St. Louis Home & Happenings - Winter 2022

HOME AND HAPPENINGS

WINTER22

This special publication brought to you by SUSAN BREWER SERVICE FIRST REAL ESTATE

A note from the editor...

www.STLHandHMag .com

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Wade Brewer

DESIGN

Brian L Spurgeon

WEBSITE & FEEDBACK

www.STLHandHMag.com Editor@STLHandHMag.com

Can you believe that it is already time for our Winter issue? It seems like just yesterday that we were spending our days in the swimming pool and enjoying outdoor dining at many of the wonderful restaurants in our area. This time of year in St. Louis brings with it some of its own set of unique and fun activities that we have listed for you in our Happenings section. Have fun exploring our home town and learning about some areas that maybe you haven't visited before.

Of course, our winter edition wouldn't be complete without some Holiday gift ideas and delicious recipes and tips for entertaining this time of year. Start some new traditions with some tasty dishes or be the envy of all of your guests by reading Create the Perfect Charcuterie Board for Your Holiday Party.

Winter also brings with it some unique challenges for your home.

5 Tips for Winterizing Your Home offers some tips to help you save on energy bills, stay more comfortable and prevent damage caused by winter's harsh elements. If you are considering making some improvements to your home, we offer some ideas to revive your powder room and the latest trends in paint colors.

We hope that you enjoy this issue, and wish you the warmest of holiday greetings and the best wishes for the upcoming year.

Self published by Susan Brewer Service First Real Estate. All material herein is copyrighted and all rights are reserved.

Wade

Brewer Editor-in-chief

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5 Ways to Make Your Home Smell Frsh and Clean

Be Ready for Winter Weather

Revive Your Power Room with These Simple Upgrades

Keep Your Home and Family Safe with These 3 Smart Cybersecurity Steps

Living Color

4 Benefits of Adding a Fireplace to Your Home Carve Out More Family Time This Halloween

Local Listings in Your Area

9 Tips to Save on Holiday Shopping

How to Protect Your Home and Valuables When You Travel

Did You Know Cars Actually Drive on Three Tires?

How to Explore Your inner WoodworkerSo You Can Pamper Your Pet

Open Late Thursdays for Holiday Shopping

Eat Local - Plank Road Pizza

Pre-season Prep: 5 Tips for Winterizing Your Home

Great Holiday Gift Ideas for Kids

5 Affordable Holiday Gift Ideas with a Personalized Touch

- 39

Festive Ways to Thank Your Holiday Host

Start a Holiday Tradition with Tender Steaks

Make the Holidays Magical with Hearty Meals

Warm Up Winter with Watermelon Fun

Infuse Holiday Gatherings with Fresh Grape Flavor

An Easy Appetizer to Add Holiday Cheer

How to Create the Perfect Charcuterie Board for Your Holiday Party

Put a Plant-Based Twist on Holiday Baking

BEST Pizza in St. Charles

1798 BBQ - Eat Local

St. Louis Happenings - Winter

Susan Brewer #1 Agent in St. Charles

Buying or Selling a Home

5 Ways to Make Your Home Smell Fresh and Clean

A clean and inviting home doesn't just look tidy, it smells pleasantly refreshing, too. However, running a household can be a stinky business and it may take some special effort to make your living spaces feel more welcoming.

Consider these sensible ideas to improve the scents throughout your home:

BRING

THE OUTSIDE IN

Fresh air is a terrific option for banishing bad smells. Throwing open windows creates a cross breeze that can chase stale, musty air away in a hurry. You can also

improve your air quality by adding house plants, which naturally help purify the air by absorbing pollutants and exchanging carbon dioxide for oxygen. Plants like jasmine, eucalyptus and gardenias also offer their own pleasant scents.

REFRESH SOFT SURFACES

Textiles and other soft surfaces throughout your home easily trap odor-causing bacteria, dust and other particles that can contribute to unsavory smells. That's why it's a good idea to regularly give the rugs, carpet, bedding, throw pillows, curtains and other soft surfaces throughout

your home a deep cleaning. If you can't machine wash an item, use a vacuum with a hose attachment to remove as many hidden particles as possible.

INSTALL A HEATED TOWEL RACK Damp spaces like bathrooms are breeding grounds for bacteria. If you notice a musty smell in the bathroom but can't pinpoint the source, it may be your towel. That's especially true if, like many people, you reuse a towel several times before washing it. Hang-drying your towel may not be enough to chase away smell-inducing bacteria. However, the growth of bacteria is reduced on heat-dried towels by as much as 99%, according to a study commissioned by Amba Products. What's more, in the study, a heat-dried towel produced a fresh smell over a sevenday period, whereas an unheated sample produced a musty odor by the fourth day.

With a variety of styles and finishes to fit almost any decor, the line of heated towel racks produces radiant heat to gently warm and dry towels. That can help eliminate moisture, resulting in less growth of mold and mildew. They also offer time, water and energy savings, plus some models come ready to use and take as little as 5 minutes to set up.

SIMMER FRESH AROMAS

If you need to add a pleasant scent in a hurry, such as just before hosting a special event for guests, consider simmering something that smells delicious on the stove. Simmering a blend of orange slices, cloves and cinnamon in a pot of water over low heat produces a subtle, pleasing scent that doesn't overpower the room. Diffusers, candles and room sprays can also help add appealing smells in rooms that may need some extra attention.

CLEAN COMMON CULPRITS

Every household has some common culprits and, if you're noticing smells, you may need to step up your game to keep these areas clean. Trash cans, litter boxes and pet beds all need regular attention that goes beyond the basics. Make a point of not only emptying the trash but also cleaning the trash can itself. Don't just scoop the litter box. Replace the entire pan at least weekly. Strip and wash the exterior covering of pet beds and air out the cushion.

Keeping your home clean and smelling great does not have to be complicated. Maintaining a regular cleaning schedule and incorporating ways to purify and enhance the air can make the space more enjoyable. To get your home refresh started, visit ambaproducts.com.

Be Ready for Winter

Americans should brace for a potentially cold and wet winter, according to NOAA and this year’s Farmer’s Almanac Winter Outlook. That means now is a perfect opportunity to think about preparing your family and home for the colder months ahead.

From heating homes with a high-performing furnace or fireplace to keeping children warm and comfortable on school buses, propane can help keep families cozy this winter.

Relying on a diverse energy mix – including propane, solar and wind – can help ensure you’re prepared for whatever winter brings and reduce the strain on the fragile electric grid. Plus, propane is a stable energy source that is stored on-site and can keep homes operating during severe weather or utility power interruptions. Using propane also produces 43% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than an equivalent amount of electricity generated from the grid.

Get winter-ready with these tips from the experts at the Propane Education & Research Council:

HAVE YOUR FURNACE SERVICED. Proactively think about ways you can reduce the demand on your heating system. In addition to scheduling routine maintenance by a trained professional, there are a few things homeowners can do. First, open all air vents and make sure they are uncovered as blocked airflow forces the furnace to work harder.

Check the thermostat to ensure it’s working properly by increasing the temperature by 5 F and waiting to hear the furnace turn on. Consider setting the thermostat a couple degrees cooler than what might feel comfortable as doing so not only saves money but lessens the load from your furnace. Keep thermostats at 65 F during the day and 55 F at night, closing off rooms that don’t need to be heated.

Using a programmable thermostat can save homeowners as much as 10% per year on heating costs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. It’s also a good idea to replace air filters every 1-3 months to help keep your furnace working efficiently and effectively.

UPGRADE YOUR FURNACE. If it’s time to upgrade your home’s climate control system, it’s a smart idea to do your homework and explore your options. There are several state and federal incentive programs to help homeowners upgrade their current systems to a clean energy option like propane. Propane is an affordable, comfortable, reliable and efficient energy source. It’s also a clean, low-carbon option. What’s more, propane-powered furnaces last 50% longer than electric heat pumps, which means a lower lifetime investment. Propane furnaces also provide warmer air than other heat sources (115125 F), are less impacted by outdoor temperatures and produce 50% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than electric furnaces and 12% less than fuel oil furnaces.

RETHINK YOUR BOILER SYSTEM. For a home that runs on a boiler system, you can make upgrades that improve performance while providing space savings and the versatility to provide heating,

hot water and even snow melt. High-efficiency propane boilers can last up to 30 years and have significantly lower emissions than those fueled by heating oil.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOUR FIREPLACE. The warm glow of a fire isn’t only comforting; it can be a practical and effective way to increase the heat inside your home. Not only do propane fireplaces offer 5-6 times the heating capacity of electric fireplaces, they’re also more energy efficient, environmentally friendly, convenient to use and easier to install than woodburning models. They also emit less soot and other emissions.

BE EFFICIENT WITH WATER HEATING. Water heating can be a large expense, accounting for 14-18% of home utility bills, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Set your water heater no higher than 120 F and install low-flow shower heads or temperature-sensitive shower valves to reduce energy consumption. Highperformance propane tankless water heaters can reduce a home’s energy consumption because it only heats the water when you need it, ultimately saving you money.

Find more tips to prepare your home for winter weather at Propane.com.

PREPARING FOR WINTER STORMS

Before, during and after a storm, consider these key factors to help keep your family and home as safe as possible.

HAVE AN ADEQUATE PROPANE SUPPLY

Discuss the possibility of scheduling regular winter visits with your propane supplier so you always have an adequate supply of propane in your tank. This can reduce your chances of running empty in times of heavy snowfall when roads may be inaccessible for delivery.

CREATE AN EMERGENCY PLAN

Work with your family to create a plan in the event of a winter storm. Gather contact information for emergency services and utility companies, including your local propane supplier, along with instructions for turning off your propane, electricity and water. If you turn off your propane, contact a service technician to inspect your system before turning it back on.

INSTALL CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS

Because carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that is highly poisonous, the International Association of Fire Chiefs recommends installing a carbon monoxide detector listed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) on every level of your home, including the basement. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding installation, location and maintenance.

PLAN FOR COMMUNICATIONS

Keep a battery-powered radio handy, so you always have a way to receive updates on weather conditions. As storms approach, it’s also smart to charge your smartphone to use as an additional tool for communication through a power outage. Purchasing a propane generator is another option to ensure you always have reliable power, even during blackouts.

INSPECT DAMAGE CAUTIOUSLY

If a storm causes harm to your property, be careful when assessing damage. Downed power lines, damaged gas lines and dislodged propane tanks can lead to dangerous situations. In the dark, use a flashlight instead of candles to avoid combustion if there is a leak.

CALL THE EXPERTS IN DANGEROUS SITUATIONS

Your utility company, fire department and propane supplier have expert training to handle your home’s systems in potentially dangerous situations. Additionally, if a storm damages your property, it’s a good idea to have a qualified service technician perform a complete inspection of your propane system to look for damage.

Revive Your Powder Room with These Simple Upgrades

(BPT) - Whether you call it a half bath or a powder room, the small space in your home is frequently used by your guests and family - but might be one of the most overlooked. And since it isn't a huge space, a few quick and easy updates can make one of the most-used rooms in your house work and look better. To get it off the to-do list and give it the love it deserves, social media influencer Denise Cooper of @bemyguestwithdenise shares half-bath ideas to morph the room from old and outdated to fresh and modern.

1. SWITCH OUT THE FAUCET AND MIRROR

Make a statement in your half bath by letting your guests see themselves in an updated mirror. Whether vintage or new, a mirror creates the feeling of space, even in the most cramped quarters.

Switching out a dated faucet for a new one from Delta Faucet is an easy way to not only add functionality and efficiency to the space, but style as well. "Being drawn to traditional and elegant style, I chose a chrome finish for my recent powder room refresh, but Delta Faucet also offers Matte Black and Champagne Bronze finishes, which are having a major moment right now," says Cooper.

2. UPDATE CABINET HARDWARE

While tearing out a half bath's vanity can be laborintensive and expensive, swapping out the hardware can make it feel new again. Choosing colors and finishes that complement the faucet, mirror and light fixture ties the room together.

And if you're in the market for new countertops, "Shop the remnant section at your local stone fabricator for small jobs - it will save you a ton of money," says Cooper.

3. FRESH COAT OF PAINT AND WALLPAPER

"Give your powder room that wow factor by adding texture and color to a statement wall," advises Cooper. To add more drama to the space, add a fresh coat of paint to the powder room's vanity and walls. Keep in mind that light and dark colors add contrast which creates depth and the illusion of space, while medium tones can make the room feel smaller. If you want to go above and beyond, choose a wallpaper that is dramatic but matches the cabinet color.

4. UPDATE DECOR

Ditch the dated powder room decor for modern functional items. A cute succulent or fresh-cut flowers are visually appealing and make the room smell great. A stack of books can turn into a pedestal for soap and hand towels. Just keep in mind that less is more in such a small space to avoid a cluttered look.

5. ADD NEW LIGHT FIXTURES

Updated lighting can set the mood and help make a small room feel bright and airy. Also in an often windowless room, it can help guests better see themselves. By matching lighting to the mirror, faucet and hardware, the powder room will feel put together and thought out.

With a few of these quick-and-easy updates, the powder room will surely stand out as one of the nicest rooms in the house. When in doubt, "Incorporate what inspires you the most," says Cooper.

Keep Your Home and Family Safe with These 3 Smart Cybersecurity Steps

Your home is your sanctuary, a place you want to feel safe. While you may rely on locks and security systems to keep your property secure, are you taking the same level of precautions when it comes to your digital security?

Cybercriminals are getting smarter and more sophisticated every day, targeting and exploring your personal data. According to the FBI's Internet Crime Report 2021, a record 847,376 complaints from the American public were reported, which was a 7% increase from 2020, with ransomware reports as a prevailing issue. Experts expect

this number to increase in 2022 and beyond. To protect your home and family from digital threats, make sure to take these three smart cybersecurity steps:

UPDATE YOUR NETWORKING DEVICES

Households everywhere depend on wireless network devices for internet connectivity including modems, routers and Mesh Wi-Fi products for checking phones, streaming movies and video conferencing. However, as these systems age, so too do the security features, which impacts its ability to keep your network safe.

The Motorola Q14 Wi-Fi 6E Mesh System is Motorola Network's newest solution that keeps your home network safe and secure with support for cutting-edge WPA3 encryption, as well as unprecedented Wi-Fi speeds up to 5.4 Gbps for over 100 connected devices. This means your connected devices and online activity remain secure, without bottlenecking speeds, not to mention countless security features.

You can easily set up, manage and secure your home network using this system with the motosync app. When you set up your account, you can use parental controls to manage your children's internet use, plus the app runs regular scans to block ads and detect and eliminate threats before they become a problem. This all happens in the background while your family connects wirelessly, providing instant peace of mind.

USE A VPN

Using a Virtual Private Network - more commonly referred to as VPN - helps provide a higher level of safety when you or family members go online. A VPN is highly effective against cybercriminals because it hides your computer's IP address, which is a unique string of characters that identifies the device. It also hides your internet activity so cybercriminals are blocked from seeing what you're doing online and where you're doing it.

VPNs protect you from the dark side of the internet, but most do have a cost. Many plans' monthly cost is about the same as a cup of coffee from your favorite coffee house, but it can vary. If cost is a concern, you can explore free and open-source options. Do your research and decide which is best for you based on your needs and budget, but no matter what, always choose a reputable provider.

UPDATE ANTIVIRUS SOFTWARE

Antivirus software is software that typically runs automatically on your digital devices to help scan, detect and eliminate any threats, including spiders, viruses and worms. Many devices come loaded with antivirus software that detects and removes malware, but it's important to check that the devices you and your family use at home include updated versions of the software.

It's common for people to skip antivirus updates or let their subscription expire. By doing this you make it easier for cybercriminals to penetrate your devices and connectionsincluding your personal data and online activities. Keep your home's digital activity secure by updating and running antivirus software at all times.

More people rely on their online connections to get things done and enjoy their life to the fullest. With these three steps, you can feel confident your family and your private information is protected.

Living Color

On-Trend Hues Reflect Comforting Lifestyle Design

Upgrading your home design is an opportunity to tap into new color schemes. Knowing what shades are trendy and how different hues can work together for a cohesive design is an important step in creating an attractive design aesthetic.

While you might turn to family or friends for inspiration for your next DIY project, another resource for collecting concepts and options to upgrade your space is the internet. Consider the Valspar Color-verse, which allows

visitors to explore colors in a unique way and offers paint color inspiration and decor trends they can envision within their own homes.

The interactive virtual home showcases the latest paint and design trends so you can get creative for your next project. After experiencing the Valspar 2023 Colors of the Year firsthand by painting walls and art from the collection to see the 3D virtual house come to life, you can find the perfect paint shade for your space.

“Through the Color-verse, visitors can exper ience the 12 Colors of the Year in a realistic virtual home,” said Gus Morales, vice president of brand marketing for CBG Sherwin-Williams. “Aside from exploring the Colors of the Year, the home is an engaging space for visitors to create art, play games and order paint chips to see how their top color picks look and feel in their homes.”

Color Trends to Consider

Many of this year’s popular nature-inspired designs are all about finding comfort, embracing a flexible lifestyle, rediscovering joy and leaning into the growing DIY movement. The most trend-worthy, forward-thinking and livable colors reflect specific facets or emotions of life so you can update your well-used spaces with thoughtful colors that evoke positive energy and lasting change.

COMFORT AND CONTENTMENT:

If your goal is to create a space that envelopes you in a sense of comfort, consider a white with a yellow undertone that makes a space cozy like a soft blanket, like Cozy White from Valspar. Complement the softness with a muted clay that brings in brown undertones that suggest gentle contentment.

CALMING RESTORATION:

Tap into the calming tones of nature with a hazy green that has duality, which brings in both the calm and liveliness of the great outdoors. Another option is a deep midnight blue used as an elegant calming shade to restore mind, body and home.

HEALTHFUL, MINDFUL LIVING:

Create an uplifting space where your wellness is a priority. Evoke a greater sense of health consciousness with a light blue that has a dose of softness used as a fresh neutral with uplifting qualities of a modern pastel, like Valspar’s Rising Tide. Reinforce the benefits of mindful living with a cool gray that is balanced by the warmth of the yellow undertone, a natural hue like a cotton muslin cloth.

CONNECTIONS AND JOY:

Establish spaces where you can celebrate relationships with others, the world around you and happiness in your being. Consider hues like a white softened by a violet undertone, a harmonious shade promoted by digital connectivity. Evoke joy with a dependable classic tan that features a yellow undertone suggesting new life with uplifting qualities.

NATURAL BALANCE:

Bringing hints of the outdoors into a well-loved living space creates a soothing ambiance. Consider a warm neutral brown tone inspired by the shades found in nature or a cooled down blue that strikes a beautiful balance between cool and warm shades in your design.

INSPIRATIONAL THOUGHT:

A work-from-home or crafting space needs color to inspire great thinking. Try a faded natural terracotta that sparks individuality and warmth or a deep blackened olive, an on-trend neutral that embodies charm and sophistication. Explore the tool and find more colorful ideas at Valspar.com.

Navigate New Colors

Exploring color options before you apply them to a home improvement or design project gives you the chance to experience and visualize different styles before you fully commit. Using a tool like Valspar’s Color-verse, a 3D virtual home, you can experience on-trend color palettes that inspire your next big project through resources like:

• An interactive feature that allows you to repaint walls of a living room, dining room, bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, walls and cabinets using the 12 Colors of the

Year then takes you directly to the site to order free paint chips to try at home

• An artistic element where you can create a 3D panorama nature scene, explore others’ artwork and share creations on social media

• A light-hearted game that inspires you to get on the road to gather your home improvement essentials

4 Benefits of Adding a Fireplace to Your Home

Whether you’re constructing a new home or simply redesigning your current living space, there are many considerations that can truly make a house a home.

Amid budget considerations, design vision boards, specs and blueprints, amenities like a new fireplace can allow homeowners to celebrate the warmth, comfort and ambiance a fireplace or other hearth product can provide. In fact, 7 out of 10 of homeowners have a fireplace and usage has increased during all four seasons since 2020, according to research from the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue

Association (HPBA), showcasing that including a fireplace in your construction or renovation plans is a gift to yourself and your family.

“When we’re designing our ideal homes, too often we may only think about what we want others to see and enjoy when they visit,” said Jack Goldman, president and CEO for HPBA. “The reality is visitors account for less than 1% of your in-home time. A fireplace is for you and your family, a personal addition that serves you and your household in more ways than you may realize.”

Consider these four benefits of including a fireplace as part of your next home update:

1. It can be a sanctuary from the ever-changing world outside. As people continue to spend more time at home, a fireplace can serve as a source of calm and relaxation, helping you and your family escape from the challenges daily life may throw your way.

2. It’s an artful piece of decor to display year-round. Whether it’s a centerpiece for your living room or family room, or an accent to your bedroom, bathroom or study, a creatively designed fireplace can provide an artful design element for your home, no matter the season.

3. It’s a safe, reliable heating source. A fireplace is an extra layer of security when weather wreaks havoc and can provide safe, reliable heat and lighting in the event of a power outage.

4. It can be the heartbeat of your home. Between screen time, remote work schedules and commitments to extracurricular activities, many families experience fragmented home lives. A fireplace, though, can serve as a central gathering spot for you and your loved ones when together.

To learn more about the benefits of fireplaces and find a nationwide directory of specialty retailers and certified installers, visit HPBA.org/ House-warming.

Fireplace Safety Tips

Whether it’s the warm glow of the fire, the crackle of the wood or the deep penetrating warmth, woodburning fireplaces have a way of making people feel relaxed and at home. However, there are some precautions that should be taken to ensure safe operation:

• Never leave a fire unattended.

• Keep a fire extinguisher on hand.

• Keep small children and pets away from the fireplace.

• Clear an area of at least 3 feet around the fireplace of furniture, books, newspaper and other potentially flammable materials.

• Inspect gaskets, door seals and the chimney annually.

• Have the chimney professionally cleaned as necessary to ensure it’s clear of obstructions and creosote.

• Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

• Utilize fireplace tools to tend the fire.

• Never burn garbage, rolled newspaper, charcoal, plastic or chemically treated or painted wood.

• Avoid using gasoline or any liquid accelerant to help start a fire.

• Do not overload the fireplace to avoid burning wood or embers tumbling out.

• Never close the damper until embers have completely stopped burning.

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY

IN ST.CHARLES

9 Tips to Save on Holiday Shopping

Between navigating stores, searching for items at the top of wish lists and preparing for inevitable delays and lastminute requests, shopping for the holidays can make the most wonderful time of the year one of the most stressful times as well.

Even though the holidays seem to creep up faster and faster every year, and inflation adds an additional worry, there is still hope for your budget this season. To help reduce stress and avoid overspending on gifts, consider these money-saving tips from Regina Conway, consumer expert for Slickdeals, a one-of-a-kind online community of shoppers working together to shop smarter and save more.

AVOID PROCRASTINATING. Due to shifting shopping habits, there may be excess inventory in certain categories such as home goods. While it’s possible categories with extra inventory may see deep discounts later in the holiday season, don’t expect every item you want to be available at the last minute.

SET YOUR BUDGET WITH HIDDEN COSTS IN MIND. When setting budgets, many people stop at the number they think they’ll spend on gifts alone. Make sure to factor in additional costs such as child or pet care services, shipping fees and travel costs so there are no surprises.

TAP INTO TECHNOLOGY. Whether shopping for toys and technology or travel and home goods, starting your search by visiting a site like Slickdeals can help you find the best deals this holiday season. Deals from top retailers are vetted and voted on by a community of 12 million shoppers working together to save to help ensure you’re getting the best products at the best prices. You can also set Deal Alerts to be notified when a deal matching your criteria gets posted.

BUY ONLINE, PICK UP IN-STORE. Where available –including at many big box retailers – shopping online then picking up your purchases in-store (or curbside for even more convenience) can help you avoid paying shipping fees and confirm your items will arrive on time. Some retailers even offer exclusive discounts for curbside or in-store pickup.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF MEMBERSHIP PROGRAMS. If you haven’t been a member before, many retailers that offer memberships allow for free trials to test the perks, which often include free shipping. However, remember to cancel the trial before it auto-subscribes you for a full year. If you’ve previously done a trial, consider buying just a one-month membership to take advantage of the benefits during the holiday shopping season.

ABANDON YOUR SHOPPING CART. When shopping online, add items you’re interested in to your cart, go through the check out process to the point where the retailer has your email address then simply close the browser or tab. Often, if you have not shopped from the site previously, the retailer will send you a discount code or coupon to incentivize your purchase decision.

Stock up on discounted gift cards. Taking advantage of discounted gift card sites is a simple way to save some cash on holiday purchases. Not only can you give a gift card you bought at a discount as a gift, you can also use it to shop. Just be sure not to overbuy or you may end up wasting unused cards.

ASK FOR A PRICE MATCH OR ADJUSTMENT. If you bought something and find a lower price within a week of that purchase, ask the retailer for a price adjustment. While this typically won’t work with special promotions, many stores, both online and brick and mortar, will price match during the holiday season. If you’re shopping in-store, take your smartphone with you and ask for the retailer to match online pricing, which can sometimes be a better deal. Asking for this match can save you time and money on shipping fees you might incur ordering online.

CHECK RETURN POLICIES. Many retailers offer extended return windows during the holiday shopping season. Make sure you look at the details of retailers’ policies to ensure you understand how much time you have to make returns and don’t have to pay return shipping or other unexpected costs. Find more tips to get the best deals on holiday gifts at Slickdeals.net.

Whether you’re visiting your in-laws or taking a tropical vacation, you likely leave your house and the majority of your belongings unattended while you’re gone. Recent research suggests that if you’re like many Americans, you may not be doing enough to protect your assets when you hit the road.

According to a study conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of Selective Insurance, 59% of U.S. homeowners have a home security system or device, yet less than half (49%) use one to protect their unoccupied homes when they are on vacation.

However, most homeowners do take some safety measures before departing for extended periods. For instance, 68% lock all their windows when they leave town. Additional precautions include having someone check their home (61%), setting lights on a timer (39%), shutting off water (21%), and hiring a house sitter (13%).

Nevertheless, risk experts say you’re best off with a system that monitors for break-ins and other mishaps, including fire and flooding from storms or leaky pipes.

“Vacations are a great time to create new memories, but they are quickly forgotten if you return to a damaged or burglarized home. Taking sensible home safety preparations before leaving is as important as packing the right items in your suitcase,” says Allen Anderson, senior vice president of Personal Lines at Selective Insurance. “Our research shows that home security systems and devices are widely under-used across the country, but they are powerful tools to mitigate against unoccupied home theft, fire and water leaks.”

According to Anderson, here are some steps you can take before traveling for greater peace of mind:

• Install and use a smart home security system or device. Doing so provides a vital line of defense and could save you money. Many insurers, including Selective Insurance, will provide a homeowners policy discount to policyholders with a professionally monitored security system.

• Lock your garage and all of your doors and windows – and double-check them.

• Install outdoor lights. Use an automatic timer to set your interior and exterior lights and give your home the appearance of occupancy.

• Stop your mail, package and news deliveries.

• Stow away your valuables.

• Consider waiting until you return from your trip to share vacation photos to social media, or use privacy settings to control who sees your posts.

• Unplug all unnecessary electronics.

• Bring all house keys with you, or leave one with a trusted friend to check up on your home while you’re gone.

• Turn off your water! Some of the most frequent and costly homeowners’ claims are due to water damage.

For more home protection tips, visit selective.com.

As you make your travel arrangements, think beyond airline tickets and hotel bookings. Be sure that your plans also include home protection in your absence.

Did You Know Cars Actually Drive on Three Tires?

No, this isn't an article about tricycles. It's about a major misconception that takes place where the rubber meets the road. Most drivers have no idea that there are three kinds of tires - and what they don't know might be hurting them.

It's vital that drivers understand all three tire varieties, so they can choose the right fit for their weather and lifestyles. With that in mind, here's a helpful overview

of all three: all-season, winter and a hybrid of the twoall-weather tires.

The tires everyone knows

Look beneath your vehicle. Chances are you're driving a set of all-season tires. They're the most common tire produced and driven in North America, and they're likely what comes on your new car from the dealership.

Their name - "all-season" - might lead drivers to believe they're built for all weather conditions. Surprisingly, they

Did you know that cars actually ride on three tires?

aren't! All-season tires are typically produced with durability in mind. That means they have harder rubber compounds that help them last a bit longer. Unfortunately, those hard compounds become even harder - and way less effective - once temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius). Think of it like driving on hockey pucks - they won't grip, and will slide on cold or slick surfaces.

All-season tires are a great solution for drivers who live in places where winter weather rarely visits. Drivers in the Sun Belt can often get away with using them year-round, and they're a great solution for those who only use them in spring and summer, then switch to winter tires in the frigid months. But don't be fooled by their name - in many areas of North America, all-season tires are more like three-season tires.

A four-season solution

If all-season tires aren't intended for use in all four seasons, then what is? Nokian Tyres invented the first all-weather passenger tire two

decades ago. The name is similar, but the function is different: an all-weather tire is an upgrade for drivers who visit winter, or see winter visit them.

Unlike its all-season counterparts, all-weather products are certified for use in winter weather. That certification is called the three-peak mountain snowflake, and drivers can find it on the sidewall of all-weather and winter tires. At the same time, they're still intended to be a true four-season option with good performance in rain and heat. One example, the Nokian Tyres WR G4, has a soft yet durable compound with an asymmetrical pattern with one side built for winter and the other for summer.

All-weather tires aren't supposed to replace a winter tire for drivers who live in strong winter conditions. Rather, they represent an upgrade for drivers who plan to use one set all year long and need winter protectionfor example, people who live in temperate climates but drive north or to areas of high elevation. Those who live in southern locales may use them as protection against the halfdozen snowy or slushy days each year.

True north demands a true winter tire

For ultimate winter safety, nothing beats a dedicated winter tire. While all-weather tires are a clear upgrade over all-season, winter tires are the only tires designed to deal with severe snow and ice. Drivers who see regular winter conditions should remove their all-season tires when temperatures fall below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius).

Why? Because winter tires have much softer compounds that retain grip in frigid temps, as well as tread patterns that are geared toward maintaining traction on slick surfaces. As the inventor of the winter tire, Nokian Tyres tests its products north of the Arctic Circle to ensure they're helping drivers thrive in harsh winter conditions.

Winter tires are only meant for winter, though - those soft compounds deteriorate in sustained heat.

It may be surprising that there are three types of tires, but it's valuable knowledge for staying safe on the road. To learn more about all-season, all-weather and winter tires, drivers can visit NokianTires.com/ShopTalk.

If you enjoy building with wood, why not put your talents to work to spoil your four-legged friend? It's easier than you think to make something special that will get your favorite pet purring - or their tail wagging!

Need ideas? HGTV personality and skilled carpenter Darren Keefe uses supplies from 84 Lumber to create a combination window seat/daybed with a pull-out doggy trundle bed, transforming an underused space into a fun, cozy nook.

"My client's canines are part of their family," said Keefe. "Their dogs are usually at their feet after a long workday, so they gave me a challenge: create a dog bed that's easily accessible but doesn't sacrifice interior design. Luckily, there were spaces to the left and right of the fireplace perfect for window seats, a lower bookshelf and concealed dog beds. However, you can easily tackle a standalone version with a couple of tweaks."

Watch Keefe's video to see his entire process, from initial sketch through the finished project.

MATERIALS LIST:

• Birch plywood • 1" X 2" poplar

• 18-gauge brad nails • Wood glue

• Wood filler • Sanding pads

• Pocket screws • 2" directional casters

• Caulk • Paint

TOOLS:

• Pencil • Measuring tape

• Circular saw • Miter saw (optional)

• Speed square • Palm sander or sanding block

STEP 1: Use pocket screws to join 3/4" birch plywood, milled down to dimensions with a circular saw. Match the existing baseboard at 10" and use 1.5" poplar for the face frame and trim work.

PRO TIP: If you don't have a large table to work on, purchase a piece of 4'X8' foam board insulation, lay flat and use as cutting surface. The plywood will have an even surface to rest on, mitigating any pinch of the saw blade in the milling process. Set the plunge depth on the circular saw slightly past 3/4" and the blade will pass through seamlessly without bottoming out.

STEP 2: Plywood on its own will naturally sag past 36", especially with weight on it, so add column-like supports as part of the design. These act as separators for the bookshelf. Then double the plywood at the sides of the structure and top. The face frame will also help with rigidity. If possible, anchor the piece on the existing wall.

STEP 3: Use an 18-gauge cordless nail gun and glue to attach the popular face frame, following with wood filler to conceal nail holes.

STEP 4: For the doggy bed platform, mill a simple rectangle from 3/4" birch plywood (the dog's size will inform the overall day bed size). Attach fixed directional wheels to the bottom, allowing the bed to move in and out of its pocket (if you have a smaller dog, drawer slides will work).

STEP 5: Frame sides with poplar and use the 10" baseboard as the face of the doggy day bed, allowing it to camouflage itself as part of the existing baseboard. Fill nail holes, then sand, caulk all seams and paint. Finally, add vertical kick-down door stops to anchor the bed so Fido can't use it as a skateboard.

"After the client picked a fabric, I had a seamstress sew cushions for the window seats and dog beds," Keefe noted.

If you don't have space for a doggy trundle bed, here are additional fun project ideas:

Your best friend's house

Whether you get a kit, follow a template or create your own design, there are many different ways to build your own doghouse. Make sure your doghouse has a floor, and that the structure is raised off the ground to keep it snug and dry. Treated wood is best for the base and floor, as it helps resist moisture. Also, provide more ventilation aside from just the door to keep air flowing in hot weather and to prevent mold.

A perch with a view

Every feline loves to sit and look out the window. Creating a shelf or tray at or just below your windowsill for kitty's daily birdwatching session is a very simple project. All you need is a flat piece of wood and shelf mounting brackets. Make sure the wood is big enough for your pet to stretch out.

Ready to get started? Visit 84Lumber.com or your nearest location so their experts can help you select materials you'll need for your project.

Pre-season Prep: 5 Tips for Winterizing Your Home

Changing leaves and dropping temperatures are tell-tale signs that it's time to prepare your home for winter and the best time to prepare your home is now before the frigid weather arrives. Winterizing your home can help save on energy bills, keep you more comfortable and prevent damage caused by harsh winter elements.

From prepping the outdoors to indoors, here are five things you can do to get your home ready for winter.

Clear your gutters and roof. Gutters are essential in keeping your home dry as they divert rain and snow away from your roof, preventing water from infiltrating your home and causing damage. Removing dead leaves and debris from your gutters can help prevent potential ice dams, gutter detachment and overflows. While you're up there, remove any debris or branches that may have collected on the roof and look for missing or damaged shingles that need to be replaced.

Seal around windows and doors. One of the most effective ways to save on heating bills is by sealing your doors and windows. Moisture and cold air can seep through the small openings and cracks of doors and windows, causing your home to feel drafty and chilly while increasing your energy bill. Stay warm and protect your home by replacing exterior caulk with a weatherproof sealant like Dynaflex Ultra Advanced Exterior Sealant. Backed by a lifetime guarantee to prevent mold and mildew growth, Dynaflex Ultra stays permanently flexible and is powered by DAP's exclusive WeatherMax Technology™, for a waterproof, all-weather protection that won't crack, crumble or discolor over time.

Inspect your siding. Siding acts as a shield for your home against harsh weather and water damage. Power-wash or scrub off any dirt, mold or residue from your siding to avoid attracting more dirt once the snow melts. After cleaning, inspect the exterior of your siding for any cracks. Cracks are often found between your trim and siding, and around plumbing pipes, vents and electrical outlets, allowing cold air and moisture to travel into your home. Seal the cracks with a durable and waterproof sealant such as AMP All Weather Window, Door and Siding Sealant. Designed with hybrid technology to be resilient and flexible, AMP can withstand extreme temperatures while protecting against mold and mildew as well as damage from harsh weather.

Insulate your attic. Once you've sealed your home, you want the warm air to stay in and not go up and out through your attic, so head up there to make sure it's properly insulated. Add more insulation as needed and be sure to weatherstrip any windows, doors or openings that lead into the attic. An insulated attic can also prevent damage to your roof and reduce the chances of ice dams forming.

Change the direction of your ceiling fans. It's common knowledge that hot air rises, but did you know you can use your ceiling fans to maximize airflow? Locate a small switch on the motor of your fan and flip it the opposite direction so your fan rotates clockwise. Setting your fan in a clockwise direction will help distribute warm air around the room and reduce heating costs.

For more tips and products to winterize your home, visit DAP.com.

Great Holiday Gift Ideas for Kids

Stumped for holiday gifts for kids? Brighten the season for little ones by check ing out these great gift ideas below:

Unique Experiences

One-of-a-kind experiences can expand a child’s worldview and help create life long memories. There are numerous ideas to consider that will appeal to a broad range of interests. For a sports enthusiast, consider a one-on-one outing to a major or minor league game. Many teams host special theme nights for fans, so you may want to do a little research so you can dovetail your plans with an event geared toward kids.

For a budding musician, consider a gift certificate to a local music center that could be put toward the instrument of their choice or lessons with an instructor.

Finally, if your gift recipient loves exploring the natural world, gift them tickets to the zoo or aquarium, or take them on an outdoor adventure where you can hike the trails and spot real-world flora and fauna.

Notable Toys

When it comes to selecting the best toys, you can take some of the guesswork out of the equation by referring to the Toy Foundation’s Toy of the Year Awards (TOTY). Toys nominated for this distinction represent the best of the best, and are beloved by kids and parents alike.

Nominated for the Infant/Toddler category this year is the VTech Level Up Gaming Chair. Boasting a swivel chair, joystick and pretend headphones, this preschool game station gives little gamers an opportunity to be just like big-kid gamers. With no Wi-Fi required, the interactive gaming tablet teaches letters, numbers, animals and music with gaming sound effects, and progresses with kids to teach words and meanings. The tablet even detaches from the tray to be taken on-the-go.

Nominated in the Plush toy category is the LeapFrog My Pal Scout Smarty Paws, a cute, cuddly and customizable friend. Little ones can touch his front paws, ears and back paw for silly reactions, music, lullabies, games and mindfulness exercis es. You can even personalize the play and learning across more than 15 activities by programming Scout with your gift recipient’s name and their favorite food, color and animal. Scout introduces first words, counting, feelings and emotions, and even teaches kids how to spell their own name.

A third TOTY finalist you’ll want to consider putting on your gift list is the LeapFrog Clean Sweep Learning Caddy, which shows kids that cleaning can be all fun and games with boogie-down dance breaks and silly directions like, “Hop while you mop! Now dance to the left and dance to the right!” The cute face on the bucket lights up and sings as kids pretend to clean, with a press of the pedal the mop spins, and as you pump out imaginary soap it makes funny squirting sounds. To shop these and other TOTY-nominated toys, visit amazon.com.

From tailored experiences to this year’s best toys, you can have all your gifts for kids covered and avoid some of the usual stress of the holiday shopping season.

5 Affordable Holiday Gift Ideas with a Personalized Touch

(StatePoint) Are you struggling to find thoughtful gifts for everyone as you make your holiday shopping list? Well, it’s time to get personal! By giving a personalized gift, the recipient will feel special knowing it was created and picked just for them. Here are a few customized gift ideas that they’re sure to love that won’t break the bank.

1.

Make Their Holidays

Magical

with

Video Greetings. Perfect for spreading holiday cheer, SmashUps from American Greetings are highly personalized, smile-inducing, shareable videos. There are options for everyone, like a message from Santa that calls the recipient out by name and location, or a customized winter greeting delivered by a talking penguin. SmashUps can check the box for holiday greetings, or you can include a digital gift card to fulfill your gift giving needs.

With a subscription, you’ll unlock access to all of American Greetings’ digital offerings, meaning you can send unlimited SmashUps year-round. Subscriptions are $6.99 per month or $29.99 per year.

2. Photo Finish. Photos are a simple and affordable way to personalize gifts. Start by choosing your favorite pic with the recipient and then determine how you’d like to deliver it. Whether it’s in a unique frame, or printed on a personal item, such as a mug, blanket, keychain, phone cover or even an ornament for their tree, the recipient will know how much they mean to you each time they view it.

3. Initial Thoughts. While not everyone wants to be in pictures, adding personalization to a gift item by using your recipient’s name, initials or monogram, can be a great alternative. And with a wealth of online sites, from boutique stores like Marley

Lilly to major retailers like Amazon offering this service, you’ll have endless options—at various price points—to meet your shopping needs.

4. Eat, Drink and Be Merry. They often say the way to the heart is through the stomach. So, whether it’s a foodie friend or a family member who has it all, making their favorite meal, treat, drink or dessert can be the ultimate thoughtful gift. Plus, it can provide you quality time together as you deliver the delicious treats to their home or host them at yours -- that is… if they’ll share!

5. Write a Message by Hand. In an age where everything is digital, seeing a loved one’s handwriting—whether it’s scribbled by a child or printed by a grandparent—can be a special memento and unique way to customize a gift. Gift ideas could be handwritten messages and affirmations; a recipe book of your family favorites; or your handwriting could be inscribed onto a gift item like a keychain, picture frame or necklace.

Just remember, it’s the thought that counts. And luckily many personalized gifts don’t have to be costly to be remembered.

Festive Ways to Thank Your Holiday Host

(StatePoint) As you make your way to holiday gatherings this season, be sure to show your hosts gratitude for opening their homes to you.

There are many thoughtful ways to thank a holiday host, but the best gestures are those that include personalized touches to leave an impression on the recipient. For example, don’t just bring a bottle of wine with you to the party. Share on the label why you selected that particular variety for your host. Sending thanks the next day? Go above and beyond a regular message with something unforgettable, like a video greeting from SmashUps by American Greetings, which features celebrities and fun characters and can be personalized.

While gifts for hosts don’t need to be grand gestures, showing your ap preciation for holiday hospitality is a great way to leave an impression and score an invitation to next year’s party.

Start a Holiday Tradition with Tender Steaks

(Family Features) Creating traditions is a festive focal point for many families throughout the holiday season, and a timeless way to bring your nearest and dearest back year after year is with an exquisite meal.

With a combination of savory, salty and sweet bites, Sumac-Crusted Filet Mignon with Honey-Lemon Glazed Carrots and Garlic Mashed Potatoes provides a little

something for everyone. At the center of this seasonal feast is tender, flavorful cuts of filet mignon, hand-cut by master butchers at Omaha Steaks to make your family’s holiday truly special.

To find more holiday recipe inspiration, visit OmahaSteaks. com/Blog.

SUMAC-CRUSTED FILET MIGNON WITH HONEY-LEMON GLAZED CARROTS AND GARLIC MASHED POTATOES

recipe by omaha steaks executive chef david rose prep time: 15 minutes | cook time: about 20 minutes | servings: 4

GARLIC MASHED POTATOES:

2 pounds russet potatoes, medium diced, skin on cold water

1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus 1 pinch, plus additional, to taste, divided

1/2 pound unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided

HONEY-LEMON GLAZED CARROTS:

2/3 cup honey

1/4 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon sumac

1/4 teaspoon lemon zest

2 pinches kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided

1 pinch ground black pepper, plus additional, to taste, dividedwater

1 pound baby rainbow carrots

1/3 cup olive oil

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

SUMAC-CRUSTED FILET MIGNON:

4 Omaha Steaks Private Reserve Filet Mignons (7 ounces each)

2 tablespoons kosher salt

1 tablespoon sumac

2 teaspoons ground black pepper

1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves

1/3 cup grapeseed oil

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

To make garlic mashed potatoes: Add potatoes to stock pot. Cover with cold water by about 1 inch and add 1 pinch salt. Turn on high heat and bring to boil 12-15 minutes, or until fork tender. Drain and place potatoes in large mixing bowl.

In saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and simmer 5 minutes. Add heavy cream, 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon white pepper; bring to boil. When mixture boils, reduce to simmer 3 minutes then remove from heat.

Mash hot potatoes until most lumps are gone. Using hand mixer on low speed, slowly add butter and cream mixture until desired smoothness and taste. Season with salt and white pepper, to taste.

To make honey-lemon glazed carrots: In small bowl, whisk honey, lemon juice, sumac, lemon zest, 1 pinch salt and 1 pinch pepper.

Preheat oven to 425 F.

Fill stockpot 2/3 full with water. Bring to boil and add 1 pinch salt. Blanch carrots in boiling water 5 minutes. Drain and shock with cold water. When cool enough to handle, halve carrots lengthwise.

In large saute pan over medium-high heat, add oil and butter. Add carrots to pan, flat sides down, and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Sear until browned, about 2 minutes. Flip carrots and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Add half of glaze to pan and glaze generously. Bake 3 minutes. Add remaining glaze to carrots and bake 2 minutes. Remove glazed carrots from oven.

To make sumac-crusted filet mignon: Thaw filet mignons in refrigerator overnight, pat dry with paper towels then bring to room temperature 30 minutes.

In small bowl, whisk kosher salt, sumac, black pepper and dried thyme. Season steaks on all sides.

In cast-iron pan over high heat, add grapeseed oil. Place filets in pan and cook 4 minutes until browned and seared. Add 1 tablespoon butter to pan. Flip filets and butter baste about 20 seconds. Cook filets 3 minutes for medium-rare.

Remove filets from pan and top each with 1/2 tablespoon butter. Rest steaks 7-8 minutes.

Place garlic mashed potatoes on plate and top with sumac-crusted filet mignon. Place honey-lemon glazed carrots next to filet mignon and mashed potatoes.

Make the Holidays Magical with Hearty Meals

Capturing the magic of the holidays often happens at the dinner table as loved ones toast the season with stunning meals worth celebrating. This year, call the entire family together and make your festive feast truly memorable with pairings that offer favorite flavors for all.

Starting with tender cuts of meat hand-trimmed by master butchers at Omaha Steaks, these dishes from chef David Rose call to mind the extravagant holiday gatherings of yesteryear with modern twists you can claim as your own.

Roasted Chateaubriand with Red Wine Gravy and LemonGarlic Asparagus offers classic taste while Pepper-Crusted Prime Rib with Creamy Horseradish Sauce and Crushed Potatoes brings some zing to the kitchen. For seafood lovers looking to make a splash at this year’s get-togethers, Crab Stuffed Lobster Tails with Dirty Rice provide a savory, succulent pairing worthy of the season.

Visit OmahaSteaks.com/Blog to find more recipes fit for the holidays.

ROASTED CHATEAUBRIAND WITH RED WINE GRAVY AND LEMON-GARLIC ASPARAGUS

recipe by omaha steaks executive chef david rose prep time: 15 minutes cook time: about 90 minutes

CHATEAUBRIAND:

1 Omaha Steaks Chateaubriand (2-4 pounds)

• kosher salt

• ground black pepper

1/4 cup grapeseed oil

RED WINE GRAVY:

Reserved chateaubriand juices

1 medium shallot, small diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 1/2 cups red wine

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 1/2 cups water

2 beef bouillon cubes

1 tablespoon stone ground mustard kosher salt, to taste ground black pepper, to taste

LEMON-GARLIC ASPARAGUS:

1/4 cup olive oil

1 pound jumbo asparagus, stems trimmed and spears blanched in salted water

1 pinch kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided

1 pinch ground black pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 lemon, juice only

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

To make chateaubriand: Pat chateaubriand dry with paper towels. Season on all sides with salt and pepper; bring to room temperature, about 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 250 F.

In large cast-iron pan, bring grapeseed oil to high heat.

Sear chateaubriand on all sides until golden brown, 2-3 minutes per side.

Remove chateaubriand from pan, reserving pan drippings; place chateaubriand on wire rack-lined baking sheet. Bake according to cooking chart for cook time and desired doneness. Use meat thermometer to ensure doneness.

Rest chateaubriand 15-20 minutes. Slice to desired thickness.

To make red wine gravy: Bring cast-iron pan with reserved chateaubriand drippings to high heat then add shallots and minced garlic. Brown 30 seconds.

Add red wine and deglaze pan, cooking until reduced by half, about 3 minutes.

Reduce heat to medium and whisk in 2 tablespoons butter and flour until all clumps have disappeared and mixture is well-incorporated, 3-4 minutes.

Add water and bouillon cubes; bring to boil then whisk in stone ground mustard.

Reduce to low heat and simmer until achieving sauce-like consistency, 7-8 minutes.

Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Turn off heat and whisk in remaining butter until fully melted and emulsified into sauce.

To make lemon-garlic asparagus: In large saucepan, bring olive oil to medium-high heat.

Add asparagus and season with salt, ground black pepper and crushed red pepper flakes. Sear undisturbed about 1 minute.

Turn asparagus and add minced garlic, sauteing about 10 seconds. Add lemon juice and continue sauteing until reduced by two-thirds, about 1 minute.

Turn off heat and add butter, stirring until emulsified into pan sauce. Season with salt and ground black pepper, to taste.

Serve chateaubriand with lemon-garlic asparagus and red wine gravy.

PEPPER-CRUSTED PRIME RIB WITH CREAMY HORSERADISH SAUCE AND CRUSHED POTATOES

recipe by omaha steaks executive chef david rose prep time: 10 minutes cook time: about 2 1/2 hours servings: 4-6

CREAMY HORSERADISH SAUCE:

15 ounces crema or sour cream

1/3 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons horseradish 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons minced fresh chives 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon hot sauce

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided 1/2 teaspoon white pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

To make creamy horseradish sauce: In medium bowl, whisk crema, mayonnaise, horseradish, vinegar, chives, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, hot sauce, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, onion powder, garlic powder and paprika until well-incorporated.

Season with additional salt and white pepper, to taste. To make pepper rub: In small bowl, stir salt, peppercorns, chili and thyme.

To make prime rib: Pat prime rib dry with paper towels. Season on all sides with pepper rub and bring to room temperature, about 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 250 F.

In large cast-iron pan, bring grapeseed oil to medium-high heat. Sear prime rib on all sides until golden brown, 2-3 minutes per side.

Place seared prime rib on wire rack-lined baking sheet. Bake according to cooking chart for cook time and desired doneness. Use meat thermometer to ensure doneness. Cook until internal temperature is 10 F below desired doneness.

PEPPER RUB:

3 tablespoons kosher salt

1 tablespoon ground peppercorn medley 2 teaspoons ground guajillo chili 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves

PRIME RIB:

1 Omaha Steaks Boneless Heart of Prime Rib Roast (4 pounds) pepper rub 1/4 cup grapeseed oil

CRUSHED POTATOES:

1 pound baby red skin potatoes cold water

1 pinch kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided 1/4 cup olive oil

2 garlic cloves, minced 2 tablespoons finely minced Italian parsley ground black pepper

Rest prime rib 15-20 minutes. Slice to desired thickness.

To make crushed potatoes: Preheat oven to 425 F. Add potatoes to stockpot. Cover with cold water by about 1 inch and add 1 pinch salt. Over high heat, boil 8-10 minutes, or until fork tender. Drain and completely cool with running cold water.

Once cool, carefully crush potatoes with palms until skin breaks and potatoes are slightly crushed.

In medium bowl, whisk olive oil, garlic and parsley.

Place crushed potatoes on aluminum foil-lined baking sheet and toss lightly with olive oil mixture. Season potatoes on both sides with kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste. Roast potatoes until crisped and golden brown, 15-17 minutes.

Serve prime rib with crushed potatoes and creamy horseradish sauce.

CRAB STUFFED LOBSTER TAILS WITH DIRTY RICE

recipe by omaha steaks executive chef david rose prep time: 15 minutes cook time: 30 minutes servings: 4

DIRTY RICE:

2 cups jasmine rice water

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1 pound Omaha Steaks Ultra-Premium Ground Beef

1 tablespoon kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided

1 teaspoon black pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided

1 teaspoon garlic powder

2 teaspoons smoked paprika

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 medium red bell pepper, small diced

2 green onions, minced

1 cup small diced yellow onion

1/2 cup tomato-based sofrito

3 1/2 cups chicken broth

To make dirty rice: Rinse jasmine rice with water until water is clear. Drain.

In large saucepot, bring vegetable oil to medium-high heat.

Add ground beef, 1 tablespoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, garlic powder and smoked paprika; saute 5 minutes until browned.

Using slotted spoon, remove browned beef and set aside.

Add butter to pot then add red bell pepper, green onions and yellow onions. Saute 2 minutes until lightly caramelized.

Add sofrito and jasmine rice to pot; saute 1 minute. Add cooked ground beef and chicken stock; bring to boil. Once mixture boils, reduce heat to simmer 10 minutes. Turn off heat and leave lid on pot 5 minutes. Fluff rice with fork and season with salt and pepper, to taste.

CRAB STUFFING:

3/4 cup mayonnaise

2 teaspoons seafood seasoning 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1/2 lemon, juice only 20 butter crackers, finely crushed 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat

CRAB STUFFED LOBSTER:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 1 teaspoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

4 Omaha Steaks Cold Water Lobster Tails (5 ounces each), halved lengthwise

To make crab stuffing: In medium bowl, whisk mayonnaise, seafood seasoning, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce and lemon juice.

Gently fold in crushed butter crackers and crab meat. Set aside.

To make crab stuffed lobster: Preheat oven to 425 F.

Stir melted butter, salt and lemon juice. Brush lobster tails with butter mixture.

Divide crab stuffing into eight portions. Stuff each lobster tail half with crab stuffing, pressing stuffing into lobster. Place stuffed lobster tails on aluminum foil-lined sheet pan and bake 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve with dirty rice.

Warm Up Winter with Watermelon Fun

Cut tops off large and medium watermelons to create bowls. Using ice cream scoop or large spoon, scoop out flesh.

Using melon baller, scoop eyes out of smallest watermelon. Invert melon balls and reinsert.

Using mini melon baller or paring knife, scoop out holes for nose and mouth. Carve one piece of watermelon into triangle for nose and fill mouth holes with blueberries.

On platter, using large wooden skewers, connect all three watermelons.

Insert y-shaped sticks in middle watermelon for arms.

Fill bottom sections with fruit salad of melon balls and blueberries. Decorate with scarf and hat.

The cold chill of winter may have you feeling trapped indoors with nothing to do and nowhere to go, but fun activities fit for the whole family can add excitement and chase away those wintertime blues. Paired with an appetizing snack, at-home crafting provides a relaxing way to keep your mind and body moving.

Warming up with family-friendly activities starts with a versatile (and delicious) option like watermelon, which can be your sweet superstar all year long. As a centerpiece for evenings at home or gatherings and get-togethers, its versatility creates zero food waste with endless creative uses in the kitchen, from rind-smile snowmen to handheld snacks.

When this year’s first snowfall offers a canvas for creativity and enter-tainment, gather your loved ones to make this Watermelon Snowman. Fresh-cut and personal-sized watermelons are the predominant options in wintertime, and they’re perfect for putting together this festive work of art. All you’ll need is a collection of kitchen knives, an ice cream scoop, melon ballers, skewers, some decorative

“clothing” and blueberries for a fruit salad served right out of the snowman.

While you’re hard at work, ease your appetite with a quick and easy snack like Watermelon Glazed Meatballs. Start with a homemade water-melon puree mixed with barbecue sauce then saute frozen meatballs and top with the sweet glaze for a perfect wintertime treat. Along with delicious taste, watermelon is also a nutritious hydration source, which is just as important in winter as during warmer months, and provides an excellent source of vitamin C with 25% of the daily recommended value in each 2-cup serving to support immunity.

These tasty morsels also make for a simple, shareable appetizer while hosting throughout the season. Just lay them out on a serving tray and pop toothpicks into each meatball so guests can grab and go while mingling.

To find more family-friendly crafts and sweet snack ideas, visit Watermelon.org.

WATERMELON GLAZED

MEATBALLS

servings: 8 Watermelon Puree: 1 fresh watermelon 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 24-36 frozen prepared mini meatballs 1 cup prepared barbecue sauce 1 cup watermelon puree

To make watermelon puree: Remove seeds from watermelon and cut into large chunks. In blender, process until smooth.

In large, heavy saute pan over medium-high heat or electric skillet set to 325 F, heat oil.

Saute mini meatballs until browned and hot. Reduce heat to low.

Mix barbecue sauce and watermelon puree. Pour over meatballs and simmer 2-3 minutes. Serve hot.

Infuse Holiday Gatherings with Fresh Grape Flavor

The elegance of the holidays starts at the table with meals, desserts and drinks shared among loved ones. This year, let grapes add easy elegance to seasonal recipes as a signature ingredient perfect for special occasions.

As a highly versatile addition to appetizers, snacks, main courses, sides and desserts, grapes are an essential ingredient to keep on hand. Thanks to their delicate sweetness and juicy texture, Grapes from California can be the star at the center of the meal in unique and tasty Braised Pork Chops with Spiced Honey and Grapes served with Spiked Grape Cider for a cozy adult beverage.

Finish the celebration by sharing Grape Basque-Style Cheesecake, where delicious, fresh grape juice is used in the cheesecake batter to lend natural sweetness and enhance flavor. Decorate the top with fresh, juicy grapes for a final festive touch.

Find more sweet ideas to celebrate the holidays at GrapesfromCalifornia.com.

BRAISED PORK CHOPS WITH SPICED HONEY AND GRAPES

servings: 4

4 thick pork chops (about 3 pounds)

4 tablespoons flour

2 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted 1 1/2 cups whole red or black Grapes from California

1/3 cup honey

2 small cinnamon sticks, broken

3-5 whole cloves

1/2 teaspoon dried ground ginger

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (optional)

Preheat oven to 325 F.

Heat heavy, lidded saute pan or casserole dish over medium-high heat. Dust pork chops with flour and brown slowly in melted butter. Do not let flour burn.

Remove pan from heat and add grapes, honey, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, salt and pepper. Cover and place in oven. Braise slowly 50-60 minutes, or until pork is tender. Remove pork from pan and keep warm. Skim pan sauce of excess fat. Arrange pork chops on serving platter, spoon with sauce and sprinkle with chopped mint, if desired.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:

569 calories; 54 g protein; 41 g carbohydrates; 21 g fat (33% calories from fat); 9 g saturated fat (14% calories from saturated fat); 33% calories from fat; 165 mg cholesterol; 407 mg sodium; 1.6 g fiber.

GRAPE BASQUESTYLE CHEESECAKE

prep time: 15 minutes, plus cooling and chilling bake time: 40 minutes

servings: 12

2 cups green Grapes from California, divided

1/4 cup, plus 2/3 cup, granulated sugar, divided

2 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch

2 large pinches kosher salt

21 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature

1 cup cold heavy cream

4 large eggs, at room temperature

2 tablespoons orange-flavored liqueur (optional)

A SWEET PARTY STARTER

Set the stage for a delicious get-together by serving an easy, attractive appetizer like this Grape Party Tray with fresh grapes, prosciutto, cheeses, pistachios and more holiday favorites. Grapes are easy to include as they offer variety – different colors, shapes, sizes and textures – which makes them an ideal healthy snack or ingredient in tasty recipes.

Heat oven to 425 F with rack in center. Use 12-by-16-inch sheet of parchment paper to line 9-inch springform pan in center. Press paper into bottom edge of pan and flatten creases around sides. Place pan on shallow baking sheet. In mini blender or food processor, blend 1 cup grapes, 1/4 cup sugar, cornstarch and salt on high until smooth, about 1 minute.

In bowl of electric mixer fitted with paddle, beat cream cheese and remaining sugar until fluffy, 1-2 minutes. With mixer on medium speed, gradually pour in heavy cream; scrape down and beat on high speed until mixture resembles soft whipped cream, about 1 minute. Beat in eggs, one at a time, scraping down between additions. At medium speed, gradually add grape puree mixture; scrape and mix until well blended, 1 minute.

Pour batter into prepared pan, transfer to oven and bake 38-40 minutes until cake is puffed and top is caramel brown. Cracks will appear around edges and cake will be wobbly when touched gently with finger. Set cake pan on baking sheet on rack to cool. Cake will sink to half its height. Cool to room temperature, 1-2 hours, then refrigerate uncovered. Do not unmold cake from pan until well chilled, at least 5 hours or overnight.

Slice remaining grapes in halves or rounds. In small bowl, combine grapes with orange liqueur, if desired, and set aside.

When ready to serve, remove side of pan. Carefully pull creased parchment away from side of cheesecake then transfer to serving platter by peeling parchment away from bottom of cake and underneath pan while gently tugging cake toward platter and off parchment.

Garnish top of cheesecake with grape-liqueur mixture, if desired, or fresh grapes. Cut cake into wedges with thin, sharp knife.

Note: Cheesecake can be made up to 2 days ahead. Once cake is well chilled, cover pan with plastic wrap until ready to serve.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:

350 calories; 6 g protein; 25 g carbohydrates; 26 g fat (67% calories from fat); 15 g saturated fat (39% calories from saturated fat); 135 mg cholesterol; 200 mg sodium; 0 g fiber.

HOT SPIKED GRAPE CIDER

prep time: 20 minutes cook time: about 1 hour servings: 4

5 cups red Grapes from California, plus additional for garnish, divided 3 cups water

1 tablespoon honey 1 cinnamon stick

2 star anise (optional)

1 large navel orange 6 ounces amber rum

In large saucepan, combine 5 cups grapes with water, honey, cinnamon and star anise, if desired. Bring mixture to boil over medium-high heat, reduce heat to mediumlow, cover and simmer until grapes are tender, 50-60 minutes. Let cool 15 minutes.

Lay medium mesh strainer over bowl and pour grape mixture through. Gently press on solids to remove juice from fruit for about 2 cups grape cider.

With peeler, peel off large strip orange zest and add to warm juice. Let cool, cover and refrigerate.

When ready to serve, gently warm cider over medium heat. Pour 1/2 cup cider into each cup. Add 1 1/2 ounces rum and garnish with twist of orange and small skewer of grapes.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING: 170 calories; 0 g protein; 18 g carbohydrates; 0 g fat (0% calories from fat); 0 g saturated fat (0% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 5 mg sodium; 0 g fiber.

An Easy Appetizer to Add Holiday Cheer

(Family Features) Before the big meal, gifts and cherished moments at the family table, almost every holiday party starts with an important tradition: breaking the ice. This year, you can serve up a smile and start the party with this craveinducing appetizer to get everyone talking.

The sweet touch of Roasted Garlic Whipped Feta Crostini from Milk Means More can be your delightful way to

brighten the season of gifts and gatherings. With its creamy cheesiness from a homemade whipped topping boasting the richness of feta and whole milk, it’s an easy and tasty way to invite friends, family and neighbors into your home. This shareable treat comes together in a cinch while adding pops of cheerful color to plates and platters.

Find more holiday recipe inspiration at MilkMeansMore.org.

ROASTED GARLIC WHIPPED FETA

CROSTINI

recipe courtesy of liz della croce of “the lemon bowl” on behalf of milk means more

salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Wrap foil tightly around garlic and roast until caramelized, about 30 minutes.

Place baguette slices on large baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Bake on second rack in oven until golden brown about 10 minutes; set aside.

In high-speed food processor, pulse feta cheese, milk, lemon juice, remaining salt, remaining pepper and roasted garlic cloves until whipped and creamy, adding more milk as needed to reach desired consistency. Check for seasoning and adjust, to taste.

To serve, spread each baguette slice with whipped feta and sprinkle with pomegranate seeds and minced parsley.

How to Create the Perfect Charcuterie Board for Your Holiday Party

Are you hosting a holiday party and looking for a simple way to impress your guests?

The Texas Roadhouse Butcher Shop is sharing steps for building an eye-catching and mouthwatering charcuterie board that will add color, flavor and variety to your holiday table.

1. Grab a platter or surface to display your char cuterie. Anything will work, even a simple cutting board. Just be sure to choose a size that you can fill completely.

2. Use dishes or ramekins of mismatched sizes, shapes and colors to hold dressings, toppings and sauces. This will keep your board clean and add fun visual details to the display.

3. Include two to four cheeses of contrasting flavors and textures to please all palates, and to complement other elements of the board. The varieties you select should represent these basic categories: hard cheese, (such as Chardonnay Bellavitano) soft cheese, (such as brie) and blue cheese (such as French Roquefort).

4. While a traditional charcuterie board typically sticks with cured meats, the holiday season is the perfect occasion for adding depth and richness to your feast with grilled meats, such as filet, sliced into strips. Those from Texas Roadhouse Butcher Shop are lean, flavorful, and melt in your mouth, making them a natural choice for a hearty holiday spread. Whether you are firing up the grill or preparing on a cooktop, allow any cooked meats to rest well before adding them to your board.

5. No charcuterie board is complete without some crunch. Add two to three options like pita crackers, crusty breads or toasted baguettes that will stand up to the weight of your meats and cheeses.

6. Now, add some brightness and sweetness to your board. Fresh fruits like blueberries, straw berries and green grapes, and preserves such as peach pepper jam, will add contrast to rich, salty meats and cheeses. Don’t forget seasonal sweets and treats like soft peppermints, peanut brittle, chocolate dipped pretzels and candied nuts.

7. You’ll want your charcuterie board to look as if it’s overflowing. So, as you’re building it out, start with the largest elements like the cheeses and meats first, followed by smaller items like crackers, fresh produce and sweets. Fill in any holes with sprigs of aromatic rose mary for trimming, along with additional portions of the smaller items. The various elements of the board should pair well together, so it’s okay if they touch.

For additional hosting tips, or to shop for seasonal gifts and your holiday spread, visit trbutchershop.com. For 15% off your order, use the promo code PARTY15.

To wow your guests and their tastebuds, take your charcuterie board to the next level with seasonal treats, grilled meats and a cornucopia of sweet and savory flavors.

Put a PlantBased Twist on Holiday Baking

Flavorful desserts are a staple of the holidays and the exciting, appetizing allure of new recipes can help elevate seasonal gatherings and create sweet memories. With near-endless options for celebrating the season, putting a plant-based twist on traditional recipes offers everyone the opportunity to indulge with decadent treats.

Grease 9-inch pie dish with plant butter; set aside.

To make crust: In medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted plant butter; mix thoroughly.

Add crust to greased pie dish and press firmly to bottom and sides; refrigerate.

TO MAKE FILLING: In bowl of electric mixer, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar; beat until fully incorporated. Add peanut butter, vanilla extract and plant cream; beat until smooth and creamy.

Pour filling into prepared crust and refrigerate 5-6 hours or overnight. To make chocolate ganache: In pan over medium heat, add plant butter cubes and chocolate; stir continuously.

Spread chocolate ganache evenly on top of chilled cheesecake. Refrigerate at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.

BRULEE PUMPKIN PIE

prep time: 45 minutes

cook time: 1 hour servings: 8

PIE CRUST:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

8 tablespoons Country Crock Plant Butter, cold and cut into cubes

2 tablespoons chilled vegetable shortening, cut into pieces

4 tablespoons ice water

PUMPKIN FILLING:

1 tablespoon vanilla 1/2 cup maple syrup

1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree

1/4 cup coconut cream

1 cup Country Crock Plant Cream

1 cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon ginger

1 teaspoon nutmeg

1/8 teaspoon ground clove

1/2 teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons cornstarch

3 tablespoons white granulated sugar

WHIPPED TOPPING:

2 cups Country Crock Plant Cream, chilled 1/4 cup powdered sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

In seasonal sweets like Brulee Pumpkin Pie and No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake, an option like Country Crock Plant Cream can be used as a dairy-free substitute for heavy whipping cream. With 29% less saturated fat than dairy heavy whipping cream, it’s an easy 1:1 swap and is also soy-free, certified plant-based and 100% vegan, making it ideal to have on hand during holiday baking season. It’s all of the deliciousness of heavy cream, with none of the heaviness of dairy.

Visit CountryCrock.com for more delectable holiday dessert ideas.

NO-BAKE

To make pie crust: Preheat oven to 350 F.

In bowl of food processor, add flour, sugar and salt; pulse to combine. Add cold plant butter and shortening. Process about 10 seconds until it looks like coarse meal. With food processor running, add ice water. Process until mixture clumps together.

On lightly floured surface, roll dough into 14-inch circle.

Transfer to 9-inch pie dish. Lift edges and allow dough to drape into dish. Trim, leaving 1-inch overhang. Fold excess dough under and crimp edges.

TO MAKE PUMPKIN FILLING: In medium saucepan over medium heat, add syrup and vanilla; warm about 2 minutes then remove from heat and set aside.

In large bowl, combine syrup mixture, pumpkin, coconut cream, plant cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, clove, salt and cornstarch; blend with hand mixer until smooth. Pour mixture into pie crust.

Bake 1 hour. If crust starts to burn, cover edges with aluminum foil. The middle will still be jiggly. Cool at room temperature 30 minutes then cover and transfer to refrigerator to chill at least 5 hours or overnight.

Before serving, sprinkle pie with white sugar and, using kitchen torch, brelee until sugar is melted and dark brown.

TO MAKE WHIPPED TOPPING: Using electric hand mixer or stand mixer, whisk plant cream, powdered sugar and vanilla on high until mixture thickens and stiff peaks form.

Slice and serve with whipped topping.

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