Voice Magazine for Women 1222

vibrant • vocal • vivacious &

Janie Jessee

Tara Sizemore

Abigail Webb

Allison Chudina

Savannah Bailey

Odenkirk

Name:

July Hot Hunk Hunt!

The April “Hot Hunk” was Robert Downey Jr. on page 31.

Congratulations to: Lois Carter

Blountville,TN as the winner in the November Hot Hunk Hunt!

Thanks to ALL for sending in your entry!

Bob

It’s the holidays and time to decorate. A Christmas tradition at my house is pulling the Christmas decorations out of storage. It’s like a ritual. I look over the same ornaments that are placed on the tree every year, and yet somehow, they provide a new and original glow to the Christmas tree. But for me, the most special decoration for the Christmas tree are the icicles. You know...those aluminum foil streamers that seem to find their way in each room, all over the floors, on your clothes, and yes...on the tree. But with the Christmas tree lights glowing and these streamers glistening, the child in me is renewed for another holiday season!

Take a good look around you and find something special about your life that can renew the child inside of you. Isn’t it the childlike wonder inside of us that we want to feel and share? Doesn’t that capture the real meaning of Christmas? Sharing a gift of love? As a Christian, I believe that Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ and His gift of love to all.

I would like to share this story of sharing and giving:

An eye witness account from New York City, on a cold day in December, some years ago: A little boy, about 10-years-old, was standing before a shoe store on the roadway, barefooted, peering through the window, and shivering with cold. A lady approached the young boy and said, “My, but you’re in such deep thought staring in that window!”

“I was asking God to give me a pair of shoes,” was the boy’s reply.

The lady took him by the hand, went into the store, and asked the clerk to get half a dozen pairs of socks for the boy. She then asked if he could give her a basin of water and a towel. He quickly brought them to her. She took the little fellow to the back part of the store and, removing her gloves, knelt down, washed his little feet, and dried them with the towel. By this time, the clerk had returned with the socks. Placing a pair upon the boy’s feet, she purchased him a pair of shoes. She tied up the remaining pairs of socks and gave them to him. She patted him on the head and said, “No doubt, you will be more comfortable now.” As she turned to go, the astonished kid caught her by the hand, and looking up into her face with tears in his eyes, asked her:

“Are you God’s wife?”

Here at Jan-Carol Publishing, we want to let all of you know that you are special gifts to us! This year has been about change and we appreciate all of you traveling with us on this year’s journey. You have shared your time, encouragement, and support to us in endless ways. Thank you! And brace yourselves—there are changes ahead for the New Year!

Remember, JCP books make wonderful gifts, and you can find our books on our JCP website, Amazon, Barnes&Noble.com, and JCP’s Books & Gifts Bookstore in Blountville. Please sign up for our book blog and read our updates every Thursday—jancarolpublishing.wixsite.com/ bookmarked. Check out JCP’s websites—voicemagazineforwomen.com and jancarolpublishing.com—and “like us” on Facebook and on Instagram.

A BIG thank you goes to all of you for your continued support. We appreciate your loyalty to us, our advertisers, and our authors. We hope your holiday season is about spreading good cheer, listening to joyful music, and spending time with family and friends. From all of us to all of you, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Thought of the month: “It’s not about having what you want but wanting what you have.” Unknown

Verse of the Month: “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus.” Matthew 23–25 KJV

PUBLISHER

Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc PO Box 701 Johnson City, TN 37605

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Janie C Jessee, 423.502.6246 publisher@jancarolpublishing.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Savannah Bailey - Communications Director/Production Editor communications@jancarolpublishing.com Morgan Henschen - Development/Content/Review Editor

GRAPHICS/PRODUCTION

Tara Sizemore - Senior Graphics Designer tara@voicemagazineforwomen.com graphics@jancarolpublishing.com

Allison Chudina - Editorial/Retail Assistant Abigail Webb - Retail Assistant

Office Phone/Fax: 423.926.9983

DISTRIBUTION

Karen Corder Staff

PUBLISHED BY JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. (Volume 19, Issue 12)

While every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy of the published ma terial, Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. / Voice Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions or facts provided by its authors, advertisers or agencies. All rights are reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permission. Agencies, Advertisers and other contributors will indemnify and hold the pub lisher harmless for any loss or expense resulting from claims or suits based upon contents of any advertisement, defamation, libel, right of privacy, plagiarism and/ or copyright infringement. The views expressed in Voice Magazine for Women are not necessarily those of the publisher. © 2022

EDITORIAL MISSION:

Voice Magazine for Women wants to provide a useful and complete reliable source of information for women and their families. We seek to celebrate women’s suc cesses, and support their growth by defining and recognizing their needs and providing a concentration of resources for them. We want to be that “link” to all women.

April Hensley Cindy Sproles

Ken Heath Pam Blair Deana Landers

Maintaining a small business through economic highs and lows and other issues often comes down to customer involvement. Consumers are the driving forces behind the success of small businesses. Here are some effective ways for consumers to help small businesses grow.

• Shop local. The “Shop Local” movement has been around for awhile but remains as relevant as ever. Shopping local means becoming repeat patrons at the independent businesses that comprise Main Street as opposed to the chain stores that dominate strip malls.

• Share on social. Social media can be a great way to spread the word about businesses you like and point out particular examples why you shop there. Utilizing social media platforms to highlight the positive attributes of a business can help that business grow.

• Call direct for take-out orders. Those ubiquitous third-party food delivery services may be convenient, but businesses have to share the profit from your purchase with the delivery service, cutting into their bottom lines. Pick up your order or rely on the restaurants’ own delivery teams.

• Engage with the business online. Complicated algorithms and other factors determine how a business’ website or social media page gets seen by the public. You can help things along by liking pages, visiting the website frequently and sharing any posts.

• Speak about a business in person. When out and about, whether you’re dining with friends or chatting with a stranger, try to push and recommend businesses you support. If someone compliments your lawn, shoes or haircut, mention the businesses that did the work or sold you the products.

• Suggest opportunities for exposure. If you know about a school or organization looking for vendors, make the suggestion to a small business you use frequently. They may get new customers from participating in the event.

Small businesses are driving forces in the economy. Consumers can do their part to keep them thriving and

Season’s Greetings: From Our Family to Yours

By Allison Chudina

This holiday season, Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc., would like to give readers the opportunity to get to know our staff a little more as we approach Christmas. For our staff, Christmas encompasses many different traditions, family gatherings, and delicious meals. However you plan to celebrate, Jan-Carol Publishing wishes everyone the happiest of holidays and a magical new year!

Janie C. Jessee, CEO

Janie Jessee started and owns our book and mag azine publishing company, Jan-Carol Publishing. “I am a business owner with all the responsibilities that go along with it,” she said. “Most of the time, it owns me!”

Janie does what ever is required to keep our company functioning and flourishing, and she absolutely loves it. She says she enjoys working with deadlines, creativity, meeting new people, and seeing how the printing industry continues to change.

“The best part of what I do is seeing the authors’ joy when they see their literary works in book form or a person who sees themselves on the cover of Voice Magazine for the first time,” she said. “The joys are real. There’s never a dull moment!”

When she isn’t busy keeping JCP afloat, Janie loves to explore the outdoors, walk on hiking trails, and travel. She’s also writing a cozy mystery series. “With Covid restrictions requiring us to stay inside, I started writing during that time,” she said. Janie also enjoys working with crafts, painting, and working in her garden.

For Janie, the holidays are all about family, friends, fun, and decorations. “I love decorating for the holidays and especially for Christmas,” she said. “I start the day after Halloween with my decorating.”

Most of all, though, Janie believes it’s important to remember the “reason for the season.” She said her holiday traditions have changed over the last few years with extended families and loved ones passing. But the one tradition she holds onto is having a bright, colorful Christmas tree with lots of lights and decorations, and spending time with family.

When asked what holiday message or well-wishes she’d like to pass on to our readers, Janie said, “I hope that this holiday season is one of the best for all. We deserve it after the last two or three years of illness, sickness, and a pandemic. Here’s wishing all of you a Happy New Year that brings promise, purpose, and prosperity!”

Tara Sizemore, Senior Graphic Designer

Tara has worked for the company for almost 15 years as a graphic designer. She says that being a designer is a creative process that involves combining art and technology to communicate ideas.

For the magazine, she develops the overall layout of advertisements, interior layout and design, and the cover. When it comes to the book publishing side of things, she creates layouts for our books, which includes everything from choosing typefaces, font sizes, deciding where images and illustrations should go, creating the cover design, and creating e-books.

Tara says her job is incredibly rewarding. “It offers me the opportunity to work with some fantastic authors and help bring their stories to life on the page,” she

said. “Every day is different with a new creative challenge. Seeing something from start to finish is very satisfying, and when the book design is live and out there in the world, it can be really exciting!”

When she’s not at work, Tara loves spending time with family. “I have a husband, Ben, of 15 years, and we have two children, Maya and Paxton,” she said. Her family enjoys hiking, boating, traveling, listening to live music, and going to their family river house on the Greenbrier in West Virginia.

For Tara, the holidays are all about spending quality time with family. “Being a mom now, it’s fun to create memories and start new traditions with our children,” she said.

Some of her favorite holiday traditions are decorating the Christmas tree with her kids while watching the movie Elf or listening to holiday songs. “Christmas is a wonderful time of year, and our chil dren make it even more meaningful and magical.”

When asked if she had any seasonal greetings to pass on to our readers, Tara had the following to say: “However you celebrate the season, I hope your holidays are filled with love, family, and happiness.”

friends and family. Of course, the hobby I’m most known for among my loved ones is collecting vintage and artisan plush!”

For Savannah, the holidays are the most magical time of the year. “I tend to start planning each year’s holiday décor, gifts, visitors, and gatherings in January and February, and I spend all year waiting for the start of the season!” they said. “My house never feels more like a home than it does during the holidays.”

In terms of holiday traditions, Savannah always starts the holiday season promptly on November 1 each year. “It is a really special day in my family, and we take the day off to bring holiday magic and joy to our whole home.”

When asked if they had anything to pass along to our readers this holiday season, they said, “Happy Holidays from us to you! May your season be full of calm and rest, with a hint of magic along the way.”

Allison Chudina, Editorial & Retail Assistant

Savannah

Bailey, Director of Communications

Savannah handles the social media and marketing side of JCP, and tends to be one of the first lines of com munication for our authors.

Savannah really loves sending out welcome letters to new authors, because it gives them the oppor tunity to let authors know how happy we are to have them as part of our family. They also enjoy creating weekly and monthly newsletters, as it allows their creativity to blossom and shine.

Outside of work, they enjoy reading and writing fiction and poetry. “I love spending time in my home library of about 700+ books,” they said. “I also dabble in home decorating and tabletop gaming with my

Allison is the editorial and retail assistant for JCP and Voice Magazine for Women. She helps out wherever she’s needed, whether that be editing manuscripts, writing stories for our magazine, working at our bookstore, Books & Gifts, or helping plan fun community events.

She loves getting to interview influential women for feature stories for the magazine. “It’s very uplifting and inspiring to tell their truths, because I feel that it’s incredibly important to empower other women and highlight their success,” she said.

Allison finds writing very fulfilling because it allows her to be creative and express herself. “I’ve always loved to write. I’ve done it ever since I learned how!”

When she isn’t hard at work, she enjoys reading fantasy novels or classic literature; rewatching the Lord of the Rings films with her boyfriend, Mason; spending time with their cat, Rigby; or traveling.

For Allison, the holidays have always been special. “The holidays are a time of togetherness and warmth,

and—of course—lots of delicious food!” she said. “The holidays are the perfect opportunity to hug your loved ones and remind yourself of everything you’re thankful for.”

Every year on the day after Thanksgiving, Allison’s family gets together to decorate her parents’ Christmas tree while listening to jolly Christmas tunes. “We also have a special holiday movie night with snacks and watch Christmas movies like Elf or Christmas Vacation. My family is very close, and we love spending time together during the holidays, so our biggest tradition is just togetherness.”

When asked what holiday message of encouragement she’d like to pass along, Allison said the following: “I hope everyone has a beautiful holiday season full of love, laughter, and happiness spent with the people you love most in this world.”

Abigail Webb, Retail Assistant

Abby works part-time at Books & Gifts, manning the cash register and helping keep the store clean and comfortable for all of our loyal customers.

Abby most enjoys the customer service aspect of her job. “I love talking to the people that come to our store and aiding them in finding exactly what they are looking for,” she said. “I find it rewarding, and it has taught me a lot about the people around me!”

Outside of work, Abby divides her time between school and church. Whenever she is allotted some free time, she spends it reading, enjoying time with her family, and playing the bass in her church’s band.

She says the hol idays are a means of reflection for her. “They give you the chance to take a step back and evaluate your priorities,” she said. “With time off of work and school, I use the holidays to anchor me in my faith and my family. They allow me to clear my head and refocus before moving on to the new year.”

Abby’s family has always spent Christmas the same way, so most of what they do is tradition. “My favorite traditions would have to be baking sugar cookies with my mom and shopping for my mom’s Christmas pres ents with my dad,” she said.

When asked what holiday message she’d like to share, Abby said, “Happy Holidays! I hope this season gives you a chance to unwind and prepare yourself for the coming year!”

How to Make Christmas Eve Special for Kids

Christmas Eve is viewed differently by different people, even those who live under the same Santa-ready roof. Adults may see Christmas Eve as crunch time when they must prepare food for the next day or set up presents for their children to open in the morning. Children, on the other hand, are focused on Santa’s visit and little else.

Parents naturally want to make Christmastime as special as possible for their children, and that may involve ensuring that Christmas Eve is just as memorable as Christmas Day. The following are some ways to impart more magic into Christmas Eve celebrations.

Attend Mass at midnight

Practicing Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ on Christmas. On Christmas Eve, churches often hold celebrations that may include late-evening or midnight masses that celebrate the birth of Christ when the calendar switches over to December 25. While it does make for a late night, it can be thought-provoking for kids and a unique experience unlike any other.

Bake fresh cookies

Children like to leave out a plate of cookies and a glass of milk for Santa. That makes Christmas Eve a perfect time to whip up a fresh batch of cookies. Explore different recipes to come up with a unique offering each year.

Read a Christmas story

Watching television or looking at a tablet or mobile phone before bed can be too stimulating when it’s time for children to wind down for bed. Choose a holiday tale or tales that can be read as a Christmas Eve bedtime story. Reciting the poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas (’Twas the Night Before Christmas)” is a great way to set the Christmas Eve mood.

Make a batch of ‘reindeer dust’

Why should Santa’s reindeer be left out when it comes to receiving treats? Reindeer dust, made from a combination of oatmeal, rice cereal, dried fruits, and glitter (if desired), is purported to attract Santa’s reindeer and provide them a nibble at the same time. Plus, it’s generally safe for other animals in the yard to eat.

Go caroling

Caroling may not be the norm, but some families may want to revive it. Close-knit communities can organize family-centric caroling opportunities and roam the cul-de-sacs and other pedestrian-friendly areas singing popular songs.

Christmas Eve is a great time to embrace various tra ditions that help to make the season even more special.

Robin Miller

EXPERIENTIAL GIFTS FOR KIDS

The popularity of experiential gifts is undeniable. In its 2021 Winter Holiday Shopping Report, the market research firm Mintel revealed that nearly half of individuals surveyed for the report felt that experiential gifts are superior to tangible items. Such preferences are something holiday shoppers can keep in mind as they pursue the perfect gift for their loved ones.

Experiential gifts are often associated with adults and their bucket lists, but kids have much to gain from being gifted experiences as well. In addition to the lasting memories inspired by experiential gifts, such offerings also get kids up and out of the house. Parents recognize that’s not always so easy in the digital age.

Though children likely don’t have a bucket list that can make it easy for holiday shoppers to find the perfect experien tial gift, the following are a number of experiences that kids of all ages can enjoy.

• A day at the zoo

• A trip to a trampoline park or bouncy house facility

• Tickets to a sporting event, concert or live show

• Music lessons

• A paint and sip (juice) event with one or both parents

• Cooking lessons

• A day at a nearby national park

• A camping trip

• Horseback riding lessons

• A day at a nearby amusement park

• A day at a local arcade

• A day at a local museum with interactive exhibits

• A helicopter ride

• Art lessons

• A day on the ski slopes

• A day on the beach Gymnastics lessons/classes

A day at the local bowling alley with friends

Ice skating lessons

A round of mini golf Jewelry-making lessons/classes

A fishing trip on a nearby body of water

There’s no shortage of experiences that can benefit children’s lives. That’s something holiday shoppers can keep in mind as they shop for the perfect gifts for youngsters on their shopping list this December.

Painting

Experiential Gifts for Seniors

Seniors who already have everything they need might be even more enthusiastic about experiential gifts, which may encourage them to get out of the house or pursue passions they’ve long had a passing interest in. This holiday season, shoppers can consider these experiences as they look for something new and unique for the seniors on their shopping lists.

• Biplane flight: Few experiences are as exhilarating as a flight in an open cockpit biplane. Biplane flights are unique to each company that offers them, but some planes can accommodate two passengers (in addition to the pilot), making this an ideal gift for senior couples who aren’t afraid of a bird’s eye view. The length of a flight depends on shoppers’ budgets, but no matter how long seniors are in the air, they’re sure to return to the ground having enjoyed a truly unique experience.

• Hot air balloon ride: If riding shotgun with a pilot in a tiny plane is more adventure than your favorite senior may be seeking, a hot air balloon ride may be more suitable. Hot air balloon rides provide a truly stunning way to experience idyllic settings and a calm way to take to the skies on a beautiful day. Rides tend to last around an hour, but companies typically offer various packages and may even let shoppers customize rides for their loved ones.

• Theatre tickets: The COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t been easy for anyone, but seniors were among the groups

most vulnerable to serious infection if they caught the virus. As a result, many seniors strictly adhered to social distancing guidelines prior to getting vaccinated. Now that seniors are eligible to be fully vaccinated and even receive booster shots, a trip to the theatre can reig nite their passion for live entertainment and make for a memorable night out.

• Cycling tour: Modern seniors are among the most physically active demographics. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that, within months of the pandemic being declared, adults age 65 and older averaged 100 more minutes of physi cal activity than the next closest cohort. A cycling tour can make for a perfect gift to active seniors. Tours may be designed to visit local places of historical significance, idyllic natural settings or local eateries. Wher ever the tours ultimately end up, they’re sure to put a smile on active seniors’ faces.

Experiences can make for the perfect holiday gifts for seniors who have it all.

A Frozen Christmas

By Deana Landers www.morningcoffeebeans.com

’Twas the night before Christmas, and every thing was going wrong. There was no heat to warm the tiny trailer where we lived. That was because the butane tank that held the gas was empty!

We called the gas company, but they refused to come out on holiday to fill the tank, even though the temperature would only reach 15 degrees. My husband’s job had brought us to a small Georgia town where he was the new pastor of a small missionary church.

It was so cold in the trailer that the chil dren had to wear their coats and gloves. Their dad was outside under the church trying to wrap the pipes so they wouldn't freeze, and I was inside trying to keep the children warm and happy. We had to use the electric skillet for cooking because the stove and water were heated with gas.

I knew keeping everyone’s spirits up was vital, but my own was slipping rapidly. Then, just about when I was ready to break down and cry, someone knocked lightly on the door.

Our unexpected guest was one of the young people that attended the church. He had a pretty canister filled with home made candies in his gloved hands and a Christmas greeting on his lips.

At first, I just wanted to accept the gift and close the door, but instead I invited him in. He immediately started playing with the kids, and suddenly our house was filled with laughter.

When I told him about the heat, he began helping me put blankets on the windows and then went out to help my husband with the pipes. Later he came back in and sang and played with the children until it was time to go to bed.

The young man, named Tony, turned our cold, dismal Christmas Eve night into a warm and wonderful sharing time.

Later we wrapped the children up in our bed and again read them the Christmas story. We kept the room warm with one electric heater that Tony could find for us. We slept on the floor in front of the Christmas tree.

The following day it seemed that Santa had his Christmas list mixed up and put the wrong toy in the wrong stocking. However, our boys were forgiving and said Santa was probably so cold he couldn’t think.

To make matters worse, the car window had shattered because of the night's low temperature, and the pipes had indeed burst.

We warmed frozen lasagna for Christmas dinner in the electric skillet. We held tight to each other because we knew our most significant gift for Christmas was the warmth and love in our hearts and the kindness of a teenage boy.

Since then, we have had many warm, beautiful Christmases. There have been lots of presents and friends to share with our children. But…when you ask either of them what their most memorable Christmas is, they will smile and say, “The year we all had to sleep in the same bed to keep warm.”

This time of the year, I often think about how Mary and Joseph felt sitting in a stable surrounded by animals on a night when she was supposed to give birth to the child who would become the Messiah, the Son of God! ( Luke 1:35 )

She must have been tired when she lovingly wrapped her baby in a blanket and laid him in a manger, a trough where the animals ate. However, she and Joseph were not discouraged because they knew this was the most important thing they would ever do.

And I believe God sent an angel to direct the shepherds and a star to lead the wise men to where they were in Bethlehem, reminding them of how blessed they were to be used by God in this Christmas miracle.

My Christmas wish is that you enjoy every minute of this holiday and remember that Christmas’s joy begins in our hearts and grows even sweeter when we share it with others.

Deana Landers, a retired nurse and health educator, is Christian speaker who strives to educate and encourage. She may be contacted at dlanders1511@ gmail.com or 276-780-7355.

Happy Holidays from One Acre Café

By Pam Blair

When One Acre Café opened nine years ago in December 2013, the recurring response heard by staff was (and still is), “This is such an amazing concept!” As someone who has been involved from concept to daily operations, I can tell you it is not a concept, but a reality!

The Reality of One Acre Café

It is a reality when folks living in tents, (our special neighbors) can come in and be served a delicious, nutritious meal in a fine dining environment.

It is a reality when a mother can bring her children and feel like she is taking them out to eat, when she can’t even afford to pay her rent.

• It is a reality when a person with mental illness can contribute something as simple as wrapping silverware in napkins and feel calm and needed while performing the task.

• It is a reality when you launch something as simple as the “Purple Badge Program” and instantly raise the spirits of those who are homeless.

Thousands Served Every Year

One Acre Café has fed over 190,000 people since its incep tion. We are proud to say we remained faithful to our community during COVID, serving meals from our porch steps; sometimes as many as 300 boxed meals a day went out the front door.

One Acre Café, located at 603 West Walnut St., Johnson City

From June 2020 until present, up to 70% of the meals served at the café have been provided for free. Additionally, all leftover food is always redistributed to shelters within the community.

The Power of YOU

You have responded at every level. You have come in and listened to the lives of those who may be struggling with housing, or poverty, or mental health challenges, as well as food insecurity. You have gone out of your way to hold your meetings and special events here, or when possible, taken bulk to-go orders for your businesses. Most importantly, you have inspired and supported our staff members and volunteers who carry out the daily tasks required to make all of this possible.

We Need Your Help to Take Us to Ten!

Now more than ever, we are asking you to come alongside us as we move into our 10th year. Please be our partner in our “Take Us to Ten” campaign. There are several ways you can donate to One Acre Café, by using one of the following payment options: check (made payable to One Acre Café), mailed to P.O. Box 3411, Johnson City, TN 37601, or stop by, have lunch, and deliver your donation to the café. You can also visit our website at www.oneacrecafe.org and click on “donate.”

This one-of-a-kind community resource has been made possible by your presence at the café and your continued generosity. For that we are most grateful.

With heartfelt thanks, Jan Orchard, Executive Director, and the staff and volunteers of One Acre Café

Pam Blair is a former medical librarian and communications manager who gets nervous when she doesn’t have something to read. She loves descriptive writing and has authored and edited a book and numerous other publications. Contact her at pblair919@aol.com.

“Take Us to Ten” in 2023!

Faithful volunteers

Poinsettias

By April Hensley

With so little to be done by us gardeners out doors, how wonderful it is that we get to have cheerful poinsettias indoors to help brighten homes, churches, and shops for the Christmas season. The decorated pots and brilliant leaves instantly signify Christmas without a doubt.

Though red seems to be the traditional favor ite, they come in many colors such a white, baby pink, and dark pink. A single plant is beautiful on its own, but a large grouping of many together is stunning. They also make great gifts.

Poinsettias have been a holiday staple for hundreds of years, but they became a tradition in the United States in the early 1900s after being brought from Mexico by Joel Poinsett in the 1800s. The blooms are actually the tiny yellow flowers in the center but the vibrant leaves are what attract the most attention.

Poinsettias come packaged with shiny foil and are grown beautifully so it can be easy to think that they are maintenance free. However, to keep them looking fresh and healthy there are a few easy steps to help them last through the holidays.

• Poinsettias prefer a temperature between 65–75 degrees Fahrenheit, which is usually a great indoor temperature for us humans as well. Nights can be cooler—around 50 degrees.

• Native to Central America, the plant likes sunshine but only indirectly indoors. Direct sunshine will burn the leaves and cause them to be discolored and fall off. During your holiday celebrations it can be moved to the area you want to decorate.

• Water your poinsettias when the surface of the soil feels dry. Remove the decorative wrap and let the water run out the holes in the bottom of the pot. Replace the wrap after. Don’t let your plant stand in water. They don’t like soggy roots.

• There is some debate about the possibility that poinsettias are poisonous if ingested by humans and animals. There is a milky sap from broken stems that can possibly irritate skin. Just like people, some animals are more sensitive to certain things than others. Small children and animals like to nibble, so just in case, keep poinsettias out of reach of any munchers in the vicinity. After the holiday is over, if your poinsettia has lost its glow, you can safely put it in the compost pile if you decide not to keep it. Remove the pot and any wrapping and bows.

Voicemail Male oicemail

By Ken Heath

Needing a Little Christmas

Idunno, but this year Christmas is hitting a bit differently. Maybe it’s the cold, rainy weather we had before Thanksgiving, more like the autumn weather of my childhood than the shirtsleeve temps of more recent years. Maybe it’s because we’ve strug-

gled to know just what do with a pandemic and masks and the dreaded social distancing.

But I’ve noticed I’m a bit more nostalgic, a bit more reflective as these grey days so quickly darken into frigid nights, and get a familiar excitement when I catch a shop window decorated in red and green, a house with twinkling lights. I’ve been a grinch in the past too, complaining about skipping holidays and rushing toward Santa’s big day. But this year, it’s different. I’m dialing in classic Christmas tunes on my truck radio and digging out the classic holiday vinyl. And it’s contagious. My smile seems a bit quicker to show, my kindness not so blanketed as it has been for the past two years. I’m enjoying this season of the year, and season of my life. Maybe I just needed a little Christmas after all.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

{Ken Heath is a Marion, VA hometown boy who expresses his passions in his writings and through music. After his ‘real job’, Ken is owner of the legendary Cliffside Roadhouse, doggie dad to Miss Reagan and their rescue Scottie the Wonder Dog with his wonderful wife. Follow him on Facebook and on Twitter at #kenheath.

Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. is a small independent publishing press with a motivated force of authors. Mountain Girl Press, Little Creek Books, Express Editions, DigiStyle, Broken Crow Ridge, Fiery Night, Skippy Creek, and RoseHeart Publishing are all imprints of Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. “

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Emotional intelligence influences our ability to build strong relationships and achieve our goals. We can enhance emotional intelligence by learning to better understand ourselves and others. This book demonstrates how powerful the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is in helping us better understand how personality influences our behavior and the results we

These Haunted Hills: A Collection of Short Stories Book 4

Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. Anthology Step into the spooky side of Appalachia with the fourth installment of Jan-Carol Publishing’s These Haunted Hills anthology series. Each haunting story will keep you on the edge of your seat and bring with it the chill of fright as you read through contributions from seven highly talented authors. These Haunted Hills Book 4, and the entire These Haunted Hills Series, is sure to keep your Halloween season exciting for many years to come.

Featuring Authors: Lori C. Byington, Bev Freeman, Jeff Geiger Jr., Linda Hudson Hoagland, Jan Howery, Pauline Petsel, and Courtnee Turner Hoyle.

Sunrise on the Porch

Written by Dale P. Rhodes, Sr.

The best way to make sure you will have a good day is to plan one every morning. Leo, an old hound dog, does just that by watching the beauty of a sunrise every morning and thanking God for the day ahead of him. With each passing year he shares his wisdom and faith with his friends, old and new, and brightens everyone’s days along the way.

parents?

Carla: A Death in Paris

Written by Michael Gryboski

Paris—a city of love, a city of history, a city of tourists. And a city with many dark forces moving in the shadows. Carla is on assignment in France's romantic city, tracking a terrorist cell. However, one tragic mistake will put her on the run...even from her own.

Around the Next Bend: An Adventure in Borneo

Written by Carol-Ann Patterson Boyles Jernigan

A vivacious, adventurous Katherine Wingert Casidy, always known as Dottie, finds romance in the jungles of Borneo as a Methodist missionary. As dean of a primary school, she teaches English and other subjects to Malayans and Chinese children, and conducts religious activities with headhunters and other members of the community in the tropical city of Sibu, Sarawak.

There's a Little White Fish

Written and Illustrated by Tina Timlin Sohn

Explore the colorful world around you with the Little White Fish in this interactive children’s book. See how exciting the world is when living in color.

Clinch Mountain Girls: 24 Women Grow Veggies, Animals, and a Community

Written by Nancy Withington Bell

In the mountain hollows of Tennessee, the newly arrived “girls”—young, suburban women from 15 states—supported each other, learning country ways and how to produce their own water, warmth, and food. Fleeing urban consumer culture and the social strife of the 1970s, they learned from the locals, became strong women, and formed a lasting community.

Road to Reconciliation ...And Beyond

Unlikely Friends Become Brothers

Charles H. Norman III

Though on the cusp of national music stardom in 1960, young singer Mark Prince faced prejudice and racial discrimination in his small Texas hometown. His way of dealing with injustice serves as a template and inspiration for those who desire to live in peace and harmony in our present day.

RICK TOOMEY, Ed.D.

Nancy Withington Bell

AUTHORS on the ROAD

Inclement weather may cause a schedule change.

Nancy Withington Bell

Author of Clinch Mountain Girls: 24 Women Grow Veggies, Animals, and a Community

Tuesday, December 13 Daytime Tri-Cities Interview 10 a.m. on WJHL-TV

Linda Hudson Hoagland

Author of Snooping Can Be Regrettable ; Snooping Can Be Scary ; Snooping Can Be Uncomfortable ; Snooping Can Be Helpful – Sometimes ; Onward & Upward ; Missing Sammy ; Snooping Can Be Doggone Deadly ; Snooping Can Be Devious ; Snooping Can Be Contagious ; Snooping Can Be Dangerous ; The Best Darn Secret ; and anthologies Easter Lilies ; Broken Petals ; Wild Daisies ; Scattered Flowers ; Daffodil Dreams ; and These Haunted Hills and These Haunted Hills Book 2 ; These Haunted Hills Book 3 ; and These Haunted Hills Book 4

Friday, December 2

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Book Signing Food City Wytheville, VA

Saturday, December 3 10:00 a.m. – 4 p.m. Book Signing Food City Pulaski, VA

Friday, December 9 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Book Signing Food City Galax, VA

Saturday, December 10 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Book Signing Food City Abingdon, VA

Friday, December 16 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Book Signing Food City Claypool Hill, VA

Saturday, December 17

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Book Signing Food City, Lebanon, VA Nova Mann Author of Hope Knocking Wednesday, December 7, 4 p.m. The Book Exchange 185 Azalea Circle SE Banner Elk, NC

Thursday, January 5 6:30 p.m. Tipton-Haynes Historical Site 2620 S. Roan Street Johnson City, TN

AMELIA TOWNSEND

This self-help guide to reducing stress covers 12 major areas of life. Easy-to-implement strategies help the reader take charge of time, money, relationships, self-care, and more. This commonsense guide to lifestyle changes is enhanced by scenarios of how others cooled their stress with simple, positive steps. Studies have shown stress is rising annually in the U.S. for most individuals. My goal is to help readers reduce their personal stress levels by at least 50%.

In 1977 Vincent Joy gifted his parents a recently published Living Bible with the hope to encourage them to dig deeper into faith. In the years that followed, that Living Bible became but a memory until resurfacing in 2021, but this time full of torn notes, each with scripture references, tucked between the pages. The discovery of the Living Bible led Joy to the realization of just how strong his parents’ faith was, a fact that overwhelmed him with emotion. Quietly Serving God is the story of Joy’s parents and their relationship with the Savior. It is Joy’s hope that readers feel a deep love for Jesus, the way he now knows his parents did toward the end of their lives.

Francisco A. Perez

Journey to Your Self – How to Heal from Trauma begins with the author’s own experience of child molestation, sexual assault, bullying and rape, the moment she hit rock bottom and from there on out successfully healed her trauma and transformed her life. Sandra Cooze then continues by taking you on a journey through the mysteries of trauma, and the effects it can have on your body, mind, and spirit. Sandra Cooze believes that trauma is not a life sentence but can be a beautiful journey of transformation.

Author Jenn Sadai bravely opens her deepest feelings about her body image. Fears and anxieties that every woman feels, but would never tell a soul. Cottage Cheese Thighs is a book every woman in the world should read. It exposes the damages that mainstream media is causing among women around the world today through a personal, intimate story that the author courageously shares with the reader. Sharing her life-long journey to loving her body and her “cottage cheese thighs” will empower you through its message, “’YOUR BODY IS BEAUTIFUL!’”

The Wisdom Collector Journal was created specifically to help you write your own quotes and to collect those that inspire you and stimulate your imagination so you never forget them. I want to encourage you to become a wisdom seeker, to carry this journal with you anywhere you go, and to share the wisdom you obtain with others so they may benefit from it. Like Jim Rohn said, “Be a collector of good ideas. Keep a journal. If you hear a good idea, capture it, write it down. Don’t trust your memory.”

Order this book directly from JCP — for a discounted price and FREE shipping! Go to the “Book Shop” at www.jancarolpublishing.com.

Judi Light Hopson

Vincent E. Joy

Sandra Cooze

Jenn Sadai

Written and illustrated by a high school student, author Rae Elizabeth Parsons bring this inspirational story to life with her illustrations. It is about a sad crow who feels as though he lacks the beauty his colorful friends have. He later learns to feel comfortable in his own feathers after a short visit from the most beautiful bird in his tree.

Books You May Have Missed!

Yesterday’s Books and Tomorrow ’s Reading

The Joy of Being You uses the humorous dif ferences in two dogs and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) person ality preferences to help children find joy in who they are.

Walter is the only orange fish in the whole ocean. He is searching for a place to belong. Join Walter on his journey across the sea as he looks for a place to belong.

Gorgeous Georgia: A Story of Inner Beauty is about a giraffe who brags on herself to the other animals, calling herself Gorgeous Georgia. She eventually learns that beauty comes from within your heart. The other animals learn that you should never judge others because you don’t know what they are dealing with.

Rae Elizabeth Parsons Rick Toomey, Ed.D Olivia Carmichael Hunter D. Darden

The Impact of Reading on Personal Health

Books transport people to different times, provide a sense of escapism and introduce readers to different schools of thought. Individuals may read for pleasure and/or to expand their intellectual horizons.

It’s important to note that reading also may help improve mental and physical health. With so much to gain from reading, now is a great time to embrace those book clubs, resolve to read more and explore how picking up a good book may be just what the doctor ordered.

Reduces stress

Immersing yourself in a story requires focus and concentration. According to researchers at the University of Sussex, it took just six minutes of reading for study participants to experience slower heart rates and reduced muscle tension.

Impacts longevity

According to the 2016 study, “A chapter a day: Association of book reading with longevity,” by Bavishi A, Slade M.D., reading exerts its influence on longevity by strengthening the mind. Reading positively impacts the way the brain creates synapses, optimizing neurological function. It also expands vocabulary, and helps with memory.

Changes the brain

A 2014 study published in Neuroreport determined reading involves a complex system of signaling and networking in the brain. As one’s ability to read matures, these networks become stronger and more sophisticated. MRI scans found that brain connectivity increased throughout studied reading periods and for days afterward.

Increases empathy

Through literary fiction, readers are exposed to the situations, feelings and beliefs of others. This can help a person develop a greater ability to empathize with others, according to Healthiline.

Helps improve sleep

Reading is an effective way to wind down and relax before going to bed. It can be a positive nighttime ritual, provided one reads a paper book or utilizes an e-reader that is not backlit, as bright lights from digital devices may hinder sleep quality. In fact, doctors at the Mayo Clinic often suggest reading as part of a regular sleep routine.

Reduces depressive feelings

Individuals diagnosed with depression may feel isolated and estranged from other people. Books may reduce those feelings by helping a person temporarily escape his or her world into another. Also, books can serve as a common ground through which conversations over shared interests can begin with others.

Reading has many positive health benefits, which is why resolving to read more can be beneficial.

The First Christmas Gifts

By Jim Liebelt

When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshiped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense and myrrh. Matthew 2:9–11 KJV

Interpretation:

After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh.

The magi went to great lengths to find Jesus, the newborn king, traveling a great distance to find him. Following the star, they eventually found Jesus. When they did, they worshiped Him and gave him the first Christmas gifts: gold, incense and myrrh.

We three kings of orient are; Bearing gifts we traverse afar, Field and fountain, Moor and mountain, Following yonder star. (from We Three Kings of Orient Are)

Two things stand out in this encounter: First, the magi were pagan astrologers, but they were moved to find the king of the Jews. And when they did, these astrologers bowed down and worshiped Jesus. It’s amazing that even at Jesus’s birth, we have an important picture painted for us that He would be the redeemer sent to everyone, not just a select few and that our response to Jesus is that of worship.

Secondly, we see the magi presenting Jesus with precious gifts. Giving and receiving gifts are a favorite part of our Christmas celebrations today. Yet typically, we celebrate Christmas more for God’s gift of Jesus to us than as a time when we give gifts to Jesus. Maybe it’s time to change our priorities. We can give gifts to Jesus through our worship and through our commitment to follow Him.

As we celebrate Christmas this year, choose to give Jesus your life as a gift to Him. www.homeword.com

Routines Give Purpose

By Cindy K. Sproles

It’s that time again when Christmas decorations are in stores before back to school is finished. Commercialized holidays are great in some ways, but for our aging parents, especially those with memory issues, these times can be frustrating.

Many aging seniors, healthy or not, tend to fall into a daily routine. They rise at the same time, eat, bathe, exercise, and sleep, all within a particular routine. Seniors with memory issues are especially inclined to specific time frames.

A daily routine provides a sense of security for the elderly. They no longer work, and family schedules no longer drive their lives. Having a pattern governing their day gives them a sense of purpose and stability. Good daily routines improve diets due to eating regularly. Sleep patterns and personal hygiene improve because it falls at a specific time. Stress and anxiety lessen.

Disruptions to that schedule or routine can seriously affect your loved ones—add in daylight savings time to the mix, and your loved one may have difficulty adjusting. This is especially true during the holiday season. Holiday decorations hit the sales floors long before summer ends, and for the aging senior, schedules grow confused. Even when looking at a calendar, dates may seem to mix together. Seeing holiday decorations months prior to the event can cause confusion in a routine oriented time.

As the holiday season approaches, help your loved one maintain a good daily routine. Keeping a large calendar on the wall will help your loved ones see holidays and birthdays in real-time. When changes are about to occur, remind them numerous times so the change is set in their mind. As holiday decorations come out in stores, reminding your loved one the holiday is still several months away helps ward off anxiety. Sudden disruptions cause confusion and frustration for the aging. The more families help maintain stability in their day; the better seniors will fair through the holiday season.

Routines are important in the daily lives of our seniors. Taking the time to help develop that routine will make life much easier.

{Cindy K. Sproles is a novelist, speaker, and conference teacher. She is the cofounder of ChristianDevotions.us and the managing editor for Straight Street Books and SonRise Devotionals, imprints of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. Visit Cindy at www.cindysproles.com.

Dr Erika Sanders Lovett

Sour Cream Cookies

3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or in a large mixing bowl using a handheld mixer, beat the butter and granulated sugar together for 1 to 2 minutes, or until well combined.

4. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined, making sure to stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

5. Mix in the dry ingredients in two additions, alternating with the sour cream. Make sure to mix in each addition until just combined, and be careful not to overmix the batter.

6. Using a 1 1⁄2-tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave a little room between each one.

Soft Glazed Gingerbread

Makes 22 cookies

1 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled

1 teaspoon baking powder

1⁄4 teaspoon salt

1⁄2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

3⁄4 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg, at room temperature

1 1⁄2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1⁄2 cup sour cream, at room temperature

Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:

1⁄2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

1 1⁄2 cups powdered sugar

1 tablespoon heavy whipping cream or milk

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Gel food coloring (optional)

To make the cookies:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.

7. Bake for 14 to 16 minutes, or until the tops of the cookies are set and spring back when touched lightly. Remove from the oven, and allow to cool on the baking sheets for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

To make the vanilla buttercream frosting:

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment or in a large mixing bowl using a handheld mixer, beat the butter for 1 to 2 minutes, or until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, 1⁄2 cup at a time, mixing in each addition until well combined.

2. Add the heavy whipping cream, vanilla extract, and gel food coloring (if using), and continue mixing until fully combined.

3. Once the cookies have cooled completely, spread the frosting on top of the cookies. Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Source: Live Well Bake Cookies by Danielle Rye

Makes 12 to 20 cookies

Dough:

3 3⁄4 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon cocoa powder

4 teaspoons ground ginger

1 1⁄2 teaspoons ground cloves

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 1⁄4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature

3⁄4 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulatedsugar

1 large egg

1⁄2 cup blackstrap or other dark molasses

2 tablespoons light corn syrup

Glaze:

1 cup confectioners’ sugar

2 tablespoons water

1. To make the dough, stir together the flour, cocoa powder, ginger, cloves, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Set aside. Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter on medium-high speed until creamy. Slowly add the granulated sugar and mix on medium speed until the mixture is completely smooth and soft. Stop the mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed. Add the egg and mix well.

2. Add the molasses and corn syrup and beat until incorporated. Stop the mixer again and scrape down

the sides of the bowl. Add the flour mixture and beat on low speed until a dough forms that pulls away from the sides of the bowl and all the ingredients are well incorporated. Remove the dough from the bowl, flatten it on a large piece of plastic wrap into a rectangle about 1 inch thick, cover the dough with the plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight.

3. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper on a nonstick liner.

4. Unwrap the dough and place on a floured work surface. If using a plaque with a design, roll out the dough 1⁄3-inch thick, lightly dust the top with flour, press your cookie molds over the dough, and then cut out the shapes with a small knife and place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

5. If using a patterned rolling pin, lightly dust the lined baking sheet with flour and transfer the dough to the pan. Lightly dust the top of the dough with flour and roll it into a rectangle about 1⁄3-inch thick with a plain pin. Then, using the patterned pin, roll over the dough with enough pressure to ensure a clear impression of the design. Trim the sides with a small knife. It is not necessary to cut into smaller sizes before baking.

6. Bake the cookies until lightly golden along the sides but still soft to the touch in the centers, 7 to 15 minutes. The timing will depend on the size of the individual cookies, or if you have made a single large patterned piece that will be cut after baking.

7. While the cookies are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and water until smooth.

8. When the cookies are ready, remove from the oven and let cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. Then, while the cookies are still warm, using even strokes, brush a light coat of glaze on the top of each cookie, evenly covering it. Let the cookies cool completely. The cookies will keep in an airtight container in a cool place for about 2 weeks.

Source: Tartine by Elisabeth M. Prueitt and Chad Robertson

Fruitcake

macerate in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

2. Preheat the oven to 325 F. If the fruit has been in the refrigerator, bring it to room temperature. Grease the bottom and sides of a 9 1⁄2- or 10-inch springform pan with butter. Line the bottom with three layers of parchment paper and the sides with one layer of parchment. The batter will be very sticky.

3. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and baking powder.

Serves 10 to 15

Macerated Fruit:

2 1⁄2 pounds raisins, pitted prunes, pitted dates, and dried figs, finely chopped

1⁄2 cup candied orange and/or lemon peel, finely chopped

1⁄3 cup candied or dried cherries, finely chopped

2⁄3 cup candied or preserved ginger, finely chopped

Grated zest and juice of 1 large lemon Grated zest and juice of 1 large orange

1 tablespoon orange or tangerine marmalade

1 tablespoon apricot jam

1 cup applesauce

2 tablespoons brandy, sweet sherry or apple juice

1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature, plus more for greasing 3 cups Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour (see below)

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

1 teaspoon ground allspice

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 cup packed dark brown sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

4 extra-large eggs, at room temperature

2 tablespoons brandy, rum, whiskey, sweet sherry, or apple juice, or as needed

1. The day before you bake the cake, prepare the macerated fruit. Place the raisins, prunes, dates, and figs in a large bowl. Add the citrus peel, cherries, ginger, lemon zest and juice, and orange zest and juice. Add the marmalade, jam, applesauce, and brandy and stir to combine. Cover the bowl and let stand overnight at room temperature so that the fruits soak up the liquid and the flavors meld. The mixture can

4. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the brown sugar and beat for 1 minute. Reduce the speed to low, add the vanilla, and beat until combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition. Then beat for 1 minute longer. Add the flour mixture and beat until just combined. Add the macerated fruit and, with a large wooden spoon, combine with the batter. This requires a bit of strength. Scrape the batter into the prepared pan.

5. Bake for 2 hours, then reduce the oven temperature to 300 F and bake until a toothpick inserted into the middle of the cake comes out clean, about 2 hours. If the cake browns too quickly, you might want to tent it with aluminum foil for the last 2 hours so it doesn’t burn.

6. Remove the cake from the oven and, while it is still hot, pierce it all over with a skewer. Pour the brandy over the top. Place the pan on a wire rack and let the cake cool completely.

7. Remove the sides from the pan and peel the parchment paper from the sides and bottom of the cake. Wrap the cake in waxed paper and place it in an airtight container or wrap it in a few layers of plastic wrap. Leave the cake at room temperature for 3 to 5 days to allow the flavors to meld. If you used alcohol, you may store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

8. Once the cake is sliced, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Source: Gluten-Free Baking For the Holidays by Jeanne Sauvage

Tips for a Safe New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve is one of the most festive nights of the year. Despite its reputation for revelry, New Year’s Eve also can be dangerous, which underscores the need to celebrate responsibly when ringing in a new year. A new year is worthy of celebration, and the festivities can be even more enjoyable when individuals take these safety tips to heart.

• Recognize the risks. Recognition of the potentially serious threats that can be lurking on New Year’s Eve is vital to celebrating safely. In 2016, leaked documents indicated that more than 1,200 women were sexually assaulted on New Year’s Eve in various German cities. A 2011 report from the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research in the United States noted a significant spike in the rate of assaults, murders, sexual assaults, and rob beries on New Year’s Eve, linking that increase to higher levels of alcohol consumption. Individuals who recognize how vulnerable overconsumption of alcohol can make them may be less inclined to overdo it this year.

• Avoid the roads. Data from the National

Safety Administration indicates that 68 percent of drunk driving traffic fatalities on New Year’s 2016 involved drivers with a high blood alcohol concentration. One of the safest things individuals can do on New Year’s Eve is to avoid the roads. Consider celebrating at home or staying in a hotel or the home of a loved one. If you must be on the road, call a cab or book an Uber when you need to get to and from a party.

• Be careful even if you’re hosting. New Year’s Eve celebrants also must be vigilant if they’re hosting a gathering at home. Laws vary, but social host liability laws generally hold hosts who serve alcohol responsible for the actions of their guests after they leave their homes. So hosts could conceivably be vulnerable to criminal or civil proceedings if they serve alcohol to guests who are then involved in traffic accidents or other incidents after they leave hosts’ homes. New Year’s Eve is a time for celebration. Taking steps to ensure celebrations are safe can make the night even more fun.

It’s A Classic!

Short and sweet film reviews of old, classic movies perfect for a girls’ night in!

By Allison Chudina

Merry Christmas! It’s time to drink some hot cocoa by the fireplace and gather with family and friends to watch an underrated Christmas love story—The Shop Around the Corner, directed by Ernst Lubitsch and starring James Stewart and Margaret Sullavan. This iconic 1940 story, which inspired the Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan film You’ve Got Mail, follows Alfred Kralik and Klara Novak (Stewart and Sullavan) as they navigate working for Matuschek and Company, a general store in Budapest. Alfred and Klara despise one another, disagreeing on almost everything. However, both have unknowingly become each other’s romantic pen pals and have fallen in love through their letters. It’s a simple but effective plot with plenty of twists and turns, and I can’t recommend it enough for those hopeless romantics out there. It will bring you plenty of Christmas cheer and leave you feeling warm inside—not just from the cocoa.

Highway Traffic

Rewarding Resolutions that Won’t Require a Major Commitment of Time

Atime crunch can make it hard to commit to a New Year’s resolution. But resolutions, which are often focused on self-improvement, can be worthwhile endeavors. So what are busy adults to do? Perhaps the best approach is to choose resolutions that don’t necessarily require much time.

• Exercise more: A commitment to getting fit and being more physically active is a popular New Year’s resolution. Though choosing such a path may seem like it requires a significant time commitment, the Physical Activity Guidelines established by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommend that adults perform at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity each week. That might seem like a lot, but it can be combined with other leisure activities you already engage in. For example, a sports fan can watch the big game while on a treadmill or elliptical, while readers can swap the couch with an exercise bike as their go-to reading spot.

• Read more: Adults across the globe lament a lack of time to curl up with a good book. But some brief reading before bed each night can help adults achieve this goal and can even improve their quality of sleep. In fact, a 2021 study published in the peer-reviewed medical journal Trials found that reading in bed before going to sleep improved sleep quality compared to not reading a book in bed.

• Journaling: Journaling is another worthy resolution that won’t take up much time. Individuals can take 15 minutes out of their day to write down their thoughts

Pitfalls to Avoid When Making Resolutions this Year

• Lack of specificity: When making a resolution, be as specific as possible. If you want to read more, resolve to read two books per month (or however many books you feel you can reasonably read in a month).

• No measuring stick to track progress: Specificity is important, but it’s not the only tool you can use to stay the course with a resolution. Maintain a resolution journal or blog that allows you to gauge your performance.

and feelings and reflect on the day’s comings and goings. That simple activity can produce profound results, as the University of Rochester Medical Center notes that journaling helps people prioritize their problems, fears and concerns; reduce stress; cope with depression; and identify negative thoughts and behaviors.

• Become more organized: This resolution won’t take up much of your time. In fact, becoming more organized should free up time. A lack of organization can make it harder to meet work deadlines, keep a house clean, tackle everyday tasks, and keep a clear mind. By taking steps to be more organized, whether that’s through using a daily organizer, avoiding procrastinating in regard to cleaning up around the house or other means, individuals will gradually discover they have more free time to use as they see fit.

New Year’s resolutions need not take much time. Busy individuals can keep that in mind as they look for ways to improve their lives in the year ahead.

• Going it alone: The buddy system works when pursuing various goals, and New Year’s resolutions are no exception. A friend or family member along for the resolution journey can make it easier to maintain your motivation.

• Biting off more than you can chew: Small resolutions may not seem like much, but minor efforts can serve as the stepping stones to realizing larger goals.

• Not anticipating setbacks: Setbacks will happen, and as noted, it’s easy to let them derail your efforts when they first appear. Recognize that there will be bumps in the road but that these bumps should in no way end your journey.

Bristol Bridal Station – Couture for a Cause

As brides begin planning their big day, one of the first tasks on the wedding to-do list is finding their dream dress. For many, selecting that dream dress can be a daunting and overwhelming task. At Bristol Bridal Station, our brides have the opportunity to work with our amazing bridal consultants one-on-one through our private appointments. Bristol Bridal Station strives to not only help our brides find the dress of their dreams, but also to empower them with the knowledge of the gowns themselves!

Our selection of gowns come from boutiques across the United States who donate brand-new inventory in support of our mission. It’s through these amazing partnerships that we are able to empower more brides with the opportunity to purchase their dream wedding dress at an affordable price.

Simple Ways to Involve Kids in Holiday Decorating

Millions of people across the globe feel that the holiday season is a magical time of year. Parents can channel that enthusiasm by involving kids when decorating around the house this holiday season.

• Make homemade ornaments. The options are limitless when making holiday ornaments with children. From simple ornaments made from pine cones picked up outside to more complex projects designed for children nearing adolescence, parents can look to the internet to find design ideas and directions for hundreds of ornaments.

• Let kids lead the way when decorating the tree. Families that celebrate Christmas can let kids lead the way when decorating their Christmas tree.

• Take kids along when choosing lawn ornaments. It’s not safe to involve children when installing lighting displays, but kids will get a kick out of choosing inflatable lawn decorations and other items to place around the yard.

Finding your dream dress at Bristol Bridal Station means saving up to 75% off the original price, with dresses from designers such as Oscar de la Renta, Hayley Paige, Maggie Sotterro, and Stella York.

Our catchphrase “Couture for a Cause” runs much deeper than giving more brides the opportunity to have the dress of their dreams. Purchases from Bristol Bridal Station support the children and families served by YWCA NETN and SWVA’s programs. Your purchase helps support the many economic empowerment programs the YWCA offers, such as affordable childcare, MOMS R US Teen Pregnancy Education and support, and the TechGYRLS after school program.

Bristol Bridal Station is open by appointment only Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and located at 106 State Street, Bristol, TN. To book an appointment you can message Bristol Bridal Station on Facebook or Instagram and follow us for updates on new arrivals. You can also visit our website at www.bristolbridalstation.com.

• Include kids in culinary decor. Many celebrants cannot imagine a holiday season without gingerbread houses and cookies. These traditions provide another great opportunity to involve children in holiday decorating.

The spirit of the holiday season can be seen on the faces of children each December. Inviting kids to pitch in when decorating for the holidays can make the season even more special for its youngest celebrants.