Maple Leaf Garden Centres Holiday 2015

HOLIDAY 2015

MAPLE LEAF GARDEN CENTRES

Holiday Décor Ideas MAPLE LEAF’S OWN

Planter Recipes

Christmas Trees In Detail

604-985-1784 1343 Lynn Valley Road, North Vancouver

604-922-2613 2558 Haywood Avenue, West Vancouver

Starting at

$24.99

AVAILABLE AT

Available at Maple Leaf Garden Centre. While supplies last.

Contents

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The Chef Parsons Project:

Creating the perfect appetizers for your holiday cocktail party

Christmas Gifts We Love Create a Unique Christmas Holiday Palette Tips for Hosting a Cocktail Party The Chef Parsons Project Stay Energized During the Winter Months Decorating your Christmas Mantle Fabulous Fall & Winter Fashions Extraordinary Christmas Greens

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20 This publication may not be reproduced, all or in part, without written consent from the publisher and Maple Leaf Garden Centres. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all content in the publication, however, the publisher will not be held accountable for omissions or errors. Note that products may vary between retailers and regions, and supplies may be limited. Pricing is subject to change and is not valid with any other offer. Home & Garden Showplace is a registered trade mark for use by its members, of which the Garden Centre Group Co-Op is an alliance member. Photo credit to Proven WinnersÂŽ for a selection of photos provided to this magazine.

4 • MAPLE LEAF GARDEN CENTRE - 604-985-1784 & 604-922-2613 - WWW.MAPLELEAFGARDEN.CA

ANote fromUs W

e would like to Thank You for a wonderful 2015 Season. This year was an eventful one at our Garden Centres and we were kept busy with all the good weather, our diverse selection of plants and of course our many loyal customers. We certainly appreciate all the feedback we have received about the past season as we plan for the coming spring. This will be the first winter in many years that both locations will be open to sell Live and Cut Christmas Trees, Garland, Swags, Wreaths, Holiday Décor, Gifts for gardeners, as well as Gift Certificates. We’ve really “spruced” the places up and we hope you will have a moment to stop by and see us.

Enjoy the Winter Edition of our Magazine and have a safe and Happy Holiday.

-Maple Leaf Garden Centres, Owners & Employees

HOLIDAY 2015 • 5

Christmas Trees in Detail

By Kim Tyler

A

t Maple Leaf Garden Centres, we provide a top selection of quality, freshly cut Christmas trees. When choosing a tree, it is good to have an idea of which kind of tree best suits your needs. Does it have a good shape? Is it going to make a mess? Is it too big for that corner? Will I live in fear of my treasured glass ornaments coming crashing down? To help you choose the ideal tree for you, here are the descriptions of the varieties we carry:

Fraser Fir

If you are in an apartment, or have a small area you’d like to decorate, then the Fraser Fir is one to consider. This fir has bicoloured foliage, dark green above with silvery white beneath.

Typically the Fraser Fir has a slender, narrow cone shaped habit. Soft to the touch, needles are flattened with sturdy branches growing upward and well spaced, providing good support for heavier ornaments so you can hang and display them with confidence.

Douglas Fir

Douglas Fir, a classic. Considered one of the top species in Christmas trees. Needles are glossy, and bi-coloured blue and green, growing in all directions from the branch. This fir is generally sheared to a uniform conical shape. Foliage also releases a bursting sweet fruity fragrance when crushed.

Christmas potpourri anyone? Also a considerable candidate for its strong, firm branches and good needle retention. All ornaments are welcome on the Douglas Fir.

Grand Fir

Noble Fir

A true fir with many uses for the Christmas holidays. Very well known for its beautiful foliage, as well as its long preservation ability. Needles are multi-toned with cool shades of blues and greens. Branches are nicely spaced and stiff, perfect for displaying ornaments. Considered one of the best varieties.

Foliage spirally arranged with good density, making the Noble Fir a great choice for garlands and wreaths as well as other Christmas crafts and décor. Holding their needles well for a considerable period of time, the Noble is a solid choice for those early tree starters and Christmas decorators.

Nordmann Fir

Popular commercially grown Christmas tree known for its distinct pyramidal shape, dense dark green foliage and excellent needle retention. Foliage is flat, soft and glossy dark green above with blue and white bands below. Branches are strong and solid, making Nordmann Fir an ideal supporter of all ornaments. Of all the firs, Nordmann has the best life span for a cut tree making it a popular choice for businesses, stratas and apartment common areas. Did you know, because of the Nordmann Fir’s minimal fragrance, it is more hypoallergenic then other Christmas tree varieties.

After learning about some of the characteristics of the trees we carry, we hope that this helps to make your selection stress free and the least of your Christmas worries.

One of my favourite things about the Christmas holidays is coming home to that fresh scent from a cut Christmas tree. If you desire that warm and cozy, curl up on the couch fragrance, then the Grand Fir provides a bursting citrus-like aroma. It is the most fragrant of all the Christmas trees. The Grand Fir shares many of the same characteristics as the Douglas Fir; however, the Grand Fir has longer needles which is a key identifier. Needles are flattened, glossy two-toned green and blue growing in two distinct rows. Branches are firm, but not strong enough to provide support for heavier decorations.

6 • MAPLE LEAF GARDEN CENTRE - 604-985-1784 & 604-922-2613 - WWW.MAPLELEAFGARDEN.CA

Holiday Décor Ideas

by Nadine Poole

Vintage Christmas Nostalgia reigns supreme with decorations inspired by those of Christmas past. Whether the decorations are family heirlooms collected over the years or new purchases this style of decorating will take you down memory lane. Here are a few ideas: • Decorate the mantel with classic mercury glass Christmas trees interspersed with natural or artificial greens. Scatter a few sparkling glass ball ornaments throughout. Top off with flickering LED Pillar lights for a warm glow. Hang a wreath over the mantel to complete the look.

• Use a miniature artificial Christmas tree as a centrepiece on the Christmas dinner table. Decorate with small glass ornaments and surround with pretty votives lit with tea lights.

Back to Nature Christmas Give your Christmas an organic touch this season by decorating with elements from nature.

• Decorate the mantelpiece and banister with fresh evergreen garland studded with pine cones tied on with neutral coloured ribbon or even natural jute twine.

• Repurpose mason jars by using them as vases filled with evergreens, holly or whatever you might find in your garden. Also use small jars as votives lit with tea lights to provide a warm glow. Place on the mantel or use as the centrepiece on the Christmas dinner table.

• Arrange bare branches in a tall vase and hang them with decorations made from natural materials like wood, linen, felt or feathers. Makes a unique table-top tree.

• Fill an old wooden salad bowl or other rustic bowl with evergreen branches and large pine cones for a non fussy alternative to a floral centrepiece.

• Display Poinsettias or Amaryllis plants in bark containers on mantel or table. Tuck in small evergreen branches to further the effect.

• Hang a fresh evergreen wreath or swag on the front door decorated with feathers, holly berries and neutral ribbon.

• Flank your front door on each side with small living evergreens in containers made of natural materials such as wicker or bark or wrap the plant pots with burlap and tie the top with ribbon or jute.

Hint: To complete your Back to Nature Christmas theme wrap your presents in brown craft paper and tie them with natural jute twine.

• Fill a decorative silver or glass bowl with colourful old and new Christmas balls. Add a shimmering strand of beads laid over top and over the edges of the bowl for visual interest. Flank with silver or crystal candlesticks. Set on a hallway or entryway table.

• A fresh or artificial wreath or swag on the front door is a welcoming sign to your Christmas guests.

• Decorate your tree with lots of white mini-lights and gold or silver ornaments in all shapes and sizes. Use gold or silver bead garland to finish off the effect.

• Decorate the kitchen with Rosemary Topiaries in attractive pots. Hang little mercury glass ornaments on the topiaries or trim with mercury glass garland. Tie ribbon around the pots to finish. Display on the window sill or on the kitchen island with real or artificial greenery tucked around the pots.

To conclude unpack all those precious family heirloom ornaments and add to your collection this Christmas at Maple Leaf Garden Centres. Happy Holidays!

HOLIDAY 2015 • 7

MAPLE LEAF GARDEN CENTRE’S

Family Recipes White Chocolate Peppermint Bark

by Kim Tyler

12 ounces Bakers white chocolate (I prefer to use Lindt white chocolate) ½ cup chopped Pistachios (You can use any nut desired) ½ cup dried cranberries ½ cup crushed pretzels 3-4 crushed candy canes, how strong do you want that candy cane flavor?

1/2 tsp vanilla 1/2 tsp cinnamon Melt chocolate in a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, stirring.

Mix the rest of the ingredients together in a bowl. Once chocolate has melted add 3/4 of the mixture to the chocolate. Pour onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spread in an even layer. Sprinkle the rest of the toppings over chocolate.

Refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour. Peel off parchment, and break bark into pieces.

English Sherry Trifle

by Nadine Poole

This recipe was given to my family by our good neighbour Mrs. Day. It is easy to prepare and delectable to eat.

2 cups Birds Custard, prepared 1 whole pound cake Raspberry Jam ½ cup dry Sherry ½ cup frozen raspberries ½ cup heavy cream, whipped Raspberries, slivered almonds, chocolate curls to decorate Prepare the custard according to the package directions.

Pour into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap and set aside to cool.

Slice pound cake about ½ inch think and spread one side with raspberry jam. Line the bottom and sides of a pretty glass bowl with cake slices, jam side up. Pour ½ cup sherry over the cake slices. Scatter the raspberries over the cake slices. Give the prepared and cooled custard a stir and pour over cake in bowl.

Top with the whipped cream. Decorate with raspberries, slivered almonds and chocolate curls.

Grandma’s Broccoli Casserole

By Katherine O’Neill & Laura Hambly

1 lb of fresh broccoli (partially boiled) 1 can cream of mushroom soup (Campbell’s preferably) ½ tin milk (soup can size) 2 tbsp mayonnaise ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese ¼ cup bread crumbs 2 tbsp melted butter ¼ cup parmesan cheese or cheddar for topping garlic, salt & pepper Cut broccoli into small pieces, place in casserole dish. Combine soup, milk, mayo and cheese - pour over broccoli. Combine melted butter, parmesan (or cheddar) and bread crumbs and spices. Sprinkle on top – bake at 350 degrees for 40 mins or until done.

White Chocolate & Raspberry Cookies

by Michelle Mansouri

1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips 1/2 cup butter, softened 1 cup cane sugar (or granulated white sugar) 1 tsp baking soda 1/4 tsp salt 2 eggs 2 3/4 cups unbleached all purpose flour 1/2 cup raspberry jam 1/2 tsp shortening 1) Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a cookie sheet; set aside.

Take 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips and melt on low heat in a small sauce pan until smooth; set aside to cool.

2) In a large bowl beat butter with electric mixer on medium speed for 30 seconds. Add sugar, baking soda, and salt. Beat until combined, occasionally scraping sides of bowl. Beat in eggs and melted white chocolate until combined. Beat in as much flour as you can with mixer and stir in remaining flour by hand. Stir in 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips.

3) Drop dough by rounded teaspoons approximately 2 inches apart on prepared cookie sheet. Bake for 7-9 minutes (or until cookies are light brown around the edges). Let cookies stand on cookie sheet for a minute. Transfer to cooling rack.

4) Melt raspberry jam in a small saucepan over low heat. Spoon approx 1/2 tsp of jam on top of each cookie. In a small saucepan heat and stir remaining chocolate chips and shortening until smooth and drizzle over cookies. If necessary, refrigerate cookies for 15 minutes or until drizzle is firm.

8 • MAPLE LEAF GARDEN CENTRE - 604-985-1784 & 604-922-2613 - WWW.MAPLELEAFGARDEN.CA

Available at Select Garden Centres

HOLIDAY 2015 • 9

Flickering Candles Canvas Print

Hanging a canvas on your wall that portrays Christmas will help get everyone in the holiday spirit! The candles hanging in this print add warmth to your home – you can blow them out to turn off!

Special Price $29.99

Christmas Gifts Jewellery & Watches

Jolly Snow Children Figurines These festive, jolly figurine children in the snow are cute, playful and make the perfect gift for anyone that loves to decorate.

Special Price $69.99 each. 50 cm high.

Love... we

Every woman loves to receive a little bling. Perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. Necklace & Earring Set $34.99, Bracelet $14.99, Watches $19.99 and up.

Holiday Lanterns

Lanterns are cozy, decorative, inviting and are available in many shapes, sizes and colours.

Try something new by putting your lanterns on your front porch, or setting them on your dining room table. A flameless timer candle will add the finishing touch to this great gift.

Available at select Garden Centres. *Styles may vary by store.

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Amaryllis in Santa Sack

Fantastic Christmas bulb that will grow into a beautiful red Amaryllis. This makes a fantastic hostess gift for the holidays.

Special Price $14.99, while supplies last.

Cranberry

LUV my Lug

Function, Fashion and Colour, Lug bags are designed for women, men & families on the go. Perfect gift for holiday travelers and day to day life.

Ocean

Sophisticated Indoor Christmas Planter An indoor planter with a poinsettia, decorative trim and a beautiful pot will accentuate the home during the holiday season.

Gift Cards The gift for someone who has everything!

Trend Setting Boot Socks

The ideal gift for the trendy fashion forward woman. Many styles and colours are available to choose from.

Welcome Planter Filled with Christmas Foliage Accenting your front porch will let your neighborhood know you’re serious about the holiday season. Add a bow, berries, and pinecones, and you’re ready to go!

Available at select Garden Centres. *Styles may vary by store.

HOLIDAY 2015 • 11

Create A

Unique

Christmas Holiday Palette

By Martha Vandepol

A

n emerging trend this holiday season is using colour palettes to decorate Christmas trees and rooms in your home. Break out of the traditional red and green colour scheme with some unique and original hues that will wow family and friends. It may seem daring to aim for brown instead of red, or blue instead of green, but experimenting with some of these colours can be very rewarding.

Choosing a colour palette for holiday decorating may seem a daunting task but it is actually quite simple. One method is to select the colours from some of your favourite décor items in your main living space – maybe a silver champagne bucket, a velvety blue throw, or an antique wine goblet from your grandmother. By combining the tones from various rooms, you will create a palette cohesive with your current décor. Take these items with you as you shop for holiday ribbon, ornaments, silk flowers and additional Christmas decorations so that you can match new with existing items.

Keep an eye out for colour combinations that catch your attention, whether it is in home décor, fashion clothing or holiday decorations. As you do your holiday shopping, there may be one particular Christmas tree that takes your breath away. Focusing on the colours of that particular display will give you a colour palette that you are instinctively drawn towards.

Maybe it is a romantic combination of rich red, deep burgundy, and shiny and glittering gold that creates the elegance and beauty of this grouping that you love. Use some artificial poinsettia stems, berry sprays and holly ornaments to emphasize the gorgeous heritage of this holiday scheme. You can coordinate your current holiday decorations to work with these hues, adding the additional colour elements with new items.

Ask for assistance at your favourite shop when creating a new colour scheme. Most Christmas stores will have qualified design staff that can assist you in transitioning your current palette to a new, refreshing arrangement. Let them know your overall décor colour and they can make suggestions on how to update it. For example, adding silver to an already gold décor will create a mixed metallic modern palette. Even adding some black tones, such as lanterns, or velvet black ribbon, will add to this subtle 12

but sophisticated look. When the lights and candles are lit, these colours will shine throughout the evening. Another emerging trend is a combination of layered green, birch white and browns such as those found in burlap, fresh holiday foliage, owls and all things natural. These earthy accents blend well with all wood and beige tones, and bring an organic, trendy, upscale look to seasonal décor. This vintage colour palette is warm, welcoming and lends nicely with existing country décor.

Don’t be afraid to search your favorite colours online or on Pinterest. By typing in your wall paint colour, you will probably see some complementary hues featured on any given website. Creating a Christmas Palette board on Pinterest will group all your favourite ideas together. Take a look at them to find the common colour theme, style or decorating idea that you love. Save these ideas on your phone or tablet and take them with you when doing your decoration or ornament shopping so you have a quick and easy reference when you need it.

Your new colour scheme for Christmas decorations should seamlessly fit your home décor colour scheme to create a complete and harmonious look. Don’t be afraid to pack away holiday decorations for a few years because they just don’t fit this year; when they re-emerge, they will look fresh and welcome once again. By using these tips to create a colour palette that is uniquely yours, you will be inspired to create stunning and beautiful holiday décor this Christmas season.

HOLIDAY 2015 • 13

Tips for Hosting a

C ocktail Party

By Donna Moss

T

he Christmas season is almost upon us! There are many people out there who love the opportunity to show their creative flair and host their own cocktail party for family and friends alike. We have compiled some helpful tips to help make your party the talk of the town – whether you are a veteran planner or you plan to test your hand for the first time this year.

A cocktail party during the festive season is always a great way to see family and friends. You can choose to invite your closest friends for a more intimate gathering, or keep the invitation open for visitors travelling into town this time of year. Extending the invitation to those visitors is a great way to meet new people. The more the merrier!

An elaborate and elegant table should be the focal point of your party. Decide if you want your guests to walk around the table or whether to push it against the wall to make it one sided. If you choose to centre the entire table, put down glass 14

tiles, add fresh garland down the middle and use candles to add ambience to the room. Adding holly and red berries to the garland will give your display a beautiful pop of colour.

For a more formal party, gold or silver accents will give a sophisticated look to your table. You can decorate with more height if a table is pushed against a wall, as the decorations will be placed at the back of the table. Using inexpensive glass blocks to elevate candlesticks, silver reindeer and other holiday dĂŠcor will certainly make your table extraordinary.

Choosing the right menu for any event can cause anyone some stress. A simple guideline for choosing the right menu for your party is that younger crowds love to eat, while older crowds love to nibble. If you choose to go with hors d’oeuvres, choose six or seven that are easy to prepare before hand or only require easy last minute heating, slicing or arranging.

Time your appetizers throughout the evening instead of preparing everything for the start of your event.

Presentation is everything, so jazz up your platters of food with a touch of holly, a Christmas ornament or some festive foliage. Change up those vegetables by placing them in glasses lined with dip to allow for smaller portion sizes. Another option would be to take small vases and use a separate one for each type of vegetable. Arrange the vases in a straight line with the dip in front of the vegetables for a presentation that is functional and beautiful all at the same time.

Napkins are a must at any party, but don’t go for plain, boring red. Find some with a Christmas scene that will match your décor. You can even bring some humour to your table with napkins with fun sayings on them to make your guests chuckle. Something like “It’s the holiday season, let the overeating begin!”

The drink station is a popular place at any party. You can create a signature drink to surprise your guests and make sure that your bar is stocked with a nice mix so your guests can choose their own. A nice treat for everyone is a pitcher of water with a mixture of fruit and mint leaves for those that prefer nonalcoholic beverages. This will also allow all your guests to stay hydrated during the party. Tie a different holiday decoration on

each glass or write names with a washable marker so guests can use the same glass throughout the evening.

Because everyone loves sweets, an elaborately decorated dessert bar is a great way to end the evening.

Small bite sized options including chocolates, fresh fruit and even vases filled with candies will make this a delectable area. Provide fresh coffee, hot apple cider or hot chocolate as a great finishing touch. Embellishing your tables with silver platters, votive and floating candles and fresh cedar will make this a destination station.

As your guests are getting ready to leave, make sure that you extend your personal holiday greetings as they depart. This allows you to ensure that they are safe to drive home, and gives you an opportunity to give them a parting Christmas gift.

A small ornament, scented pinecone or holiday scented candle will ensure that they remember your fantastic event!

Most of all, enjoy your evening. Everyone is there to have fun, socialize and spend time with each other. Using these tips will ensure that you’re remembered as the hostess with the mostest!

FA M I LY FA V O U R I T E

Holiday Wassail 1 gallon apple cider 1 cup brown sugar 6 oz. lemon juice 6 oz. frozen concentrated orange juice 1 tbsp ground nutmeg 1 tbsp whole cloves 1 tbsp whole allspice 4 to 6 cinnamon sticks 2 cups brandy 1 cup vodka 1 bottle sherry wine Combine all ingredients except the last three ingredients.

Bring to a hard simmer. Simmer for 1 hour.

Add the last three ingredients. Simmer for an additional 15 minutes. Scoop out the spices and serve in glass mugs with cinnamon sticks and fresh orange slices. This recipe can be refrigerated and served cold as well.

Little Quick Fire® HOLIDAY 2015 • 15

Happy Holidays 16

$59.99

$49.99

$79.99

$44.99

HOLIDAY 2015 • 17

complicating it. I’ll buy chorizo sausage and just chop it into chunks, maybe some prosciutto, and my parfait. On a separate board I’ll do five different cheeses; on yet another board I’ll do a spread of different vegetables; I’ll also do some hot food. Something I’ve been serving lately is a sumac and panko crusted shrimp, which is really easy: take some sumac and panko in a bowl, add some herbs and toss some tiger shrimp in it.

Double bread them so they’ve got a nice crust on them, and then just throw them in the freezer. I’ll do that two days before my party and then when guests come over I’ll pop them into the deep fryer and, boom, you’re done! Now you’re offering your guests meat, seafood, vegetables, cheeses – it gives you a nice selection.

The Chef Parsons Project:

Creating the perfect appetizers for your holiday cocktail party

By Jeff Cleaver The holidays are here, that special time of year filled with friends, family, and of course, food - lots and lots of delicious food! The merriment isn’t complete without your annual holiday cocktail party and hosting it means asking those time-old questions: What appetizers do I serve?

How do I serve them? And how do I ensure that my guests enjoy themselves while ensuring I still get to enjoy their company?

I chatted with renowned chef and TV personality, Jason Parsons, to find out what the professionals are serving for their holiday cocktail appetizers, and I’ve got good news: you can feed your guests like the pros while still having a great time! Chef Parsons is here to tell you how.

Q: People don’t want to be stuck in a chair at holiday cocktail parties while they eat. What’s an appetizer that can keep up with the party?

Chef Parsons: I like the idea of picking at finger foods, so I always do boards and things like that. I’ve had a signature chicken liver parfait that I’ve done at [Peller Estates Winery Restaurant] for 10 years now and in the last couple of years I make it every time that I have a party at home.

It’s a really flavourful, impactful dish that’s also familiar and not too intimidating. I can put out all different types of food and everyone always gathers around that parfait. If I have time, I’ll make myself a little relish or chutney to go along with it, or I’ll just hit up one of the specialty stores to pick up a preserve; for my last party I picked up a sort of merlot-shallot jam that went really well with it. We do an ice wine reduction in there but people at home don’t have to do that.

Q: How many different appetizers are needed to please most guests?

Chef Parsons: You always wonder “How am I going to get a balanced meal out of it?” I’ll do charcuterie boards, again without over

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It also depends on the size of the group: if it’s a larger group I’ll do that kind of stuff, but if it’s a smaller group I’ve done some fun last minute things too. I’ve been experimenting with pizzas all winter and had some friends over. I had all of these [pizza] toppings prepped, so while my guests were there we’d roll out some pizza dough and I’d be like “Ok! What do we want on this one?” We’d put on a bit of this and a bit of that and cut them into small pieces for everyone to pick at. When there’s a chance to customize what you’re eating people get really excited about the food.

Q: What kind of ingredients do you gravitate towards during the holidays?

Chef Parsons: I tend to get into lots of brussels sprouts and things like that. I’ve gotten away from putting things on a cracker – the old standard canapés – because it’s just so boring.

I make a “Bubble & Squeak”: It’s literally just bacon, chopped brussels sprouts, and some potatoes and you just fry it and chop it up pretty fine. Then cut some baguette on a really aggressive angle, rub it with some garlic and truffle oil, and put [the baguette] in a panini press to create these warm, sort of crustads. You simply put some of that [Bubble & Squeak] on the baguette and you’re done.

Q: Sorry…did you just say “Bubble & Squeak”?

Interesting name.

Chef Parsons: Yeah, well it’s a bit of a refined version of it, but in

England, where I grew up, there’s a traditional dish called Bubble & Squeak. Everyone eats roasts in England – that’s pretty much all we ever do! So it’s the leftover roast, leftover vegetables, and leftover potatoes chopped up and then you fry it up and it is really great!

Q: What are your favourite time-saving techniques for Christmas cocktail appetizers?

Chef Parsons: When doing a dinner party I want to be doing two –

maybe three, maximum – things on the night of. Something that I find always works well [for saving time] is mini-pulled pork. You can get those mini buns and you either make your pulled pork or buy it, put it on the stove – it’s done. When someone’s ready to eat you put some of the pulled pork on the bun with a bit of mustard and serve them.

That way if you’ve got 40 people coming but only five arrive at first you’re not worried about things getting cold; whatever you can do in advance, the better.

Q: What is a fairly safe wine pairing to serve before dinner if you’re serving multiple appetizers?

Chef Parsons: I would serve our Peller Estates Ice Cuvee. It’s a sparkling wine, so it truly pairs with almost any type of food.

Q: Everyone has a favourite holiday dessert. What’s yours and why?

Chef Parsons: Well, I’m a junk food guy – I really am! But I’ve always loved the traditional trifle and holiday squares – equivalent to [Canada’s] Millionaire’s Shortbread Bars – that my mum used to make, which is why I’ve put them in my cook book.

If I was doing a party, miniature-trifles are always fun. I make them in little dishes so everyone has their own to eat and you can put oranges in there - all of that feels very Christmassy to me.

Q: You’re a renowned chef at Niagara-on-the-Lake’s premier dining destination (Peller Estates Winery Restaurant), a longtime TV icon on City TV’s CityLine, and co-author of 3 Chefs: The Kitchen Men. What can fans expect to see next from Chef Jason Parsons?

Chef Parsons: Well, it never stops down here, I can tell you that! We

have the fine dining experience at the Peller Estates Winery Restaurant, which is focused on farm-to-table tasting menus and local ingredients, but this year we opened The Barrel House Grill, which is my project right now.

We partnered with Alfresco Grills and Natural Landscapes Design and built this beautiful outdoor restaurant - it’s off the charts! It has a prototype custom pizza oven and massive barbecue. We’re doing thin crust Italian-style pizzas, my signature burgers, playing around with poutine - and I’m making my own sausages too, which were inspired by a NYC restaurant called DBGB Kitchen & Bar by Chef Daniel Boulud. What I love about that restaurant is that it holds that gourmet, fine detail approach, but applied to comfort bar foods. He has a sausage menu there and I was like “oh man, I’ve got to do this!”

So, at Barrel House Grill we have a balsamic lamb and mint sausage, we have an apple chardonnay pork sausage, we have a wild boar and cabernet sausage, and we make all of those in-house. They’re for sharing around the table and I just love that.

I’ve discovered that I can share what I do at home: things that aren’t too hoity-toity, finicky or overwhelming for people. In a way, it feels like I’m bringing CityLine to the winery! When you come here you can sit down in the [Winery Restaurant] and have a 7-course tasting menu, sampling the best-of-the-best, or you can sit outside at The Barrel House Grill, have a glass of wine, some sausages, and poutine!

Well. I’m starving now!

Chef Parsons: Good! We’re open! Come on down!

About Chef Jason Parsons Executive Chef, TV Personality, Author

In a word, Parsons describes his career as “blessed”. Since his apprenticeship under Chef Nigel Didcock at the age of 14, Parsons has used his resume to hone his craft and satiate his curiosity for cuisines by working in some of the industry’s most illustrious kitchens: Chewton Glen, Cliveden Hotel in Britain, Waterloo House in Bermuda, Hillebrand Winery Restaurant in Niagara-on-the-Lake, as Executive sous Chef at Biff’s in Toronto and was integral in the opening of Langdon Hall in 1989, which is now considered one of Canada’s top restaurants.

As a sage to his students, Chef Parsons relays that which has served him well: “If there are chefs that you’re interested in, go and work for them. Go and learn different styles of food by working with different chefs. If you were in university and you wanted to learn history, you’d take a history course; if it’s economics, you’d take an economics course and so it is with cooking. I wanted to learn French cuisine so I went…to England!

But I sought out a French chef that I wanted to work for and I learned

Signature Icewine Chicken Parfait Ingredients: 300 grams chicken livers 240 ml Vidal Icewine ½ cup shallots 1 clove garlic – peeled 2 sprigs thyme 3 whole eggs 300 grams unsalted butter Method: Place shallots, garlic and Icewine in a pot and reduce until dry. Meanwhile bring the livers, eggs and butter up to room temperature. Now puree in a high speed blender and season.

Pass through a medium strainer and pour into ceramic terrine moulds. Cook in a water bath at 275 ºF. Cook until the mixture starts to tighten up (approx 45 minutes to an hour). Just like crème brulee. Allow to cool and then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours to firm up. Serve once chilled.

Recipe by Jason Parsons Executive Chef / Peller Estates Winery Restaurant

about his food; when I wanted to discover North American cuisine I went to Chicago and worked with Chef Charlie Trotter; when I wanted to learn about the ocean and all of the beautiful fish, I worked and lived in Bermuda for a year and a half.”

Chef Parsons keeps his palette excited through travel on a more leisurely basis now. After many years of traveling the world’s cuisines, Chef Parsons says it was time to come home: “Even though I wasn’t born here, Canada is my home. I’m a true Canadian. I’ve found paradise: the Niagara region, which is so well known for its grape-growing climate is equally amazing at growing incredible produce. My restaurant is all about taking advantage of the region – we literally write our tasting menus everyday from what’s coming in the backfields of local farmers.”

“It’s a good life. It’s a busy one, but it’s a good life.”

- Chef Jason Parsons.

Chef Jason Parsons is Executive Chef at Peller Estates Winery Restaurant, TV personality on CityLine, and co-author of 3 Chefs: The Kitchen Men.

HOLIDAY 2015 • 19

StayENERGIZED DURING THE WINTER MONTHS

s a nutritionist, one of the biggest complaints I hear from my clients throughout the winter is that as summer fades away, so does their energy. All of a sudden, their carb cravings hit in full force, and they’re lucky if they make it to the gym once a week.

A

This year, that doesn’t have to be the case for you. Here are five tips to keep you energized during the winter months:

1) Get Your Vitamin D

With Canadian temperatures dipping so low in the winter, it can be easy to want to stay bundled up inside. The problem with this is that not getting outside prevents you from getting any vitamin D. In addition, depending on where you live, it may not be sunny during the winter months, so even if you are outside, you may be lacking adequate amounts of the sunshine vitamin. Vitamin D is closely linked with mood, and those with low levels of vitamin D are more likely to experience depression, a disorder that can result in low energy.

Grassroots Health recommends 8,000 iU/day of vitamin D for an adult, and the liquid form of vitamin D3 is best.

2) Move Your Body

You probably already know that exercise is good for a whole host of conditions like weight loss, heart disease and sleep, but it will also boost your energy.

Researchers at the University of Georgia found that sedentary, healthy people who engaged in as little as twenty minutes of exercise, three days a week over a six week period, experienced a boost in energy and reported less fatigue compared to those who stayed sedentary.

3) Eat Enough Protein

In order to keep your cravings down and your energy up, make sure you’re eating enough protein. By starting the day off with a protein smoothie, or eggs, you will naturally avoid dips in your energy. For lunch, rather than opting for pasta or a sandwich, try having a green salad with roasted root vegetables, avocado and a small baked chicken breast. According to Chinese medicine, the roasted root vegetables have a warming effect on the body, which is important in the cooler months. Also, the lack of bread will help you avoid the dreaded afternoon slump.

20

4) Go Easy On The Coffee

This one might sound counterintuitive, as caffeine boosts your energy, right? Well, caffeine boosts your energy in the very short term; but in large quantities, and combined with stress, it can actually tax your adrenal glands, resulting in sluggish energy all day long and disrupted sleep, particularly in the 2 a.m. - 4 a.m. timeframe. Slowly reduce your coffee intake and replace your coffee with green tea, a drink that still has some caffeine to boost your energy, but that also has a calming effect at the same time.

5) Do Something You Enjoy

Last, but certainly not least, don’t underestimate the energizing effect that doing something you really love can have. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays and life in general. Aim to take 30 minutes out of your day every single day to do something you love, whether that’s reading a book, going for a walk or calling a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while.

I hope these five tips help you stay energized over the winter.

For more health tips like these and a free energy boosting meal plan, visit my website at www.healthyeatingandliving.ca.

Mandy King, CNP, is a Holistic Nutritionist and the founder of HEAL (www.healthyeatingandliving.ca), the popular blog dedicated to having you looking and feeling amazing with food.

A diagnosed celiac, Mandy focuses on improving digestion, boosting energy and gaining more balance in life, through mouth-watering gluten free and dairy free recipes.

DECO R AT I N G YO UR

Christmas Mantle

M

antles are the heart of any home - an area to show off your collection of photos, memorabilia from vacations, beautiful bouquets of flowers and flickering candles on ornate candlesticks. The holidays are the perfect time to show off your festive flair for decorating and to pull out all the stops to make your mantle a Christmas masterpiece.

By Ruth Van Belle

will best be showcased, based on preference. Place ornaments in vases randomly or in such a way that invokes memories of Christmas past.

If you are not sure about glitter, a traditional mantle may be the perfect solution. Place your garland down the centre of your mantle, add your micro lights, and place some of your most treasured figurines such as Santas or reindeer throughout.

Another option is pulling out your Santa photos from years gone by and placing them on the mantle. Intermingle garland throughout these pieces. You can also add medium size pinecones or red berries and tuck them into the garland. This creates a beautiful traditional mantle.

If you still are not sure what to do with your mantle, Pinterest and many holiday issues of magazines are a great place to gather some ideas. You may not see exactly what you want to create, but it may provide you with direction and inspiration.

Now that your mantle is done, finish off your fireplace. Beautiful poinsettias in large baskets set on each side of the hearth are a perfect finishing touch.

Candlescape mantles are beautifully romantic and set the mood for Christmas. To create this effect you need clear vases and floating candles. Use as many vases and as much or little variation in style as you like. The first step is dressing up your vases. Add gold or silver balls to the bottom of the vases, varying the amount to give dimension and different amounts of “glitter.” Fill your vases with water leaving approximately 2” from the rim. If Christmas balls are not your style, you can add food colouring to the water or leave as is. Once all vases are decorated to your liking, place the largest vase in the middle of the mantle and place the others surrounding the focal point.

Once your mantle is exactly how you like it, take your floating candle by the wick and gently place it into the water so as to not get the wick wet.

Last but not least, take the time to enjoy what you have created and the memories you will make this Christmas season. The first step is to turn the lights down, turn the Christmas lights on, put the music on low, grab your favourite beverage and let the Spirit of Christmas flow through you.

Another elegant mantle can be created using Christmas balls, ornaments or even beautiful vintage and heirloom pieces, along with glass pedestal vases. Place garland down the centre of your mantle and add Christmas lights. Battery operated micro lights with a timer are perfect for this. Once you have added your garland and lights, place your vases anywhere on your mantle. Some examples of vase placement are going from taller to smaller, or placing vases in such a way that your ornaments

HOLIDAY 2015 • 21

Fabulous FALL & WINTER FASHIONS

F

ashion is truly becoming seasonless. Women want to introduce lighter colours to their winter wardrobes, which is changing our perception of seasons and colours.

Lighter colours, transparency and cutouts are new for fall/winter 2015-16.

Summer pastels are now becoming staples in our winter wardrobe.

When discussing fall 2015 fashion trends, it becomes evident that designers are focusing everything around the 60s and 70s, and the cold weather! Most of the country experienced record breaking freezing temperatures last winter and we need to be kept warm and cozy, but still look stylish.

The 70s mod, and hippie inspiration, gives us a good dose of nostalgia, with the right touch of femininity with collared tops, flouncy skirts, ruffles on blouses and low stacked heels. The 70s vibe will remind some of us of disco, and Saturday Night Fever, as suede, flares and boho chic are everywhere this fall.

Groovy baby‌can you dig it?

This season, earthy neutrals are combined with bold patterns emphasizing burnt oranges, olive greens and browns. Marsala, a warm winey red-brown, was the pantone colour of the year for 2015. Flattering against many skin tones, marsala pairs well with neutrals, such as warmer taupes and grays.

Fringe has been refined this season, and really is quite a lovely, flirty trend. It adds a shimmy to each step and will be found on everything from dresses and tops to capes and ankle boots.

Important shapes and accents to keep in mind for fall – high necks (funnel and mock), collarless coats, velvet and embellishments, multi materials and metallic details.

22

Fashion Trend Alert #1: Have Fun with Tights

Fashion Trend Alert #4: Ribbed & Cable Knits

Tights covered the legs of models during fashion week.

Whether you pick simple black thick tights, fishnets, patterned or fleece lined, they are a great accessory to wear under a tunic, long chunky sweater or even a cocktail dress. Tights are a great way to keep your legs warm this winter!

Prepare to get cozy this fall/winter season with an amazing selection of ribbed, cable knit Fair Isle and jacquard sweaters.

The selection is endless. From round necks to turtlenecks, fringe detail, asymmetric hemlines, to cropped and oversized - you are sure to find many fabulous sweaters to keep you warm this season.

Fashion Trend Alert #2: Capes & Ponchos Fashionistas are not superheroes, but we sure love the capes and ponchos, and are rocking the look!

This season you will see dressy, and casual, styles to wear to work, run errands in or even to a fancy cocktail party. The style is not only functional, but also fashionable, and should be an outerwear staple in every girl’s closet.

Fashion Trend Alert #3: Mad for Plaid Super saturated colour palettes add vibrancy to the check and plaid patterns for fall. Antique green and true red will brighten up our mood this winter. Look for out-of-focus checks, tonal checks as well as the tartan in everything from shirts and dresses, to shoes, blanket scarves and capes.

Fashion Trend Alert #5: Accessories Pearls are making a huge comeback, but they are not exactly the ones that our Grandmother wore. Chunky pearl necklaces, bracelets and cuff earrings are the new rage. Keep an eye out for faux fur and velvet on dresses, coats, even shoes and purses this season. Little luggage bags, with double handles in bright colours and patterns, are a great alternative for an evening clutch, and can brighten up that little black dress. Bling is back in style. Tassels will be found on earrings, necklaces, shoes and tops. Bling is back in the form of statement earrings and brooches.

When out shopping for your fall/winter wardrobe don’t forget to look for these hot trends.

Kim Burns, Fashion Buyer Art Knapp Port Coquitlam, BC

HOLIDAY 2015 • 23

I EXTRAORDINARY

christmas greens

Photo Credit Paul Zammit

Toronto Botanical Garden, TTGG 2016

ndependent Garden Centres offer a variety of holiday foliage that you simply don’t find anywhere else.

With competitive pricing and qualified staff to provide you with information about each type of product and decorating advice, you won’t have to make multiple stops to purchase all your winter urn needs.

Different types of foliage will take your pot from ordinary to extraordinary!

Specialty Greens

Magnolia

Seeded Eucalyptus

Dogwood

Large leaves with a glossy green front and velvety brown back

Beautiful grey-blue color, draped effect

Twigs finish off a holiday container beautifully by adding height and dimension

• Fantastic addition to any holiday containers, wreath or table arrangement • Great for all natural, winter container • Perfect size to “nest” pinecones, artificial fruit or shiny baubles

• Excellent for adding detail and class to a holiday arrangement • Available in dyed burgundy as well, and can easily be spray painted the colour of your choice

Oregonia

Noble Fir

Similar to boxwood but light green and cream variegated leaves

Staple green bough from West Coast

• Great filler for containers • Pairs beautifully with magnolia leaves • Will keep true colour all winter • Transitions a pot from “Christmas” to winter as it has a different texture than the traditional Christmas foliage 24

• Very versatile for use in arrangements, wreaths and swags • Excellent needle retention for long lasting creations • Stiff backing makes it perfect for door swags • Adds texture

• Bunched together they make a perfect focal point or bold statement • Red, green and yellow twigs available

Variegated and Green Holly Branches have either dark green or variegated leaves • Prickly leaves – great for floral arrangements, submerging in water, placing on food trays • A must have for the holidays

Silver Fir

Ilex Berry

Beautiful fan-shaped evergreen

Classic, rich red berry synonymous with holiday decorating

• Gorgeous dark green needles with silver backing • Excellent for making door swags

• Brightens up any outdoor arrangement, wreath or indoor table arrangement • Where climate does not allow for outdoor use, weather proof berries are a great alternative

Blue Berried Juniper

Incense Cedar

Stiff silvery green branches with clusters of blue berries

Beautiful draped effect for planters and wreaths alike

• Great vertical accent that fills open spaces • Perfect for wreaths, or indoor floral arrangements

• Prized for its bright golden buds • Wonderful aroma and lacy foliage

Basic Greens

White Pine

Cedar

Balsam

Excellent for structure and weeping effect

Great for filling containers with dense colour

Great container filler

• Provides great colour and texture in projects big and small • Limitless uses

• Excellent weeping habit gives holiday containers a high end look • Many varieties available, but most popular are Ontario and BC cedar

• Excellent colour contrast between greens and blue • Lovely citrus-like fragrance

HOLIDAY 2015 • 25

Decking the Halls

by Nadine Poole

C

hristmas is almost upon us and we all enjoy bringing in that fragrant evergreen tree and decorating it with lights and ornaments collected by our families over the years. Holly, evergreen garland, poinsettia plants, and wreaths grace our front doors, tables and mantelpieces. But what are the origins of these decorative traditions? Your intrepid reporter set out to answer this question and discovered the ancient and international customs behind our desire to “Deck the Halls”.

The use of garlands, greens and flowers is almost certainly a continuation of the pagan decorations of the temple and home for ancient feast days. Holly, for example, was a sacred plant to the Druids who believed that the plant repelled spirits and protected the house from lightning. The Christian Church later borrowed it and developed the legend that the cross was formed of the wood from Holly. As well, the prickly leaves formed the Crown of Thorns and the once yellow berries were stained red by the Lord’s blood.

The parasitic plant Mistletoe has long been regarded as mysterious and scared; a symbol of the sun, a Bestower of Life, an aphrodisiac, and a protection against disease or poison. Among the ancient Druids, a white-robed priest would cut the Mistletoe from its host (the oak tree) with a golden sickle. Along with two sacred white bulls it was offered in prayer to the Gods. Pieces of it were hung above doors as signal that old grievances and enemies were forgotten.

In Scandinavia, Mistletoe must always be hung up in order to show that it has lost its destructive (parasitic) properties and become a symbol of love and peace.

The Poinsettia plant was brought to North America by the U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Joel R. Poinsett. He brought it from Mexico to his home in South Carolina and it has been popular ever since. The deep red bracts of the Poinsettia are said to represent the “Flaming Star of Bethlehem” and Mexican legend has the plant originating in a miracle. According to the legend, a poor boy with nothing to offer to Christ at the local Church,

fell to his knees and told God that he had no money with which to buy a gift. As he rose a Poinsettia plant sprung from the ground at this feet. He breaks off some of its branches with their beautiful red bracts and lays them on the alter as his gift to Christ.

Wreaths have also become symbolic of Christmas. The wreath or circle is a symbol of immortality and wreaths made of Evergreens or Holly are used today much as pre-Christian people used them to welcome the returning sun at Winter Solstice. A wreath on your door or over the hearth is a welcoming sign to family and friends.

Last but not least is the most important decoration of them all. The decorated evergreen tree is the centrepiece of our Christmas celebration. The forerunner of the Christmas tree may have been the Yule Tree which was always an evergreen grown in the forecourt or dooryard. Later on, this tree was lifted, planted in a box or tub and brought into the house to serve as a reminder that nature was not dead but merely sleeping.

During Medieval times, mystery plays were developed to bring the stories of the Bible to the unlettered common people. A tree decorated with apples (the symbol of Man’s fall from the Garden of Eden) was central to some of these plays. Later on, in addition to the apples, people began to decorate the Tree of Life with sacramental wafers; a symbol of man’s salvation through the Eucharist. Throughout the centuries these symbols weakened and the apples became oranges or coloured balls, the wafers became cookies cut like stars, angels, animals, and flowers. The custom of putting candles or lights on the tree may have originated following the lead of the Jewish People who celebrate their Hannukah or Festival of Lights in December. Medieval church goers identified the candle with Christ “the light of the World” and candles began to appear on the tree in the seventeenth century.

26 • MAPLE LEAF GARDEN CENTRE - 604-985-1784 & 604-922-2613 - WWW.MAPLELEAFGARDEN.CA

Caring for a Live Christmas Tree

by Maple Leaf Garden Centre

If you choose a live Christmas Tree either in a pot or wrapped in burlap follow these tree care tips:

7

Depending on the size of the tree you may be able to use it as a Christmas tree for more than one year.

tree should not be kept inside the house for a period 1 Aof live Later you can plant the tree in time longer than 10 days. your yard where it will serve as the tree away from heat sources such as fireplaces, 8 2 Place a reminder of happy family heaters and heat vents and keep the room temperature on times together.

the cool side.

3 Use indoor tree lights that do not emit any heat. the tree in a large saucer or pot without drainage 4 Display holes to protect your flooring from damage. sure the tree is well watered for the duration of its 5 Make stay in the house.

Have a joyous Holiday Season and all the best to you and yours in the New Year.

not remove the tree from a warm house directly into 6 Do freezing temperatures. Instead keep it in a protected

location for a few days to allow the tree to adjust to being outside again.

Caring for Your

by Maple Leaf Garden Centre

Cut Christmas Tree

You have taken the trouble to choose the perfect freshly cut Christmas Tree. The tree can last inside for up to a month if provided with sufficient water. How do you keep the tree fresh and lovely throughout the Holiday season? Here are the steps to take to maintain your tree:

1

Before purchasing do a freshness test. Lightly grasp a branch between thumb and forefinger and pull toward you. Very few needles should come off if the tree is fresh.

Shake the tree. You shouldn’t see an excessive amount of needles drop from the tree.

a 1/4-1/2 inch thick disk off the bottom of the trunk.

2 Cut Cut straight across the trunk. Do not cut diagonally or in a V-shape.

you are not bringing the tree inside right away keep 3 Ifit outside sitting upright in a bucket of water in a

sheltered area. Make sure the bucket stays full of water.

a tree stand that is suitable for the size of the tree.

4 Use As a general rule stands should provide one litre of water

per inch of trunk diameter. For example, if the trunk measures 10cm (4”) you need a stand that holds at least 4 litres of water. Measure across the bottom of the trunk to determine the size of your stand.

the tree has been stored outside for awhile make another 5 Iffresh cut across the bottom of the trunk just before you set up the tree inside. If you don’t do this cut, your tree won’t be able to take up enough water and will become dry more quickly.

the tree in the stand and make sure it is securely 6 Place supported. Pour the appropriate amount of water into the stand right away.

the tree away from sources of heat (fireplaces, 7 Display heaters, heat vents, direct sunlight) and keep room temperature on the cool side.

8 Use indoor tree lights that emit little or no heat. the level of the water in the stand daily. The tree 9 Check can easily use up all the water in the stand in a day.

If the bottom of the trunk is not submerged the cut will callus over, the tree will not absorb water and will quickly become dry.

the tree for freshness. If after Christmas your find 10 Monitor the tree has dried remove it from the house and take it to your local Christmas tree chipper for recycling.

Above all enjoy your Christmas Tree and the Holiday Season with family and friends.

HOLIDAY 2015 • 27

Maple Leaf’s Own

by Michelle Mansouri

Planter Recipes

Sweet & Simple X-Mas Planter

Grinch Planter

1 - 4” Conifer – centerpiece 1 - 4” Red Cyclamen 1 - 4” Wintergreen 1 - 4” Variegated

Decorative Ivy 1 - 4” Dusty Miller Red & White Violas to fill any gaps

1 - 6” Lemon Cypress - as centrepiece

14-16” size pot

14-16” size pot

Wrap floral wire halfway up the Lemon Cypress. Gently bend top of tree to create desired effect and continue wrapping wire to the top. Then wrap back down the tree and cut wire.

Hang a Christmas ball from the top of the tree 2 - 4” Wintergreen White Violas to fill any gaps 1- 4” Yellow Primrose

Blue Christmas 14-16” size pot

1 - 6” Blue Cypress – as the centerpiece 1 - 4” Goshiki False Holly 1 - 4” Glacier Blue Euphorbia 1 - 4” white Winter Heather 1 - 4” Wintergreen 1 - 4” White Cyclamen 1 - 4” Blue Fescue Grass Blue Violas to fill any gaps

Use Burlap as a rustic pot cover or cut into strips and use as decorative bows.

All planters can be accessorized with Christmas balls, ribbons, bells and dried branches or berries.

Maple Leaf Garden Centre has a large selection of pots including: tree bark, ceramic pots, clay pots and festive pots for all your Holiday planting needs.

What’s NEW @ The Leaf Soulmate Socks

Glass Décor

Stay warm this winter with these fun mismatched socks.

This is the perfect gift for any sock lover on your list. We have them in mens, womens, kids and babies size. Plenty of unique cozy styles to keep your feet warm and colourful.

Fill an empty vase with coloured glass balls and place it on the centre of your table. Scatter little snowflake cut-outs around the vase and place your favourite Holiday ornaments in front.

Christmas Mini-Blocks Burlap Trees Decorate your

mantelpiece or windowsill with these Holiday Mini-Blocks.

These wooden signs have a holiday theme for everyone and get the holiday décor off to a good start. Add some garland around it and a flameless candle to complete your decorating.

A quick, elegant and easy decorating idea.

If Country living is your style, these Burlap Trees are a perfect addition to your Christmas décor. Simple and classic, these trees can sit on your table or on your mantelpiece with small wrapped presents underneath. Create Holiday Magic in just minutes.

28 • MAPLE LEAF GARDEN CENTRE - 604-985-1784 & 604-922-2613 - WWW.MAPLELEAFGARDEN.CA

SURVIVING THE HOLIDAYS

by Katrina Sedaros

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year…” or is it? I love the holidays as much as the next person, but I don’t care for holiday stress. Every year I say to myself, “This year will be different. I won’t stress.” However, by the time the big dinner rolls around, I am a basket-case, barking at everyone to get out of the kitchen. This year I am going to follow some simple guidelines to survive the holidays.

independent and local shops. Don’t get me wrong, I do go to the bigger chain stores for the bulk items, but for crafts and unique gifts, I support my local independent stores.

Also, a Christmas gift list goes a long way. You can deviate from the list, but having one helps to prevent you from being overwhelmed by all the choices. A gift card is a nice gift to give; especially, if you know the person would prefer to shop for themselves.

Personally, I love to give gifts. I find this the best part of the Holidays. Watching your family members open their gifts and waiting to see their reactions. Most of the time you get a big hug or “Thank you”, but occasionally I have gotten the deadsilence or the trying to fake it smile. So include gift receipts with all your presents. Then your relatives can return your gifts without feeling guilty. Don’t be insulted. Would you rather the pair of gardening gloves you gave someone sits at the bottom of their closet? Why not let them choose a gift they really want or need.

Ironically, one of the most important part of the holidays is having some time to yourself. Hire a babysitter, go for a walk with the dog, grab a cup of coffee, check out the Festival of Lights, or just take yourself out to a movie and zone out.

Everyone needs a little down time. With all the events, family get-together and dinners, you will surely tire out. So take some time for yourself and enjoy the holidays.

Let’s start with the big dinner. First, write down who is coming for dinner, plan what people should bring, and what you are going to cook. Guests always ask, “Can I bring anything?”

YES, they should bring something to help you. Remember this is your big feast too so why not make the dinner semi-potluck style. You will then be able to sit back and enjoy your company and not be stuck in the kitchen the entire night. This is a winwin situation where everyone is happy.

Planning also helps when it comes to decorating your house for the holidays. Have your partner do half the decorating while you do the rest. Put a date on the calendar when the decorations need to be finished so that there are no questions and everyone is on the same page. Decorating can be fun, but most of the time it is an added stress. I remember my dad would go into fits of irritation over the Tree lights (they were tangled together, helpers were nowhere to be seen, or they were put on wrong, the list goes on…). It got so bad one year, as my dad was pulling them off the Christmas tree, the tree fell on him and, yes, we did laugh at him. When it comes to the holidays plan ahead and don’t let the tree fall on you.

Also try to plan ahead with your Holiday Shopping. Shopping is tough, but during the holiday season it is tougher. I used to love to shop, but as I get older, I find it less enjoyable. I find that shopping at the “Mom and Pop” stores is easier and more inviting than heading to a large mall. I also like supporting HOLIDAY 2015 • 29

MAKES CHRISTMAS LIGHTS AS EASY AS Ready, Set, GO! 1-2Glow Christmas Lights are a brilliant innovation from Lumineo that makes decorating the Christmas tree fast and easy. These Christmas tree lights are simple to install and they’ll save you precious time for what’s most important during the holidays. With the new 1-2Glow lights by Lumineo your Christmas Easy set up tree lights: tree will be lighted perfectly in 5 minutes and 2 easy steps: That’s it! You’re done and your family’s Christmas tree has never looked better. 1-2Glow is as easy as Ready, Set, GO!

HANG OVER TOP

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1-2Glow lights are made with energy efficient LED bulbs that reduce energy consumption by up to 90% compared to traditional incandescent Christmas lights. Our 126 LED strand uses about 8 Watts of energy, making these lights environmentally considerate while saving you money on your energy bill.

Suited for indoor or outdoor use, 1-2Glow Christmas Lights come in a variety of options to achieve the ideal ambience for your home and yard: • 1-2Glow lights come in 73.8 ft. strands covering trees up to 7 ft • LEDs per string:

WRAP AROUND

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- Normal Density for a traditional look (7.5 cm between each Christmas light) or - Compact Density for 3 times as many lights per strand (2.5 cm between each Christmas light) • Colour and tone: - Cool White - Warm White • Effects: - Twinkle Lights - with 8 different settings to choose from

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$39.99 Available at 30 • MAPLE LEAF GARDEN CENTRE - 604-985-1784 & 604-922-2613 - WWW.MAPLELEAFGARDEN.CA

Great for all your lit holiday decorating ideas.

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www.mapleleafgarden.ca