What To Get The Sports Fanatic On Your Holiday Shopping List
Diehard sports fans are a passionate lot. That passion is something to keep in mind come the holiday season, when shoppers typically must find the right fit for everyone on their list. Such an undertaking is no small task, as veteran shoppers know that the right gift for one person on their list rarely aligns with the perfect fit for another loved one. But when it comes to finding gifts for sports fans, the options are endless.
• Gear: Some sports fans are spectators, while others can’t wait to compete. Some new gear can be just what fans in the latter group are hoping to find under the tree this holiday season. Avid golfers may love a new driver or golf bag, while loved ones who can’t wait for softball season to start each spring may consider a new bat the best gift they receive this holiday season. Whatever sport sparks your favorite athlete’s passion, there’s sure to be some gear that can help them take their game to the next level.
• Tickets: Perhaps nothing sparks sports fans’ passion
more strongly than seeing their favorite team in person, and that’s even more true in a postpandemic sports landscape.
Popular sports like football, baseball and basketball have traditionally sold lots of tickets, but even sports like college volleyball and Major League Soccer have set attendance records since
fans were allowed to return to stadiums after the removal of pandemicrelated restrictions. The demand for tickets to live sporting events has spiked as a result, and Team Marketing Report noted National Football League tickets increased by nearly 9 percent in 2023 and Major League Baseball tickets
increased by 3.5 percent in that same year. Such increases have priced some fans out of the market, which is why tickets can make for such a great gift this holiday season. The gift of attending a game in person is something a loved one won’t soon forget.
• Apparel: Proud sports fans want to show their true
colors, and nothing makes it easier to do so than team apparel. According to Statista, the global sports apparel market generated roughly $213 billion USD in revenue in 2023. A jersey with the name and number of a loved one’s favorite player can make for the ultimate apparel gift, but don’t overlook T-shirts, hats, outerwear, or other options this holiday season.
Planning Pointers For Holiday Hosts
Hosting is a significant part of the holiday season. From late November until New Year’s Day, millions of people across North America welcome friends and family into their homes. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering with locally based loved ones or welcoming distant relatives into your home for several days, the following are some planning pointers to ensure your home is ready and guests feel welcome this holiday season.
• Hire a local cleaning service. The holiday season can be hectic. Holiday functions at school, office parties, community events, and more fill up social schedules between late November and early January. Busy social schedules leave little time for house cleaning, which is a must before welcoming guests into a home. A local cleaning service can clean the whole house for hosts welcoming overnight guests or focus on a few popular entertaining areas if party guests will be going home at the end of the night.
• Television: The popularity of watching sports is undeniable and the proof is in the financial pudding. For example, Statista reports the annual value of the NFL’s deal with ABC/ESPN/Disney to broadcast “Monday Night Football” was approximately $2.7 billion in 2023. That figure underscores how much fans love watching their favorite teams, and they need somewhere to do so. There may be no quicker route to a sports fan’s heart than through a new television to make the viewing experience that much better. The prices on 4K UHD televisions have dropped considerably in recent years, so a new TV can make the perfect gift for the sports fan in your life. Split the cost with fellow loved ones and then enjoy watching your favorite sports fan react upon seeing his or her new television under the tree. These are just a few of the many gifts to consider for the diehard sports fan on your shopping list this holiday season.
• Get an early head count. Ask party invitees and prospective overnight guests to RSVP early enough to ensure you can accommodate everyone’s needs. Additional seating may be required for holiday parties, while hosts may need to
arrange for extra bedding for overnight guests. The earlier you know who’s coming, and potentially staying, the more time you have to ensure you can accommodate everyone.
• Rent items from a local party supply store. When hosting large gatherings, a local party supply store can be the place to go for decorations, seating, food trays and utensils, and more.
Such establishments also may rent specialty supplies like outdoor heat lamps for cold weather parties or tents and outdoor tables and chairs in areas where the weather is warm during the holiday season. Hosts can typically rent everything they need to host the party, saving them the expense of buying items that may just sit in storage the rest of the year.
• Arrange for transportation. Whether guests are flying in from distant lands or local friends, relatives or neighbors stopping in for the night, hosts can arrange for transportation to and from their homes to ensure everyone arrives safely and makes it home without incident. Pick overnight guests up at the airport so they see a friendly face upon arrival. When hosting gatherings with local family and friends, encourage others to share how they intend to get home and recruit designated drivers if you intend to serve alcohol.
Hosts can take heed of these planning pointers so guests feel welcome and have a good time this holiday season.
The Ultimate Playlist To Give Your Home The Right Holiday
Staying home for the holidays can make the season a little more convenient, saving celebrants from having to contend with the millions of individuals who take to the roads, railways and friendly skies each December. But staying home comes with its fair share of obligations, especially for individuals who are planning holiday get-togethers with family and friends.
Mood and merrymaking go hand in hand come the holiday season, and music can be used to establish a celebratory vibe this time of year. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply aspring to create a festive atmosphere throughout the month of December, the following songs can help set the right tone this year.
• “Sleigh Ride,” by Ella Fitzgerald
• “The Christmas Song,” by Gregory Porter
• “Jingle Bell Rock,” by Bobby Helms
• “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!,” by Frank Sinatra
• “Jingle Bells,” by Kimberley Locke
• “Silver Bells,” by Tony Bennett, featuring Count Basie and His Big Band
• “Here Comes Santa Claus,” by Elvis Presley
• “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” by Diana Krall
• “White Christmas,” by Bing Crosby
• “Winter Wonderland,” by Louie Armstrong
• “The First Noel,” by the cast of “Glee”
• “Happy Holiday,” by Peggy Lee
• “O Tannenbaum,” by the Vince Guaraldi Trio
• “Boogie Woogie Santa Claus,” by the Brian Setzer Orchestra
• “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” by Mariah Carey
• “Santa Baby,” by Eartha Kitt
• “Mele Kalikimaka,” by Bing Crosby and The Andrews Sisters
• “Blue Christmas,” by Elvis Presley
• “Frosty the Snowman,” by Gene Autry
• “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town,” by Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band
• “Deck the Halls,” by Nat King Cole
• “Fairytale of New York,” by The Pogues featuring Kirsty MacColl
• “Rudolph the Red-
Nosed Reindeer,” by Burl Ives
• “Baby, It’s Cold Outside,” by Dean Martin and Marilyn Maxwell
These are just some of the songs that can make up a merry and festive holiday season playlist.
• “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” by The Ray Coniff Singers
Notable Chanukah Traditions
Celebrated
Each year on the twentyfifth day of Kislev, which typically falls during the month of December, adherents of the Jewish faith celebrate the festival of Chanukah. Although Chanukah may not bear the same religious significance as other Jewish holidays, it is a well-known celebration.
Chanukah commemorates the rededication of the Temple by the Maccabees in 165 BC after its desecration by the Syrians. Although there was not enough oil left to light the Temple for even one night, lamps remained illuminated for eight straight days and nights. Thus Chanukah is known as the Festival of Lights, which incorporates many unique traditions.
Lighting the Menorah
Perhaps the most visible and important Chanukah tradition involves the menorah. While traditional Jewish menorahs have seven branches, the Chanukah menorah, known as the hanukkiah, actually has nine branches. There are eight candles and a ninth, which is called the shamash, is used to light the other eight. The menorah is lit each night after sundown.
Maximize Outdoor Spaces This Holiday Season
The holiday season comes at a time when the weather can be anywhere from cool to frigid. But even if the weather outside is somewhat frightful, holiday entertaining in outdoor spaces can still be delightful. Making the most of outdoor spaces during the holidays and the rest of the winter can enable guests to spread out, which should make things more comfortable for them. With that goal in mind, the following are some tips for putting outdoor areas to good use when hosting loved ones this holiday season.
• Decorate first. An easy way to make outdoor entertaining spaces more welcoming is to coordinate the decor with the interior of the home. Greenery wrapped with lights around railings and fencing can create the perfect ambiance. Candles, wreaths and small, decorated Christmas trees can finish the effect.
• Consider a fire or heating element. Unless you live in a temperate climate, you’ll need some way to keep guests warm. Center the outdoor entertaining space around a fire pit, outdoor fireplace or an outdoor heater. Make sure to illuminate the outdoor area so that guests can find their way around with ease.
Giving of Gelt Chanukah gelt is money given as presents during the festival. It is typically offered to children and sometimes to teachers.
• Host an early gathering.
The sun sets early in fall and winter, so it may not only get colder, but also darker at a time when guests typically arrive. Think about moving up the start time of your holiday event if you’ll be having an outdoor area, so guests can see one another and stay a little warmer.
• Use the grill. Keep foods warm by using the grill or an outdoor griddle; otherwise, set up the food buffet-style inside so guests can make their plates and gravitate where they feel comfortable.
• Provide blankets or fleeces. In addition to warm-
Other gifts have now largely replaced the coins once offered, and gelt is sometimes chocolate.
Playing Dreidel Greek-Syrians outlawed Jewish studies at one point,
ing elements around your entertaining space, stock a large basket with cozy throws, blankets or fleece jackets that guests can use to warm up. Hats and scarves also may be appreciated.
• Invest in waterproof furniture. Upgrade your exterior seating with plush outdoor couches and lounges that are decked out in weather-resistant fabrics. Make them more comfortable with throw pillows that coordinate with a holiday entertaining theme.
• Set up two drink stations. Set up beverages both inside and outside the home so
so the Jews spun dreidels to pretend they were only playing games. Really they were engaged with their scripture. The tradition of spinning the dreidel endures as a Chanukah tradition.
guests can easily refill their drinks wherever they are relaxing. Think about having some warm drinks outside, such as mulled cider or hot chocolate, so guests can be warmed from the inside as well.
• Use a wireless speaker. A Bluetooth-enabled wireless speaker placed outside allows guests to listen to holiday tunes while they are enjoying themselves.
Using well-equipped outdoor areas for entertaining can expand the possibilities and guest list for holiday gatherings.
Foods Fried in Oil
The miracle of the burning oil extends to the foods enjoyed during Chanukah. Many of the holiday foods are prepared in oil, including latkes (fried potatoes) and sufganiyot, which are fried, jelly-filled doughnuts.
According to Town & Country magazine, millions of jelly doughnuts are consumed in Israel throughout Chanukah.
Serving Brisket
An authentic Chanukah celebration often includes traditional dishes served in the spirit of celebration and gratitude. Brisket is frequently prepared for Chanukah dinners. Brisket was adopted because it was affordable and delicious. Jewish brisket is braised, and served with carrots, potatoes and other vegetables. Brisket may be served alongside another Chanukah dish, kugel, which is a casserole made from eggs and noodles Making Cookies
Although Christmas cookies may be ubiquitous this time of year, cookies often are part of Chanukah traditions as well. Some cookies are cut to look like dreidels or stars. Those who want to incorporate the miracle of oil into their baking can seek recipes that use oil in place of butter in the cookie batters, something that can make them dairy-free and also vegan. Chanukah begins on December 25, 2024, and will last through January 2, 2025. It’s a festive time to embrace many time-honored traditions.
Celebration Of Las Posadas
The story of the birth of Jesus Christ is one that has been told for more than 2,000 years and serves as one of the foundations of Christianity. The Nativity is an important component of Christmas celebrations, and Nativity scenes frequently are included in town-wide and personal celebrations. Perhaps nowhere is the Nativity story told with more faith-based gusto than through the annual celebration of Las Posadas, which originated in Mexico and Guatemala.
Las Posadas is a vibrant and meaningful tradition that unites communities and celebrates the journey of Mary and Joseph from Nazareth to Bethlehem, and how they tried to find safe refuge before the birth of their child. They were unable to find lodging in Bethlehem, and had to shelter in a stable, where Jesus was born.
According to Britannica, the religious festival is celebrated primarily in Mexico between December 16 and 24, but also in enclaves in the United States and elsewhere with high numbers of Mexican and Guatemalan immigrants. “Posada” is the Spanish word for “inn” or “lodging.” The celebration of Las Posadas involves a procession of carolers led by a small child dressed as an angel. The tradition can be traced back to the sixteenth century, when Spanish missionaries sought to teach indigenous people about the Christian faith.
Over nine nights (representing the nine months of pregnancy), participants reenact Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging, going from house to house in the community. The procession also includes singing, carrying candles and often dressing as the holy couple.
Traditionally, the procession is refused lodging at each stop, though the hosts of homes visited will often pro-
vide refreshments. Scripture is read during these visits, and Mass is held each day after the procession. Other components associated with Las Posadas include:
• Piñatas
• Traditional foods
• Nativity scenes
• Community involvement
Las Posadas is a celebration that kicks off the Christmas season with a procession reminiscent of the trip Joseph and Mary took just before Baby Jesus was born.
Dessert Gifts They’ll Devour
There’s the annual holiday joke about fruit cake gifts and those who cringe at the sight of them. Very few people find fruit cakes palatable. But don’t let the dubious fruit cake deter you from giving a gift of dessert this year. Just make sure it’s delicious. With the following two recipes, you probably can’t go wrong.
Chocolate Decadence
This light textured, but richly flavored cake will delight chocoholics everywhere. Make as a single cake, or pour into cupcake tins for individual treats.
4 eggs
1 cup sugar
1 package bittersweet
chocolate baking squares
1-1/2 sticks butter
1/2 cup flour
Powdered sugar to garnish
Chocolate bar (to create chocolate curls)
Preheat oven to 350°F. Beat eggs and sugar in a bowl until frothy and thick. Microwave chocolate baking squares and butter until melted, approximately 2 minutes. Stir until mixture forms a thickened chocolate
sauce. Let cool to room temperature, then mix into egg/sugar mixture with a wire whisk.
Sprinkle flour into bowl and mix gently to incorporate. Pour batter into a greased and floured 9-inch round baking pan and bake until center is set, or 30 minutes. Garnish with powdered sugar and chocolate curls, if desired.
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cake
Gooey chocolate chips, spiced pumpkin cake, could there be a better combination?
1 can pumpkin puree
3 eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 cups sugar
2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 small bag chocolate chips
Cinnamon or pumpkin pie seasoning to taste
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a tube pan. Mix all ingredients, except chocolate chips, in a bowl. Blend in chocolate chips by hand mixing. Pour batter into tube pan. Bake for an hour and allow to cool before serving.
Christmas Cookies Embody The Joy Of Holiday Cooking
The holiday season simply wouldn’t be the same without food. The joyful spirit of the season lends itself to sharing a bite if not a full meal with family and friends. Perhaps that explains why so many people embrace the joy of baking each holiday season. Some bake to honor and continue family traditions, while others spend hours crafting cookies to put a smile on the face of loved ones each holiday season.
Whatever it is that inspires individuals to break out the measuring cups, flour and whisk, cookie fans undoubtedly appreciate that spark of confectionary creativity. This holiday season, those with an urge to bake some cookies can try this recipe for “Christmas Linz Shortbread Cookies with Red Jam” from Lines+Angles.
Christmas Linz Shortbread Cookies with Red Jam
Makes 24 cookies
2 cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup almond flour
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup sugar
2 egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon zest
½ cup raspberry jam
½ cup powdered sugar
1. In a large bowl, whisk the flour, almond flour, salt,
and cinnamon together. In a separate bowl, beat the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add in the egg yolks, vanilla extract and lemon zest and continue to beat until well incorporated.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and continue to beat until just combined to form a dough. Divide the dough in half; pat each half into a disc, wrap with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour.
3. Remove the dough from the refrigerator, and let it soften for about 5 minutes, until soft enough to roll. On a lightly floured surface, roll one disc of dough out to about 1⁄4” thickness. Using a 3” cookie cutter, cut out cookies. Cut out a top for each cookie using a smaller cookie cutter to cut out the center. Transfer the cookies to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Gather the scrap
dough, roll, and repeat the process.
4. Place the first batch of cut cookies in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to chill. Preheat the oven to 350°F and repeat the process with the second batch of dough.
5. Bake the chilled cookies for about 12 minutes or until just starting to turn golden around the edges. Let the cookies cool for a few minutes until transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Once cooled, spread the bottom half of each cookie with some raspberry preserves, leaving a thin border around each cookie. Dust the tops of each cookie with powdered sugar and place on its corresponding bottom half. Use a spoon or piping bag to fill the cut-out center with a little more of the preserves.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Resting time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Difficulty: Easy 9
Did You Know?
Though it might not be home to as many celebrants as Australia and the United States, the tiny Pacific island nation of Kiribati will be the first country to ring in the new year in 2025. This small nation beats New Zealand’s Chatham Islands to the punch by 15 minutes. When Kiribati is welcoming the new year, it will only be 5 a.m. on December 31 in New York City. The uninhabited atoll Baker Island and the uninhabited coral island Howland Island are the last places to welcome 2025. These tiny islands do so seven hours after the ball drops in New York City’s in Times Square.
Be Mindful Of Pets During The Holiday Season
The magic and wonder of the holiday season can be enthralling for people of all
ages. There is so much to see and do during the holiday season, making it easy to forge lasting memories. With so much to do in December, life at home can sometimes feel a little hectic, especially for the family pet. Although the holidays can be exciting, the season can induce
anxiety in pets. Pets like cats and dogs often thrive on routine and familiarity. Switch up that routine and various behavioral issues can arise, including having accidents in the home. Pets also may become more destructive, chewing or clawing at items to release pent-up tension and anxiety. Pet owners who want the season to be festive for their
pets can consider the following strategies.
• Gradually introduce new items. Gradually decorate living spaces so pets can grow acclimated to their newly decorated environs. Add a few pieces to rooms each day until you finally have all of your decorations out for display. This way pets can sniff around the
decorations and realize they do not pose a threat.
• Keep familiar pet belongings. Try not to upset the apple cart too much in regard to pets’ cherished possessions. For example, do not move the dog bed from the living room and place the Christmas tree in its place. Pets need that familiarity and having some
of their items with familiar smells can make for a smooth adjustment to holiday decorations.
• Designate a pet-safe zone. If you will be inviting people over during the holidays, set aside a room for pets so they can be in relative quiet away from boisterous crowds. Locking pets away also helps prevent their escape from the home as guests come and go.
• Secure the tree and other decorations. Pets are often curious about new things, and they may climb or paw at items to try to understand them better. Decorative items may end up being knocked over by curious pets. Secure the tree using a string and an anchor to the ceiling or wall like you might secure a large screen TV to prevent it from tipping over. Keep breakable ornaments and other trinkets behind display cases or beyond the reach of pets.
• Discourage pets from using decorations as toys. Reprimand pets or move them away from holiday decor so they don’t get the idea that these items are now their toys.
• Be careful with holiday foods. Holiday foods and desserts are rich and full of ingredients that may not be healthy for pets. Keep a secure lid on trash pails and remind holiday guests that pets should not be fed table scraps.
Pets may need some time to adjust to the changes that come with holiday decorating and celebrating to keep them happy and safe.
How Some Popular Holiday Traditions Got Their Start
Will you be baking gingerbread or hanging stockings by the fireplace this holiday season? Perhaps you’ll be lighting the menorah or playing a game of dreidel? The holidays are steeped in tradition, some of which are older than celebrants may realize.
Individuals gather during the holidays and participate in various traditions that have withstood the test of time. Most people engage in these traditions or recognize symbols automatically, but it can be interesting to learn how these traditions came to be.
Christmas Caroling
Christmas Trees
available oil supply was supposed to light the menorah for just one day, but the candles actually burned for eight.
Mistletoe
Holiday Spending Projections
Kissing under the mistletoe is a holiday season tradition that can lead to some red faces when couples are caught beneath the plant. Norse mythology paved the way for kissing under the mistletoe. Legend has it the gods used mistletoe to resurrect Odin’s son, Baldur, from the dead. Baldur’s mother, Frigg, the goddess of love, made the plant a symbol of love and vowed to kiss anyone who passed under it. Mistletoe blooms under cold conditions, which is how it became associated with the holiday season.
The holiday season tends to be the busiest for retail sales, and going by how shoppers opened their wallets during the 2023 season, many are wondering if 2024 will be another banner season for retailers. Last year, the average consumer spent around $1,530 on gifts and other needs for the holidays, according to Mailmodo. The United States Department of Commerce indicated retail sales grew 4.1 percent year over year in November 2023. Industry forecasters have made a few predictions for the 2024 holiday spending season, and these are some key takeaways.
Pagans once displayed evergreen branches as a reminder that spring would come again, while Romans
The British traditions of wassailing and mumming and the Slavic tradition of koliada were some of the precursors to more modern caroling. People would go door-to-door and recite poetry or sing with the hope of bringing about good fortune or influencing a future harvest, according to Rutgers University. Carolers spread hope and good tidings through song during a time of year when sunlight was limited.
placed them around temples to honor Saturn, the god of agriculture. Eventually the evergreen was used in conjunction with Christian Christmas celebrations. In the sixteenth century, German Christians put trees inside their homes as symbols of everlasting life.
Santa Claus
It is said that he traveled helping the poor and the sick. History.com says he is believed to have saved three impoverished sisters from slavery by providing them with a dowry so they could be married, and he also provided gifts to children.
Menorah
Yule Log
Children who celebrate Christmas eagerly await the arrival of a jolly sort who goes by the name of Santa Claus. His origin story stretches back to the third century, when Saint Nicholas became the patron saint of children. Saint Nicholas was a monk in what is modern-day Turkey.
Yule logs were once part of winter solstice celebrations to bring good luck and fortune, but America is where a yule log really caught on as a holiday tradition. In 1966, the WPIX television station in New York City aired a continuous loop of a fireplace burning for three hours with holiday songs playing. It became an annual tradition, says History.com. Some people even serve a cake that looks like a yule log. The Bûche de Noël is a traditional Christmas cake that is especially popular in France.
• The presidential election likely will have a major impact on consumer shopping. Shoppers were expected to bide their time (and possibly their spending) until they feel better about the outcome of the election. Forecasters suggested if a consumer’s chosen candidate wins, they’ll feel more comfortable about higher spending. If not, spending may be curbed.
• As retailers learn more about consumers preferences for personalized offers, shoppers may find finely tuned discounts and offers showing up in their emails or text messages.
The menorah is a multibranched candelabra used in Jewish religious rituals. The menorah is first mentioned in the book of Exodus when the design of the lamp was revealed to Moses by God on Mount Sinai. Many menorahs are sevenbranched, but during Chanukah, an eight-branched menorah is used. The Chanukah menorah is modeled after the Tabernacle menorah that corresponds to the eight-day festival. It was used to celebrate the rededication of the Second Temple. The
Holiday traditions continue in full force. Traditions are an endearing component of celebrations and help to unite people from all backgrounds during this special time of year.
• Forty-three percent of consumers are carrying more debt now than in 2023 because they are reliant on their consumer credit cards more than ever. Expect to see more “buy now, pay later” deals by retailers to lure in customers.
Auld Lang Syne
They might not realize it, but New Year’s Eve celebrants honor a world-renowned Scottish poet and lyricist each time they sing along to “Auld Lang Syne” as the clock strikes 12 midnight on New Year’s Eve. Robert Burns wrote “Auld Lang Syne” in 1788 and translations regarding what the phrase means vary. Burns wrote the poem in the Scots language, which is a little known language spoken in Scotland and parts of Ulster in Ireland. The phrase is now widely translated as “times long past,” which may explain why it has become the unofficial anthem of New Year’s Eve.
Should old acquaintance be forgot, And never brought to mind? Should old acquaintance be forgot, And old lang syne?
For auld lang syne, my dear, For auld lang syne, We’ll take a cup of kindness yet, For auld lang syne.
And surely you’ll buy your pint cup! And surely I’ll buy mine! And we’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet, For auld lang syne.
For auld lang syne, my dear, For auld lang syne, We’ll take a cup of kindness yet, For auld lang syne.
We two have run about the slopes, And picked the daisies fine; But we’ve wandered many a weary foot, Since auld lang syne.
For auld lang syne, my dear, For auld lang syne, We’ll take a cup of kindness yet, For auld lang syne.
We two have paddled in the stream, From morning sun till dine; But seas between us broad have roared Since auld lang syne.
For auld lang syne, my dear, For auld lang syne, We’ll take a cup of kindness yet, For auld lang syne.
Tips To Simplify Your Holiday Cooking This Year
Food is an important component of the holiday season for millions of people across the globe. Many a holiday host has wrestled with what to serve for their gathering and how to prepare meals while still finding time to spend with loved ones. Sometimes simplicity is the way to go when hosting for the holidays. Just because certain dishes are less laborintensive to prepare does not mean they lack flavor. Hosts can consider these tips to simplify holiday cooking this year.
• Utilize shop-from-home services. Supermarkets can be particularly busy this time of year. By shopping from the comfort of home, holiday hosts can sort through their lists and let someone else navigate crowded store aisles. The small fee involved for this service can be well worth the time saved.
• Scale back the sides. Some hosts feel an impressive dinner spread is one with plenty of options. Several side dishes requires a lot of time and money, and such foods may take away from the star of the table. Guests might fill up on rolls, potatoes and salads, leaving little room for the main course. Scaling back on sides creates more time for
hosts to mingle with family and ensures everyone gets their fill of the main course.
• Delegate some of the work. Asking guests to bring a little something to the meal doesn’t immediately turn it
And there’s a hand my trusty friend! And give me a hand o’ thine! And we’ll take a right good-will draught, For auld lang syne.
For auld lang syne, my dear,
into a potluck. However, it can reduce some of the work the host has to do. Figure out who is bound to be an early arrival, and ask that person to bring an appetizer. Individuals who like to be fashionably late can bring
side dishes or desserts.
Delegating beverage detail also can be a time-saver.
• Familiar is often fabulous. A major holiday is seldom the right time to experiment with a new, labor-intensive dish. Rather than risk an epic fail, hosts should stick to meals they have prepared before. Also, familiar flavors may appeal to a greater number of guests.
• Include some prepared foods. While it is perfectly alright to cater the entire dinner, that can prove costly. If budget doesn’t allow for a fully catered meal, supplement with some prepared dishes to help save time, particularly those recipes that can be complicated.
• Make it a buffet. Sitdown dinners require careful timing to ensure all foods are set out hot and ready-to-eat. A buffet-style meal involves preparing trays of food in advance, and then setting them to heat in chafing dishes until meal time. This involves far less strategizing with meal preparation and frees up time for hosts to spend with guests.
Holiday meals require a lot of effort, but some handy suggestions can ensure hosts have ample time to spend with loved ones.
For auld lang syne, We’ll take a cup of kindness yet, For auld lang syne.
Lyrics by Robert Burns Lyrics courtesy of Britannica.com
Prepare Your Home For Entertaining
The cold weather is setting in, and the holidays are upon us! It’s time to make room in your home for all of the holiday entertaining that is just around the corner. Preparing your home before the holiday season starts allows you more time for wrapping gifts and baking treats without the lingering thoughts of cleaning. There are several steps you can take to ensure your home is polished and perfect before the holidays arrive. Use these tips to get you started:
Tips And Tricks When Decorating With Christmas Stockings
Hanging Christmas stockings is just one of the many traditions that fill the days leading up to Christmas. One theory regarding the origins of stockings says the tradition began when a poor widower who had three daughters worried over having enough money for their wedding dowries to help secure the daughters’ futures. The women, who had hung their stockings by the fireplace to dry, woke up to find solid gold spheres inside. This legend suggests kindly St. Nicholas visited the home in the night and left the presents, helping ensure the daughters could marry well, after all.
• Clear out clutter -- For maximum entertaining space, remove any items from the rooms in which you’ll be entertaining that you can do without. To fit a large group into your home, consider moving bulky furniture to another room and bringing in slim folding chairs and tables to accommodate guests. Remove tall potted plants that could be knocked over, and store valuable collectibles out of sight so they won’t be damaged.
Christmas stockings were the first places where gifts were stowed, before under the boughs of Christmas trees became the primary spot for placing gifts. Then stockings were secondary vessels reserved for small trinkets. Today stockings are largely Christmas decorations rather than places to
• Polish wood -- Restore your wood surfaces to their
place gifts. Still, they’re a key component of holiday magic.
When including stockings in holiday festivities, follow these tips for whimsy and more.
• Utilize stocking holders. Stocking holders are either metal or wooden devices
original gleaming finishes. Don’t use products containing citrus acids and oils;
that are placed on mantels. Hooks on the holders suspend the stockings. Just be sure the holders are sturdy enough to handle the weight of a stuffed stocking if you plan on filling it with goodies.
• Determine your style. There are Christmas stock-
ings that coordinate to just about any interior design style. From farmhouse to modern to traditional, choose one that fits with your aesthetic. That isn’t to say you can’t mix and match stockings if you prefer a more eclectic, homespun feel.
• Enhance your stocking look. If stockings are strictly decorative, enhance their look with a few tricks. First, use tissue paper or balled up shopping bags to stuff the stockings and give them shape. Fill a small baggie with sand or florist glass and place in the heel of the stocking to balance it out and prevent the stocking from blowing around in the breeze.
• No fireplace; no problem. Stockings are traditionally hung from the fireplace mantel, but if you don’t have a fireplace there is no need to fret. Simply use ribbons to hang them from the bannister of a staircase, or hang stockings right on walls with removable hooks, or from sturdy shelves. You also can think creatively and hang larger stockings on a door like you might a wreath. Whether they’re decorative or functional, stockings can be an integral component of holiday decor in a home.
when used often enough these products can damage your wood surfaces by drying them out and making them more vulnerable to damage and cracking. Always use the highestquality cleaning and polishing products.
• Clean the carpets and upholstery -- Dingy carpeting or drab upholstery will do little to complement holiday decor. Call in a professional service to clean area rugs, carpeting and couches so that everything
will be fresh, clean and inviting. If you don’t want to hire a service, rent a steam cleaner from your local home improvement store and follow the instructions for cleaning.
• Calm kitchen chaos -Food preparation and service will most likely take place in your kitchen, so make sure the room is functional, yet also clean and tidy in case guests wander in. Give wood cabinets a quick touch up. In addition, clean out the pantry, refrigerator and
freezer to help when it comes to storing all the extra food for the holidays and entertaining.
• Bedrooms and beyond -If guests will be spending the night, make sure their accommodations include fresh bed linens and towels in the bathroom. Take bedspreads and comforters to the dry cleaner and vacuum blinds and lamp shades for a finishing touch. Leave a fresh poinsettia bloom on each pillow to ensure heavenly holiday dreams.
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Thoughtful Gift Ideas For The Aging Adults In Your Life
Children typically want to treat their parents to something special during the holiday season. Parents do a lot for their children, and when those kids become adults, a desire to express their appreciation for Mom and Dad grows.
According to The Wrap Up: Snappy’s 2022 Holiday Gift Report, the majority of Americans (64.2 percent) report they need help when it comes to holiday gifting. They may want to carefully consider a recipient’s interests, as the report also discovered more than half of all Americans want a gift that reflects their personal interests and hobbies. When shopping for elderly parents, it may not be as simple as identifying interests, particularly if Mom and Dad are experiencing age-related health issues. Consider these gift ideas that may be ideal for the aging adults in your life.
• Cozy blanket: Older adults may have trouble regulating their body temperatures, which can translate to feeling cold a lot of the time. A new blanket or throw for a bed or to cuddle up with in a favorite recliner might be the perfect gift.
• Family history book: Budding writers can interview their aging parents and jot down family stories. Those stories and anecdotes can be compiled into a book and combined with photos to make a family history log, which can be gifted back to the interviewee.
• Gripping slippers: Slips and falls can injure aging adults and put them out of commission for quite some time. Sturdy and secure slippers with anti-slip soles are good for getting around the house and making quick trips to take out the trash or get the mail.
• Robotic vacuum: Keeping up with the household chores is easier with a robotic vacuum that automatically scours carpets and hard-surface floors. This eliminates having to wrestle with a cumbersome vacuum.
• Key finder: A key finder can help adults find their keys if they are misplaced. Some employ radio frequency, while others utilize Bluetooth technology and can be paired to a smartphone.
• Magnifying light: Older parents who like to do puzzles or close-up work like knitting or stitching can benefit from an LED lamp that also has a magnifying glass built right in.
• E-reader: Avid readers may enjoy an e-reader because they don’t have to find spots to store even more books in their homes. E-readers can be customized so the print is the right size for the reader’s needs. Also, the devices are lightweight and easy to stow in a bag.
• Automatic card shuffler: Parents who are known card sharks around the comm-
unity can use an automatic card shuffler to make card play even easier.
• Resistance bands: Resistance bands are like large rubber bands that exert force to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility. They can help aging adults stay in shape in a lowimpact way.
• Dining gift cards: When parents do not want to spend additional time in the kitchen, they may opt to visit a favorite restaurant. A combination of a gift card to a favorite establishment as well as pre-paid taxi or ride share service ensures a good meal out at a restaurant and a safe ride home.
Although they seem to have everything, aging parents still can benefit from some thoughtful gifts.
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How Not To Feel Lonely
We all are alone sometimes, but that does not mean feeling lonely; we can be alone and be perfectly happy, so what is it that makes us feel lonely and how can we make ourselves feel good? But also why do we feel lonely? So, what is this feeling of loneliness that so many people experience?
Loneliness is a feeling of inner void and feeling of loss, loss of someone and, in a way, loss of ourselves. It is a feeling of being a victim or being betrayed, or not in control of our lives.
And of course the feeling of loneliness comes out at particular times, such as Christmas.
First of all you need to organize your life, you need to establish a sort of structure. It is a question
of taking ownership and control of yourself and your life and deciding who you want to be and how you want to live your life.
Then self-esteem is a very important factor, because self-esteem is what makes you feel good. You need to start liking yourself, respecting yourself, putting yourself first. Be yourself and give value to yourself.
Develop a belief that you can create anything you want in your life, so if you want more friends, plan in advance for the kind of friends you want, for the kind of people you want in your life, and reach out for them. And also a belief that it is ok to be alone, that you simply organize your life.
And once you are in control of your life and you feel good about yourself, you simply decide what you want to do.
A Guide To Dining Out
For The Holidays
For some people there is no better way to celebrate the holidays than to spend time with friends and loved ones around the dinner table. Although cooking and dining at home are popular this time of year, some celebrants may not have the time or the inclination to host the holidays at home. Preparing and serving holiday meals to guests can be time-consuming. In fact, many holiday hosts and hostesses lament that hosting duties can compromise the time they get to spend with the ones they love each year.
Dining out is one way to save time and free up more moments for interacting without the pressure of food shopping, cooking and
cleanup. The following are some tips for families who opt to dine out for the holidays.
• Confirm restaurants are open. Many restaurants close on major holidays to enable staff to spend time with their own family members. This may be more so for Thanksgiving and Christmas than with weeklong celebrations like Chanukah and Kwanzaa. Verify with restaurants if they have holiday hours, and more importantly, that they will be open on the day you will be dining out. If you plan to dine out on a Monday, you’ll want to confirm the establishment will be open, because typically that is a day that many restaurants are closed.
• Make a reservation. If you find an establishment open for the holiday, reserve a table early. Also, some restaurants may ask for a deposit on reservations to ensure you show up.
• Expect some menu changes. To account for reduced staff or even ease in meal service, some restaurants may opt for a pricefixed holiday menu or a limited menu from their typical offerings. Some may showcase a seasonal menu that caters to holiday favorites they think diners will expect. There also may be fewer substitutions or customizations allowed.
• Avoid peak dining times. Restaurants may fill up after church services or around dinner time. Consider reserving your table for a less popular hour to reduce the propensity for long waits or being rushed out.
• Be patient. Kitchens can
get backed up on a holiday, and it may take longer than expected for food to make it out to tables. Cut kitchen employees and servers a break as they are likely frazzled. They are trying their best to service all patrons.
• Plan to tip generously. It’s the season of giving, and you should make sure you take care of your server. You can make the day even brighter with some words of gratitude and a nice gratuity.
• Pace alcoholic beverages. It’s normal to enjoy some spirited drinks during holiday celebrations. It’s easier to indulge a bit more at home and you do not need to get behind the wheel. When dining out, do not overdo things, and have a plan for who will be driving home.
Dining out during the holidays is a possibility with practical planning.
Did You Know?
The majority of people hear Christmas and naturally think of December 24 and 25. For millions of Christians, these two dates mark Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, respectively, which is when Christians commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. In fact, the word Christmas comes from the phrase “Mass of Christ.”
However, there are certain faithful who will not be celebrating Christmas on December 25. These are namely those who belong to Orthodox, Greek Orthodox and Coptic Orthodox churches, among others. These churches primarily trace their origins to Eastern Europe and portions of Asia and Africa, including Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Serbia, Greece, Armenia, and Ethiopia. The churches utilize the former Julian
calendar for religious observations. This places Christmas on January 7. It also is believed that 12 days after Jesus was born, three magi visited him to shower him with blessings and gifts, an event known as the Epiphany. Some recognize Christmas as occurring on this day, which is January 6. In fact, the “true” Christmas holiday takes place between Christ’s birth and the Epiphany, or the 12 days of Christmas. Candlemas, which comes 40 days after Christmas, also is considered the official end of the Christmas season for some.
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Author Unknown
“Sing hey! Sing hey! For Christmas Day; Twine mistletoe and holly. For a friendship glows, In winter snows, And so let’s all be jolly!”
Healthy Holiday Recipe Swaps
Although presents garner most of the
there is no denying that
and entertaining also figure prominently this time of year. Delish magazine reports that Christmas food consumption ranks third, behind Thanksgiving and Super Bowl Sunday, among Americans, and that a single Christmas meal can weigh in at 3,000 calories, not factoring in any other food consumed that day.
No one wants to feel held back while having fun with family and friends, but smart food choices can mean healthier living during this season of festivities. Dish up these alternatives when holiday entertaining.
• Lean on leaner cuts of meat. A strong body is built on protein, and holiday hosts often make a meat or poultry dish the star of the holiday dinner table. When selecting holiday fare, choose leaner options such as “round” or “loin” roasts; otherwise, select white-fleshed fish and skinless poultry in lieu of other options.
• Use broths instead of creams. Soups and gravies are popular this time of year,
and both can be made healthier by opting for stock or broth bases over more fattening milks or creams when creating these recipes.
• Create a one-crust pie. Pie is one of the more popular holiday desserts, and plenty of the calories come from a rich, buttery crust. Lighten up by serving a one-crust pie, such as pumpkin or sweet potato. Fruit-based pies like apple or blueberry also can be made with one crust. Simply top the fruit with a light crumb coating.
• Find ways to incorporate vegetables. Vegetables are low in calories and rich in vitamins and nutrients. Many also are high in fiber, so they can help people avoid overeating. According to dietary experts from the American Heart Association, people should aim for four to five servings of vegetables each day. When making a plate, fill half of the plate with vegetables. Enhance dishes like lasagna or other pastas with fresh vegetables as well.
• Skip the fried bird. Although deep-frying a turkey can reduce cooking time, frying historically is not the best cooking method for those who are making health-conscious choices. Rather than frying, consider spatchcocking (also known as butterflying) the turkey to enable it to cook faster. Use
fresh herbs and seasonings instead of butter and oil to flavor your turkey as well.
• Skip the cocktails. The Center for Science in the Public Interest says that classic cocktails with little to no added sugar typically fall into the 150- to 200-calorie range, while others can be about 200 to 300 calories each. Many people will want to save those extra calories for dessert or another indulgent dish rather than drinking them away. If you want to simulate a cocktail, make a spritzer with sparkling water and unsweetened cranberry juice.
Celebrants can make some smart choices in the foods and beverages they eat to enjoy a healthier holiday season this December.
How To Master The Art Of LastMinute Shopping
Shoppers who wait until the eleventh hour to do their holiday shopping are in good company. Consolidated Credit says one in five shoppers waits until December to start grabbing holiday gifts. Although shopping early to land the best deals and avoid the stress of running out of time works for many people, there are those who do their best work when shopping is down to the wire. If you’re thinking of being a lastminute Larry or Lucy in regard to your holiday
shopping, there are some ways to make late shopping successful.
• Don’t downplay the power of gift cards. Some suggest that a gift card isn’t an ideal gift because it doesn’t require much thought or effort. But the numbers do not lie. A research report from the Retail Gift Card Association notes that 71 percent of people surveyed feel “very satisfied” when they get a gift card.
• Establish a plan. Even if you’re shopping at the last minute, that doesn’t mean you should head out unprepared. Consider the recipient, which kind of gift might fit them best, and how much you’re willing to spend. Then you can narrow down which store to visit.
• Consider a membership gift. A membership for a gym or recreation center, a subscription box, a wine or coffee club, or even a streaming music, movie or television service, can be great last-minute gifts.
• Screen shot promo codes and coupon scan bars. If you’ve come across discount codes and coupons in your research, have them at the ready when shopping online or in person. Don’t hold up the line trying to load a website or find a coupon on the store app, as it’s likely those behind you in line are last-minute shopping as well. Being prepared with coupons can speed up the checkout process.
Last-minute shopping for holiday gifts requires strategy and savvy.
