TCI SUN Christmas Special

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Turks and Caicos SUN

December 2011

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The diversity of Christmas in the Caribbean

By Skye Hernandez

Grotesque masks, jigging Jonkonnu dancers and acrobats, ghost stories, Spanish music and pepperpot these seem far away from carols, mistletoe and chestnuts roasting on an open fire.

But they are Christmas traditions in various islands in the Caribbean where the birth of Jesus Christ is celebrated with cultural gifts from many different roots.

European colonists brought Christianity to the Caribbean, originally to the native Arawak and Carib Indians, though not many of them survived to practise it. Today, European Christmas customs survive everywhere across the region: Christmas morning services in the established churches, feasting on Christmas Day, wassailing or serenading, dances, the giving of gifts and Christmas cards, Santa Claus and Christmas trees.

When Africans were brought to the Caribbean as slaves to work on the sugar plantations, they added to Christianity their own customs and, right away, the festival began to evolve and take on a character of its own.

In Jamaica, fearsome duppies (ghosts) roamed the countryside at Christmas, the most legendary being Three-Foot Horse, whose terrifying approach was heralded by the sound of irregular hoofbeats, and Rolling Calf, who weakened the hearts of rural folk when he shuffled by, dragging chains along the pathways at night.

These stories probably date back to the plantations: slaves customarily went up to the great plantation house on Christmas morning to serenade its occupants with songs. Rewarded with a two-or three-day holiday, they made the most of it in their own gardens, reaping provisions both for food and to sell among themselves at the Christmas market.

In the evening, they would dress in their finest and return to the front lawn of the plantation house. According to Richard Dunn in Sugar and Slaves, "They divided themselves into groups to dance, some before the goombays, in a ring, to perform a bolero or a sort of love-dance, as it is called, where the gentleman lovingly wiped the perspiration off the shining faces of their black beauties, who, in turn, performed the same service to the minstrels. Others performed a sort of pyrrhic dance before the Ebo drummer, beginning gently and gradually quickening their motions until they seemed agitated by the furies."

Three hundred years later, the Jonkonnu dancers or "masqueraders" of Jamaica are still a part of Christmas, especially in rural areas.

Grotesquely costumed dancers are accompanied by musicians playing flutes, drums and tambourines; they go about soliciting money. With names like Horse Head, Devil, Belly Woman, Pitchy Patchy and Actor-Boy, who would dare refuse them?

The origin of the Jonkonnus is unclear, but many believe their roots lie along the Gold Coast of Africa, and have been grafted onto the slaves' traditional festivities on Christmas evenings long ago. The tradition of Christmas market is still alive, even in Jamaica's capital city, where children are taken to shop for toys on Christmas morning. At the grand market, the weekend before Christmas, food is sold for Christmas cooking, just as the slaves centuries ago used to sell produce from their gardens on Christmas Day. In Antigua, too, Christmas traditions are primarily of European and African origin, Scottish settlers having brought Christmas to the island.

"Old time Christmas" customs in Antigua have been described in detail, including Carol Trees, John

For the poor, Christmas was the only access to the delicacy of pork and fried dumpling.

Bull (Jam Bull), Highlanders, Long Ghosts and Jumpa-Ben. Carol Trees were made from a stick with several cross-bars, like a telephone pole; with lanterns hung from the branches, they were carried from house to house by carol singers, accompanied by the music of an accordian (concertina).

In Antigua, John Bull is a grotesque character based on an African witch doctor. Dressed in dry banana leaves and old clothes, he was probably created by African slaves to satirise their British masters: the costume closely resembles that of the Sensay dancers from Guinea who performed at the end of the first stage of work initiation. The Highlanders are part of Antigua's Scottish heritage, and still perform at Christmas. They dance the Highland Fling dressed in a sort of kilt; their wire masks and cowhide whips are based on a Scottish military costume.

Tall Ghosts were huge figures on stilts whose masked faces used to peep into the upstairs windows of homes on Market Street, provoking terror in little children; they were popular at New Year as well. A Tall Ghost costume can be seen at the Tourist Bureau on Thames Street in St John's.

Also popular at Christmas, though now more prevalent in Antigua's Carnival, is the Dancing Jumble or Jumpa-Ben. which has its origins in Guinea, Ivory Coast and Benin. This character masqueraded on stilts to the music of kettle and bass drums, fife, triangle (ching-a-ching) and a "boom pipe" made from lengths of iron pipe. The Kwuya or Stilt Dance is very difficult to do, and the dancer must be able to defy gravity with a high level of skill if he is to remain upright.

In 19th-century Antigua, quadrille parties were popular in high society, and the halls were decked, not with boughs of holly, but with sprigs of fragrant allspice (called "pimento" in Antigua and Jamaica). Bay leaf was also used for decoration, and cherry branches were made into trees. There were subscription dances every week, to the music of fiddle, tambourine and triangle. Drinks included fermented Christmas bush, ginger and water molasses; Christmas balls were accompanied by feasts of mutton, pork, turkey, duck, fowl, guineabird, ham, tongue, cakes and tarts.

A new dress had to be made for every day of the three-day holiday. For the poor, Christmas was the only access to the delicacy of pork and fried dumpling. On the streets, compliments of the season were given for a donation -- "Long life and crosperity!" (sic). Elements of all these customs still survive in 20th-century Antigua.

In the plantation era, Christmas was not only festivity: it was a very serious time in the islands, and the three-day holiday for slaves always brought rumours of uprisings to the masters' ears, some of them true. Research for the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda by Desmond Nicholson, for example, uncovered a dramatic case from 1710, when a planter named Sam Martin was killed by slaves on December 27 because he had not given the customary Christmas holidays. In 1813, just before the abolition of slavery, it was reported that "Every Christmas brought alarm, and the militia was called out to prevent insurrections."

Perhaps the most lavish of modern Christmases

is to be found in Trinidad and Tobago, whose diverse history and relative wealth have given the festival a national flavour in which the large nonChristian communities join. The season begins as early as November, when the cooler breezes hint at the tail end of the rainy season and brilliant red poinsettias and lacy white Christmas bush begin to transform gardens. Christmas carols and local songs take over the radio and the parang season begins.

Parang, originally from Venezuela, is the traditional Christmas music of Trinidad -- lively Spanish-style music that calls for fancy steps and swinging hips. Traditionally, paranderos go from house to house serenading neighbours and sampling poncha crema (a well-spiced version of eggnog), sorrel, ginger beer and strong drinks like rum and whisky, as well as food. Parang is infectious music, strongly rhythmic, hard to resist, and it accompanies many of the season's parties.

Christmas is office party time, the high season of the social calendar, with various gala events requiring formal wear, dressing to the hilt. In recent times Indo-Trinidadian singers and calypsonians have added an extra ("chutney") flavour to the Parang. Scrunter's Ah Want a Piece of Pork (ah want a piece of pork, ah want a piece of Fork for mih Christmas), backed by a parang band, called everyone out to dance and eat.

Trinidadians expect to put on a few pounds for Christmas, confident that they will lose them afterwards in the frenzy of Carnival. People visit friends and family during the season, and you have To sample every auntie's black cake and taste every granny's sorrel, not to, mention the lady-next-door's poncha crema and the pastelles that Mom makes.

Pastelles, a gift from Trinidad's Amerindian and Spanish heritage, are a cornmeal pocket stuffed with minced beef, highly seasoned, with capers and olives among the essential ingredients.

All this is merely training the big Christmas Day lunch. Turkey is the centre of attention, stuffed with seasoned breadcrumbs and giblets, though many people prefer a minced beef stuffing to make it a little richer. Ham is a must, and even people who do not eat pork will tolerate it on their table and offer it to ham-hungry guests. Chicken and roast beef are complemented by pastelles, vegetables, macaroni pie, potato and other salads.

This all-encompassing meal provides a focus for family gatherings. Christmas Day itself is mainly for family, with friends visiting throughout the holidays to bring gifts and sample the goodies.

Most Christians make sure to go to mass, even if it is the only time for the year, either at midnight on Christmas Eve or early on Christmas morning.

The Christmas setting is important, so the house must be cleaned thoroughly, the tree put up and decorated in good time, and Christmas greeting cards hung up or collected in a prominent place.

Houses are painted, even if only on the outside, and new curtains, furnishings and appliances are added, as far as the pocket will allow (though Christmas is a time when people far outdo their resources). The season ends with the massive parties of Old Year's night, followed by the exhausted somnolence of New Year's Day. Most of the islands celebrate Christmas in a similar way these days, but with their own favourite dishes and customs. In Barbados, for example, along with the turkey and ham, the speciality is jug-jug, a dish made with ground meats, guinea corn and pigeon (gungo) peas.

This may have originated with nostalgic Scottish settlers who needed a tropical substitute for haggis.

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Holiday messages 2011

Christmas is a time of joy

His Excellency Governor Ric Todd

I find it hard to believe that it is nearly a hundred days since I first came to the Turks and Caicos Islands. It is a pleasure to live here an honour to be the Governor. As we approach Christmas, I can say that my first Christmas here is certainly different from the one I spent in Warsaw, Poland just last year.

There the snow was white rather than the sand.

My arrival on 10 September was just after the completion of the new constitution and British Ministers announcement that elections will be held by the end of next year if the eight milestones were met.

These milestones offer us a way forward and a vision of what a better governed TCI can be like. I also believe that we are able to achieve them and to move to elections by the end of next year. I know that many people across the islands very much want this.

Christmas is a time of joy. It also marks the end of advent; a period of waiting, and it offers hope for the future. It is a moment to look back as well as forward. As we look at

2011 we can say it has been a difficult year for many people on TCI. There have been over the last few months essential but painful change. I believe that as we look forward to 2012 there are genuine reasons for hope and optimism.

These include rising government revenues, starting to reprioritise spending towards schools and primary health care, economic growth, new investment and increasing tourism. Who would have thought at this time last year that we would be able to welcome over a million visitors to TCI in 2011?

We face many challenges in 2012. l believe that the people of TCI can overcome these challenges. These islands have been blessed. They are rich in nature, and rich in people. I hope that we can all work together in 2012 for the greater good of the Turks and Caicos Islands. As the book of Psalms puts it: “Trust in the Lord and do good�.

Finally I would like to wish each of you and your families a merry and enjoyable Christmas and a happy and successful 2012.

"Buy and Give Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh' the air that where ill attitude and broken spirits lie dormant and tormented, they can now arise with The richest blessings of Almighty God, His only joy, gladness, happiness and hope.

Begotten Son, Jesus Christ our Lord and the The expensive perfume never settles for Comforter, The Holy Ghost be with each of you second best - the wise men of the east brought both now and always. Amen. only the best of perfumes for the Christ child.

WISE MEN STILL BRING GOLD Let your cherished life for Christ not only Let your thoughts and sentiments be golden; be seem but the pleasant aroma will calm all let your behaviour and conduct reach its golden best. In all facets of your life and family, seek the the rough situations in your life. Frankincense golden standard both to God, His Church, your is a gracious perfume of peace, love and understanding. Let the peace of frankincense family, others and yourself. be present in your home, business and in all This golden plateau must become a manner of relationships in the Turks and Caicos realization to each of us in the Turks and Caicos and indeed around the world.

Islands. Gold signifies the best of your service.

Triumph over your enemies by presenting Golden attitudes and dogma will proliferate the gift of frankincense in a tranquil manner, positivists and integrity in commerce and industry. then receive inspiration to return home another Your golden taste must be simply - the best. road.......a road to everlasting peace and joy.

In Matthew chapter 2 and verse 11, "On Encourage your brothers and sisters with coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down the encouragement that frankincense brings and and worshiped him. Then they opened their do not develop a sadistic attitude to each other. treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, Let the spirit of frankincense be ablaze in your vehicles and offices - the flavor of frankincense frankincense and myrrh." is the righteousness that Christ brought to us at Christmas time.

During the time of Christ, there was no other commodity or metal more precious than gold; Your perfumed conduct and behaviour it was the pinnacle of worship, it was the most cannot get better than frankincense. complete of presentations - gold, the best.

By Bishop Pastor Clarence N. Williams, CA, PA, JP.

WISE MEN STILL BRING MYRRH It is my sincere prayer the Christmas and Myrrh deals the preparation and stabilization New Year that each person residing in the Turks for this life and for the life to come. "I am come and Caicos Islands would make a paradigm shift to change our country and all its religious and that you may have Life and that you may have it more abundantly." commercial services to golden.

Remember too, that only what is done for When we bring to Jesus, total gold, He returns total gold and more to us. You must Christ will last. comprehend that "the streets of heaven are It is calamitous to see the gigantic and paved with pure gold." unnecessary commotion and commercialization that we have contrasted the true meaning of WISE MEN STILL BRING FRANKINCENSE Christ and the celebrations connected to His The sweet and exquisite fragrance of frankincense lingers for days, it consumes the birth. Myrrh says take heed that we preserve atmosphere of the room or building. It perfumes the golden and frankincense values and

Bishop Pastor Clarence N. Williams performances that we in the Turks and Caicos Islands have been enriched with and cherished for decades.

Do not let loose our religious and righteous traditions for greed and betrayal. The common bond of love will act as the presented myrrh to warn us of evil and doom.

CONCLUSION Having written the afore going, I join my wife, Barbara, the children, grandchildren and the entire family of The Church of God of Prophecy throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands, a gold, frankincense and myrrh Christmas and New Year.

Take heart, brethren, GOLD, FRANKINCENSE AND MYRRH are on its way.

I believe and can see it by faith.

Bishop Clarence N. Williams, CA, PA, JP. National Overseer/Bishop of Turks and Caicos Islands Member of The Integrity Commission

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Top Gifts for 2011 The holiday rush is in full swing, and 2011 has provided some exceptional electronics for those hard-to-shop-for friends or family members.

With so many other holiday hassles, the following list may help you check that last bit of holiday shopping off your list with a little more ease.

1) Smart Phones The smart phone market has exploded this year, so most wireless providers now carry a large variety of models. Topping the list is the Apple iPhone 4S, but Apple’s contract with AT&T eliminates that option for many consumers. HTC also offers some great phones such as the Droid Incredible and EVO 4G. Check with your cellular provider to see what options are available.

2) 3D Televisions With the popularity of 3D movies rising in recent years, it is no surprise that the technology is now available for your living room. Sony, LG, and Samsung are among the manufacturers that now offer HDTVs with 3D capabilities.

As is the case with any new wave of technology, prices for these TVs can be steep but vary from brand to brand and according to size.

The Samsung UN55C8000 55-Inch 1080p 240 Hz 3D LED HDTV is among the most highly rated.

3) The iPad2 Although the iPad2 is not the only tablet computer, it sparked what is now a red-hot market and is still the top of the class. Apple sold 3 million iPad2 in 80. The Apple iPad2 is something of a supergadget, combining your Netbook, e-reader, gaming device, photo frame, and iPod into one well-designed device.

4) Kindle Fire The wraps are finally off Amazon's Kindle Fire tablet. Its splashy entry into the tablet firestorm was hard to miss and yet I'm underwhelmed.

The rumor mill had been rife with talk of an Amazon Android tablet for months. And no wonder: Amazon is the only company whose shopping services could create an integrated tablet experience that gives Apple a run for its money.

What Amazon announced today with the Fire is less of a ready-to-use tablet and more of a targeted companion for Amazon's content and cloud services.

5) iPods iPods are a great holiday gift, and Apple has reworked its 2010 lineup to provide fun options for anyone on your shopping list. The iPod Shuffle, the smallest and cheapest version of the mp3, again features buttons to improve usability.

The 6th generation iPod Nano is smaller than in previous years and offers a touch screen and convenient clip feature but no longer includes video capabilities. The Shuffle and Nano are great if you’re shopping for music lovers who like to keep their mp3 out of the way.

The Apple iPod Touch has been slimmed down and offers most of the features of the iPhone 4S, including Face Time (video chat) as long as wifi is available. If you’re shopping for a gadget lover, then the iPod touch is the way to go.

6) Jewelry Looking for that perfect gift idea to give the one you love this Christmas? Holiday shopping does not have to be a stress. A wide range of dazzling products that will be sure to sweep her off her feet. This Christmas, let jewelry be your guide to finding that special something, for that special someone. Show her how much you care with the jewelry that makes her look her best.

SUN CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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Hot Toys FOR CHRISTMAS 2011

Are you wondering what is on your children’s Christmas list this year? Chances are they want one or more of these hot toys for Christmas

2011.

1. NINTENDO 3DS It could have been on their list every year, but this year, you have to make their wishes come true. Technology and entertainment are at their best with the newest Nintendo hand held system. Download music, movies, and games for hours of fun. It is equipped with cutting-edge hardware that lets you see and do things like you have never been able to do before. No special glasses are needed to get the 3D effects and application downloads are easy and free.

2. BEYBLADE TOYS Known from the children’s series of the same name, these products come in a wide variety.

This is one of the reason they are some of the top toys for Christmas 2011. The line of choices for these spinning tops is categorized into 3 types: defense, balance and stamina. They are pitted against each other and the last one spinning in the ring is the winner. If you are looking to get your kids off the video games for a while, these high action tops can produce a lot of indoor fun.

3. RAZOR BOGO Get your kids outside for action filled bouncing fun. The wide foot pegs offer stability when going for height and the light aircraft grade aluminum makes it lighter in weight and easy to maneuver. Foam hand grips give comfort while bouncing. Because of the lighter weight and cutting edge design, your kids will bounce higher than ever before. Wearing a helmet and pads are a must when this bow assisted spring is engaged. Your child will love learning all the fun tricks and owning one of the hot toys for Christmas 2011.

4. NERF VORTEX NITRON What makes this extreme gun unique from the other Nerf products? This play gun is made for shooting greater distances and the round foam/plastic discs help them get there with accuracy. The battery based electronic scope will ensure that they never miss another target. This is the only gun that offers a

motorized blaster for extreme power. There are two spring loaded clips that hold 20 discs apiece. These 40 rounds of ammunition will keep your kids with constant ammunition and with less loading time there is more time for play.

This is one of the best toys offered this holiday season for your gun enthusiast.

5. MONSTER HIGH DOLLS lusive high Your daughter can bring this exc all the with m roo bed school right into her own TV and ks boo ular characters from the pop a from t dan series. Each doll is a descen , bies zom , notorious creature, like Dracula . ster mon werewolves, and even Frankenstein’s es al packag You can purchase them in individu too. Your ries esso acc h or get them wit just one or daughter will have lots of fun with culaura, Dra s, the whole set: Ghoulia Yelp t Hyde, Hol f, Abbey Bominable, Clawdeen Wol o De Cle t, Frankie Stein, Spectra Vondergeis se The .

Nile, Loose Dawn, and Lagoona Blue lar a particu characters are also available from ce!

Dan episode, like Dawn of

6. LET’S ROCK ELMO He is back and he is rockin’ with 6 songs and a microphone, tambourine and drums. And he talks too! Add other instrume nt playing Sesame Street characters to form the ir own band. Your child can play along with his own instruments or use one of Elmo’s. Stock up on those AA batteries for your children to have hou rs of musical fun with one of their favorite cha racters. He is new this fall and your presch ooler will love interacting and singing and playing along with him. Let your child developm ent a love of music and jam along with the popula r furry friend.

7. RAZOR ESPARK What is it about this electric scooter that makes it unique? It’s the spark the rider can ignite by just taking a step on the innovative spark bar. The two 12 volt batteries will keep it running for 40 minutes of scooter fun. The unit only weighs 30 pounds and can get you scooting around at 10 mph. The hand operated front brake and acceleration control are located on the twist grip handlebars. It comes with an 8 inch air filled front tire and rear wheel crafted from polyurethane which is powered by the amazingly powerful motor. This awesome ride is recommended for children ages 8 and up.

8. ANGRY BIRDS: KNOCK ON WOOD GAME This is one of the hottest toys for Christmas 2011 because this fun game gives your little ones an opportunity for your child to learn to build, then launch, then DESTROY!. It also presents a perfect time for some family fun where your children learn to play with others, follow rules, share, and take turns. It has its basis on that phone app you love, and here you’ll find those three mad little birds with cute personalities. Players draw cards and build a designated structure before your opponents launch the angry birds and knock it down. The fun part is using the sling-shot launcher to knock the buildings over and scatter the pigs.

9. AIR SWIMMERS trollers and These are the newest in RC con e fun to fly. they are fun to watch and even mor are helium The flying shark and clown fish d handheld are infr an balloons and controlled by asuring 57 me e controller. The fish are hug y climb The . inches in length and 36 inches tall s. They truly and descend and turn 360 degree as their tail appear to be swimming through air controller will fins move from side to side. The AAA batteries 3 s uire req work up to 40 feet and fish. Just fill the of as well as one in the body fun. of them up with helium for weeks 10. BARBIE 2011 HOLIDAY DOLL Her beauty and elegance always gets her on the wish list of many girls for the holidays and this year is no different. She is one of the hot toys for Christmas 2011 and that is no surprise as she will be one of those awesome dolls that are prized items by collectors. A gorgeous green and gold strapless gown is perfect for this occasion. The delicate embroidery makes this one of the most exciting outfits she has ever worn. And she always knows how to accessorize! She puts it all together with holiday red nail polish and beautiful gold earrings.

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Christmas in China The Christian children of China decorate trees with colorful ornaments. These ornaments are made from paper in the shapes of flowers, chains and lanterns. They also hang muslin stockings hoping that Christmas Old Man will fill them with gifts and treats.

The Chinese Christmas trees are called "Trees of Light." Santa Claus is called Dun Che Lao Ren which means "Christmas Old Man.".

The non-Christian Chinese call this season the Spring Festival and celebrate with many festivities that include delicious meals and pay respects to their ancestors. The children are the main focus of these celebrations, they receive new clothes and toys, eat delectable food and watch firecrackers displays.

Christmas in Great Britain In Great Britain the hustle and bustle of the season begins well before Christmas and there is barely anytime for a break until the Twelfth night. There is preparation going on of foods, the sending of Christmas cards, the decorating of houses and churches, and the readying of gifts keep everyone busy even the youngest family members.

On Christmas Eve youngsters hang up their stockings on the ends of the beds or by the chimney so that when Father Christmas comes he can leave them something.

On Christmas morning the family traditionally opens their presents and prepares for a big feast which typically is served just after midday. The table gleams with the best china and glassware, and at every place on the table there is a cracker. The meal begins with a toast, followed by the popping of the crackers. After the meal they sit down in front of the Television for the traditional Christmas speech of the British Monarch.

In Britain, children write their letters to Father Christmas and then throw them into the fireplace so they will float up the chimney and fly to the North Pole. If the lists catch fire first, they have to rewrite them.

At Christmas dinner, a plum pudding is served with little treasures hidden inside that bring their finders good luck. Britain was the first country to hang up mistletoe.

Christmas in India Christians in India decorate banana or mango trees. They also light small oil-burning

lamps as Christmas decorations and fill their churches with red flowers.

They give presents to family members and baksheesh, or charity, to the poor people.

In India, the poinsettia is in flower and so the churches are decorated with this brilliant bloom for the Christmas Midnight Mass.

In South India, Christians put small clay lamps on the rooftops and walls of their houses at Christmas, just as the Hindus do during their festival calledDiwali.

Christmas in the Holy Land

Christmas in the Holy Land where Christ is believed to have been born is often full of travelers come to celebrate Christmas. Here in a grotto there is a 14-pointed Silver Star on the floor is where the birthplace is supposed to have been.

There are three Christmas Eves in the Holy Land. One on the 24th December celebrated by the Protestant and Catholic Churches. The second for the Greek Orthodox, Coptic (Egyptian) and Syrian churches. The third is the Armenian Church. At times, all three services are going on at the same time, but, in different parts of the church, as well as in different languages. For lunch they eat turkey, spiced with pepper, cinnamon and nutmeg and stuffed with rice, meat,, pine nuts and almonds.

Early in the evening, members of the Protestant church groups would go around singing carols. On Christmas morning children would open their presents before breakfast.

After breakfast Protestant people would go to church, and visit friends to wish them a happy Christmas.

The Catholic Church priests would come a bless water from which all members of the family would take a sip.

The member of the Greek Orthodox Church Epiphany is very important. They have a special church service at which a cross was dipped into water to bless it. People would take the water home with them drink three sips before eating anything.

Christmas in Japan Only 1 per cent of Japanese people believe in Christ.

Even so, most Japanese people decorate their stores and homes with evergreens during Christmas.

They enjoy giving each other gifts, and this

DECEMBER 2011

" erry Christmas" How M is said in.....

Chinese: (Cantonese) Gun Tso Sun Tan'Gung Haw Sun Chinese: (Mandarin) Kung His Hsin Nien bing Chu Shen Tan Dutch: Vrolijk Kerstfeest en een Gelukkig Nieuwjaar! or Zalig Kerstfeast Estonian: Rõõmsaid Jõulupühi Ethiopian: (Amharic) Melkin Yelidet Beaal French: Joyeux Noel German: Fröhliche Weihnachten Haiti: (Creole) Jwaye Nowel or to Jesus Edo Bri'cho o Rish D'Shato Brichto Italian: Buone Feste Natalizie Japanese: Shinnen omedeto. Kurisumasu Omedeto Portuguese:Feliz Natal Spanish: Feliz Navidad

is the part they celebrate.

They have a Buddhist monk called Hoteiosho who acts like Santa Claus. He brings presents to each house and leaves them for the children. Some think he has eyes in the back of his head, so children try to behave like he is nearby.

Among the Christian Japanese Christmas is not a day for the family. They do not have turkey or plum pudding, rather than that the day is spent doing nice things for others especially those who are sick in hospitals.

Christmas for those in Sunday schools is the happiest day of the year. On Christmas Eve or Christmas night, the children put on programs that last for hours, they sing, they recite and they put on a drama of the day Jesus was born in Bethlehem.

Most children may not like Hotei-osho so they may receive their presents from Santa who goes around with a red-nosed reindeer.

Christmas in Latin America Christmas in Latin America known as Las Posadas, Navidad and Dia de los Tres Reyes.

Throughout the season are a lot of bright flowers and brilliant nights. They celebrate with holiday foods, songs. Those songs and foods eaten are greatly influenced by the different indigenous people of the region but all share the strong Latin influence dating from the arrival of Roman Catholicism hundreds of year’s ago.

Christmas is very much a religious holiday centered around the age-old story of the Nacimiento, Christ's Child.

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Happy Holidays from

Wishing you and your loved ones a happy and peaceful Christmas season.

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DECEMBER 2011

CHRISTMAS

IN THE CARIBBEAN Jamaica -Curried Goat Christmas is a very special time in Jamaica and like a lot of other countries; radio stations play carols all through the Christmas period.

Lots of people paint their houses and hang new curtains and decorations for Christmas. Most families spend Christmas Day at home with friends and family members. The traditional Jamaican Christmas meal include fresh fruits, sorrel and rum punch and local goat meat.

Ingredients: 2 pounds local goat meat, cut into bite sized pieces 2 Potatoes, Peeled & quartered 1 bunch of scallions, chopped 1 large onions, chopped 1 large Tomato, chopped 2 Scotch bonnet peppers, minced Salt & Black pepper About 4 tablespoons curry powder (more or less to taste) 8 tablespoons Cooking Oil 4 garlic cloves, minced 1 cup coconut milk Juice of 1 lime Curry Powder Preparation: In a large bowl, combine the goat meat, scallions, half of the onions, Scotch bonnet peppers, salt and pepper, 2 tablespoons of curry powder, and 2 tablespoons oil. Mix the ingredients together, coating the pieces of goat well with the mixture. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to marinate overnight.

The following day, remove the goat meat from the refrigerator and set aside. Scrape off as much marinade as you can from the meat, & save the marinade.

Place a large Dutch pot over medium high heat. Add the cooking oil. When the oil is hot, add two tablespoons of curry powder to the pot and stir it into the oil. Add the meat to this & fry for about 10 -12 minutes at medium heat, till all the spicy oil coats the meat & the meat starts to brown on the sides. Add the remaining onions and cook them until they are translucent. If needed splash some water & stir to deglaze.

Add the garlic, tomato & the saved marinade (the one you scraped off) to the Dutch pot and stir & toss to well to combine all of the ingredients for about 15 – 20 minutes.

Add the coconut milk and the lime juice & 1 cup of water.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then turn down the heat, cover the pot and simmer the goat meat for 2 or3 hours (or until the meat is very tender) at medium heat, adding water as needed. Towards the end of 2 hours, add the potato pieces to the pot and cover & cook again for may be an hour.

Add little more water if required.

You are done when the meat & the potatoes are tender.

Bahamas / TCI - Turkey Junkanoo is a popular Bahamian/TI festival that is internationally known and celebrated during the Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year. Also as an important part of their Christmas meal is Ham and Turkey.

Ingredients • 1 (8 to 9-pound) turkey • 2.2 pounds diced turkey breast • 3 1/2 ounces pine nuts • 3 1/2 ounces dates, finely chopped • 3 1/2 ounces walnuts • 3 1/3 ounces diced cured ham • 7 ounces chestnuts in syrup • 1/2 cup brandy • 1/2 cup sweet wine • 2 eggs • Salt and pepper Directions Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Remove the bones from the turkey opening from the back and set aside while you prepare the stuffing.

Ina bowl, combine the diced turkey, pine nuts, dates, walnuts, cured ham, chestnuts, brandy, sweet wine and eggs. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well and stuff the turkey with the mixture. Sew the opening shut with a trussing needle and kitchen string. You can also skewer the opening shut.

Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast for 3 hours or until the internal temperature in the center of the stuffing and in the thickest part of the thigh reaches 180 degrees F. While roasting, baste frequently Cut into slices, spoon the stuffing, and serve.

Guyanese - Garlic Pork At Christmas time, people would normally do general cleaning of the house, repairs and any other cosmetic work on their homes. The women put up clean curtains and scrub the floors. Plans for making the famous "Black Cake" are put into works. Fruits are soaked in rum days before the cake is actually baked. "Garlic Pork" is another popular dish at Christmas. Normally a few nights before Christmas, the older folks start going from house to house and sing carols. There are lots of eating and drinking among the men folk, at this time. There is a famous phrase in Guyana that plays on the radio at this time.

Ingredients

3 to 4 pounds pork loin cut into 1-inch pieces 3 cups white vinegar 1/2 pound garlic, separated into cloves and peeled 4 stalks fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried 6 to 8 wiri wiri-type peppers (or 2 scotch bonnettype peppers) 2 cups cold water 2 teaspoons salt 6 cloves 1 tablespoon vegetable oil Directions In a large bowl, wash the pork pieces with 1 cup of the vinegar. Lift them from the bowl with 2

large forks; do not use your hands.

Place the pork in a large jar or bottle.

Place the peeled garlic, thyme, and chilies in a mortar and pound to a paste. Then add the cold water and the remaining 2 cups of vinegar to the garlic mixture.

Add the salt and cloves and pour the garlic and vinegar mixture over the pork, making sure that the pork is completely covered.

Tightly cover the jar and allow the pork to marinate in a cool place for 3 to 4 days or longer.

To cook, place the pork in a heavy skillet and cook until the liquid evaporates. Then add the vegetable oil and fry the pork until it is brown.

Serve hot - with bread, or over white rice.

Our family has always served with shots of Gin, Vodka or Whiskey

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Haiti - Pineapple Nog A Typical Christmas Menu for Haitians eat gyro, fritaille, Pikliz (spicy pickled carrots and cabbage), Haitian bread. Pineapple nog, bannan preze and Fried pork or goat. Haitian food is often lumped together with other Caribbean islands as “Caribbean cuisine.”

However, Haiti maintains an independently unique flavor. Unlike its Spanishinfluenced counterpart, the Dominican Republic, Haitian cuisine is based on Creole and French cooking styles.

Strong pepper flavoring in many dishes also sets Haitian food apart from the other islands.

Ingredients * 1 can pineapple, crushed * ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg, plus additional for topping * ½ cup coconut milk * 1 cup milk Directions 1. Combine all the ingredients in a blender and mix well.

2. Top the drink with additional nutmeg.

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EATING GUIDE

DECEMBER 2011

How many people do you know that roll into work after their Christmas break, resembling one of the many puddings they ate over their break? Maybe I’m talking about you! Why let it all go out the window for that few weeks around Christmas? You’ve been focusing on losing weight for months, and in the short space of time, you’ve thrown it all out the window and its back to the drawing board.

WELL NOT THIS YEAR!

How will you feel come the 1st of January knowing that you remain lighter than this time last year and you have really turned a corner in your relationship to food? Now is the most important time of the year to show to yourself that you really have turned a corner.

Follow these tips to help keep your new mindset on track.

1. Exercise the morning of the Christmas party: Expend more calories on the days you will be eating and drinking more calories. I say the morning because then you are less likely to get distracted by other things such as last minute Christmas shopping.

2. Exercise on Christmas day: I bet you never slept in on Christmas day as a kid, so why now? Wake up early and go for a lovely trot around the block 30mins before the festivities begin. It’s such a great way to start the day (even if you’re hung over).

3. Drink like a fish: No I am not talking about alcohol, water is a fast way to fill you up, so take that 1.5L bottle with you and drink it throughout the day.

Drink fruit juice instead of pop or eggnog during the holidays. You can still have one glass of soda or eggnog at supper, but you should avoid chugging numerous cans of Coke throughout the holidays. To encourage kids to drink more juice instead of soda, make a fruit juice punch for Christmas or New Year's and just add soda water instead of Sprite or 7Up. It'll be a tasty alternative that everyone will want to try!

REMEMBER THAT THE KEY TO HEALTHY EATING IS “EVERYTHING IN MODERATION” Remember that you don't have to cut out all the tasty treats from your diet at this time of the year - it's just a matter of "everything in moderation." Instead of piling your plate with turkey and all the fixings, take smaller portions. If you're still hungry after dinner, go back for a second round of veggies. And if you want a couple of chocolates, go for it. Just don't end up sitting in front of the TV watching holiday specials and finishing off a whole box on your own!

The silly season can be a wonderful time, so enjoy yourself without obsessing over food and your weight. You are doing this out of respect not punishment so use these tips and enjoy the new you with all the rewards it brings.

Merry Christmas!

Low fat, Low Calorie Sides

Garlic mashed potatoes can be creamy and flavorful without all that butter and cream. Try this version for your holiday table, or as a side dish for any occasion.

4. No more meat than the size of your palm: and fill your plate with salad.

A lot of Christmas lunches are buffet. Buffets have a tendency to bring out the piglet in us. Stick to salad and no more meat than what would easily fit in the palm of your hand (not including your fingers!).

5. Canapes are out: When at a cocktail party, it tends to be easier to say no to everything rather than study the morsel and take pot luck in your pickings. Eat a late lunch and know in advance what your dinner plans are. Turning up at 6pm to a party having not eaten since 1pm is a recipe for disaster. Eat half your lunch at 1pm and half at 5pm. Also remember point 3 and drink lots of water late in the afternoon. I promise you won’t feel hungry and tempted.

6. Don’t eat unless a) you are sitting down, and b) the food is on a plate: There will be so much yummy ham in the fridge and crumbling bits of pudding. Nibbling is one of the great curses for weight loss. Enjoy the leftovers as a meal, put them on a plate. Sit down and savour them. Stop yourself as you reach to eat straight from the fridge.

Yields: 6 servings Cook Time: 25 mins Calories: 124 per serving

Ingredients: • 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into pieces • 6 garlic cloves, peeled • 1/3 cup fat-free milk, warmed • 1/3 cup fat -free sour cream • 1/2 tsp black pepper • Chives, freshly chopped

Preparation: Boil potatoes and garlic cloves in a large saucepan for 20 minutes until potatoes are tender. Drain and return to pan. Add heated milk plus sour cream to potatoes and garlic, and mash with a

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Low fat, Low Calorie Sides

DECEMBER 2011

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Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Delicious and kid friendly baked fries, great as a side or snack.

Yields: 6 servings Prep Time: 15 mins Cook Time: 10 mins

Yields: 4 servings Cook Time: 35 mins Calories: 136 per serving

Chinese Style Green Beans In Garlic Sauce A simple and tasty re-creation of a favorite Chinese restaurant side dish with fresh green beans and oyster, garlic and soy sauce.

Ingredients • 1 tsp soy sauce • 16 oz green beans • 1 tbsp sesame oil • 2 tbsps oyster sauce • 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced • 2 tsps sugar Directions 1. Heat sesame (or peanut) oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Stir in the garlic, and cook until the edges begin to brown, about 20 seconds.

3. Add the green beans; cook and stir until the green beans begin to soften, about 10 minutes.

4. Stir in the sugar, oyster sauce and soy sauce.

5. Turn down the heat slightly and continue cooking and stirring for several minutes until the beans have attained the desired degree of tenderness.

Yields: 6 Servings

Calories: 203 per serving

Ingredients • 1 tsp cinnamon • 1/4 tsp salt • 1 tbsp olive oil • 2 5" long sweet potatoes Directions 1. Peel sweet potatoes and cut in half crosswise.

2. Cut in half lengthwise and then cut each piece into 4 wedges.

3. Place in 9x13" pan and drizzle with olive oil.

4. Toss to coat evenly.

5. Sprinkle with salt and cinnamon (or any combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, etc.)

6. Bake 35 minutes at 400 °F (200 °C) turning once.

Guilt Free Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients • 3/4 cup(s) milk, fat-free evaporated • 1 cup(s) cottage cheese, low-fat • 1/2 cup(s) cheese, ricotta, low-fat • 1/2 cup(s) cheese, cheddar, lowfat • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, ground • 1 dash(es) salt and black pepper, to taste • 1 teaspoon cheese, Parmesan • 1 tablespoon bread crumbs, fine, dry • 1 pounds pasta, elbow macaroni, cooked

Preparation 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Heat the milk in a saucepan over low heat. Add the cheeses until they melt, stirring constantly.

2. Stir in the nutmeg, pepper, and salt. Remove the cheese sauce from the heat. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well.

3. Pour the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs. Bake the casserole for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and the top is browned.

Side Dishes Under 75 Calories

Honey-Glazed Carrots

Ingredients • 1 1/2 quarts water • 5 cups thinly sliced carrots (or baby carrots) • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley • 2 tablespoons honey • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon grated orange rind • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Preparation 1. Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add carrots; cook for 20 minutes or until tender. Drain well. Place carrots and remaining ingredients in a large bowl; toss gently.

Calories: 51

Asian Caramelized Pineapple

Ingredients • 1 1/2 teaspoons canola oil • 1 1/2 tablespoons minced red onion • 1 large garlic clove, minced • 2 cups diced fresh pineapple • 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce • 1 1/2 teaspoons chopped seeded red jalapeño pepper • 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh lime juice • 1 teaspoon chopped peeled fresh ginger • 1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh cilantro Preparation 1. 1. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic to pan; cook 2 minutes. Add pineapple; cook 5 minutes or until lightly browned. Add soy sauce, pepper, juice, and ginger; cook 2 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in cilantro.

Calories: 61

Asian Caramelized Pineapple

Honey-Glazed Carrots

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SUN CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

DECEMBER 2011

Fresh Christmas Decorating Ideas Bring cheer to your house this holiday season with these easy decorating ideas

1. Hang Vintage Ornaments No need to reinvent your decorations each Christmas; stick with the familiar. It’s ok to use the same ornaments every year! Decorate with vintage glass ornaments and ornaments given to you by friends and family.

Put Out Christmas Lanterns Arrange a grouping of festive lanterns at your entryway for quick-and-easy holiday style. Consider using flameless candles as a worry-free alternative to regular pillars.

3. Adorn Your Gifts Pretty up your presents by attaching bells or ornaments. Use the same color ribbon on all your packages under the Christmas tree to make a cohesive look with different patterned wrapping papers 4. Display an Advent Wreath Pull together a quick and easy advent wreath by grouping pillar candles wrapped with strands of thread and arranging them in a large wooden bowl filled with dried black-eyed peas, pomegranates, and artichokes.

5. Use All Glittering Ornaments Create a unified and sophisticated alternative to mismatched Christmas ornaments with glittering balls and stars in various finishes.

6. Fill Cylinders with Ornaments Use spray paint to add a shimmery touch to pinecones, acorns, or round glass ornaments.

Displayed en masse in tall glass vases, they become instant and easy Christmas accents 7. Create an Arrangement with Fruit and Greenery Use a glass hurricane or vase to create an arrangement that will last throughout the Christmas season by filling the jar with a layer of limes, red holly berries, and lemons. Top it off with stems of greenery.

8. Hang a Poinsettia Basket Swap a poinsettia’s standard plastic pot for a basket lined with moss. We love poinsettias for their range of colors and sizes. They’ll offer nonstop color well into the New Year if you place them in a cool, welllit room and keep the soil moist but not wet. Big nono: Don’t let plants sit in a water-filled sleeve― they’ll rot.

10 reasons you should love

being single at Christmas!

The holidays can be especially hard on a single girl; what with families sharing hot chocolate in front of the Christmas tree and couples cozying up on cold nights. Then there are the nosy relatives to deal with; the ones who utilise little tact in enquiring about your love life and go on endlessly about who has tied the knot during the past year.

"In our society, there are expectations that once you are a young woman, and especially at this time of the year, that you will have to go home to face relatives who will want to enquire why it is you don't have someone," said counselling psychologist Lola Allen-Jones, who likens Christmas to Valentine's Day given its sometimes devastating effect on single persons.

Indeed, it can be lonely for those flying solo, but before you start despising your status, try and appreciate the perks of being unattached instead.

Here are 10 reasons you ought to love being single during the holidays: 1. Fewer people to shop for. Children especially look forward to presents and shopping sprees during Christmas; but as a single woman, you can be a little selfish and splurge on yourself. With no husband to consider, you can also bank your bonus so it can be invested in a new course which will help you to uplift yourself for the new year.

2. You won't have to deal with the in-laws. Some married people will tell you that meeting with the in-laws is the thing they look forward to the least during the holidays.

Consider yourself lucky that you won't have to go out of your way to be extra nice to the mother, father, brother and sister of a spouse.

3. Less cooking to do. While most wives will find themselves glued to the kitchen preparing big Christmas feasts, you can indulge in ice-cream and chips while watching Sex and the City re-runs in your pyjamas on Christmas day.

4. You can stay in bed all day. Since you won't have to worry about getting up to prepare a healthy breakfast for a husband and children, you are free to get out of bed whenever your mind bids you to, and who cares if you have leftovers for breakfast instead of preparing a big feast?

5. You don't have to justify your expensive purchases. You can buy as many shoes as you like without having to justify your purchases. And what better time to shop than during the Christmas season when there are deals galore?

6. You can turn up the volume on your component set. Instead of saving your singing for the shower, you can belt out some tunes in your living room without having to consider disturbing sleeping children or a husband who just knows how to kill a good vibe.

7. You don't have to think twice about pigging out. You get to eat as much as you like without having to consider the critical stares of a spouse. When you are home, you will have more freedom to pig out on the foods of your choice without having to be reminded of your weight.

HANG A POINSETTIA BASKET You can hang it inside or out for a unique Christmas display.

HERE ARE SOME GREAT TIPS FOR SPENDING THE HOLIDAY AS A SINGLE GIRL OR GUY: 1. Make A Xmas Holiday Plan Decide ahead of time how much you want to be visible during the Christmas period. Divide your time between a party and a business event you are expected to attend to do new things. Get out of the rut of doing what you did when you were married. Family gatherings can be as stressful as they are fun. Rather than stress yourself, engage in something that you will enjoy.

2. Start Your Own Christmas Traditions You could host a gift exchange party with some of the single people you have met. Think outside of the box.

Instead of serving the typical Christmas cheer like eggnog make it a cranberry martini party. Decorate your tree with beautiful bows instead of typical balls and glitter. The key is at this point in your life create your own version of Christmas 3. Help Out Others During The Holidays Volunteering your time is a perfect solution to feeling fulfilled and active during the Christmas season. Help out in a soup kitchen. Participate in a toy drive or sponsor a less fortunate child/family. Give some time to a food drive collection during this holiday season.

Volunteer at a local nursing home. Really get involved in the doing not just bringing food items or writing a check. Focus your attention on others and find opportunities to get involved in your community. The list of things to do to help others is never ending.

4. Attend holiday parties and events if you do need to fly solo. There is no reason to be embarrassed if you are single over the holidays. Almost everyone goes through periods of being single. Participate in holiday meals and gatherings just as you would if you were the other half of a couple.

5. Invite another single friend to attend holiday parties and meals with you. If you buddy up with someone else who knows how lonely you feel on the holidays, you will not feel so out of place and unusual.

Of course, you will also be helping your friend to feel a little less alone over the holiday as well.

6. Participate in local holiday events and performances. You can sign in a local church choir or perform in a community Christmas play. Join other members of your community to sing Christmas carols throughout the neighborhood. Being actively involved will help to keep your mind occupied so that you do not feel alone. You will be among friends and neighbors. You might even meet someone new.

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Holiday spending is a common way for people to land themselves in debt and financial stress.

Some find themselves in trouble by rationalizing big spending and incurring debt during the holidays. This leads to paying for holiday spending well into the next year. Effective planning could mean enjoying the holiday season without the financial burdens. “Christmas is not an emergency; it doesn’t sneak up on you,” says Dave Ramsey, ”Christmas is always in December, they don’t move it”. [1] Make a goal to have a debt free Christmas by showing discipline and setting guidelines for yourself.

more speedily.)

6. Buy Christmas goods on sale after Christmas This is not novel advice, and I suspect that many stores are so alive to the postChristmas sales trick that the savings aren’t as great as they used to be. But if you have storage space (and arguably your own home), then stocking up in early January can be a good idea.

7. Inventory your decorations Knowing what you’ve already got makes it less tempting to invest in brand-new decorations in this year’s fashion colours.

That’s not to say you shouldn’t replace some old or worn-out decorations, but you don’t need a whole new fit-out every year.

Here are some steps to create and manage your budget: 1. Create a list of people to buy presents for: spouse, children, relatives, friends and coworkers. It’s easy to get carried away with gift giving so keep your list short – include only those people you are closest to.

2. Put together a realistic spending figure for your Christmas gift budget. Once you have your spending amount, spread it out among your list by putting a dollar figure next to the individual or family’s name on your list.

3. Decide how to budget and save your holiday money. You may be able to set the money aside in a savings account or use an envelope system (put cash in an envelope).

Experienced budgeteers usually include a special Christmas or Holiday savings category in their monthly budget.

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8. Avoid extra expenses that you can live without.

4. Use a Christmas Budget worksheet to help you record the figures and stay on track. It allows you to keep track of Christmas gifts as well as other holiday items (Christmas cards, decorations, etc.). Whenever you makes changes, check the totals to make sure you’re still within your budget.

5. Shop with a fixed amount of cash preferably Once you’ve set those amounts, consider withdrawing the relevant sum of money to cover the total and then pay for gifts with cash if you can. Be careful, if you’re paying electronically, it’s much easier to spend more than you intended. (You’ll also progress through queues

9. Don’t panic if you spend a little more on something than planned. The idea is to stay close to your figure and reduce your overall expenditures. If you spend a little more on an item, try finding a better deal on the next item on your list.

10. You may need to make adjustments to your budget. If you do, make sure to keep an eye on the totals. If you add rows to the Christmas budget spreadsheet, verify the subtotal formulas so that you aren’t spending more than you think you are.

And last, but certainly not least, enjoy the Holiday season. This is a special time of year.

Don’t let stressing or spending overshadow the important things.

RULES FOR REGIFTING WITHOUT FEAR

Regifting or regiving is the act of taking a gift that has been received and giving it to somebody else, sometimes in the guise of a new gift.

The term was popularized by an episode of the NBC sitcom Seinfeld although the practice pre-dates the term substantially. In the episode, the character Elaine calls Dr. Tim Whatley a "regifter" after he gives Jerry Seinfeld a label-maker that was originally given to Whatley by Elaine.

Another variant introduced in Seinfeld is degifting, which refers to the act of demanding a gift back from the receiver.

There are only three reasons you might be reading this column: 1. You think regifting is totally tacky, but you secretly hope there might be a polite way to get rid of that hideous scarf your Aunt Edna gave you.

2. You're a chronic regifter and you need some new ideas to get you through the holidays.

3. You've never heard of regifting. Really.

You're just curious.

Welcome, one and all, to a frank discussion of a grand old holiday tradition we all practice and pretend we don't. (That includes you fibbers who picked No. 3!)

A few rules for regifters • Don't mention it, please. Post thinks "the best approach is to be upfront" when regifting, but I have to ask: Why spoil the moment? If you tell your sister-in-law, in so many words, "I have no use for this nasty vase, so I'm giving it to you," even a person in need of a vase will hate you. I say, keep

your yap shut unless there's a good reason not to.

• Do update the wrapping. The next most common regifting faux pas, after leaving the previous gift card attached, is to regift in the original, now crinkled and possibly torn (hello!?) wrapping paper or box. If the phrase "Hey, it looks almost new" crosses your desperate holiday brain, remember that the "almost" is a dead giveaway to the new giftee.

• Don't give hand-me-downs as regifts.

Novice regifters (and those who are terminally tacky) often get these two categories confused. Don't. A hand-medown is an item you've already used that you'd like to pass along to someone who will enjoy it and use it more than you will. For example, a sweater you've removed the tags from and worn twice. You could wrap it up and give it as a "gift" only if another real gift is provided. A regift should be just that: a gift you've never used that you're giving away as though it were a . . . real gift!

• Do keep track of who gave it to you first.

Keep a small notebook of who gave you what. I had a harrowing experience that involved regifting a pair of earrings to a cousin -- who had given them to me two years before. I forgot. She remembered. And she let me know about it.

• Don't EVER regift these items. Certain

items are a total, dead, instant giveaway that you not only are regifting, but you're also too lame to put any effort into it: candles, soap, random books, mysterious CDs, obscure software, cheesy jewelry, scarves, fruitcake, pens, cologne, boxed sets of extinct bath products, videos or DVDs obviously acquired on a street corner, socks and any appliances or electronic gear the giftee would be puzzled to receive because they probably just got rid of it.

• Don't give partially used gift cards. As technology pushes the envelope of regifting possibilities, the chance of looking like a ninny only grows. Don't give a $25 gift card to Barnes & Noble that has $14.56 left on it.

Would you give a pie with a slice taken out of it? We hope not.

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Hocus Focus

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Merry Christmas

Wishing You A Joyful Holiday Season And Happiness In The New Year – From Your Friends At Scotiabank Turks and Caicos.

We sincerely appreciate your business and look forward to helping you reach your financial goals in the year ahead.

* Trademarks of The Bank of Nova Scotia, used under licence.

T&C (08/10)

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SUN CHRISTMAS SPECIAL DECEMBER 2011

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DECEMBER 2011

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Merry Kissmas and a lifetime of love from LIME.

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Published by SUN MEDIA GROUP, Turks & Caicos Islands | Tel: 649.946.8542 | Fax: 649.941.3281