DECEMBER 2020 • A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO THE DAILY RECORD
Savor the Season
Holiday Recipes, Stories, And Traditions From Our Local Community
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4 tips for serving a sanitary buffet ...................................... P4 How to create a Christmas village ....................................... P5 6 clever tips for storing Christmas decorations ............ P6 Great gifts for someone living in a retirement home.......................................................................... P6
INSIDE 5 fun Thanksgiving games ....................................................... P6 The lavish holiday table: what you’ll need for an upscale dinner ................................................................. P7 Boxing Day extends holiday fun .............................................. P8 Recipes ............................................................................................ P9 Holiday Songs History and Lyrics....................................... P16 7 perfect plants for the holidays ....................................... P18 Simple ways to prolong the life of poinsettias .............. P19 How to host virtual holiday celebrations ........................ P20 Health & Safety ......................................................................... P21 Winter Driving Tips for Holiday Travelers ...................... P22 Pet Safety .................................................................................... P23 Thanksgiving quiz ...................................................................... P24 1
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A buffet-style meal is a practical alternative to a sit-down dinner. However, there are several precautions you need to take to ensure your guests remain safe. Here are a few basic tips to follow. 1. PLAN YOUR MENU CAREFULLY Before you decide what you want to serve, ask your guests if they have any allergies or dietary restrictions. Omit or substitute ingredients as needed. For example, you can use chia seeds instead of eggs and swap cow’s milk for a plant-based alternative. 2. KEEP YOUR PREP SPACE CLEAN Thoroughly wash your hands before and after you handle food. You should also use hot, soapy water to clean utensils and cooking surfaces between recipes and after preparing raw meat. If you need to cough or sneeze, turn away from the food and
cover your face. 3. REGULATE FOOD TEMPERATURE Meat needs to be properly cooked to prevent food poisoning caused by salmonella or E. coli. Additionally, certain foods such as oysters must be kept cool at all times. Use bowls of ice and warming trays to control the temperature of each dish. 4. ENCOURAGE SAFE SELF-SERVING Put a bottle of alcohol-based hand sanitizer at each end of the table to ensure everyone washes their hands before helping themselves to the buffet. You should also urge guests to wear a face mask while they serve their meal to avoid contaminating the food. Finally, avoid leaving food out for more than a few hours.
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A miniature Christmas village is the perfect decorative piece to add to your home for the holidays. Here are a few tips to help you create an enchanting display your whole family will love.
THE COMPONENTS Take some time to reflect on the elements that will make up your village before you go out and buy anything. For example, you’ll want to opt for figurines and buildings from the same brand to ensure everything in your village is proportional. Be sure to include: • Moving parts. Animated features such as a skating rink, cable car, train, windmill or merry-goround will bring your village to life and draw the eye to various sections. • Infrastructure. Streets, bridges and walls will provide structure to your village and help you organize the buildings in a logical way. • Accessories. Benches, fire hydrants, street lamps, trees, flag poles, birds and other details are essential to create a realistic display.
THE ASSEMBLY First, you need to choose a spot for your village such as under the Christmas tree or on a fireplace mantel. The location should give you enough room to create depth and varying heights in your display. If certain features need to be plugged in, make sure there’s an electrical outlet nearby. To maximize your village’s wow factor, test out several configurations (with the lighting turned on) and choose the option that best showcases each element. Use risers, boxes or books to elevate sections of the village as needed. Once you’ve settled on the layout, add the streets, artificial snow and accessories. If there are wires, make sure they’re hidden. Finally, place the figurines near street lamps or illuminated buildings so they’re visible in the evening too. If some areas of the village are in shadow, add a miniature spotlight or a tiny strand of string lights. If you keep these tips in mind, your Christmas village is sure to become a holiday essential.
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Are you tired of untangling Christmas lights and trying to salvage squashed ornaments when you decorate for the holidays? Here are six storage tips that can make things easier. 1.Insert strands of Christmas tree beads into separate plastic bottles 2.Wrap string lights around pieces of cardboard or empty wrapping paper rolls
3.Thread rolls of ribbon onto a paper towel holder 4. Place small Christmas tree ornaments in egg cartons 5.Bundle wrapping paper rolls in a garment bag 6. Hang wreaths on hangers in a closet Once your decorations are organized, stow them in clear plastic bins so you can easily see what’s inside. Also remember to label each container.
Are you wondering what type of gift to get for a relative who lives in a retirement home? If so, here are a few ideas. • A best seller. If your loved one likes to read, look for a new release they can add to their collection. Be sure to pick a book in a genre they enjoy such as historical fiction or action adventure. • A potted plant. Whether you opt for a lush fern or a flowering species, the greenery is sure to liven up their space. Opt for a modest-size, low-maintenance variety. • A warm accessory. Keep you loved one comfortable this winter with a plush bathrobe, soft slip-
pers or wool socks. Alternatively, choose a quilt or blanket for their bed. • A goodie basket. Purchase a gourmet gift basket or assemble one yourself with treats your relative loves. Make sure to avoid perishable items if their room doesn’t have a fridge. • A decorative item. Visit local shops and craft fairs to find unique pieces that will add character to their home. Consider pairing a handmade frame with a new family photo. While all of these presents are sure to be well-received, remember that the best gift you can give a loved one is time spent together.
If you’re looking for a festive way to spend time with your family over Thanksgiving, here are five fun games that will get everyone moving. 1. TURKEY TAG Transform clothespins into turkeys using feathers, googly eyes and other craft supplies, then clip them on to the back of each player’s shirt. When the game begins, try to unpin other players’ turkeys without losing your own. The last person with a pin on their back wins. 2. SWEET POTATO RACE The first person to roll a sweet potato across the floor and over the finish line wins. The catch is you can only use a spoon to push it. Alternatively, see who can blow a feather across the room the fastest using a turkey baster. 3. THANKSGIVING CHARADES On individual pieces of paper, write down holiday-themed phrases such as marching in a parade,
carving the turkey, setting the table, baking pumpkin pie and playing football. Take turns picking a phrase and silently acting it out while other players try to guess. 4. GRATITUDE PICK-UP STICKS Use a multi-color set or make your own by painting wooden skewers. Assign a category (person, place, food, thing) to each color. When a player picks up that color stick, they have to say something they’re thankful for in that category. 5. TURKEY WADDLE This is a great game to play outdoors. Each player holds a balloon between their legs, and the first person to waddle across the finish line with their balloon still in place wins. For larger groups, create teams and make it a relay race. Additionally, you can search online for Thanksgiving trivia, riddles and jokes to liven up your dinner table discussions.
If you want your holiday feast to be a classy affair, you’ll need to take special care when you set the table. Here are a few key components you’ll need. ILLUMINATED CENTREPIECES Place an assortment of Christmas balls in vases, vintage lanterns or Mason jars. Weave miniature fairy lights between the ornaments to create a magical glow when the overhead lights are dimmed. IMMACULATE TABLE LINENS Whether you opt for a plain or patterned tablecloth, you’ll want to make sure it’s free of creases. Inspect the entire surface for stains, debris and hair, especially if you have pets. Use cloth napkins for a refined look.
SPARKLING DINNERWARE Everything from bowls and plates to cups and utensils should be freshly washed and in pristine condition. If you want to use silverware, take a few minutes to polish each piece. Keep an eye out for cracked or chipped glassware and set it aside. STYLISH ORNAMENTS To complete the holiday look, adorn the table with a variety of high-quality decorations such as pillar candles, pine garlands and crystal figurines. Use miniature wreaths, pine cones or bells to create charming place cards. Finally, remember to leave enough space for the platters of food, and set out cork trivets to protect your table from hot dishes.
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Boxing Day extends holiday fun The end of the year presents plenty of opportunities for shopping and celebrating. Starting with Thanksgiving preparations, there is a steady supply of days geared around generosity and merriment, counting down to the holiday gifting and entertaining season. Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and all of the weekends preceding Christmas are prime opportunities to snag discounts and deals. However, for those in Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom, gift-giving doesn’t cease with the passing of Christmas. Boxing Day, which falls the day after Christmas, has nothing to do with bringing empty gift boxes out to the recycling bin. While it has transformed into another day to grab seasonal deals, Boxing Day has historically served as a day to give to the less fortunate. During the Victorian era in Britain, servants were not given off on Christmas Day because they had to work during their employers’ celebrations. Therefore, they were allowed off the following day - December 26 - to spend time with their own fami-
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lies. The holiday became standard practice in 1871. Boxing Day may have gotten its moniker from wealthy people who would give their employees boxes filled with small gifts, Christmas dinner leftovers and money as recognition for their service. Others believe it refers to alms boxes placed in churches for the collection of donations for the poor. December 26 also is the feast day of St. Stephen, the patron saint of horses, so Boxing Day has been tied to sporting events involving horses. This includes horse races and fox hunts. Even though the British established early residency in America, the Boxing Day tradition did not travel over to the colonies from England. However, Canadians and other former British strongholds celebrate it as a public holiday. Offices are closed and public transportation may run on holiday schedules. Boxing Day is yet another end-of-year opportunity to share gifts and well wishes with loved ones and the less fortunate.
RECIPES
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Wines that pair well with turkey
If you plan to serve turkey with all the trimmings this Thanksgiving, you’ll want to offer your guests a wine that enhances the flavor profile of this traditional holiday meal. Here are a few prime options.
AROMATIC WHITES
FRUITY REDS
CRISP ROSÉS
SPARKLING WINES
Wines characterized by strong floral or herbal notes pair well with meals that have bold and varied flavors. This makes them an ideal match for roasted turkey and savory sides. Consider a sauvignon blanc, viognier or dry riesling. The fruit and acidity of a dry rosé makes it a wine that pairs well with almost anything. The lightly spiced white zinfandel has long been a staple of the traditional Thanksgiving feast, but you also can’t go wrong with pinot noir or grenache rosés.
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When matched with turkey and gravy, tart and fruit-forward picks like grenache, Rioja and Beaujolais mimic the role of cranberry sauce. However, pinot noir remains a go-to choice for red wine drinkers on Thanksgiving. A light and fizzy glass of bubbly strikes the perfect balance with a decadent turkey dinner. Prosecco, cava and Champagne are festive, food-friendly options. However, the low alcohol level and fruity flavors of a moscato d’Asti make it a good choice for light drinkers. For more recommendations, speak with the knowledgeable staff at a local wine shop.
MEATBALLS WITH A HONEY-BALSAMIC GLAZE These delightfully seasoned meatballs are a great complement to your holiday meal. They also make a fantastic appetizer. Start to finish: 30 minutes Servings: 24 meatballs
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
• 2 tablespoons butter
1. Preheat the oven to 204 C (400 F).
• 1 onion, finely chopped • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped • 1/2 cup milk • 1 egg • 2/3 cup breadcrumbs • 1 tablespoon old-style mustard • ½ lb ground pork • ½ lb ground beef • Salt and pepper, to taste • 3/4 cup ketchup • 1/2 cup honey • 2 tablespoons soy sauce • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar • 2 tablespoons balsamic reduction • 2 tablespoons chives, finely chopped
2. In a small pan, melt half the butter. Add onion and 1 clove of garlic, and cook over medium-high heat until the onion is translucent. Pour into a large bowl and let cool.
3. In the same bowl, add the milk, egg, breadcrumbs, old-style mustard, pork and beef. Salt and pepper to taste. With your hands, combine the mixture until it’s uniform and then form it into 24 bite-size meatballs. 4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the oven for 12 minutes.
5. While the meatballs cook, melt the rest of the butter in a pot. Add the rest of the garlic and cook for a few minutes. Add the ketchup, honey, soy sauce, yellow mustard and balsamic vinegar. Salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and let simmer for about 5 minutes. 6. Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them into the pot and gently mix until they’re well coated in sauce. Place them one by one on a plate. 7. Top the meatballs with the balsamic reduction and chives. Place a toothpick in each one to make them easier to serve.
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CHERRY TOMATO AND FRESH MOZZARELLA MINI SKEWERS These lovely little appetizers are easy to make, delicious and sure to brighten up the holiday dinner table. Feel free to double the recipe so there’s plenty to go around. Start to finish: 15 minutes Servings: 24 skewers
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
• 200 grams fresh mozzarella, cut into 24 1. On a toothpick or small wooden skewer, place a piece of mozzarella followed by a pieces basil leaf. Add a piece of tomato, making sure the interior side is face down on the • 24 small, fresh basil leaves plate. Repeat this for all 24 skewers. • 12 orange or red cherry tomatoes, 2. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic reduchalved tion on the skewers. Sprinkle with sea salt and add pepper to taste. • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 2 tablespoons balsamic reduction • 1 teaspoon sea salt • Pepper, to taste
Fresh mozzarella is usually sold in brine in the fine cheese section of your local grocery store.
GRANNY’S 7 LAYER COOKIES Maggie Patterson and the Koch-Michael family My husband’s grandmother, “Granny” Agnes Koch gave me the recipe for what she called “7 layer cookies.” The seventh layer (not listed in the recipe) can be butterscotch chips, but our family prefers it without. It is now a family tradition to make two batches of these every holiday season, one for our family and one for sharing with the neighbors! Her recipe called for “Eagle Brand” condensed milk, but we prefer to use an organic version, such as “California Farms.” Makes 24 bars
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
1/2 C butter
In 13x9 in. baking pan, melt butter.
1.5 C (one sleeve) crushed graham cracker crumbs 1 can sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated milk) 1 C semi-sweet chocolate chips 1/3 C shredded coconut 1 C chopped walnuts 12
Remove from oven.
Sprinkle crumbs over butter.
Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over crumbs.
Top with chocolate chips, coconut, and nuts. Press down gently. Bake at 350 for 25 minutes or until golden brown around edges. Let cool completely before slicing.
Cut into bars. Enjoy and Merry Christmas!
SANTA CLAUS BROWNIES Are you looking for the perfect holiday dessert? Children and adults alike will enjoy this playful and seasonal twist on traditional brownies. Start to finish: 1 hour (30 minutes active) Servings: 24 brownies
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
For the brownies
1. Preheat the oven to 177 C (350 F). Grease a 22 by 32 centimetre (9 by 13 inch) baking dish. Set aside.
• 1 cup butter, room temperature • 2 cups sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract • 4 eggs
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder • 1 cup flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder • 1/4 teaspoon salt For the icing
• 1/3 cup butter, room temperature
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract • 2 cups icing sugar
• 3 tablespoons milk • 1 cup heavy cream • 1/4 cup sugar
• 24 strawberries, hulled
2. Using a whisk or hand beater, blend the butter, sugar and vanilla in a large bowl. Add the eggs and mix well. Incorporate the rest of the brownie ingredients and blend until the mixture is uniform. 3. Pour the brownie mixture into the baking dish and bake in the oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean. Set aside to cool.
4. In the meantime, whisk the butter, cocoa powder, honey and 1 teaspoon of vanilla in a large bowl. Slowly add the icing sugar and milk while blending the mixture at low speed until it reaches the desired texture. Set aside. 5. In another bowl, mix the heavy cream, sugar and the rest of the vanilla. Blend at high speed until the whipped cream is firm.
6. Once the brownies are completely cool, spread a thin layer of the chocolate icing on top. Cut the brownies into 24 equal portions. Place 1 strawberry upside down on each piece of brownie. Using a piping bag, create a circle of whipped cream around the base of each strawberry and top the fruit with a dot of whipped cream.
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RED VELVET BITES This bite-size version of red velvet cake will allow your guests to sample all the desserts at your next holiday spread. You can count on these to be a crowd pleaser. Start to finish: 3 hours (1 hour active) Servings: 40 bites
INGREDIENTS • 3 cups sugar • 3 cups flour • 1/2 cup cornstarch • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder • 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder • 1-1/2 teaspoons salt • 4 large eggs • 1-1/2 cups buttermilk • 1-1/4 cups warm water • 1/2 cup vegetable oil • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract • 1 teaspoon white vinegar • 2 tablespoons red food dye • 125 grams cream cheese, room temperature • 1/2 cup butter, room temperature • 2 cups icing sugar • 800 grams white chocolate • 1/4 cup red decorative sugar
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DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat the oven to 177 C (350 F). Grease an 18 by 28 centimetre (7 by 11 inch) baking dish. Set aside. 2. In a large bowl, use a whisk or hand beater to mix the sugar, flour, cornstarch, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt. Add the eggs, buttermilk, warm water, vegetable oil, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, vinegar and food dye. Blend until the mixture is uniform. 3. Pour the mixture into the baking dish, and bake in the oven for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean. Set aside to cool. 4. In a large bowl, blend the cream cheese, butter and the rest of the vanilla. Slowly incorporate the icing sugar by blending at low speed until the mixture has a smooth, even texture. Set aside. 5. Once the cake has completely cooled, place it in a large bowl and use your hands to crumble it until it has the consistency of wet sand. Add about a 1/2 cup of the cream cheese icing to the cake at a time and mix well. The final texture should allow you to form balls that keep their shape. 6. With your hands, form 40 cake balls and squish them slightly to create a disc shape. Place the balls on a baking sheet, and put them in the fridge for about 30 minutes. 7. In the meantime, melt the white chocolate using a double boiler or water bath. Let the chocolate cool slightly while ensuring it remains a liquid. Using a fork, dip each cake ball into the chocolate so they’re completely coated. Place the balls on a baking sheet and immediately sprinkle the decorative sugar. Put the balls in the fridge for 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to harden.
RED CURRY-LIME SWEET POTATO SOUP Start to finish: 35 minutes Servings: 2-4 people
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
2- medium Leeks, white and light green
Step 1- In a 4 to 5 qt. saucepan head 2 Tbsp vegetable (or olive oil) over medium. Add leeks and a pinch of salt. Cover and cook until tender; about 8 minutes. Stir in red curry paste. Increase heat to medium-high. Cook and stir 1 minute; stir in sweet potatoes, coconut milk, 3 cups water; and 1 tsp. salt. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, 10 minutes or until heated through, stirring occasionally. Remove, let cool slightly.
parts chopped and washed 2 Tbsp. Thai Red Curry Paste 4- cups Mashed Sweet Potatoes 14oz can Unsweetened Coconut Milk 1- Lime zested and juiced
Step 2- Using an immersion blender (or if you do not have one you can use a regular blender by pouring in the mixture slowly), blend until smooth. Return to pot if using a regular blender. Stir in lime zest and juice, heat through. If desired, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with black pepper.
SIMPLE- GUESTS FAVORITE POTATO SALAD Start to finish: 1 hour Servings: 6 people
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
Potatos (I used small golden) Little less
Step 1- Wash, chop, and boil potatoes in a large pot; until potatoes are tender. Meanwhile in a smaller pot; boil eggs 10 to 15 minutes. Once eggs are done boiling, cool them in cold water and peel. Slice or chop eggs as desired. When potatoes are tender; drain and cool for a few minutes.
than a pound 6- small baby dill pickles 4- hard boiled eggs 1/2 cup of mayonnaise Salt and peper to tase
Step 2- While potatoes cool, chop dill pickles into small pieces. In large pot ad back potatoes, eggs, pickles and 1/2 cup mayonnaise. Salt and pepper to taste.
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The popular Christmas carol “Jingle Bells” has an interesting history that remains a topic of debate even now. Written by New England native James Lord Pierpont, “Jingle Bells” was never intended to be a Christmas song, and in fact does not even mention Christmas or any other holiday. In addition, the song’s birthplace is disputed, so much so that there are two commemorative plaques in two different cities, each of which claims to be the place where Pierpont purportedly wrote the song in the 1850s. One plaque is in Medford, Massachusetts, where Pierpont is said to have written the song from a tavern while watching sleigh races taking place outside. The other plaque is in Savannah, Georgia, where locals believe Pierpont wrote the lyrics prior to leading a singalong of the song at a local church in 1857. “Jingle Bells” (Extended version) Dashing through the snow In a one-horse open sleigh O’er the fields we go Laughing all the way Bells on bobtail ring Making spirits bright What fun it is to ride and sing A sleighing song tonight! Oh, Jingle bells, jingle bells Jingle all the way, Oh what fun it is to ride
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In a one-horse open sleigh. Hey! Jingle bells, jingle bells Jingle all the way, Oh what fun it is to ride In a one-horse open sleigh. A day or two ago I thought I’d take a ride And soon, Miss Fanny Bright Was seated by my side, The horse was lean and lank Misfortune seemed his lot He got into a drifted bank
And then we got upsot. Jingle bells, jingle bells Jingle all the way, Oh what fun it is to ride In a one-horse open sleigh. Hey! Jingle bells, jingle bells Jingle all the way, Oh what fun it is to ride In a one-horse open sleigh. A day or two ago, The story I must tell I went out on the snow, And on my back I fell; A gent was riding by In a one-horse open sleigh, He laughed as there I sprawling lie, But quickly drove away. Jingle bells, jingle bells Jingle all the way, Oh what fun it is to ride In a one-horse open sleigh. Jingle bells, jingle bells Jingle all the way, Oh what fun it is to ride In a one-horse open sleigh. Now the ground is white Go it while you’re young, Take the girls tonight and sing this sleighing song; Just get a bobtailed Two forty as his speed Hitch him to an open sleigh And crack! you’ll take the lead. Jingle bells, jingle bells Jingle all the way, Oh what fun it is to ride In a one-horse open sleigh. Jingle bells, jingle bells Jingle all the way, Oh what fun it is to ride In a one-horse open sleigh. Lyrics written by James Lord Pierpont Lyrics courtesy of Digital Music News
Images of Santa Claus excite children across the globe each holiday season. Some such images appear on television, in stores or in the front yards of homes decked out for the holidays, while others are elicited through songs like “Up on the Housetop.” Hollywood legend Gene Autry’s mid-20th century version of “Up on the Housetop” might be the most widely recognized version of the song, but the tune actually dates back to 1864, making it the second oldest secular Christmas song (“Jingle Bells” was written in 1857). “Up on the Housetop” Up on the housetop reindeer paws, out jumps good old Santa Claus Down through the chimney with lots of toys All for the little ones, Christmas joys Ho, ho ho! Who wouldn’t go? Ho,ho ho! Who wouldn’t go? Up on the housetop, click, click, click Down through the chimney with old Saint Nick First comes the stocking of little Nell Oh, dear Santa fill it well Give her a dolly that laughs and cries One that can open and shut her eyes Ho, ho, ho! Who wouldn’t go? Ho, ho, ho! Who wouldn’t go? Up on the housetop, click, click, click Down through the chimney with good Saint Nick Look in the stocking of little Bill Oh, just see what a glorious fill Here’s a hammer and lots of tacks Whistling ball and a whip that cracks Ho, ho ho! Who wouldn’t go? Ho, ho, ho! Who wouldn’t go? Up on the housetop, click, click, click Down through the chimney with good Saint Nick Lyrics written by Benjamin Hanby Lyrics courtesy of Lyrics.com
“O Christmas Tree” is a wildly popular holiday song. In fact, the song is so popular that there are many different versions, each of which is based on a traditional German folk song. That song, “O Tannenbaum,” is centuries old and has nothing to do with Christmas. “O Christmas Tree” O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree Thy leaves are so unchanging O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree Thy leaves are so unchanging Not only green when summer’s here But also when it’s cold and drear O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree Thy leaves are so unchanging O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree Such pleasure do you bring me O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree Such pleasure do you bring me For every year this Christmas tree Brings to us such joy and glee O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree Such pleasure do you bring me O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree You’ll ever be unchanging A symbol of goodwill and love You’ll ever be unchanging Each shining light, each silver bell No one alive spreads cheer so well O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree You’ll ever be unchanging Lyrics courtesy of Genius.com
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7 perfect plants for the holidays Whether you want to add greenery to your home this winter or offer a potted perennial as a hostess gift, here are seven plants that are perfect for the holiday season. 1.Poinsettia. With its red and green leaves, this plant is a Christmas classic. 2.Christmas kalanchoe. The flower clusters on this plant come in a variety of colours and last for months. 3.Amaryllis. The large, beautiful blooms on this tropical species are most common in red and white. 4.Christmas cactus. The vibrant, bell-shaped flowers on this sprawling succulent are sure to catch the eye. 5. Persian cyclamen. The wispy blooms that sit atop long, thin stems are reminiscent of butterflies. 6.Orchid. This delicate, ornamental plant adds a
touch of elegance to any space. 7.Christmas chili plant. While too spicy for most, these edible hot peppers resemble colourful holiday lights. To find these plants and more, visit a local garden centre or flower shop.
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Simple ways to prolong the life of poinsettias
Poinsettias and their rich red, white or variegated color schemes are the ideal backdrop for Christmas celebrations. In fact, poinsettias are among the most popular decorative flowers during the holiday season. According to the 2013 USDA Floriculture Statistics report, poinsettias accounted for about one-quarter (23 percent) of all flowering potted plant sales that year. Roughly 34 million poinsettia plants are sold in a given season. Indigenous to Central America, the plant was introduced to North America in the 1820s when Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first United States Minister to Mexico, brought the red-and-green plant back with him from a trip abroad. While millions of poinsettias will be purchased for the holiday season, many mistakenly think their utility ends once New Year’s Day has come and gone. But with proper care poinsettia plants can continue to thrive and bring warmth and beauty to a home long after the holiday decorations have been tucked away. · Choose a hearty plant. Experts with the University of Vermont Extension Department of Plant and Soil Science say that many people mistake the plant’s leaves for its flowers. The red, white or pink bracts are actually modified leaves. The flowers of the plant are the yellow clustered buds in the center called “cyathia.” Choose poinsettia plants that have buds which are, ideally, not yet open. · Keep the temperature consistent. Poinsettias
prefer a room temperature between 60 and 68 F during the day and 10 degrees cooler at night. Humidity levels between 20 and 50 percent are ideal. Group plants on water-filled trays full of pebbles to help increase humidity levels. · Place near sunlight. The United Kingdom-based Perrywood floral company advises placing poinsettia plants near a bright windowsill but not in direct sunlight. Do not let a poinsettia touch cold window panes. · Avoid drafts. The plants are sensitive to drafts and changes in temperature. So it’s best to keep poinsettias away from drafty doors, windows, radiators, or fireplaces. · Don’t drown the roots. Wait until the surface of the compost dries out before watering the plant anew. Also, the decorative foil wrapper that covers pots can trap water and lead to root rot. Remove it or poke holes in the bottom to allow for drainage. · Cut back plants. Come mid-March, cut back the plant by half to encourage new shoots, suggests the University of Illinois Extension. The plants also can be placed outside in the spring after the risk of frost has passed. Bring poinsettias back in around mid-September to early October to force them to bloom again.
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How to host virtual holiday celebrations The 2020 holiday season figures to be vastly different than seasons past. The novel coronavirus COVID-19 has transformed daily life in many ways. The public has become accustomed to wearing masks while shopping, limiting the number of people in public venues and keeping their distance from friends and loved ones. Many events have been reimagined as virtual celebrations because of social distancing protocols. For those with large families or people with inherent risk factors that make them more susceptible to illness, sharing the holidays over video conferencing apps may be the safest way to go in 2020. The following tips can help holiday hosts make the most of a virtual holiday experience. Pick a bright, festive spot Set up your tablet, smartphone or computer in a bright area with a festive backdrop. You’ll want others who join the virtual hangout to be able to see you clearly. A Christmas tree or a decorated fireplace in the background can set the scene. Choose the right conferencing app Certain programs may work better than others depending on your needs. For example, if everyone has the same operating system platform (iOS or Android), you may be able to use an app inherent to that system, which won’t require a separate download or login. Apps also may be chosen depending on how many people can be invited in, as some set limits. Do your homework and conduct a test run prior to the holidays. Keep props nearby If the goal is to open gifts virtually, be sure to have
everyone gathered and gifts nearby so no one is scrambling in and out of view. Position the camera at eye level Try to set up the camera so you’re not looking up or down. Practice looking straight into the camera instead of at yourself in the minimized window or even others on the screen. This way you’ll appear engaged. Use mute when not speaking Muting yourself (and encouraging others to do the same) when you are not speaking will limit the amount of background noise. As the host, serve as the moderator and encourage everyone to speak one at a time. Choose a visual cue to signal when someone has the floor to speak, such as raising a hand or even showing a festive picture. Tune into virtual worship While some places of worship have reopened to some capacity, others may still be offering hybrid services. If your place of worship offers services via YouTube or another video platform, gather around and watch together and participate just as if you were there in person. Better yet, share the link with other family and friends so they can tune in as well. Share dinner ‘together’ Set up your camera source so it captures the holiday table. All parties gathering virtually can then sit down to the holiday meal as one and enjoy one of the season’s more endearing traditions. Virtual celebrations may continue through the holiday season. Adapting with some video conferencing tips can ensure everyone enjoys the festivities.
Arnold's Ranch & Home opened its doors in 1973. After over 45 years, we are proud to still be family-owned and serving the people of Kittitas County with all of their Hardware, Farm & Ranch needs, as well and Work Wear & Clothing.
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Have a Safe and Joyous Christmas and a Happy New Year
Kitchen Safety Tips from The American Red Cross: Dos and Don’ts DO – make sure you have a working smoke alarm near your kitchen and in each level of your home (near sleeping areas, inside and outside bedrooms). Be sure to also test that they are working and change the batteries regularly. DON’T – wear loose sleeves or clothing that will dangle while you cook. DON’T – leave anything frying, grilling, or boiling unattended. Stay in the kitchen or turn off the stove. DO – regularly check anything that is simmering, baking, roasting, or broiling. DO – use a timer to remind yourself that to stove or oven is on. DO – keep kids and pets away from the cooking area, preferably at least three feet away from the stove. DO – keep anything that can catch fire (potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, towels, curtains, etc.) away from your stove, oven, or any other appliance that generates heat. DO – clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup. DO – always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving home to make sure everything is turned off and cooled. Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen. Contact your local fire department on proper use of extinguishers. BONUS TIP: The Red Cross First Aid App provides expert advice for common mishaps or emergencies including cuts, burns and what to do if someone is choking. Download the app for free in your app store or text GETFIRST to 90999. 21
Winter Driving Tips for Holiday Travelers The National Safety Council (NSC) has released tips for staying safe while driving in the cold weather. With many individuals planning on traveling to see family, friends, and loved ones this holiday season, the NSC has several suggestions to keep you and yours safe in icy conditions.
Before you go: • Test your battery; cold weather can affect a vehicle’s battery power. • Check your tire pressure as tire pressure can drop when the weather drops. Check the conditions of your wiper blades and be sure your windshield wiper fluid is rated for -30 degrees, so it won’t freeze. • Be sure to keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent the cold weather from freezing your fuel. • Clean your car’s side-view mirrors of dirt and water stains so you can properly see out of them. On the road: • Avoid using cruise control in wintry conditions • If your car is sliding, steer in the direction of the skid. When your vehicle regains traction, you won’t have to overcorrect and can better stay in your lane. • Accelerate and decelerate slowly. • Keep following distance 8-10 vehicle-lengths away. • Try not to stop your vehicle while traveling uphill. • If visibility is severely limited due to a whiteout, pull off the road to a safe place and do not drive until conditions improve. • According to the NSC: “remember- you are your car’s best safety feature. Take precautions to ensure you arrive safely at your destination. If you become stranded, do not leave your car behind. Light flares around your vehicle and ensure the exhaust pipe is not clogged by snow, ice, or mud.”
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According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), pets are at a higher risk for injury around the holidays than any other time of year. This typically has to do with unhealthy treats, like table food and scraps, as well as excess sugar. Something that pet owners may not know is that danger to their pets could be lurking around the house—in seasonal décor. To keep your holiday pets safe this season, read on. One of the most important holiday decorations is the Christmas tree. To keep your pets safe, be sure to securely anchor your Christmas tree so it doesn’t tip and fall. The ASPCA says that when authentic trees tip and fall, the tree water is considered a breeding ground for bacteria and may contain fertilizers that can make your pets’ stomach upset. Other holiday plants that can prove toxic to cats and dogs include mistletoe, holly, lilies, and poinsettias. The ASPCA recommends that artificial plants made from silk or plastic are the best bet to avoid gastrointestinal issues in your beloved pets this holiday season. Aside from authentic holiday houseplants, did you know that certain artificial decorations can also prove harmful to your pets? Its true. Things to watch out for include tinsel; kitties love sparkly, light-catching objects, and if swallowed can cause severe digestive issues. Cats have very sensitive little bodies and swallowing something that doesn’t belong can lead to surgery and a hefty veterinary bill. The ASPCA also recommends that you try your best to avoid tinsel. Adding to the list of artificial décor that can cause unintended harm to your fur-babies: avoid exposed wires, batteries, and glass ornaments. Wires can pose electrical harm, batteries can puncture and cause burns to the mouth and
skin, and glass ornaments have the potential to break and leave shards scattered around your pet’s play area. When it comes to giving your pets treats this time of year, be wary of table scraps and leftover human food. Secure the lids on your trash cans tightly. The ASPCA discourages pet owners to offer fatty and spicy foods to their pets and—surprisingly—bones. Their digestive tracts are not built for human-oriented foods. All in all, to avoid costly medical bills around the holidays for your pets, keep these tips in mind. Keep your fur-babies safe throughout the holiday season.
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Thanksgiving celebrations are steeped in tradition, but how much do you know about the history of this holiday? Test your knowledge with this quick quiz.
1. During which historical event did Thanksgiving become an annual federal holiday? a. World War I b. The Civil War c. The Great Depression d. The American Revolutionary War 2. When was the first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade? a. 1904 b. 1871 c. 1989 d. 1924 3. Under which president did the turkey pardon become an annual tradition? a. George H. Bush b. Abraham Lincoln c. Jimmy Carter d. Dwight Eisenhower
4. How long had the Wampanoag been living in the Cape Cod area when the English settlers arrived? a. 100 years b. 1,000 years c. 10,000 years d. 100,000 years
6. Why did President Franklin Roosevelt move up Thanksgiving by one week in 1939? a. To coincide with the launch of the final phase of the New Deal b. To allow soldiers to spend time with their families before deployment c. To appease businesses that wanted a longer Christmas shopping season d. To make sure the annual football game wouldn’t be held in the snow 7. When was the first Turkey Trot? a. 1831 b. 1643 c. 1919 d. 1896 8. What types of protein were likely eaten at the first Thanksgiving celebration in 1621? a. Venison and seafood b. Turkey and buffalo c. Quail and ham d. Chicken and lamb
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5. Which classic Christmas song was originally meant to be sung on Thanksgiving? a. Silent Night b. Jingle Bells c. Winter Wonderland d. Deck the Halls
Happy Thanksgiving! Answers: 1-B, 2-D, 3-A, 4-C, 5-B, 6-C, 7-D, 8-A
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