LDV-VOYAGE Magazine

Issue 5, Winter 2021

It's the most wonderful time of the year

Robert Downey Jr. Launches MinkDog Bespoke Blends to Kick Off the Holidays

Robert Downey Jr. and Chef Tyler Daniel Lewis have recently launched MinkDog Bespoke Blends: a company specializing in a vast array of high-quality products and cooking ingredients, such as spice blends, sea salts, and far more. The brand lives by its motto, “Cook Happy,” which is reflected in all of its products. Robert and Tyler’s bond over a mutual admiration for flavor is what inspired the co-creation of their newly, fresh high-quality spice and product brand.

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MinkDog brings forward top-notch quality ingredients and blends them together, creating a “culinary journey.” The company’s seasonings and products allow customers to create culinary creations with way less effort than ever expected. Currently, Robert and Tyler are working on establishing a fully sustainable product line. For example, the maple used in their maple collection is 100% pure and is tapped from the famous maple trees of Vermont. This gives it the sweet and robust flavor that Robert says, “is literally addictive, in a good way.” Similarly, its salts are harvested on the shores of New England, which gives it its fresh and piquant crunch. These products make every meal taste restaurant quality- even Robert admits, “my six-year-old daughter is crazy for Fennel Pepper; she puts it on rice."

Holidays mean a few things for us consumers family time, lots of cooking, and gifting!

MinkDogs products, especially its latest Maple Holiday Set, are perfect gifts to show appreciation for the people around you this holiday season, especially because food plays a prominently integral role this time of year.

Make cooking enjoyable with the whole family this year by following MinkDogs intricately tasting recipes - a great way to impress your guests!

MinkDog’s maple collection particularly stands out during wintertime, as its creamy spreads, maple butter, syrups, and sugar make a distinctive difference in any desert and warm beverage recipe you are trying to elevate. Robert discloses:

“[The MinkDog collection] is my Christmas product line this year for all my business, friends and family."as should yours!

The MinkDog product line started in the Hamptons. Robert told us, "I'm launching Footprint Provisions, which brings together a bunch of small businesses with excellent products that are sustainably sourced and super tasty. Here is our launch product line, MinkDog!" MinkDog Bespoke Blends specializes in highquality cooking ingredients from spice blends to sea salts to heavenly maple goods. The specific products are listed on its website, here. There are also plenty of fun recipes on their website as well.

Julie has a very special place in our hearts, because she made the cover of our first issue last year. And we wanted to follow up with her and see what's new in her world. So here is our second interview with Julie.

Photo courtesy of Julie Denby

Interview

Hi Julie! So wonderful talking to you again! How have you been since we spoke last time? Hi! I’ve been doing well. Super busy with work and taking care of my son!

Any exciting projects you’ve been working on lately? You’re always shooting something. Your Instagram is as beautiful and colorful as always.

Exciting projects I’ve recently just shot: Starbucks and CT Lottery.

Not many people might understand how much work you put into creating these incredible images. Could you take us a little behind the scenes, explain a little for our readers the process?

Depending on the project or idea I have for the shoot, my first step is picking a location. A lot of time can go into researching an area to shoot.

Next I pick my props and all the items I need to shoot with. For example if it’s a coffee shot I like to take themed props with me to add extra touches to the photo.

It's the most wonderful time of the year. Do you have any special projects you’re working on for Christmas?

I’m planning a fun Christmas shoot at a tree farm!

Can’t give too much away but it will have a hot cocoa bar and lots of yummy treats.

And now some rapid fire questions: What's your favorite place for Holidays? And what is so particular about that specific place?

I love London at Christmas! But I also love New Hampshire too! Both places are so magical in their own ways.

What is your favorite Christmas Carol?

I love Nat King Cole’s entire Christmas album. It’s seriously so beautiful.

Favorite Christmas movie?

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is THE best movie!

Favorite Christmas dish?

I’m a BIG fan of all the Christmas desserts: pies and cookies are my weakness.

Favorite Christmas tradition?

I have a lot of favorites. I love decorating my home and decking the halls with all things Christmas. I also love baking with my son and eating all our treats together. And lastly I love exploring my home state and finding all the beautiful Christmas towns and events.

Favorite Christmas activity?

I love going to the tree farm and cutting down our own Christmas tree. It’s such a special time with my family and it’s something I’ve done since I was a kid.

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Photo by Julie Denby

"To appreciate the beauty of a snowflake it is necessary to stand out in the cold."

~ ARISTOTLE ~

This winter sky with LIVALL

Purinton Family Tree Farm, Huntington VT. Photo by Hannah Choquette

Have you ever experienced a Christmas like one seen on a Hallmark Christmas movie? That’s gotta be in one of the many New England picturesque small towns, with lots of magic, lots of traditions, lots of snow, and very few degrees on the thermometer, so bundle up and join us in exploring our 20 favorite Christmas towns in New England.

Let us begin with Vermont, a winter wonderland state all

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This cute little town with its church tower and the mountains as a backdrop, covered in snow is like a real postcard. Stowe Christmas festival is something you don't wanna miss. It's one f the best events when the entire community is coming together to celebrate by

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Photo by Hannah Choquette

Photo courtesy Woodstock Inn & Resort

Let us begin with Vermont, which is a winter wonderland, and has 2 of the absolute best Christmas towns: Stowe, (featured on the previous page), and Woodstock, (in the image above).

Imagine one of those snowy, wintery, cozy little towns from Holiday movies. Woodstock is the living image that will make your Christmas dreams come to life. As many of the New England towns included in this guide, Woodstock has its own Christmas festival celebrated during the second weekend in December every year. Make sure you bring your best and most stylish winter attire to enjoy all of the special outdoor activities that Woodstock has planned for you.

All of the houses participate in a local house decor contest, making a simple walk around town a beautiful Holiday experience. You can also join a Historic Holiday House Tour to make sure you see the best decor out there. The Wassail Parade is also one to keep an eye out for as well as any Christmas Carol singing sessions. If you are looking to get some Christmas shopping there is a nice selection of clothing, jewelry, art, antiques, book and handmade stores where you can get unique gifts and support the local businesses that add their special charm to this beautiful place.

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Barn in Woodstock, VT. Photographed by Hannah Choquette

Photos from up towards down the page: Omni Hotel, White Mountains, NH Attitash Ski Resort

Located in the White Mountains area, Jackson is a great place for a skiing vacation.

Spend your day at the slopes and enjoy a chilled afternoon at one of their resorts and even treat yourself to a spa session.

Lodging options are incredible. We love the Christmas Farm Inn & Spa, on a hillside, overlooking the White Mountains. Different room choices for everyone, from traditional, comfortable Inn rooms, to family-sized cottages, (if you can, go for the spacious Carriage House Suites. Those are the absolute best).

White Mountains in winter is a winter wonderland. A snowy place that is especially recommended for those of you looking to spend your Christmas vacation practicing winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, tubing, sledding and snowmobiling. There are several ski areas to choose from: Bretton Woods, Wildcat, Attitash, Loon and Waterville Valley to name a few.

If winter sports and staying active is not your priority, we recommend you explore the White Mountains Trail. This was designated a National Scenic Byway and includes a total of 100 miles. The trail can be split up into mini road trips so you can easily cover as much or as little as you like. This option in White Mountains is especially for you if you are looking to visit quirky winter villages and get spectacular mountain views.

When planning a winter getaway, an island escapade is probably not the first thing to come to mind. This small island off of the East coast is wildly popular during the summer months. However, it should not be overlooked as a magical holiday destination.

The town centre dresses up for the occasion, displaying an array of Christmas trees like the scene from a classic Holiday movie that is set up in November.

Take a walk around Main Street and get your gifts from their array of local businesses. We recommend travelling during the first weekend in December to enjoy the Nantucket Christmas Stroll, founded to promote local businesses Christmas shopping. If you are going with children or you want to bring out your inner child, you will be glad to know that Santa’s arrival is a unique event in Nantucket: no reindeers here, he gets to the island on a boat! An original islander take on your Christmassy-winter getaway.

Photo by @greyladygirl via Instagram

Portsmouth, NH. Photo by Anca Chirita

Freeport is a well-known destination for shopping in New England, hosting local businesses as well as outlets for famous brands. What more could you ask for a pre Christmas shopping weekend? They also have their own Christmas festival known as the Sparkle Celebration that runs for 10 days at the beginning of December with two outstanding events: the Parade of Lights and the famous talking Christmas Tree. Guaranteed to bring some fun memories for years to come!

Lobster Trap Christmas Tree Photo by Joshua Herhovcik viaiStock

Chester, VT. Photo by Kirkikis, via iStock

Located in Green Mountains, Vermont, Chester might not have been on your radar until now. It is in the vicinity of other towns included in this guide such as Woodstock or Manchester, so it might be well worth including it if you are planning a short road trip around the area.

Their Christmas festival is Overture to Christmas that happens during the first week of December and it includes a lot of Carol singing and homemade cookie tasting.

The Christmas Prelude in Kennebunkport is as Christmassy as it gets. If you are looking for a fully immersive experience, then look no further. This small town in Maine sure does know how to do Christmas the right way. This event takes place every year during the first two weeks in December and includes activities for all ages and tastes. The celebrations start with the tree lighting at Dock Square that is accompanied by carol singing. If you are looking for a unique shopping experience, visit the Old Vines Outdoor Prelude Christmas Market where local shops and artists set up stalls for the occasion.

The Holiday Trail of Lights is also a signature event in Kennebunkport. It is a competition that locals and local businesses enter to see who has the best holiday lighting. You can walk around town to see them yourself or you can even go on a guided tour. They also have the Prelude 40 Trees Trail that will be lit twice during the celebrations, so we recommend checking dates before organising your trip.

Kennebunkport, Maine.

Photo by Daniel Hanscom, via iStock

Located on Martha’s Vineyard, Edgartown is a charming island town that transforms into a magical, storylike place during their Christmas in Edgartown festival. Some of their quirkiest activities include their Window Decorating Contest and their Teddy Scavenger hunt. Great if you are going with kids or want to bring back that child-like Christmas spirit in you! The lighting of the Edgartown Lighthouse is also well worth admiring and photographing for memories.

Sturbridge Village, MA

Sturbridge Village offers a unique experience year-round. Want to know what life was like in a 19th century village? You’ll get to know in the flesh by visiting this recreation. And for Christmas, you’ll get to know what it was like too!

You’ll find people dressed up in historical attire and get to experience their holiday traditions during the Christmas by Candlelight weekend.

Massachusetts has another absolute beautiful Christmas town - Stockbridge, MA, home of Norman Rockwell. The town inspired Norman to paint the famous “Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas,” and the community has been paying tribute for generations, recreating that image live, year after year with Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas, which includes activities like a weekend celebration of caroling, holiday house tours, horse-drawn carriage rides, a visit with Santa, and a Sunday afternoon re-creation of Rockwell’s painting.

Marblehead, MA. Photo by Rick Macomber via Instagram

Marblehead, MA Marblehead hosts its Christmas Walk during the first weekend in December. This event is mostly geared towards families with children, that includes a parade that takes over the entire town as well as other fun activities. page 25

Lewis Christmas Tree farm, CT. Photo by @fillyoureyes via Instagram

Mystic is a historic seafront town in Connecticut that transforms into a beautiful Christmas setting for the holidays. And Mystic embraces its past as an important seaport village by holding some of their Christmas events from the river. The Holiday Lighted Boat Parade during the last weekend in November.

We also recommend including Old Mistick Village in your itinerary and its Festival of Lights.

Newport is another coastal town that also revels in the Christmas celebrations. Their event, Christmas in Newport, starts on December 1st and goes on throughout the month up until Christmas Day. The best activities include Christmas at the Newport Mansions, where you can admire the stunning Holiday decorations at two mansions, and the Bowen’s Wharf Christmas Tree Lighting.

Newburyport is a coastal town in Massachusetts, well known for its architecture. But during Christmas it does not disappoint. The best spots in town to admire the beautiful holiday lights and decorations are Main Street and Market Square.

Manchester is known for having plenty of art and culture to enjoy year round. For Christmas, there are two fun and different activities for all of the Holiday enthusiasts out there. The Elf Express, a musical and festive experience more than just a train ride, and the Tractor Parade, for something a little more extravagant than any old Christmas parade.

Hartford, CT. Photo by Denis Tangney Jr, via iStock

Right in the middle of the state is where Connecticut’s capital, Hartford, is located. The unmissables during Christmas are the Winterfair, where you will find gifts from local creatives and the Magic of Lights and the Holiday Light Fantasia, 2 lights festivals to enjoy driving through.

New Haven is a well known city in New England. It is the third largest city in Connecticut and home to the prestigious Yale University. You can still enjoy that New England charm in this place with the Annual City of Lights event at Lighthouse Point Park, available from the end of November until mid December.

Burlington is an iconic place for a winter getaway in Vermont. Its main attraction is Church Street, where all of the action happens. Stroll around and admire the classic New England look. We also recommend trying one of the many restaurants in this area to enjoy the dishes made with local and seasonal ingredients, one of this states’ staples. If you are looking for a more active escape, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of slopes nearby for your skiing pleasure.

Article by Laura Buades

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The perfect Christmas ornament

by Savannah Haggard

Wouldn’t it be great to have a nice romantic Christmas with just you and your husband or wife alone? No one else will be with the two of you and you’ll have many opportunities to bring the intensity of that spark back into your relationship or intensify the spark that is still burning strong between the both of you. Have you both been wanting to experience something brand new for yourselves during the cold winter seasons? Look no further, because this is the perfect list of ideas to share with you to add just the right amount of spice made of love for you to enjoy a romantic Christmas together in Rhode Island. It’s never too late to try new things and experience new places together for an intimate getaway.

Although Rhode Island is the smallest state out of all of them, you’d be surprised at how much that tiny state has to offer, especially during the Christmas holidays.

You can do this at the very beginning of your trip, you can save it as the best for last, or you can make this an every night event, but you must add wine tasting to your romantic itinerary while visiting RI. However, if drinking wine is not your cup of tea, you can at least spend an evening together exploring the quaint vineyards and farms that Rhode Island has to offer that would make for some beautiful couples photos that could be taken there.

Providence, RI. Photo credit: @adrian.globe.trekker

A little change of scenery for backgrounds never makes a dull memory. Whether or not you partake in the consumption of alcoholic beverages such as wine, at least grab you both a glass, clink them to a cheerful toast together, and bask in the moment of being alone together enjoying a brand new experience!

After you bask in your wine tasting adventures, join in on one of Rhode Island’s Christmas traditions of strolling through the downtown streets and admiring all of the beautiful bright Christmas lights that hang all throughout their streets. Socialize with some of the locals, stop in one of their many shops that come to life after dark, and take in the gorgeous outdoor ambiance.

It’s another one of the many places that will provide awe-inspiring backgrounds for more couples’ photos together.

If you’d rather not stroll through the open downtown streets and much rather prefer a more quiet and intimate setting to see Christmas lights, then visiting the Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum would be the next best thing to add to your itinerary list. As you’re taking a stroll through Blithewold’s spectacular display of lights, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a nice cup of hot cocoa or a freshly brewed hot cup of coffee. An intimate walk alongside the one you love most with a hot beverage surrounded by beautiful handmade ornaments made of bamboo sounds like a very romantic evening.

Speaking of hot cocoa, The Hot Chocolate Bar at The Chanler offers some delicious varieties to choose from ranging from milk chocolate to dark chocolate with so many tasty ingredients and treats that can be included within and on top of your hot drink for you to enjoy as you sit outside and take in the ever so stunning views that Rhode Island has to offer. Afterwards, you can take a peaceful walk alongside the 3.5-mile long ocean view of The Newport Cliffwalk. Don’t be frightened by the name because all of the dangerous and scary high points of the Cliffwalk are gated and kept shut out for the public’s

safety. I would absolutely suggest bringing your camera to this part of the trip so you can have some breathtaking views in the background.

Imagine walking along the shoreline as the sun is rising or setting and using those gorgeous moments to take pictures at. This way, both you and your significant other will have some stunning photos to frame around your home showing that the two of you really do enjoy long walks on the beach.

Following your evening sunset stroll should be a delicious dinner at America’s oldest tavern; The White Horse Tavern. It first opened in 1963 and to this day the tavern still has all of its original decorations of oil lamps hanging on the walls, candles lit all throughout, and wood logs burning in the fireplace to give off warmth and to help set the romantic ambiance within the entire restaurant. Even though the atmosphere makes you feel like you’re back in the romantic aspects of the Colonial Era, the food has definitely kept up with the modern times to ensure absolute joy coming from its customers. This quaint dinner for two will definitely have you forgetting all of your stresses and worries from back home.

To top off another great evening, you wouldn’t want to miss out on Rhode Island’s traditional Big Blue Bug. It’s a giant cockroach that looms over Highway 95 that is decorated with blue lights around his body, red lights around its legs, reindeer antlers on its head, and is finished with a big red nose similar to his reindeer friend, Rudolph. This may seem uncommon for most places to have a giant cockroach decorated from head to toe in Santa-like gear, but it’s a Rhode Island tradition that is well worth driving by. Also, you should attend one of the many events that the Waterfire Festival hosts. It’s a gorgeous event that will light up all of your senses and have you feeling all of your heartstring emotions as you and your special person enjoy a romantic ambiance of seeing floating bonfires glide across the water with music playing in the background.

Tell your lover to start packing for Rhode Island.

by Savannah Haggard

Silas W. Robbins House, CT. Photo by @fillyoureyes via Instagram

Everyone knows that once the end of the year comes around, the world goes bonkers. They’re either trying to get a headstart on buying all of the items on each Christmas list for every family member only to find out that it’s all sold out or they’ve waited until the last minute and realized that every shelf is empty. Either way, no one is happy and everyone is stressed. Although the winter holidays are meant for families to come together and enjoy each other’s company, why not take some time for yourself and get away from all of the last-minute holiday chaos?

Connecticut has some wonderful experiences that you can enjoy on your own. Guilford, Connecticut specifically has plenty of places and scenery that’s perfect for a relaxing solo getaway.

Guilford is a small town in New Haven County on Long Island Sound. It’s a really slow-paced environment with relaxing vibes that really allow you to soak everything in at your own pace. Just imagine yourself having the freedom to walk around town doing things when you choose to do so. After sunset is when the town can come to life making it a really fun area to check out and see what the town life is all about. Did you know that in May of 1639, Reverend Henry Whitfield led the Puritans and established themselves in the plantation of Menuncatuk, which later became known as Guilford? By the beginning of the 20th century, Guilford became a community housing over 22,000 people.

Now that you’ve learned a little more about Guilford’s history, one of the first relaxing solo adventures you should take yourself on is the Henry Whitfield State Museum where you

can go on a self-guided tour throughout all three floors of the beautiful stone house where he, his wife, and nine children use to live.

You’ll be taken back in time as you set your eyes upon all of the 17th, 18th, and 19th century-old furnishings that have and still fill the walls of this historical home. As you wander around the beautiful landscape that surrounds the museum, you’ll come across a statue of Mr. Whitfield and a surviving ship cannon from the War of 1812. If you are someone who enjoys learning about the history behind small towns and how they came to be, this would be a great place to visit and immerse yourself into.

Although history may not be everyone’s favorite subject, the creative arts sure has a way to make people stop and appreciate its beauty. Visiting the Guilford Art Center will have you doing just that.

The Art Center is open to the public seven days a week and is free to walk around in. It originally opened in 1967 and is home to one of the most comprehensive organizations showcasing the works of contemporary American artists.

You are more than welcome to purchase a work of art if you’d like.

Just be sure you’re able to safely get it back home with you if flying was your way to travel.

As you spend your day immersing yourself in the artwork and rich history of Guilford, you’re bound to get hungry at some point from all of the adventures you’ve been exploring. Stop in at Guilford Bistro & Cafe where you’re able to sit out on the patio and enjoy the cool breeze, a healthy delicious Italian sandwich, and your choice of drink.

You are allowed to bring your own beverage. In fact, with the type of establishment that it is, they prefer for you to bring your own beverage. This restaurant opened in 2006 and has your health and well-being in mind with their choice of Italian-styled menu items that will have a modern twist on each selection. You’ll want to come back for lunch or dinner every day after all of the relaxing adventures you’ll find yourself on.

If you’d rather immerse yourself in a sensational salt bath instead of exploring downtown Guilford, then making an appointment at Surrender to the Float will be the best thing you could do for yourself. The longer-than-bodylength flotation tank is filled with water that’s meant to provide a zero-gravity environment so your muscles, mind, and bones fully relax allowing you to enter into a full state of rest. A day at the spa is always guaranteed to have you feeling well relaxed by the time you leave.

If spending a day in nature is more your calling, then taking a peaceful walk through Chaffinch Island Park or along Jacob’s Beach might be more your style. Chaffinch Island Park has very little foot traffic allowing you to basically have the park to yourself as you stroll through. Jacob’s Beach does require you to pay a daily fee to explore the sand, water, and all of the amenities that are included, however, there’s a boardwalk and a picnic area for you to enjoy a delicious packed lunch and a good book at. You really don’t have to do anything at all if you’d like to just lay back and enjoy the beachfront view.

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Leavenworth, Washington, USA. Photo by Mark Lee via iStock

by Savannah Haggard

Have you ever experienced a Christmas Wonderland like the ones hosted in Washington State? If not, it is absolutely worthy of being on the bucket list of making the trip up to the beautiful state so you and your family can become a part of Washington’s boldly gorgeous Christmas festivals and traditions.

You can guarantee that your camera roll will be completely full by the end of your trip. The best part about that is you would then have plenty of family Christmas pictures to decorate the walls in your home with for all of your friends and family to see when they come to visit.

Leavenworth, Washington has a small Bavarianinspired town (of Germany, Bavaria) that hosts a Christmas Lighting Festival that will have you feeling like you’re starring in Hallmark’s new Christmas movie. It’s beautiful and full of life all

year round. This festival consists of three different themes in the span of one week. The first fun-filled theme is letting the children hand-make their own Santa hat with various fabrics, arts, and crafts in its own theme inspired by Christmas Trees. Don’t limit this event to just the children. Let your inner child have some Christmas fun too by making your own handmade Christmas Tree themed Santa hat. That way you have your own Santa hat to wear with your elf costume for the second fun-filled theme of the day. If cosplaying (dressing up) as an elf is something you know you’ll be thrilled to be a part of, then go all out and make your own elf shoes and ears to complete the elf costume. Dressing up doesn’t have to be considered childish. Even if it is, don’t let other people’s opinions stop you from dressing up for the theme of the day and fully enjoy it.

Leavenworth, Washington, USA. Photo by Joecho-16 via iStock

It’s completely okay if dressing up as an elf is too far out of your comfort zone because you still have the option to wear your favorite ugly Christmas sweater for the third fun-filled theme of the day and strut your outfit around town for all to see and enjoy.Whether you already have one that you can’t wait to wear or you get creatively inventive and make your own, let your Christmas spirit shine through at the Christmas Lighting Festival in Leavenworth.

A second great festival that’s worth exploring is the Lights of Christmas festival in Stanwood, Washington. It’s located on 15 acres of land at Warm Beach Camp. There are three amazing family-filled events that will have the kids wanting to come back again and again. It's a must to take a ride on the Polar Express Train through snowcovered forests to give you that magical feeling the characters felt in the Polar Express movie.

If trains aren’t something that you’re comfortable riding on, don’t you worry because the next event that’s worth attending is taking the little ones to see Santa Clause. Spend a day letting the kids meet Santa, sit on his lap, take some pictures, and tell him what they want for Christmas. Santa will be sure to remind each child that he keeps an eye on them year-round to see who’s worthy of being on the nice list. After their visit, the children can enjoy going on a pony ride and have their pictures taken then, as well. There’s no doubt that visiting the Lights of Christmas in Stanwood will be a time to remember with the family.

In Puyallup, Washington, the town transforms the Washington State Fairgrounds Event Center into an 1800’s Victorian Village so everyone can enjoy a Victorian Country Christmas Festival that’s packed full of Christmas traditions and other specialties. You and the family can go on an extravagant adventure by experiencing the North Pole with Santa or at least experience the North Pole as he gets to every day with snow-filled land with reindeers all over the place, even reindeers with red noses. Everyone loves Rudolph, the rednosed reindeer!

I There will also be a winter-wine garden that the adults can explore. What’s Christmas without singing the native Christmas carol songs. Whether you’re able to join in and sing along or you’re only able to watch others sing the caroling songs, it’s still a tradition you won’t want to miss out on.

Speaking of traditions, if family-filled festivals are not what you want to spend your Christmas holiday doing, you can always visit the National Christmas Tree that sits on the Ellipse, south of the White House. 56 smaller trees, each representing a separate place, sit around the big tree for your eyes to enjoy. Each smaller tree is filled with decorations made by artists from each individual place. This tradition started in 1923 and is free for all to see!

In 1964, a new tradition started where another giant Christmas tree, known as the “People’s Christmas Tree” sits in front of the Capitol. This location is free to visit as well and has much more of a peaceful atmosphere since the National Christmas Tree is a more popular tree that everyone likes to visit. Either way, each location is worth the adventure. No matter what you do or where you decide to go for Christmas this year, you should add Washington to your travel list of places to visit for Christmas! It’s worth it!

Leavenworth, Washington, USA. Photo by Joecho-16 via iStock

After nearly two years of being cooped up inside - hello pandemic - are you looking for a new destination to explore this winter? Some accessible by car, others by plane or ferry, these 7 locations along the California coast are perfect for a quick mini getaway this winter.

Image of Santa Barbara County Courthouse, CA. By Anca Chirita

San Clemente, CA. Photo by Viavado,via iStock

LONG BEACH - The Queen Mary If you are looking for a perfect 1 or 2 night getaway, book yourself a stay on the Queen Mary located in Long Beach, California. A true trip across time, the RMS Queen Mary - a British Ocean Liner since converted into an upscale hotel - is especially exciting for historians and ghost lovers alike as the ship is rumored to be haunted. With a theater, restaurants, museum, and seasonal activities all available on board, enjoy the luxuries and history of a 92-year old cruise ship, without having to fare the rocky seas. Just a quick uber ride away from the ship you can also explore downtown Long Beach for further shopping, entertainment, and dining options. Accessible by car, you can fly directly into the Long Beach Airport for most direct access; LAX and John Wayne Airport are suitable alternatives if you plan to rent a car as well.

SAN CLEMENTE There are many beautiful locations along the coast of Orange County, California, but San Clemente offers travelers a little more of a laid back feel when compared to its more wellknown neighbors (hello Laguna, Newport, and Huntington Beach). With beautiful beaches, a charming downtown area, a bike path connecting you to northern town Dana Point, if you’re looking for a place a little less populated than other coastal cities in Orange County, San Clemente is an absolute “lesser-known” gem.

It’s the last main stop before Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton and further cities closer to the San Diego area. It’s accessible by car; Santa Ana John Wayne Orange County is the nearest airport.

SANTA BARBARA About 4 hours down the coast from Carmel and Monterey, the city of Santa Barbara offers travelers a luxurious getaway also in close proximity to neighboring (inland) city Ojai –highly worth a day trip if you have time. From its spanish-influenced architecture, to its beachside zoo, bustling mainstreet, and local-and-tourist popular Funk Zone (a one-mile radius with 20+ tasting rooms), Santa Barbara attracts tourists globally. And hey, about 5 minutes south is its sister city Montecito, home to many stars (hello Oprah!)

Santa Baraba is accessible by car and has its own small airport located in neighboring city Goleta.

If your city doesn’t connect directly, look into connection flights out of LAX.

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CARMEL BY THE SEA & MONTEREY Settled on the Central Coast of California, you can find the charming neighboring towns of Carmel by the Sea and Monterey.

Just roughly 12 minutes apart by car, we’ve looped these locations as a two-for-one as they both offer unique attractions worth the backand-forth. For those looking to explore a quaint town nestled in the forest, Carmel is your very own fairytale come to life. Its downtown area is lined with charming boutique shops, wineries, and restaurants, all just steps away from a dog-friendly beach. Monterey offers more of a traditional coastal vibe and sports a famous aquarium, a chance to see seals, and is outfitted with plenty of walking and biking trails. Both accessible by car, the nearest airport for those flying in is Monterey (MRY) Airport.

Other nearby airports include San Jose (SJC) (53.5 miles), San Francisco (SFO) (75.7 miles), and Oakland (OAK) (79.3 miles).

Carmel By The Sea, CA. Photo by Anca Chirita

CHANNEL ISLANDS While a bit tougher to access, Santa Catalina Island is well worth the drive or flight and ferry ride over. One of the 8 California Channel Islands, tourists are most easily able to access the island from mainland Ventura or Oxnard harbor. From charming hotels to a variety of excursions - both on land and sea - and plenty of nature to explore, Santa Catalina Island is a world-class destination adorning many travelers' bucket list. When searching for lodging, you will be specifically looking to stay in the island’s port town, Avalon, although there are quite a few Airbnbs and campgrounds available on the island as well. If you require a flight into the area, your best bets are Santa Barbara Airport, Burbank or LAX - all of which will require an uber or rental car ride to the Oxnard or Ventura harbor.

CORONADO Nestled on the peninsula of the San Diego bay sits the resort city of Coronado. Accessible via bridge or by ferry, this southern california destination is pretty much as close to Mexico as you can get this side of the border. Definitely more quaint and quiet than bordering Downtown San Diego, it’s the perfect relaxing destination to enjoy white sand beaches, morning strolls, and perhaps a sunset cruise.

Temperatures generally stay mild year round. The nearest airport is San Diego International Airport.

While by no means is this list allinclusive of what the California Coast has to offer, we hope that you now have a few new destinations to add to your bucket list this winter as you begin to plan your next mini getaway.

Get your house in order with SPIFF

Looking to give yourself a break from the messy closets? Invest in a professional who knows how to make your closets look organized & personalized, while feeling luxurious.

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Whether it's the organization of a closet, a pantry, a full home makeover, or assisting with a full-scale move, SPIFF is the goto in the New York and Tri-State area.

Jenna Haefelin - SPIFF Founder -

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Dune Jewelry takes pieces of a moment, a memory or a destination and incorporates them into artisan-crafted, fine jewelry that can last forever. All of Dune Jewelry designs remind you that even as travels come to an end, the memories can last a lifetime. Each piece is handmade at Dune’s studio in Boston, Massachusetts, by talented artisans who incorporate sand, soil and other earth elements from around the globe, from the coasts of New England to the shores of Italy.

Lyda Beauty – best known for creating the award-winning Cleopatra Cat Eye Stamp. an extraordinary, non-toxic, vegan cream eyeshadow pen with a built in brush, Twisted Stick. It is the first of its kind and delivers a stunning, water resistant, high pigment, buttery hue that lasts all day – the best part? It’s TRAVEL FRIENDLY, and comes in 3 colors: Sea Pearl, 1001 Nights, and Desert Sunset.

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VIVE Flow is a compact, lightweight immersive glasses device intended to help people nurture their minds, relax, have fun on a daily basis, and go with the flow.

VIVE Flow allows people to immerse themselves in a new and convenient way – effortlessly fitting into life and providing a simple way to improve wellbeing.

LIVALL (LIVE + ALL), a leading smart helmet manufacturer that has recently announced the launch of its state-of-theart Smart Safety Bluetooth Helmet EVO21. The latest smart safety helmet backed by advanced safety features like Brake Warning lights, Fall detection, SOS button, and more ensures a more enhanced and safer biking experience.

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Remember to stay safe during the Holidays!!!

These products remain our some of our best tools in the fight with Covid-19

Delicious dishes for the Holidays

We love gathering with our family for Christmas, and cooking for our loved ones is very important. So here are a few delicious ideas to cook this Holiday season.

Delicious dishes for the Holidays

This crumble is an easy, make-ahead dish, and tahini adds a creamy earthiness to this classic dessert. Serve with a scoop of ice cream or yogurt, and enjoy!

Serves four or more

Ingredients For the sesame crumble: ½ cup all-purpose flour ⅓ cup rolled oats ½ cup brown sugar or coconut sugar ½ teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon kosher salt 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds, divided 4 tablespoons butter, at room temperature 1-2 tablespoons tahini Combine the flour, oats, sugar, cinnamon, salt, and 1 tablespoon of the toasted sesame seeds in a bowl. Mix everything together until combined. Add the butter and tahini, and, using your hands or the back of a fork, mix everything together until it has the texture of damp sand. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.

Instructions: Preheat your oven to 375º F and lightly grease an 8” baking dish with butter.

Depending on your preference, peel the fruit or leave the skin on. Roughly chop into ¾ - 1” pieces or slice into wedges.

In a large bowl, combine lemon zest, cinnamon, allspice, ginger, sugar, tapioca/cornstarch, and a couple pinches of salt. Mix to combine, breaking up clumps of zest and ginger with your hands as needed. Add the fruit, juice from ½ the lemon, and the vanilla extract. Toss everything to coat and add to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crumble evenly over everything, and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a knife inserted comes in and out evenly, and the crumble is golden brown.

Remove from the oven and let cool at least 20 minutes before serving, alongside some vanilla ice cream.

About the chef: Signe Quitslund is Kinfood’s in-house chef.

She is known for her contribution to some of Seattle’s top kitchens, her gorgeous gluten-free sourdough and her plantbased recipes.

Delicious dishes for the Holidays

This recipe has it all: sweet and nutty roasted squash, a savory tahini cream, and the addictive crunch of a seed and nut brittle. A restaurant-quality dish that comes together easily!

Ingredients

Instructions:

1 kabocha squash, seeded and wedged into ½ inch slices Olive oil salt

Turn the oven to 325º F. Combine everything for the pepita-walnut sesame crumble in a bowl. Spread out thinly over a small sheet tray in a single layer. Bake for 15 minutes, turn pan and bake for 5-10 more minutes.

Tahini sauce: ¼ cup tahini Juice and zest of 1 lemon 1-2 garlic cloves finely minced 1-2 tablespoons water, plus more as needed 2 tablespoons olive oil Salt Pepper Pepita-walnut brittle: ½ cup of pepitas ¾ cups chopped walnuts ¼ cup rolled oats 2 tablespoons black or white sesame seeds, or mixed 1 pinch of salt 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons olive oil ½ cup maple syrup

Let cool completely. Break into shards and pulse in a food processor or blender until a little sandy, with seeds broken up, but still chunky.

Turn the oven up to 425º F. Toss squash wedges in olive oil and salt and roast for 30 minutes, or until deeply caramelly and bronzed. If your oven gets steamy like mine, open it a few times during roasting to let the moisture out.

Meanwhile, combine everything for the tahini sauce. Add 1 tablespoon of water at a time until you get a nice consistency, akin to the thickness of melty frozen yogurt. After the sauce sits for a while it thickens up more, so you may need to add a splash more water before plating.

Once squash is done, smear tahini sauce over the plate. Pile on squash wedges and sprinkle with pepita-walnut crumble.

About the chef: Signe Quitslund is Kinfood’s in-house chef.

She is known for her contribution to some of Seattle’s top kitchens, her gorgeous gluten-free sourdough and her plantbased recipes.

The best hot chocolate to enjoy this Christmas

Gingerbread Hot Chocolate with Mozart Cream Chocolate

INGREDIENTS For 1 drink 5 cl Mozart Cream Chocolate Liqueur 10 cl Whole milk 3 cl Gingerbread sirup (or 1 - 1 1/2 Teaspoons gingerbread spice) DECORATION Whipped cream Cinnamon Cocoa powder Gingerbread MIXING Heat the milk and gingerbread sirup.

Pour into a double-walled glass or any glass suitable for serving hot drinks.

Add Mozart Cream Chocolate Liqueur and stir well.

Top with whipped cream, cinnamon and cocoa powder.

Garnish with gingerbread.

Hazelnut Hot Chocolate with Mozart Cream Chocolate

INGREDIENTS For 1 drink 5 cl Mozart Cream Chocolate Liqueur 10 cl Whole milk 3 cl Hazelnut liqueur DECORATION Whipped cream Ground hazelnuts MIXING Heat the milk and hazelnut liqueur.

Pour into a double-walled or any glass suitable for serving hot drinks.

Add Mozart Cream Chocolate Liqueur and stir well.

Top with whipped cream and ground hazelnuts

Mulled Hot Chocolate with Mozart Dark Chocolate

NGREDIENTS For 1 drink 5 cl Mozart Dark Chocolate Liqueur 10 cl Red wine 2 cl Amaretto 1 Teaspoon sugar DECORATION Cinnamon stick or pinch of cinnamon MIXING Mix all the ingredients except Mozart Dark Chocolate Liqueur and heat.

Pour into a double-walled glass or any glass suitable for serving hot drinks.

Add Mozart Dark Chocolate Liqueur.

Serve with a cinnamon stick on the glass rim or with a pinch of cinnamon on the choctail.