Last Minute Holiday Guide 2021

him.

(he was in AA for years but kept falling off the wagon).

He told me he was a social drinker and was just taking a break from alcohol for health and fitness reasons.

When the pandemic began, I texted him to check in and make sure he was OK and received nothing back.

Consider These Last-Minute Holiday Shopping Tips

in an Unjust World’) and Sharon Salzberg (“Lovingkindness”) will discuss the concept of “radical friendship” at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 5.

Some people thrive by doing all of their tasks early. Others seem to do their best work when faced with a time crunch. The methods individuals use to manage their time at work and play may extend to the ways they approach holiday shopping as well.

He would go dark and fall out of communica tion and then deflect onto me when I would ask him why.

So finally, after a week of him being particularly inconsiderate and insensitive, I broke off our relationship.

something happening to him before we can at least talk.

anything happened to him.

life better when they aren’t around, and yet I worry and miss them.

I did so with honor and said goodbye to his friends and family and spoke not one unkind word about him to anybody.

There’s no right or wrong way to handle holiday shopping tasks, though Christmas Eve crowds at malls and throughout shopping districts suggest that there’s more late comers than there are early birds. The following tips can help those who typically wait until the last minute to check names off their lists.

Now he wants to go in for couples counseling, even though when I was with him, he refused to listen to me about even the simplest thing, like deleting his dating apps.

sister-in-law still hate me (no surprise there), yet I’m honestly so con fused and hurt as to why m tried to contact me in any way.

Estranged Daughter

— LGBTQ+ author TJ Klune (“The House in the Cerulean Sea”) discusses his new book “Under the Whispering Door” with yoga teacher and author, Kathryn Budi (“Aim True”) at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 6.

an alarm on your watch or phone for each store so you get what you need and get out on time.

• Subdivide bulk gifts. Think about purchasing bulk gifts like gift baskets from wholesale clubs and then breaking them down into individual gifts. This way you can gift several people on one purchase and save time in the process.

— Author Keisha N. Blain (“Set

of the Second day, In the sale running Oct. 10,000 starting Details found

n Kimberly A. Lambert and Blake C. Lambert. They were married Oct. 25, 2014.

n Shelly L. Lorah and Earl R. Lorah Jr. They were married May 17, 2003.

n Bruce Bolich and Mary Bolich. They were married Oct. 20, 1988.

I don’t know why he wants to go to counseling now that he has completely repelled me.

• Utilize free shipping services. Shoppers who shop for gifts online at the last minute run the risk of gifts not arriving on time. Many online retailers charge a premium for expedited shipping. Try to stick to shopping at online retailers that offer free shipping even in the eleventh hour.

I don’t even know how I feel about this anymore.

• Create a budget. When rushing around from store to store, it may be easy to spend more than you want to. Make a list of how much

A part of me really loves him still, but a part of me doesn’t trust the relationship (or our “situationship”), since he kept a whole separate list of rules for himself than he did for me. on this. — Curious with you that deleting needs to happen. You need to do the deleting and what you need to lose — is him.

about this person, you obviously don’t like, trust or respect him.

about how you ended things, but if you allow him to draw you back in, you won’t even have that. idea, especially for him. If he wants to enter therapy in order to figure out how and why he sabotaged the relationship with you, then let him do so and per haps at some point in the future, he will be inspired to try to prove to you that he has changed. I hope that by that point, you will have moved on.

Dear Amy: Unfortunately, I became estranged from my family after my mother’s death.

one text at the beginning of a global pandemic does not qualify as making an effort to heal a breech that you seem to have initiated.

• Choose one-size-fitsall gifts. Think about a gift that can be purchased for multiple people so you can save time shopping for individualized gifts for everyone. For example, print a personalized photo calendar for several members of your family. You also can purchase multiple subscriptions or memberships to zoos or magazines for people on your list. Streamlining gifting in this way may save money as well as time.

n Jesmarie Cruz-Rivera and Francis Cruz-Rivera. They were married Feb. 14, 2018.

n Gloria A. Fry and Timothy G. Fry. They were married June 16, 2013.

n Darrin E. Rhodes and Naomi O. Rhodes. They were married July 25, 2016.

n Alex Rodriguez. June n Crystal Zebedee were n Lynn K. Bixler Dec. n Tina Urban 20, n Samuel Barbara married n Mohan Shrestha. Sept.

you want to spend on each person, and stick to that limit for each person. Move on to the next store if you didn’t find what you need in your price range.

relatively young age must have been truly devastat ing to you. Surely it was deeply upsetting to witness your father engaging in a new relationship with someone you claim your mother disliked.

When people criticize you, you only double down and defend your position. — Sick and Tired

Dear Sick: I do admit when I’m wrong, and I am happy to let readers cor rect me.

However, I won’t claim an error just because someone disagrees with me.

• Establish a time limit. Stores have strategies in place to keep shoppers in their establishments longer, hoping you’ll make impulse buys. These tricks include scenting the air with inviting aromas, putting necessities at the rear of the store, failing to display the time, and putting discounted items by the registers or door to attract shoppers. Set

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HONORS

• Choose in-store pickup. Rather than scouring various aisles, you can shop a retailer’s website and then pick up items in the store. You’ll save on potential shipping fees but still benefit by avoiding crowds.

n Four scholarships were awarded by the Lancaster Society of Human Resource Management in June. The society awards over $5,000 annually in scholarships that support the organization’s mission of inspiring people and advancing workplaces by collaborating with Lancaster schools, students and businesses. The Student Scholarship was awarded to Amanda McFerren, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree at Drexel University. She is the daughter of E. Joy McFerren, who has been a society member for 40 years. Karen Snyder was awarded the Member Scholarship. This award provides financial assistance to members who are engaged in continuous education to enhance their profession. Snyder is global vice president of talent management at Ultra Electronics and is working on earning executive coaching credentials. Karen has been an active society member for about 10 years and has served on numerous committees. John Shoff, human resources benefits adviser at Members First, is the recipient of the Leadership Lancaster scholarship, which is awarded to a member to participate in Leadership Lancaster’s Core Program. Shoff volunteers extensively through Lancaster County and has been a member of the society since 2019. This is the inaugural year for the Debbie Stremmel Memorial Scholarship. The society, in partnership with Steinman Communications and LNP Media Group, created this scholarship to recognize Stremmel, who was a society member and LNP media employee. Stremmel passed away in 2020 and this scholarship

of Lancaster will use the scholarship money for a 3D printer.

Some people wait until the last minute to do their holiday shopping. A few tricks of the procrastinator’s trade can make last-minute shopping go smoothly.

n Nissin Foods awarded scholarships to Los Angeles Lancaster County high school as part of its inaugural Good Scholarship, recognizing the their academic success and to making a positive change local community. Ten students the communities surrounding facilities in Gardena, California, Lancaster received scholarships toward their enrollment in year universities and trade recipients of Good Neighbor are listed with their

Eve Sheaffer, Franklin & Marshall Strasburg — Jeslyn Krebs University. Each of the scholarship recipients also received a prize pack complete with backpack, t-shirts, and an Cup Noodles and Top Ramen To learn more about this year’s

GRADUATIONS

n Area students were among who graduated this spring University, Athens, Ohio. of Gap, received a Master electrical engineering. Timothy of Denver, received a Master

Area students were among graduated in May from Dickinson They are listed with their degrees and honors. Lancaster , Bachelor of Science magna cum laude; Tayler of Arts in history, cum laude, , Bachelor of cum laude. Reinholds — Olivia

hometowns college of their choice. Bowmansville — Angellia Brenneman, University Delaware. Denver — Melody University. Elizabethtown Pennsylvania State University Park. Lancaster — Grace Hershey University; Ariana Marshall University Honors College.

Neighbor Scholarship recipients next year’s submission process, NissinFoods.com.

following divorces the week of Michael Joseph . They were married

. They Cody

This character has been played by numerous actors, including Edmund Gwenn and Tim Allen.

Answers:1)RedSuit,2)Boots,3)WhiteBeard,4)Rosy

Cheeks,5)BellyLikeJelly,SantaClaus

Each of the following cryptograms is a clue to the identity of a popular holiday character. Using the hints R=S and U=E, decipher the clues and name the character.

holiday season begins in late November and runs through New Year’s Day. It is marked by various gatherings of friends and family, decadent foods, cocktails, traveling, and gift exchanges. The National Retail Federation says consumers will spend an average of $967 during the holiday season. However, the joy of the holidays also is about all of the memorable experiences that tend to make the season so beloved.

With that in mind, here are 30 ways to make the holiday season that much more merry.

1. Visit with an elderly or housebound neighbor and share conversation.

2. Donate gently used toys

to a children’s hospital.

3. Research the history of the holiday and share it with people you care about.

4. Make handmade Christmas tree ornaments.

5. Donate money to a charity or other good cause.

6. Encourage “pay it forward” movements in your community. Start by doing something simple like buying a coffee for a complete stranger.

7. Feed birds facing the cold, winter weather.

8. Take a ride or walk around the neighborhood to look at decorated houses.

9. Make a fire in a fire pit in the yard and toast marshmallows while sipping hot chocolate.

10. Binge watch holiday movies.

11. Attend the concert of a children’s choir.

12. Help a friend decorate his or her home.

13. Host a tree-trimming party.

14. Schedule a day for baking cookies.

15. Sing Christmas carols at a nursing home.

16. Put together care packages of items and send them to troops overseas.

17. Share the holidays with a military family whose spouse is in service and can’t make it home.

18. Offer to shop for someone who is homebound due to age, a chronic illness or injury.

19. Visit a large city to look at Christmas window displays.

20. Buy and hang real mistletoe … and use it.

21. Make a new friend and invite him or her to a holiday party for the first time.

22. Babysit a newborn so his or her parents can get errands done or just catch up on rest.

23. Volunteer at a soup kitchen.

24. Share the religious traditions of your holiday with someone of a different faith.

25. If weather permits, go sledding, build a snowman or have a snowball fight.

26. Share favorite memories at family holiday dinners.

27. Remember a deceased loved one with a special tribute.

28. Construct a gingerbread house.

29. Teach someone how to make a cherished family recipe.

30. Surprise a distant relative with an impromptu visit.

Holiday Films Families Can Enjoy Together

The holiday season is steeped in tradition. Few traditions may elicit more collective belly laughs than holiday movie night, a tradition in millions of households across the globe. Families can consider these classic holiday films as they plan family movie night this holiday season.

• “Miracle on 34th Street” (1947): This classic is centered around a man named “Kris Kringle” (Edmund Gwenn) who

claims to be the real Santa Claus after a successful stint as a department store Santa in midtown Manhattan. A trial to determine if Mr. Kringle is telling the truth soon follows. This version of the tale has earned a 96 percent rating on the popular film review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes.

• “A Christmas Story” (1983): Though it airs all day long on Christmas on the cable television network TBS, families can get a head-start on that marathon and watch the film uninterrupted whenever they choose. Families can laugh together as 9-year-old Ralphie (Peter Billingsley) hopes to unwrap his official Red Ryder BB gun on (Continued On Page 11)

Ideas For Holiday Projects

In your school, church or organization lobby, instead of decorating a Christmas tree with the usually decor ations, decorate the tree with scarves, hats, sock and mittens. Donate the “decor ations” to the local shelter or school that has at-risk children in need of such items.

Make holiday gift baskets of food, clothing, hygiene items, and other needed supplies. Decorate the baskets for the holidays and donate them to a family in need.

Go to a local nursing home. Help the residents write holiday cards and letters with stationery and stamps that you have donated.

Volunteer to read special holiday stories at a local nursing home, shelter or daycare center.

Invite a person who does not have family in the area to share a holiday meal with your family.

Instead of the usual gifts, create colorful coupons that

the recipient can redeem for things like 2 hours of babysitting, help cleaning the garage, or 2 hours of volunteer service at a local charity. Think of some other things that you volunteer to do to help make this world a better place for all of us to live.

Put on a play, puppet show, or sing along at a local nursing home, shelter or daycare center.

Volunteer with your family to bring an older person to the library, worship services, family meals, shopping, etc.

Create care packages to send to servicemen stationed overseas.

Celebrate “Christmas in July” or any other month of the year. Choose from some of the projects mentioned above and do them. You can even decorate or do other holiday activities to add some festive holiday cheer any other time of the year.

Remember the Disney movie Alice in Wonderland?

Remember her “Unbirthday Party?” Create a special “unbirthday party” for someone who could use a little cheer or appreciation.

Make-Ahead Meals For Tasty Holiday Dinners

Individuals may be presented with plenty of opportunities to cook for a crowd over the course of a typical year. But no time of year is more synonymous with large sit-down meals than the holiday season.

Certain foods, such as pasta dishes and casseroles, are ideal dishes to cook for crowds. However, for those home cooks who want to prepare in advance and then enjoy themselves on the actual holiday, it may be best to choose foods that taste better the day after the dish has been cooked. Many recipes develop deeper flavor profiles after they have been left to rest and are then reheated. Holiday hosts can explore these ideas for meals that can be cooked in advance and taste even better when reheated after a day in the refrigerator.

Stew

A stew that’s been simmering on the stove or in the slow cooker all day will have a winning flavor. But stew can be even more delicious the next day. The starch in the potatoes will enable the sauce of the stew — whether it’s tomato-

based or comprised of a mix of brown gravy and meat drippings — to thicken.

The meat may continue to cook and tenderize while reheating. As a one-pot meal, stew is simple to prepare in advance and then serve in an attractive crock for the holidays.

Meatloaf

The herbs and spices in a meatloaf continue to release their flavors, and letting the loaf sit can improve the texture and the

ability to slice it without it falling apart. Consider pan-frying individual slices of meatloaf until they’re browned so they’ll be crisp on the outside and tender in the middle.

Lasagna

Lasagna is a layered pasta dish featuring flat noodle sheets, cheese, sauce, and sometimes meat like ground beef or sausage. Lasagnas that are served right out of the oven can be runny even if they taste scrumptious. Baking it and letting it sit overnight allows all of the layers to gel together, making for a much more cohesive and fortified dish the following day.

Curries

Curries are typically made with many spices that help to make the dish flavorful. A curry that is freshly made may feature intense flavor because each of its components can be tasted individually. After a night of resting in the refrigerator, those flavors meld and mellow. Furthermore, if potatoes are used in the recipe, a night in the fridge gives the potatoes an opportunity to absorb the spices, making for an even tastier meal.

Many meals can be made ahead of time for holiday dinners and will taste even better when they are served the following day.

Tips To

Christmas trees are often the pièce de résistance of holiday decor. Few things draw the attention of holiday guests quite like an aweinspiring Christmas tree, especially when that tree maintains its fresh, healthy sheen throughout December.

Many families purchase fresh trees over Thanks giving weekend or during the first weekend of December. Though the weeks between Thanks giving and Christmas Day may seem like a long time to keep a tree looking great, there are a handful of ways for holiday celebrants to help their trees maintain that undeniable appeal for the long haul.

• Pick the right tree. Choosing the right tree is one of the simplest ways to keep a tree looking good throughout the holiday season. A freshly cut tree that buyers choose and cut down themselves or have cut down can reassure them that the tree is likely to stay strong throughout Decem ber. Trees purchased from a tree lot may have been cut down long before they made it to the lot, which can make it harder to keep them looking good until Christmas Day.

• Cut an inch off the base of any tree that is not freshly cut. MSU Extension at Michigan State University notes that all Christmas trees are conifers, which means they have resin canals in their trunks. Once a tree is cut, the resin can

Tree Fresh This Holiday Season

thirsty, especially within the first week or so of being cut and brought home. Fill the stand with water each morning and, if necessary, refill it each night before going to bed. The more water a tree gets and drinks, the more likely it is that the tree will look healthy all the way to Christmas Day. MSU Extension notes that many decorative or antique tree stands do not hold much water, so anyone with such a stand may need to replenish the water supply more than once or twice per day.

• Keep the tree away from a heat source. For safety’s sake, trees should be kept away from heating vents, fireplaces and space heaters. But keeping trees away from such heat sources, and ensuring they are not spending the daytime in direct sunlight, also decreases the chances they will dry out before Christ mas Day.

The Christmas Song

“The Christmas Song,” perhaps better known as “Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire,” is a beloved tune cowritten in 1945 by Mel Tormé and Robert Wells. The song was reportedly penned on a hot July day and the writers had to think cool thoughts to evoke a feeling of the holiday season. This Christmas classic became one of the defining performances of Nat King Cole’s career.

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire, Jack Frost nipping at your nose.

Yuletide carols being sung by a choir, and folks dressed up like Eskimos.

Everybody knows a turkey and some mistletoe help to make the season bright.

Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow will find it hard to sleep tonight.

They know that Santa’s on his way.

He’s loaded lots of toys and goodies on his sleigh. And every mother’s child is gonna spy to see if reindeer really know how to fly.

And so I’m offering this simple phrase to kids from one to ninety-two.

Although it’s been said many times many ways: Merry Christmas to you!

Written by Robert Wells & Mel Tormé

Lyrics courtesy of Lyricsforchristmas.com

block the pores and make it harder for the tree to take in water. Cutting an inch off the base of a tree that was not freshly cut just before putting it in the stand can help ensure it gets the water it needs to stay healthy and firm. MSU Extension notes that this approach should be taken with any tree that was not cut within six to eight hours of being put in a stand.

• Replenish the water supply every day. Fresh tree veterans recognize that Christmas trees can be very

A handful of simple strategies can help holiday celebrants keep their Christmas trees looking good throughout the month of December.

Gifts For The Family Athlete

Holiday shoppers know that few things can match the joy of finding the perfect gift for a loved one. Whether that loved one is a tiny tot who can’t wait to unwrap this year’s must-have toy or an adult hoping to find the latest gadget under the tree on Christmas morning, the thrill of giving a great gift is part of what makes the holiday season so enjoyable.

Friends and family mem bers may fall into certain categories, and that can make holiday shopping a little easier. For example, loved ones who can’t wait to sit down with a good book would no doubt appreciate a new e-reader or the latest

bestseller. When it comes to gifting the family athlete, the following ideas can provide the inspiration shoppers need to put a smile on the face of fitness-minded friends and family members.

• Weighted vest: Weighted vests have gained popularity in recent years. Available from a variety of manu facturers and for athletes of varying skill levels, weighted vests can be ideal for athletes who want to burn more calories and build strength during their workouts. This can be an especially useful gift for endurance athletes who want their training sessions to mimic the challenges posed by nature or difficult competitive terrains.

• Noise-canceling head phones or earbuds: Many athletes relish their workouts

not only as opportunities to zero in on their fitness goals, but also as chances to block out distractions and clear their heads for an hour or two each day. Noisecancelling headphones or earbuds effectively block out external noises, allowing athletes to direct all of their focus on their workouts and training sessions.

• Energy drinks: Though it might not seem like the most exciting gift to unwrap on Christmas morning, energy drinks are vital to many fitness enthusiasts’ athletic endeavors. For example, endurance athletes may appreciate a tub of Osmo Active Hydration Performance Drink Mix, which contains an optimal ratio of sucrose, glucose and electrolytes, helping athletes improve their endurance and power while reducing

instances of cramping and fatigue. Energy drinks make for a perfect stocking stuffer.

• Home gym equipment: Pandemic-related gym closures turned athletes into their own personal trainers, and some may not want to return to local fitness facilities even now that they’ve safely reopened. Home gym equipment can help athletes continue to build their own private home gyms, making items like kettle bells, dumbbells, weight benches, and resis tance bands great items to put under the tree this holiday season.

It’s never been easier to shop for the family athlete during the holiday season. A heightened focus on fitness ensures there’s something for every type of athlete on your holiday shopping list.

The Little Drummer Boy

Originally titled “Carol of the Drum,” the song eventually known as “The Little Drummer Boy” was written in 1941 by Katherine Kennicott Davis, who was a classical music composer and teacher. It first was recorded by the Trapp Family Singers and tells the story of a poor boy who had no gift to offer the Baby Jesus. Mary agrees to let him play his drum as a gift. One of the more notable recordings of the song was a collaboration by David Bowie and Bing Crosby for a 1977 television special, which interwove “The Little Drummer Boy” with “Peace on Earth.”

Come they told me, pa rum pum pum pum, A newborn King to see, pa rum pum pum pum. Our finest gifts we bring, pa rum pum pum pum, To lay before the King, pa rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum.

So to honor Him, pa rum pum pum pum, When we come.

Little Baby, pa rum pum pum pum, I am a poor boy, too, pa rum pum pum pum.

I have no gift to bring, pa rum pum pum pum, That’s fit to give our King, pa rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum.

Shall I play for you, pa rum pum pum, On my drum.

Mary nodded, pa rum pum pum pum, The ox and lamb kept time, pa rum pum pum pum. I played my best for Him, pa rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum.

Then He smiled at me, pa rum pum pum pum, Me and my drum.

Written by Katherine K. Davis Lyrics courtesy of Christmassongs.net

Tips For Combatting Holiday Depression

Though the holiday season is one that is traditionally associated with joy, parties, friends and family, for many people it can be something entirely different. Feelings of loneliness and hopelessness are common at this time of year, a time many people use to reflect on

another year gone by and look ahead at what is to come. For some, past mistakes combine with anxiety about the future to form feelings of depression.

The National Mental Health Association (NMHA) refers to depression around the holidays as the “holiday blues,” feelings of depression stemming from any number of things associated with the holiday season, from stress to fatigue to financial worries.

Symptoms of depression can include, but are not limited to: constant feelings of sadness; decreased pleasure in usual activities or hobbies; loss of energy despite lack of activity; a change in appetite, with significant weight loss or weight gain; and thoughts of suicide or death.

• Keep expectations for the holiday season manageable. By setting realistic goals for yourself, you’re leaving more time available for you to enjoy the season. Organize your time and do

not put all your focus on one day. The holiday season is just that, a season, and pacing yourself will allow you to make it through the season more easily and a lot happier.

• Leave “yesteryear” in the past and look toward the future. Comparing your present day with your fondest memories may set you up for disappointment. Look forward to making new “fond” memories, and realize that each holiday season you spend with your family and friends represents a new opportunity to do just that.

• Do something for someone else. Helping others can be a very uplifting and rewarding experience.

• Beware that excessive drinking will only increase your feelings of depression. Numerous studies have

linked substance abuse to depression, so do your best to avoid drinking in excess this holiday season.

• Try something new. If old holiday traditions bring about thoughts you’d like to forget, start new traditions.

• Spend time with supportive and caring people. Despite all the distractions that have become commonplace around the holiday season, the holidays are still about spending time with loved ones. Reaching out and making new friends can also be a great chance to make your holiday, as well as someone else’s, that much better. If you have old friends whom you haven’t heard from in a while, contact them.

• Save time for yourself. By sharing the holiday responsibilities (i.e. cooking, shopping, decorating,

etc.), you’re allowing yourself and whomever you’re sharing the responsibilities with to have a more enjoyable holiday.

Perhaps most important, remember that depression is not a weakness but a disease, a disease many people suffer from each and every holiday season. Doctors have been successfully treating patients with depression for years, helping many people improve their quality of life.

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“My idea of Christmas, whether old-fashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others. Come to think of it, why do we have to wait for Christmas to do that?”

~ Bob Hope 9

Tips And Tricks For Cutting Out Cookies

Baking is a holiday tradition in many households. The aroma of freshly baked cakes, pies and cookies wafts through the air of many homes this time of year, and that makes the holiday season even more special.

Cookies are a tradition passed down through the ages. In medieval Europe, small, spiced cookies were exchanged as treats, and people still bake and share gingerbread cookies today.

Cut cookies are some of the most popular cookies to make during the holiday season. Some families may have their share of favorite cookie cutter shapes and dough recipes. Certain techniques can make holiday baking sessions easier and ensure consistent results.

• Work on a lightly floured, cool surface, such as a cutting board or stone counter top. Never work on a warm surface, which can cause dough to spread and stick.

• Roll out the dough between two sheets of baking or parchment paper. Betty Crocker recommends a thickness of about 1⁄8 inch, unless noted in the recipe. This prevents the dough from sticking, and parchment enables you to easily transfer rolled-out dough to a refrigerator or

elsewhere.

• When rolling out dough, portion it out into a few smaller amounts to roll out more easily. This will also help it to chill more readily.

• Cookies cut most easily when the dough is chilled. Refrigerate the dough for as long as possible, ideally an hour or more — even overnight. The more chilled, the firmer the dough will be.

• Rubber rolling pin rings

that slip onto each side of the rolling pin can help ensure that the dough is being rolled out to a uniform thickness.

• Dip cookie cutters into flour with each cut. Work from the center and move out to the edges when cutting out your designs. Try to maximize space and avoid scraps and rerolling.

• Some expert bakers say that metal cookie cutters cut cleaner than plastic ones. Whichever cutter you use, cut the cookie by pressing straight down; try not to twist or jiggle the cookie cutter when using it. Doughs with a high butter content can help, as the extra grease helps separate the dough from the cutters.

• If cut cookies have gotten warmer, place them in the freezer for a few minutes to firm up again and then cook. This will guarantee the cookies will not spread or distort while baking.

Extra steps may seem like they will take a lot of time. However, the extra effort and attention to detail will help produce cookies that win rave reviews.

Pets As Presents: Take A Good Look Before You Leap

As the holiday season draws closer and kids of all ages begin working up their wish lists, parents are commonly greeted with requests for a family pet, everything from lizards and rats to dogs and cats. There’s no doubt that pets can be fantastic holiday gifts for children. In fact, research shows that having animals in the house reinforces children’s selfesteem, promotes social skills and helps them to develop responsibility, nurturance and competence.

While animals can have a positive impact on the entire family, the decision to introduce a pet, even a single goldfish, to the household requires careful thought and thoughtful planning. In fact, many animal shelters and pet stores do not allow pets, particularly cats and dogs, to be adopted or purchased during the holiday season because so many of them end up being returned when the novelty wears off and the ongoing responsibilities become obvious.

If you’re considering purchasing or adopting a pet for your children this holiday season, start by asking yourself two basic, but essential questions: Are the children ready to have an animal in the household? And are the adult members of the household able and willing to provide for the animal’s needs?

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA),

children under age 10 may love the idea of having a pet, but are too young to be given responsibility for their care and feeding.

Younger children tend to do better with smaller pets, such as guinea pigs, gerbils and goldfish; animals that don’t bite and require relatively little attention.

Older children, preteens and teens, are not only very interested in animals, but are ready to handle the responsibility of seeing that their needs are met.

However, parental oversight is still required to ensure that older children are following through on their responsibilities and that pets have adequate food and water, and that their cages or litter boxes are clean.

It’s important to remember that even when a pet “belongs” to a child, parents are the ones who buy the pet food, pay the veterinary bills and are

ultimately responsible for the pet’s well being.

If your child has his or her heart set on a pet this holiday season, but you’re not sure the timing is right, the ASPCA and the Humane Society of the United States suggest a two-stage process. First, purchase some of the supplies the pet will need (feeding bowls, toys, a pet bed, etc.) to give your child as gifts. Then, when everyone is ready and there is a plan in place for the animal’s care, the family can choose their new pet together.

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“Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.”

~ Calvin

Coolidge

9

Holiday Films Families Can Enjoy Together

Christmas morning. The film, which boasts an 89 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, includes a memorable per formance by Darren Mc Gavin, who plays Ralphie’s father.

• “Babes In Toyland” (1934): Also known as “March of the Wooden Soldiers,” this nearly century-old classic stars the legendary comedy duo Laurel and Hardy as two helpful tenants living in Mother Peep’s shoe in

Toyland.

• “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (1967): An animated version of the Dr. Seuss classic, this film has entertained scores of children since it was first released more than 50 years ago.

• “Holiday Inn” (1942): Hollywood legends Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire star in this classic that is perhaps most remembered for introducing the Irving Berlin class “White Christ mas” to the masses. The film boasts a 100 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes and has something for fans of song, dance and romance.

• “Arthur Christmas” (2011): Not all Christmas films date back to the 20th century. This animated tale tells the story of Arthur

(voiced by James McAvoy), Santa’s youngest son who is thrust into the Christmas Eve business of delivering presents when his father fails to deliver a present to one child out of the hundreds of millions of kids on his list.

• “A Christmas Carol” (1951): Many holiday season celebrants cannot imagine letting a season go by without watching at least one adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic tale. The 1951 version is widely considered the most faithful to Dickens’ 1843 novella that recounts the story of Ebenezer Scrooge. Alastair Sim stars as Scrooge, and many consider his per formance the best of any actor to take a turn as the notorious 19th century miser.

Gifts Made With Love

What is the true cost of the holidays? Every year the giftgiving industry generates nearly $50 billion from the holiday selling season.

Instead of buying gifts for everyone on your list this year, consider giving gifts that are more from the heart.

With the uncertainties of the economy, creating gifts for your family and friends will not only be appreciated and enjoyed but also save you money. It’s the perfect time to rediscover sewing.

Now, take heart. You don’t have to start thinking about the holiday months in advance to create personal ized gifts. Today’s sewing machines are nothing like the sewing machines of the past. They have transformed into computerized “sewing designers.”

Here are a few quick ideas for gift giving:

• Pampered pet stockings: These fun stockings are for your favorite dog or cat. Fill them with bones or toys for the holidays. All you need is two pieces of felt and some red and green thread. Cut out any pattern you like, such as a bone or fish, on both pieces of felt and sew together leaving an opening at the top. Attach a ribbon to the top and hang on the mantel.

• Decorative pillowcases: Make or buy pillowcases or shams to decorate for the holidays. Embroider holiday pictures or sayings onto the pillowcase or sham to help the entire family get into the holiday spirit during nap time or nighttime.

• Fleece blankets: Make sure your loved ones are warm this holiday season by making blankets. Go to your local fabric store and buy fleece. With so many prints and colors to choose from, there is a type of fleece to match every personality. Cut a rectangular blanket to whatever size you choose, making sure to keep the corners rounded. You don’t even need to turn on your sewing machine; there’s nothing required except cutting.

Coffee, Anyone?

You’re nearly finished with your Christmas shopping. Just one more present to go, and it’s a coffeemaker. You’re not much of a coffee drinker yourself, so you’re going to need some help with this one. Here are some tips for selecting the right coffeemaker.

You must consider the receiver’s preferences. What kind of coffee do they use? How much coffee do they drink? For those who use ground or instant coffee, a standard coffeemaker might suffice, whereas for those who prefer freshly ground beans, a coffeemaker with a built-in grinder might be better, as long as they don’t switch between flavored and unflavored coffees. In that case, a separate grinder will be needed in order to prevent the coffeepot from becoming flavored with residue from sugary beans.

For those who want their coffee now, a coffeemaker with a fast brewing time might work well, whereas for those who entertain a lot, a two-carafe system might work better. Not only

will they be able to make more coffee, but they will be able to serve both decaf and regular.

Once you have zeroed in on the type of coffeemaker that will work best for the receiver, you need to start looking at the features provided by each machine.

Many models come with a programmable clock timer, which allows users to set a time for the coffeemaker to start brewing. Some models also come with an auto-off option that will turn off the coffeemaker at a set time.

Another feature that you might want to check into is the water filtering equipment. The best coffeemakers come with superior water filtering equipment, resulting in great coffee no matter what the quality of water used. For those with hard water, a coffeemaker with a topnotch water filter is a must.

These are just some of the aspects you should consider when purchasing a coffeemaker for that person on your gift list. Keep in mind that many other factors could come into play as you shop and be prepared to ask for assistance should you need it.

The First Noël

“The First Noël” is a beloved Christmas carol that has endured for nearly a millennium. According to Classichistory.net, historians believe “The First Noël” was written as early as the 13th century. During that time, Miracle Plays that depicted Biblical stories were very popular in Europe, and “The First Noël” is believed to have been inspired by those plays. The song tells the story of the birth of Jesus as depicted in the Gospels of Luke and Matthew.

The first Noel the angel did say was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay; in fields where they lay keeping their sheep, on a cold winter’s night that was so deep.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, born is the King of Israel.

They looked up and saw a star shining in the east, beyond them far; and to the earth it gave great light, and so it continued both day and night.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, born is the King of Israel.

And by the light of that same star three Wise Men came from country far; to seek for a king was their intent,

and to follow the star wherever it went.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, born is the King of Israel.

This star drew nigh to the northwest, o’er Bethlehem it took its rest; and there it did both stop and stay, right over the place where Jesus lay.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, born is the King of Israel.

Then entered in those Wise Men three, full reverently upon the knee, and offered there, in his presence, their gold and myrrh and frankincense.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, born is the King of Israel.

Lyrics courtesy of Hymnary.org

The Most Popular Gift 25 Years Ago

It’s easy for adults to experience a little nostalgia when holiday shopping for their children. The holiday season has long been considered a special time of year, and much of that magic can be traced to the joy kids feel when unwrapping gifts from mom, dad and, of course, Santa Claus.

Many parents who now have youngsters at home grew up in the 1990s. When such moms and dads are

shopping for holiday gifts this season, they might wonder what was the musthave item for them back when they anxiously awaited the arrival of Christmas morning? According to Insider.com, who worked in conjunction with the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York, 1996 was the year of “Tickle Me Elmo.” This ticklish toy was the most sought-after item of the 1996 holiday season, and it was so popular that retailers experienced shortages. Those shortages led to some surprising sales on the secondary market, with figures that will undoubtedly drop some jaws

even now, a quarter century after the Tickle Me Elmo craze erupted.

Though the Tickle Me Elmo doll retailed for around $30 in 1996, some parents intent on getting their youngsters the most in-demand gift that year reportedly spent more than $1,000 on a single doll. To put that latter figure into perspective, data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis indicates that the average price of a new car in 1996 was $18,525. And according to Yahoo! Finance, drivers in the market for a used car in 1996 could have purchased a 1986 four-door Oldsmobile for just over $2,600.

Christmas Flower Choices

What better way to adorn a special day than with the colors and fragrance of the beautiful flowers that add a festive look and feel to any occasion. There are florists who customize flower arrangements to suit all occasion. There are a variety of flowers that are associated with Christmas. Among many, the Mexican Poinsettia popularly used for Christmas decorations add charm to the festive occasion. It is the native flower of Mexico and is known by several names like ‘Flower of the Holy

Night,’ ‘Flame Leaf,’ ‘Christmas flower,’ ‘Lobster flower.’ These flowers look exquisite in their bright red hue yet discovering them in colors like white and pink is also not a rare sight. These starshaped bracts are believed to symbolize the Star of Bethlehem. It has been named honoring the former United States ambassador to Mexico, Dr. Joel R. Poinsett of South Carolina who introduced the flower to the United States when he returned home in 1835 from his ambassadorship. History has it that Dr. Poinsett had such strong fondness for the flower that he dedicated the last years of his life to making the “poinsettia,” a universal

symbol for Christmas.

Other common Christmas flowers include Christmas cactus with its green leaves and pink or red flowers, holly with green leaves and red berries, Christmas Rose, Christmas tree, Christmas garland, a tradition brought into America from Europe by the early settlers and of course the Mistletoe, symbolic of peace, goodwill and love. Some of these flowers have long legends associated with its origin as the Christmas flower. The legend of Poinsettia comes from Mexico. It is believed that two poverty stricken kids, Maria and Pablo who loved (Continued On Page 15)

The roar of the engine and the feeling of the wind in your hair is part of the magic of taking to the open road behind the wheel of a beloved vehicle. Whether a person is the ultimate gear head who needs to have the latest aftermarket accessory or someone who simply appreciates a pristine ride, auto enthusiasts come in all shapes and sizes. Luckily, there are all types of automotive gifts that can make it easy to impress car guys and gals this holiday season.

1. Dashboard cell phone holder: Using a mobile phone while driving is not a good idea. However, many people use their phones as GPS devices. Holding a phone while navigating is dangerous, but a phone mount near the dash can keep the phone visible without compromising the safety of drivers and their passengers.

2. Customized floor mats: Know an auto fanatic who’s also a sports fan? Offer a gift that mixes the two passions, such as floor mats featuring a favorite sports team’s logo.

3. Cleansing wipes: When drivers are short on time, a

full car wash and wax may not be possible. Drop Wipes are a product made from a neutralizing acid that destabilizes stains or bird droppings for an easy cleaning.

4. Magazine subscription: A wide selection of publications are geared to auto enthusiasts. They provide plenty of pertinent information, and some car lovers like to collect and display certain issues. Yearly subscriptions are affordable and can make ideal stocking stuffers.

5. Racing experience gift certificate: Research racing car schools and experiences

where you live. Chances are you can find an opportunity for an automotive enthusiast to get behind the wheel of a race car with professional drivers offering tips for navigating the course at high speeds.

6. Car cleaning kit: Taking care of a ride means making sure it is clean inside and out. A quality car cleaning kit can ensure the job is done effectively and the car or truck always looks its best.

7. Personalized leather keychain: Ensure that a person can drive and keep their keys handy in style with leather keychains engraved with a driver’s

name or initials.

8. Racing video games: A love for the open road may not end when cars pull into the driveway. Modern racing games and consoles produce incredibly realistic graphics and action that mimics real life.

9. Automotive cufflinks: As a nod to a love of driving, find quirky cufflinks that are shaped like everything from gear shifters to speedometers to steering wheels.

10. Roof or car racks: When a love of driving merges with the call of the great outdoors, drivers may need something to help haul their stuff. Various racks have been designed for toting around bicycles, kayaks, luggage, and more. When gifting automotive enthusiasts, look no further than their favorite hobby for inspiration.

Christmas Flower Choices

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Christmas and looked forward to it would be miserable as they couldn’t afford to offer anything in the church to express their love and gratitude towards Baby Jesus. One Christmas Eve as these two kids set forth for the church service, they decided to pick some roadside weeds to gift it to Baby Jesus, during the dramatization of the manger scene. As they placed their offering around the manger, the green leaves miraculously turned into bright red petals and in no time the manger was surrounded by star-shaped flowers, now commonly known as the Poinsettia.

Christmas rose also hailed as the Snow or

Winter Rose, is traditionally regarded as the true Christmas flower. This flower is linked with the story of the birth of the savior and how a little shepherdess named Madel on, desirous of offering a gift to welcome the new born King, was blessed by an angel with a beautiful white flower tipped with pink, later named as the Christmas Rose. The con ceptualization of the Christmas tree as an essential part of Christmas, has its root in medieval Germany where there was a tradition of decorating an evergreen with apples to symbolize the “Paradise tree.” Many years before the celebration of Christmas began, the Germans used evergreens to decorate their homes. They believed that these trees represented life and immortality and would protect their homes from evil during the coming year.