Make Yourself
WINTER 2023
AT HOME
Courtesy of:
Elysia Allen
250.882.8938 www.ElysiaAllenHomes.com
Dear Homeowners As the year draws to a close and the winter's embrace grows stronger, we extend our warmest greetings to you for this magical season of celebration. Welcome to our special holiday edition, where we embrace the enchantment of Christmas, the anticipation of New Year's Eve, and the serene beauty of winter. A Merry Christmas: In these pages, you'll find stories of joy, togetherness, and the timeless traditions that make Christmas a season like no other. Explore festive recipes that warm the heart, gift ideas that bring smiles, and tales of generosity that remind us of the true spirit of this holiday. Cheers to the New Year: As we bid adieu to the old and welcome the promise of a new year, join us in reflecting on the journey behind and the path ahead. Discover inspiring resolutions, celebratory traditions, and tips for making 2024 the year of your dreams. Winter's Serenity: Beyond the festivities, we invite you to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of winter. From snowy landscapes to cozy nights by the fire, our winter features celebrate the serenity and wonder that this season brings. Thank you for inviting us into your world as you savor the moments, make memories, and cherish the company of loved ones. As the snowflakes fall and the year comes to a close, may your hearts be filled with warmth and your spirits be bright. Wishing you a Merry Christmas, a joyful New Year's Eve, and a winter season filled with peace, love, and countless moments of magic. With warmest wishes,
Elysia Allen, PREC*
Coldwell Banker Oceanside 250.882.8938 Elysia@ElysiaAllenHomes.com www.ElysiaAllenHomes.com 3194 Douglas Street, Victoria, BC V8Z 3K6
WINTER 2023
TABLE OF CONTENTS 3
Unwrapping the Past
6
Embracing The Season
9
Christmas Sugar Cookie Recipe
11
Meet Your Neighbours: Fiona Rust
12
Raise a Glass To New Year’s:
15
Start the Year Deliciously:
The Fascinating History of Christmas Traditions
Heartwarming Holiday Traditions for Singles
A fun recipe to make with the kids (or just for yourself!)
The Best New Year’s Eve Cocktails
Crafting a Spectacular New Year’s Day Brunch
18 Ushering in the New:
Exploring New Year’s Day Traditions Around the World
20 Winter Astrology
Celestial Wonders in the British Colombia Sky
21 5 New Years Resolutions You can actually keep!
Unwrapping the Past: The Fascinating History of Christmas Traditions Christmas, the most wonderful time of the year, is a season steeped in rich traditions and rituals celebrated by millions around the world. While we often associate these customs with the joy and warmth of the holiday season, many of them have a fascinating history that dates back centuries. Join us on a journey through time as we unwrap the origins and evolution of some of our most cherished Christmas traditions.
Make Yourself at Home | Page 3
The Birth of Christ and The Nativity Scene The story of the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem is at the heart of Christmas celebrations for Christians worldwide. The tradition of the Nativity scene, with its stable, Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, and the visiting Wise Men and shepherds, originated in Italy in the 13th century. St. Francis of Assisi is credited with popularizing this depiction of the birth of Jesus as a way to focus on the religious aspects of Christmas.
The Winter Solstice Celebrations Before the birth of Christ, many ancient cultures celebrated the winter solstice, which occurs around December 21st or 22nd. This celestial event marked the longest night of the year and the gradual return of longer days. The Romans, for instance, celebrated Saturnalia, a week-long festival filled with feasting, gift-giving, and revelry.
The Advent Calendar The Advent calendar, with its daily opening of small doors to reveal surprises, originated in Germany during the 19th century as a way to count down to Christmas. Initially, these calendars featured Bible verses, but they soon evolved to include chocolates, toys, and other treats. Today, Advent calendars come in various forms and are cherished by children and adults alike. Make Yourself at Home | Page 4
The Christmas Tree One of the most beloved symbols of Christmas, the Christmas tree, has its roots in Germany during the 16th century. Initially, it was common to decorate evergreen trees with fruits and nuts to celebrate the winter season. Over time, this tradition evolved into the beautiful Christmas trees we know today, complete with ornaments, lights, and a shining star or angel on top.
Santa Claus: From Saint Nicholas to Jolly Old St. Nick The figure of Santa Claus, known as Father Christmas in some cultures, has a rich history. He is inspired by St. Nicholas, a 4th-century Christian bishop known for his acts of kindness and generosity. The modern image of Santa Claus, with his red suit and white beard, was largely popularized by Coca-Cola advertisements in the 1930s. Santa became the symbol of gift-giving and joy during the Christmas season.
Make Yourself at Home | Page 5
Carol Singing and Wassailing Singing Christmas carols is a cherished tradition that dates back to medieval Europe. Carols were initially festive songs and dances, often associated with the celebration of the winter solstice. Wassailing, a tradition of going door-to-door, singing and sharing a toast for good health and harvest, is also a precursor to modern caroling.
Embracing the Season: Heartwarming Holiday Traditions for Singles The holiday season is a time of joy, reflection, and celebration, but for singles, it can sometimes bring feelings of loneliness or isolation. However, being single during the holidays can also offer unique opportunities to create meaningful and fulfilling traditions of your own. In this article, we'll explore heartwarming holiday traditions that are perfect for single individuals, allowing you to embrace the season with gratitude and joy. 1. Friendsgiving Feast Friendsgiving is a cherished tradition for many singles and provides an opportunity to celebrate Christmas with chosen family—your friends! Host a potluck-style feast where everyone brings a dish, share stories, and express gratitude for the wonderful friendships in your life. It's a perfect way to create lasting memories and strengthen bonds.
2. Volunteer and Give Back One of the most rewarding holiday traditions is giving back to the community. Consider volunteering your time at a local shelter, food bank, or charitable organization. Helping those in need during the holiday season can bring a sense of fulfillment and remind you of the true spirit of giving. Make Yourself at Home | Page 6
4. Movie Marathon Night Create a cozy holiday movie marathon night at home. Pick your favorite holiday classics, prepare some popcorn, and snuggle up with a warm blanket. You can even invite friends over for a festive movie night and enjoy the laughter and camaraderie.
5. Spa Day Treat yourself to a spa day or a relaxing self-care evening. Run a bubble bath, light some scented candles, and pamper yourself with a face mask or a massage. The holidays can be hectic, so taking time for self-care is essential.
Make Yourself at Home | Page 7
6. Holiday Baking Extravaganza Indulge your sweet tooth by hosting a holiday baking extravaganza. Bake your favorite cookies, cakes, or pies, and share the delicious treats with friends, coworkers, or neighbors. Baking can be a joyful and therapeutic activity, and the joy of giving is priceless.
7. Write Letters of Gratitude Sit down with pen and paper and write heartfelt letters of gratitude to friends and family. Express your appreciation for their presence in your life and the love they bring. Receiving a heartfelt letter can brighten anyone's holiday.
8. Reflect and Set Goals Use the holiday season as a time for reflection and goal setting. Consider what you're thankful for and what you'd like to achieve in the coming year. Reflecting on your personal growth and aspirations can be a meaningful tradition
Being single during the holidays doesn't mean missing out on the magic of the season. In fact, it offers a chance to create your own heartwarming traditions that celebrate your independence and individuality. Whether you choose to give back to your community, travel the world, or simply enjoy a cozy night in, remember that the holidays are about embracing love, gratitude, and joy, no matter your relationship status. Celebrate the season in your unique way, and may it be filled with warmth, laughter, and cherished moments. Make Yourself at Home | Page 8
Instructions:
Christmas Sugar Cookies
Ingredients: For the Cookie Dough: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature) 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar 1 large egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional) 1/2 teaspoon salt For Decorating: Royal icing (store-bought or homemade) Assorted Christmas sprinkles, coloured sugar, edible decorations Food colouring (optional)
Make Yourself at Home | Page 9
Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside. In a separate large bowl, beat the room temperature butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is creamy and smooth. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until well combined. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two equal portions, form them into disks, wrap them in plastic wrap, and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or overnight). Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Kids can have fun using Christmas-themed cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the dough.
Bake the Cookies: Place the cut-out cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a bit of space between them. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Be sure to supervise the baking process, as the cookies can quickly go from perfect to overbaked. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Decorate the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cooled, it's time for the fun part – decorating! You can use store-bought royal icing or make your own using powdered sugar and a little water or milk. Let the kids get creative by spreading the icing on the cookies and decorating them with Christmas sprinkles, colored sugar, and edible decorations. You can also use food coloring to tint the icing different colors for even more festive fun. Allow the Icing to Set: Let the decorated cookies sit for a while to allow the icing to set and harden.
Now, you and your kids have homemade Christmas sugar cookies to enjoy and share with family and friends during the holiday season. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Make Yourself at Home | Page 10
Meet Your Neighbours In today's fast-paced world, Fiona Rust, the founder and creator behind Kailyard Creations Papercrafts, is all about celebrating life's moments, big and small, by putting pen to paper and fostering connections through laughter and kindness. Her handmade 3D greeting cards and papercrafts feature clean, punny humour and adorable characters, perfect for sending hugs, hellos, and laughs. Hailing from Canada's East Coast, with its stunning natural landscapes, Fiona was instilled with a deep love for nature. Now residing on the West Coast, she combines her passion for nature, artistry, and humour, referring to it as her "Trifecta of Joy”. She aims to offer an alternative to the impersonal, mass-produced greeting cards on the market today by crafting each product with meticulous care, ensuring that recipients will feel special and loved.
Fiona Rust Kailyard Creations
However, Kailyard Creations goes beyond the versatile and fun products. Fiona is also passionate about combating the throw-away culture by creating unique products that will be cherished, displayed, and even re-used. The gift tag sets, for example, are designed to be re-gifted, promoting a fun new family (or bestie's) tradition as they make the rounds year after year. A commitment to sustainability is at the forefront of Kailyard Creations' mission, with environmentally friendly materials, shopping locally, and saving the world "one paper bag at a time" by not using any plastic in the packaging. Even the website uses a leading “green” hosting platform. Life is too short for boring cards so make sure to stop by and share a laugh with Fiona at some of the local markets around Victoria, like the James Bay Market. You can also check out her new website and do a bit of online shopping from the comfort of your own home (in your jammies, with a glass of wine). www.KailyardCreations.com Hello@KailyardCreations.com instagram.com/kailyardcreations/ Facebook.com/KailyardCreations Make Yourself at Home | Page 11
Raise a Glass to the New Year:
The Best New Year's Eve Cocktails
New Year's Eve is a time for celebration, reflection, and setting intentions for the year ahead. And what better way to ring in the new year than with a selection of exquisite cocktails that will dazzle your taste buds and delight your guests? In this article, we've curated a list of the best New Year's Eve cocktails to help you toast to new beginnings and create memorable moments as the clock strikes midnight.
1. Classic Champagne Cocktail Ingredients:
Instructions:
1 sugar cube Angostura bitters 4 ounces chilled champagne Lemon twist, for garnish
Place the sugar cube in a champagne flute. Add a dash or two of Angostura bitters onto the sugar cube. Carefully pour the chilled champagne over the sugar cube. Garnish with a lemon twist or spiral. Make Yourself at Home | Page 12
2.
Cranberry Orange Sparkler
Add a burst of vibrant color and flavor to your New Year's celebration with the Cranberry Orange Sparkler:
Ingredients: 1 1/2 ounces cranberry juice 1/2 ounce orange liqueur (e.g., Cointreau) 4 ounces chilled sparkling wine Fresh cranberries and orange zest, for garnish Instructions: In a champagne flute, combine the cranberry juice and orange liqueur. Top it off with chilled sparkling wine. Garnish with a few fresh cranberries and a twist of orange zest
3. Midnight Kiss Martini This glamorous cocktail is a delightful combination of flavors that will make your New Year's Eve memorable: Ingredients: 2 ounces vodka 1/2 ounce Chambord (raspberry liqueur) 1/2 ounce lemon juice 1/2 ounce simple syrup Raspberry and lemon twist, for garnish Instructions: In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, Chambord, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Shake vigorously until well chilled. Strain the mixture into a martini glass. Garnish with a raspberry and a lemon twist.
Make Yourself at Home | Page 13
4. New Year's Sparkler Mocktail Don't forget to include a non-alcoholic option for your guests who prefer a refreshing and alcohol-free drink: Ingredients: 2 ounces sparkling water or club soda 2 ounces white grape juice 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice Lime wheel and fresh mint sprig, for garnish Instructions: Fill a champagne flute with sparkling water. Add the white grape juice and freshly squeezed lime juice. Stir gently. Garnish with a lime wheel and a sprig of fresh mint. With these delectable New Year's Eve cocktails, you can raise your glass and toast to the promise of the year ahead. Whether you opt for a classic champagne cocktail, a fruity sparkler, or a warming old-fashioned, these recipes will add a touch of sophistication and flair to your celebration. Here's to a memorable New Year's Eve filled with joy, laughter, and delicious cocktails!
NOTE: Substituting Angostura Bitters 1. Campari, Absinthe, or an Amaro make excellent alternatives to Angostura bitters! Typically, you can replace 4 dashes of Angostura bitters with approximately 1/4 teaspoon of any of these liqueurs. 2. Combine mashed fruit and simple syrup in a glass or cocktail shaker, then blend your drink. The mashed fruit serves as the "bitter" element, effectively uniting the cocktail. This presents itself as one of the simplest alternatives to Angostura bitters!
Make Yourself at Home | Page 14
Hosting a New Year's Day brunch is a delightful way to kick off the year with friends and family. Here are some ideas and menu suggestions to help you plan a delicious and memorable New Year's Day brunch:
1. Mimosa Bar: Create a mimosa bar with an assortment of fruit juices (orange, grapefruit, and cranberry), chilled champagne or sparkling wine, and a variety of fresh fruit garnishes (strawberries, oranges, raspberries). Allow guests to mix and match their mimosas to their liking. Make Yourself at Home | Page 15
2. Build-Your-Own Omelette Station: Set up a station with beaten eggs, a variety of toppings (cheeses, diced vegetables, cooked bacon or ham), and a chef to cook omelettes to order. Offer both egg whites and whole eggs to cater to different dietary preferences.
3. Bagel and Lox Spread: Create a bagel and lox bar with an array of bagels, cream cheese, smoked salmon, capers, red onion, and fresh dill. Allow guests to assemble their own bagel sandwiches.
4. Yogurt Parfait Bar: Set up a yogurt parfait station with Greek yogurt, granola, honey, and a selection of fresh berries and chopped fruit. Guests can customize their own parfait creations.
5. Fresh Fruit Platter: Offer a colorful fruit platter with a variety of seasonal fruits, such as berries, melon, pineapple, and citrus slices. A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of mint can add extra flavor.
6. Breakfast Casseroles: Prepare savory breakfast casseroles ahead of time to save on cooking during the brunch. Options include a classic quiche, a spinach and feta strata, or a cheesy breakfast casserole. Make Yourself at Home | Page 16
7. Freshly Brewed Coffee and Teas: Provide a selection of freshly brewed coffee, tea (including herbal options), and hot chocolate. Keep a variety of creamers, sweeteners, and flavored syrups on hand.
8. Pancake or Waffle Bar: Offer a variety of pancake or waffle options, including buttermilk, chocolate chip, and blueberry. Provide an assortment of toppings like maple syrup, whipped cream, fresh fruit, and nuts.
Remember to decorate your brunch area with festive New Year's decorations. Play some cheerful background music, and encourage your guests to relax, mingle, and enjoy the first meal of the year together. Happy New Year!
Make Yourself at Home | Page 17
Exploring New Year's Day Traditions Around the World New Year's Day, the first day of the year, is a momentous occasion celebrated with hope, reflection, and a wide array of traditions across the globe. As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, people from different cultures come together to welcome the promise of a new beginning. Join us on a journey as we explore the diverse and fascinating traditions that mark the dawn of the New Year.
First-Footing in Scotland In Scotland, the first person to cross a household's threshold after the stroke of midnight is called the "First-Footer." It is considered especially lucky if the First-Footer is a tall, dark-haired man. The First-Footer traditionally brings symbolic gifts, such as a coin for prosperity, bread for sustenance, salt for flavor, and whisky to ensure a spirited year ahead. This age-old tradition signifies the hope for good fortune and hospitality in the coming year. Burning "Old Man" Effigies in Ecuador In Ecuador, the New Year's tradition of burning "Año Viejo" or "Old Man" effigies is a unique way to bid farewell to the past year. Families create life-sized dolls made of old clothes and fill them with firecrackers and straw. At midnight, these effigies are set ablaze in the streets, symbolizing the cleansing of the past and making way for new opportunities and experiences. Make Yourself at Home | Page 18
Bell Ringing in Japan In Japan, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, known as "Oshogatsu," are celebrated with the ringing of temple bells. On the stroke of midnight, Buddhist temples across Japan ring their bells 108 times. Each ring is believed to symbolize the 108 earthly desires or "bonno" that humans must overcome to achieve enlightenment. People participate in "joya no kane" by listening to the bells, praying, and making resolutions for the upcoming year.
Jumping from Chairs in Denmark
Feasting and Grapes in Spain In Spain, the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve marks a peculiar tradition known as "Las doce uvas de la suerte" or "The Twelve Grapes of Luck." As the clock chimes twelve times, Spaniards eat one grape for each chime, making a wish with each grape consumed. This tradition, originating in the early 20th century, is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for each month of the coming year.
In Denmark, a whimsical New Year's tradition involves jumping off chairs at midnight. As the clock strikes twelve, Danes leap off their chairs, symbolizing "jumping" into the New Year with courage and resolve. This playful tradition fosters a sense of unity and adventure among friends and family. Across the globe, New Year's Day heralds a myriad of diverse celebrations. From singing "Auld Lang Syne" to Spain's grape-eating ritual and Denmark's chair-jumping tradition, each custom echoes humanity's shared longing for hope, rejuvenation, and good fortune in the year ahead. These traditions symbolize the universal opportunity that a new year brings—a chance for fresh beginnings, shedding the past, and embracing a brighter future. Let's honor these customs that unite us globally, wishing everyone joy, love, and prosperity in the coming year. Happy New Year! Make Yourself at Home | Page 19
Winter Astronomy: Celestial Wonders in the British Columbia Sky
1. Orion the Hunter
2. Meteor Showers
One of the most recognizable constellations in the winter sky is Orion the Hunter. With its distinctive "belt" formed by three bright stars— Alnitak, Alnilam, and Mintaka—Orion is a prominent fixture in the celestial landscape. Look for Orion in the southeastern sky during the early winter evenings. Betelgeuse and Rigel, two of the brightest stars in the sky, mark Orion's shoulders.
Winter in British Columbia offers the opportunity to witness some spectacular meteor showers. The Geminids, one of the most prolific meteor showers of the year, typically peaks around midDecember. Find a dark spot away from city lights, lie back, and watch as meteors streak across the sky, emanating from the constellation Gemini.
3. Planetary Alignments Keep an eye out for planetary alignments during the winter months. Venus, often referred to as the "Evening Star," can be visible in the western sky shortly after sunset, while Jupiter and Saturn may appear together in the southeastern sky during the early evening hours.
4. The Pleiades (Seven Sisters) The Pleiades, also known as the Seven Sisters, is another captivating winter sight. This star cluster consists of several young, hot stars that appear close together in the sky. The Pleiades can be seen in the northeastern sky during winter evenings. In First Nations cultures in British Columbia, the Pleiades play a significant role in traditional stories and legends.
Make Yourself at Home | Page 20
As the New Year dawns upon us, it's a perfect moment to set intentions that will shape the months ahead. Instead of lofty goals that fade by February, consider embracing resolutions that are practical, achievable, and aimed at fostering personal growth. Here are ten New Year's resolutions that you can genuinely keep, empowering you to make meaningful changes in your life.
1. Practice Gratitude Daily
2. Prioritize Self-Care
Commit to acknowledging and appreciating the positives in your life every day. Whether it's jotting down three things you're grateful for or simply taking a moment to reflect, cultivating gratitude can enhance your overall well-being.
Make self-care a priority by dedicating time to activities that recharge your mind, body, and soul. Whether it's meditation, reading, exercise, or indulging in hobbies, carve out moments for self-nourishment regularly.
3. Embrace Mindfulness Resolve to live in the present moment. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or simply being more aware of your surroundings, can reduce stress, increase focus, and enhance your overall quality of life.
4. Set Realistic Health Goals Rather than committing to drastic changes, focus on small, sustainable adjustments to your lifestyle. Whether it's drinking more water, adding an extra serving of vegetables to your meals, or going for regular walks, prioritize gradual and achievable health goals.
5. Cultivate Positive Relationships Nurture meaningful connections and surround yourself with positive influences. Dedicate time to fostering relationships that bring joy, support, and encouragement into your life.
Bonus Resolution: Practice Forgiveness and Letting Go Resolve to let go of grudges and practice forgiveness, both towards others and yourself. Embracing forgiveness can release emotional burdens and lead to a more peaceful state of mind.
New Year's resolutions need not be daunting or overwhelming; they should inspire positive change and personal growth. By setting achievable and meaningful intentions, you can pave the way for a fulfilling and transformative year ahead. Embrace these resolutions as guiding principles, and let them be your compass toward a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life in the coming year.
Make Yourself at Home | Page 22
Elysia Allen 3194 Douglas St Victoria, BC V8Z 3K6
Thinking of Buying or Selling Your Home?
Ask me how to receive a copy of my Home Buyers or Sellers Guide today!