly, there’s a good chance a car behind will be coming upon you quickly, too. That doesn’t mean you should try to keep up with a maniac doing 100 km/h when he can’t even see where his headlights hit the road. But a rule of thumb for establishing speed limits says 80 per cent of

drivers will settle into a speed suitable for the conditions. If even that is too much, then follow Tip 4.

2. Don’t forget, it’s winter Take your sunglasses, since snow on the ground greatly increases the light entering your eyes. Take along some snow toys for the kids: even roll-up slider mats are good. It should be easy to find a hill somewhere for a stop. Let the kids work off their energy outside getting fresh air instead of finding out who can kick the seatbacks the hardest! Dress in layers. You might want to peel off some outerwear as the car warms up, but you might also find at one point, you want to cool the car down to help stay alert, so easily being able to layer up again might be helpful.

1. Enjoy the trip!

You wouldn’t do this if the goal wasn’t to relax and enjoy yourself, so plan for events you will enjoy, too. Don’t go crazy on coffee, since caffeine can increase anxiety levels (not to mention how many times you’ll have to stop to shake the hand of the mayor). Stay hydrated and have some healthy snacks to nosh on the way. Remember, too that winter driving can increase the stress of driving, so if it makes sense to break the trip up, plan to stop at more than a mere roadside motel and give the kids (including you) a chance to unwind with a pool, hot tub or waterslide.

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 45

Dreaming of a green Christmas

W

hile Christmas is often touted as the “most wonderful time of the year,” it’s also often the most wasteful. On davidsuzuki.org (2009) they state that, “according to Statistics Canada, 900,000 tonnes of garbage is produced between Thanksgiving and Christmas each year.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 47

46 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

Celebrate in an eco-friendly way Gather 'Round

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 46

Joanna Bull of the Ecology Action Centre (EAC) and Monica MacLean of Efficiency Nova Scotia share some advice about how to be gentler on Mother Earth during the holiday season.

Talking Trees Nova Scotia is the Christmas tree capital of the world, so it stands to reason that we assume our trees grow up happy and pesticide-free on a farm in the country. Not always so, says Bull. She explains that while more farmers are practising these healthy growing conditions, it’s still important to confirm with your local tree supplier that you’re not bringing any unwanted chemicals into your home that could harm you, your children, or your pets.

“Knowing what questions to ask is the big thing,” Bull says. She explains that many farmers spray chemicals to minimize undergrowth and spray dye on tree branches to make them appear darker, so it’s important to ask your tree supplier if they use green alternatives to these practices.

The EAC runs an annual program where Halifax residents can order a sustainably grown, chemical-free tree through them. You can get more information at ecologyaction.ca.

Bright Idea Once a tree is chosen, decorating it is the next step. This year, why not consider trading in that box of tangled, incandescent lights for LED lights?

Efficiency NS will trade two strings of incandescent lights for one string of LED lights.

“LED holiday lights are 90 per cent more efficient than the old lights, so

we’re talking about a significant difference in savings,” MacLean explains.

“They’re also safer because they’re not as hot.”

Efficiency NS can be found looking for trades at many community tree lighting events. A complete list of locations can be found on their website at efficiencyns.ca.

when making gift choices, and to use creative wrapping options, such as scarves, that can become part of the gift.

Shoppers should also think local when deciding where to spend their dollars.

Bull explains that locally sourced gifts spend less on travel costs to get here, and many times they use less packaging Gift Rap on the product.

Gifts and gift packaging are probably And don’t give in to the temptation to the last thing people consider when simply toss out an old item when a gift thinking of holiday waste, but Bull upgrade is received. Bull suggests conosays they’re the worst offenders. She sidering how the old item can be reused says the “reduce, reuse, and recycle” or donated, or giving it to a local organrule is what should be kept in mind ization that can recycle it properly.

Enjoying good food and good company is an important part of the holidays, but it can come at the cost of a huge electrical bill when your old appliances are working overtime to keep up with extra entertaining.

MacLean of Efficiency NS says older appliances can use up to 15 per cent more energy than newer models. They offer an appliance retirement program to help with the upgrade.

“We will come and pick up those inefficient fridges and freezers and you will get $30 in return,” MacLean explains. “We also have rebates available at retailers across the province for more efficient fridges.”

While “greening” up your food storage appliances EAC suggests taking the time to consider where your food will come from this holiday season, and calculating how much food you need to avoid food waste.

“No matter what you celebrate, all holidays involve food, and our food choices have a huge impact on the environment,” says Bull. “If you think about the food miles, how far food is shipped and the fossil fuels it takes to ship food across the continent or the world; buying local is definitely the way to go.”

Dreaming of a Green Christmas Bull says having a “green” Christmas is actually much easier than many think.

“A lot of it comes down to that thoughtfulness that we can bring to our holidays so it’s not only a celebratory time for us, but we can also feel really good about knowing our choices are having a good impact on the Earth, where we live, and our environment around us.”

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 47

This holiday season, it doesn’t matter how you sing it, as long as you end your night on a great note.

Celebrate responsible choices.

Find out where Cabbioke will be rocking the holidays at cabbioke.ca

48 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

Simplifying the season “Maybe Christmas,” he thought, “doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas … perhaps … means a little bit more.” – Dr. Seuss every person draws a name and buys for that one person. Think about the math.

This will result in eight carefully-selecTeach children to be good ted, well-thought-out gifts rather than citizens of the world by tart now. I always aim to 56 harried, thrown-together, last-minute Re-evaluate toy boxes and sponsoring a similarly aged everything done by the end of gifts. Set a dollar limit or, even better … child in a developing country.

November. Gift purchasing, wrap- clothes closets early to insist the gifts must be homemade! determine needs. ping, baking, etc. Save the magical You can even purchase a goat or chicken Make the suggestion to your family — I holiday season for being truly present Give Grandma a mission and lots of for a family to simultaneously teach the am willing to bet you will get an overand in the moment when friends come time to knit cozy hats, scarves and mitts importance of sustainability and charity. whelmingly positive response. They are to call — open that special bottle of wine for heartfelt (and practical!) gifts made When I was a little girl, my father’s all waiting for someone else to suggest you have been saving, burn the beauti- with love. labour union sponsored a family in it! ful candles. You too can be done by the Guatemala. I have such fond memories Make this holiday season the best ever Give experiences as much as end of November if you let your fingers of writing to a girl my age (through a and the most meaningful by adopting a possible. do the walking and stay out of the translator) and learning about her life minimalistic approach to a traditionally malls. Use the internet to order gifts — Concert tickets, movie gift certificates, and culture — a pen pal I will never wasteful and hectic time of year. Use white water rafting adventures or gift forget! you can save money and time from the the energy you save in the process to cards for a new restaurant are all fantcomfort of your home. astic examples of gifts that will be well Do Secret Santa and pull names create lasting memories, interesting Simplify your rituals if they are received with no packaging and they do for gift giving rather than a experiences and a more purposeful not bringing you joy. approach to the most wonderful time of not require wrapping. Most importantly, consumerism showdown.

Tired of slaving over Christmas cards that they are not ultimately languishing at If there are eight adult family members, the year.

STORY BY LISA MACDONALD ALLORGANIZED.CA

S

are not reciprocated? Cut yourself some slack and drop that task. Dreading cooking the feast for the family of 14? Make it potluck or farm it out to a caterer.

the back of the closet or gathering dust, unused and unappreciated on a shelf.

HERALD HOLIDAY 2015 - 49

MAKE THE SEASON BRIGHT When Kyden was one year old, he was airlifted to the IWK Health Centre after suffering a massive stroke. With a 20% chance of survival, his parents were not sure if they would see their son again.

The IWK and its specialized care team helped save their little boy’s life and today, Kyden is thriving.

“

I’m looking forward to the holidays. We have a lot to celebrate this year thanks to the IWK and its generous donors.”

- Brad Stevens, Kyden’s Dad

Please give generously and help make the season brighter for Maritime patients, like Kyden.

Above: IWK patient Kyden Stevens, L’Ardoise, Cape Breton

Excellence is in your hands. Donate today.

50 - HERALD HOLIDAY 2015

1.800.595.2266||iwkfoundation.org iwkfoundation.org 1.800.595.2266