Small Town Life - December 2018

Silent Night

200 years of bringing people together Page 6

How to stick to a diet/healthy eating during the holidays with dr. elisha cook nd, the plattsville health clinic

Mindfully accepting the cold Canadian weather with Local author stephanie van de ven

Holiday fun without breaking the bank!

with melissa gardiner of pixel financial

Christmas is coming!

Check out our local listings for events happening in Plattsville, Wilmot, Ayr, Paris and the surrounding area

DECEMBER 2018

E E FR

A note from the Editor...

The most wonderful time of the year is almost upon us! I love the festive season, not just because it’s an excuse to watch National Lampoon’s Christmas for the 100th time, or because the grocery stores line their coolers with creamy Festive Nog, or even the unwrapping of gifts that were hopefully on your wish list, but it's for the enormous amount of family time that is a guarantee over the holiday. There is something in the air at Christmas, an overall vibe of happiness, and kindness & love that people show more freely to each other this time of year.

Unfortunately the holidays often come with high expectations, a never-ending to do list, and way too much stress! Often we try to make every party and event, and experience guilt around the holidays when we can’t do it all. Guilt comes when you have done something wrong, and there is nothing wrong with setting healthy boundaries - enjoy and be present at the events that are realistic and manageable. And all those little details you forgot and are now stressing about? They will likely go unnoticed and become a distant memory by Jan. 1. So put on your elf hat, grab a festive nog and relax, life is too short to stress about the small stuff – especially when we should be making beautiful memories.

Exciting things are also happening at Small Town Life! Our social media channels have grown to include Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and LinkedIn! Of course we couldn’t do it without our new team member Ingrid Hicks. As our social media & marketing specialist, Ingrid is keeping our content fresh on the social scene. And speaking of social scene, we are gearing up for another contest in January, so be sure to keep up on your social media game and follow ours.

To all our advertisers and readers we wish you a joyous and peaceful holiday season and a very Merry Christmas! See you in 2019.

Sincerely,

StephanieTaves in this issue...

• A Guide to buying the boss a gift for the Holidays • Horoscopes! Yes we got them • Winter was made for playing outside!

• Local Spotlight: MAD Creations, Plattsville • Hidden Gem alert! Aaron's Wood Creations • Check out the new Kids Zone section!

Photo Credit: Tay Selig Photography Location: Just outside Ayr, Wrigley Road

Selig Photography, Holiday Mini Photo of Cruz Kocher, who is 2 years old On the Cover: Tay and excited for Christmas and Santa!

Email: tayseligphotography@gmail.com Tel: (226) 755-2506 We are looking for local photographers! Contact smalltownlife.ca@outlook.com for more information Editorial policy & Disclaimer: The Plattsville Post is proud to be a Community Voice. We hope to foster connections within the community in a positive way. The expressed or implied opinions of authors and advertisers are not necessarily those held by the publication, it’s editor or publisher.

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Keeping all our communities connected!

PARIS EVENTS:

Saturday December 8 4pm - 9:30pm

Christmas Night Market, Paris. Starting with a walk through a tunnel of twinkle lights & enjoy a warm beverage as you head inside where the true magic begins! The setting ~ lights, live music, gifted crafters, warm beverages and you! 139 Silver Stree. Admission $3.00, under 12 free

Sunday December 9 10am - 3pm

Crafters Market & Christmas vendors. Over 50 tables for you to browse our local talent that resides in and just outside of Paris Ontario! Admission is $2 a person, Kids 12 and under, FREE, ATM on site Kids area with face painting, balloons and special guests for photo ops.

Located at the Paris Agricultural Society, 139 Silver St. Paris

Saturdays until Dec. 22nd 9am - 5pm

Christmas Market at Wincey Mills. Wreaths, Jewelry, Soap, Apothecary, Vintage Finds, Cutting Boards, Christmas Decor, Fusion Glass, Fiber Art, Original Art, Christmas Cards, Bake Goods, Olive Oil, Shoes, Dresses, Kettle-corn and more! 31 Mechanic Street, Paris ON

AYR EVENTS:

Sunday December 9 Starts at 6pm

Community Carol Sing in Centennial Park, downtown Ayr. There will be a live nativity by local churches followed by a carol sing. Enjoy hot chocolate coursey of Tim Hortons. Please bring a flashlight to this event!

Saturday December 15 12pm - 6pm

Holiday Magic carriage rides with the Diebold Sisters Carriage Company.

This day will be filled with festive horse-drawn carriage rides, decorations, a warm wood fire & a holiday teahouse. $10 adult / $5 children Call for details 519-498-1376

Friday & Saturday December 21 & 22 1pm

Nithridge Estates Winter Wonderland Sleigh Ridges. Hour long sleigh rides with outdoor fire and hot beverages (open bar also). $25 per adult, $12 per child, children 2 and under are free. Call 519-632-1234 or email admin@nithridge.com for details or to book.

Saturday January 26 8am - 6pm

Ayr Rockets Day: This amazing event consists of hockey games with surrounding Girls hockey teams, a bake sale, and of course our “Ayr Rocket Day Raffle”. Money raised at the event will be used to help with the costs of the ice rentals, new jerseys and new equipment for our Ayr Rockets Girls. NDCC Arena, Ayr.

PLATTSVILLE LIVE EVENT:

Saturday JANUARY 12th 2019

The Artificially Hip live at the Plattsville Lions Hall for tickets visit www.theartificiallyhip.com

PRINCETON EVENTS:

WILMOT & WELLESLEY TOWNSHIP EVENTS:

Thursday December 6th 6pm - 8:30pm Saturday December 8 11am

Lunch wiht Santa! Imperial Market & Eatery, 60 Huron St. New Hamburg.

Bring the whole family down to enjoy delicious global comfort food and don't forget your camera to capture special moments with the big man himself. Plus ALL KIDS FOOD is $5 from 11am to 2pm! Reservations are highly recommended, call 519-390-6000

Friday December 14 7pm - 9pm

Mannheim Mennonite Church. Join the 20-voice Menno Youth Singers and guest musicians for an evening of carols and choral music. Free Admission, donations accepted, all proceeds support the Menno Youth Singers.

Mannheim Road.

Sunday December 16 2pm - 4pm 4 / 

A Merry Victorian Christmas. Catle Kilbride, 60 Snyder's Rd. Baden. For one evening only, visitors can marvel at the glitter and glamour of the decked out 1877 home at night. Live entertainment will bring the house to life. Enjoy a cup of good ol' fashioned hot apple cider, and fabulous silent auction items. $5 per person no reservations needed.

Lucy Pearlle Vintage Studio, 3677 Nafziger Rd, Wellesley. Kids Christmas Market . Bring your child for a market inspired just for the tiny spenders.

We will help your child chose and wrap the perfect present for everyone on their list. Tables set up with $5-$20, items set up in a seperate room!

(No peeking mom and dad) No tax. RSVP required. For more details: 519656-2727 S m a l l To w n L i f e / T h e P l a t t s v i l l e Po s t

Do you have an event you want to share with the community? Let us know!

Contact us at smalltownlife.ca@outlook.com or theplattsvillepost@outlook.com or call 1-519-831-6625.

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‘Silent Night’: 200 years of bringing people together Known in German as “Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht” (“Silent Night, Holy Night”), the lyrics were composed by the Austrian priest Joseph Mohr and set to music by the church organist, Franz Xaver Gruber, for the Christmas Eve service in Arnsdorf in December 1818.

Mohr and Gruber performed the carol themselves with only a guitar as accompaniment. The hymn was an insThis Christmas marks the 200th anni- tant success with the congregation and versary of “Silent Night.” First perfor- soon spread to other towns and counmed in a village church in Austria, “Si- tries. lent Night” quickly became one of the most popular Christmas hymns in Eu- One of the most moving examples of the rope and today is sung all over the carol’s place in our shared culture comes world in countless different languages. from an extraordinary event that occurIn 2011, the carol was granted “intan- red during World War I. In December gible cultural heritage” status by 1914, Germany and the Allied forces deUNESCO because of its prominence in clared a Christmas truce and ordered troops to cease all hostilities. According world culture. to contemporary accounts, on Christmas

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Eve one German soldier — Walter Kirchoff, once a tenor in the Berlin opera — stepped forward and began to sing “Silent Night,” first in German and then in English.

Recognizing the hymn, British soldiers joined in, and both sides began singing Christmas carols in their own languages. On Christmas Day, soldiers climbed out of the trenches to wish their enemies a merry Christmas and played games and exchanged gifts until the truce ended. For a brief time after the singing of “Silent Night” that Christmas, “heavenly peace” reigned over the battlefield.

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Three great gifts for the DIY enthusiast Do you have someone on your Christmas shopping list who likes to spend their free time building things? If you’re stumped about what to get them, here are a few gift ideas that you may not have considered.

hammer with their name, a special word or an inside joke between the two of you right on the tool’s wooden handle. They’ll be so touched, they may decide to decorate their workshop with it rather than use it.

1. Digital tape measure: a modern version of a classic tool. A digital tape measure can convert measurements from fractions to decimals and inches to centimetres. It also gives precise readings up to one millimetre and will calculate the midpoint of whatever’s being measured. Some prototypes also come with a built-in level. A useful tool for many types of projects, this one is sure to quickly become indispensable.

Whatever their passion project, the DIYer in your life is sure to appreciate one — or all — of these thoughtful and useful gifts.

2. Multi-tool: a must-have item for the DIYer who prefers to always keep their favourite tools on hand. More than a regular pocket­knife, a multi-tool can hold as many as 18 tools. Components might include kni­v es, saws, pliers, cutters, awls and screwdrivers. Most even have a bottle opener for cracking that beer when the job is done.

3. Personalized hammer: almost everybody already owns a hammer, but most don’t have one with a personalized handle. Engrave a regular

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Living Healthy with Dr. Elisha Cook ND

How to Stick to a Diet/Healthy Eating during the Holidays For anyone trying to lose a couple of pounds or keep healthy, the holidays can be a very difficult time. You do not want to offend people by not eating their treats, but you also do not want to compromise your goals for staying healthy and keeping trim. Some individuals can resist easily and have the will-power to do so. However, for those who struggle with self-control, this can be a challenging task. Try following some of the strategies below to make this holiday season less stressful as you continue to pursue your health goals.

1.

Make a Plan Planning for your different social engagements is crucial for success during the holidays. If you know when your events are and what typical foods cause you temptation, then you can prepare more effectively to be more successful for these events. Take the time to eat strictly leading up to these events, to allow a bit of forgiveness with indulgence. Another area one can prepare in is preparing to have your mind set. Have your mind set to stay the course and choose healthier options.

Remember, “A man who fails to plan, plans to fail.” – Benjamin Franklin.

2.

Focus on Vegetables When given an array of options, try to focus on vegetables first, and if there is still room on your plate, add the “good stuff” like stuffing, dinner rolls, etc. Even if you can determine to fill half your plate with vegetables then you are already probably well ahead of where you could have been if you would not have had your mind set to choose healthier options.

3.

Moderation and Portions When filling your plate at family functions, try to follow the appropriate portions for your size and activity level. If you are not sure what that looks like, consider speaking to a health care provider or using your hand as a reference. Your palm should be the size of the meat/protein on your plate and a closed fist should represent all of your starches (starches include potatoes, corn, bread, stuffing, pasta, rice, etc.). I often encourage patients that you really cannot have too much vegetables, but if you want to portion it would be two fists worth of vegetables. Of course, it is okay to have treats and sweets, but it is also important to respect everything in moderation. When you have extra sweets or treats left over, consider freezing them or even getting rid of them. Either way, they will go to waste or to YOUR waste. Pick the waste you want.

Plattsville Dental HEALTHY TEETH FOR A HEALTHY SMILE!

USE IT OR LOSE IT

As the year draws to a close, a reminder to use your health benefits before they expire Dec. 31, 2018

Just for Giggles “Poor Old fool,” thought the well-dressed gentleman as he watched an old man fish in a puddle outside a pub. So he invited the old man inside for a drink. As they sipped their whiskeys, the gentleman thought he’d humor the old man and asked, “So how many have you caught today?”

The old man replied, “You’re the eighth.”

“What’s a hipster?” asked my four-year-old cousin.

“Someone who will wear something just to look different,” I said. “They’ll often buy clothes in thrift shops and wear thick glasses.”

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“Is Grandma a hipster?” he asked.

While my parents were making their funeral arrangements, the cemetery salesman pointed out a plot that he thought they would like. “You’ll have a beautiful view of the swan pond,” he assured them.

Dad wasn’t sold: “Unless you’re including a periscope with my casket, I don’t know how I’m going to enjoy it.”

4.

Forgive Easily and Get Back on Track It is important to recognize that you are only human and it is okay to make mistakes. Do not let one missed opportunity to do “well” set the course for the rest of the day or the rest of the holiday season. If you slip up and over indulge, recognize your error, and get back on track. Do not let the over-indulgence set the course for the rest of your holidays. Set your mind to continue to make healthy choices and to get back on track quickly.

At the end of the day, remember that the holidays are for community and relationship. Enjoy the food and festivities, but focus on moderation, planning, vegetables (of course), and getting back on track quickly.

From all of us at Plattsville Natural Health Clinic, we want to wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy Holiday, and Happy New Year!

For more information like this, or to book an appointment with Dr. Elisha Cook ND at Plattsville Natural Health Clinic, please contact us at: Website: www.plattsvilledoctor.ca Text or Call: 226-232-7665 Please note the information contained in this article is not meant to replace medical advice. Please contact your health care provider or Dr. Elisha Cook for more specific information about your situation.

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Lifestyle

with Ingrid Hicks

A Guide to Buying the Boss a Gift for the Holidays

It's the most stressful time of year— at least when it comes to gift giving.

Should you give your boss a holiday gift? And if so, what is appropriate and what is the cultural norm for your office environment?

Do I have to buy my boss a gift?

This common question has a definitive answer: No. You do not have to buy your boss a gift. You are never obligated to give a gift to someone with power over you. It's more likely that your boss should feel obligated to give you a gift, not vice-versa. However, if you feel it's imperative that you give your boss a gift or, you just want to give your boss a gift, you need to know the guidelines.

If I decide to buy a gift, how much should I spend?

The amount you spend is a delicate balance. If you spend too much, you'll risk offending your co-workers who will likely think you're trying to brown nose.

Remember, lavish gifts are never acceptable in the office. What’s acceptable? $20- $25 Consider a Group Gift Consider giving a group gift instead of a gift just from you. A group gift takes the pressure off you if you're on a tight budget. Also, you may not know your boss well enough to pick out the right thing. If someone else is already coordinating a group gift, the best approach is always to participate in the group.

Be Discreet If you do give a gift by yourself, deliver it privately without making a show in front of other employees. Trying to 10 / 

show off or out-gift other workers will only irritate your colleagues. So, be a team player when it comes to gift giving as well. The one reasonable exception might be if you and your boss are friends outside of work and you want to do something extra special to acknowledge the personal side of the relationship. If this is the case, then give the gift to your boss outside of the workplace instead of at the office.

Aim to Please, Not Impress Keep the gift simple and sincere, and inexpensive, and stay away from giving personal items such as perfume or cologne. Also, when you give over-the-top gifts, it puts pressure on the recipient to respond in kind. If there is something your boss really would like that is more than $25 then get a co-worker to go in on the gift with you. As a rule, expensive gifts are always better given (and received) when coming from a group.

One final alternative Consider is a contribution to your boss’s favourite cause in their name.

Recognizing their passion for the arts, education, health, or wildlife with a simple act of generosity during the holiday season will remind you (and them) of the true spirit of gift-giving.

What should I do if my boss buys me a gift?

If your boss buys you a gift, show your appreciation and send them a thank you note. Even if you haven't bought your boss a gift, and they give you something, express your gratitude with a heartfelt, handwritten note of appreciation.

Never Give Cash as a Gift Cash gifts send the message that it was a last-minute decision and that you don't care enough to get to know your bosses' tastes or interests. Another reason to never give your boss cash is that small amounts seem trivial and obligatory and large amounts seem gratuitous or can appear that you are trying to get into your employer's good graces. A gift card is appropriate to give to your boss, but even then, put some thought into it—don't give your boss a gift card to a coffee house if they don't drink coffee.

It's always in season to express thanks.

Fun, Frugal, and Thoughtful Gift Ideas: • A charitable donation in their name (Non-political) • A portable Phone charger • Wireless Bluetooth headphones (one can never have too many) • Spotify or iTunes Gift card (to go with headphones) • Coffee shop gift card (Make sure they like coffee & pair with a mug) • Stainless Steel Travel Mug • Essential Oil Diffuser • Stainless Steel Water Bottle • A mug (Pair with a coffee gift card) • Tea/Coffee/Hot cocoa gift set • Personalized Business card case • A book • Fountain Pen • Both Bomb set (Lady boss only)

Don't Give Promises or I.O.U.s Never give favours, offers to take your boss privately to lunch or dinner, or I.O.U.s. You're better off buying a greeting card and hand-writing something meaningful—which will stand out in today's digital world. Remember, your boss may have authority over you at work, but they are still human. People like to be remembered and acknowledged.

Ingrid Hicks is Social Media and Marketing Specialist for SmallTownLife.ca A fashionista at heart with a flair for geeky and techie things. Self-Published writer and Certified Zumba Fitness Instructor. Ingrid is married and is also a mom of two handsome 10 & 14-year-old boys. Find her featured blog posts on SmallTownLife.ca

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Five unique holiday gift-wrapping ideas Wrapping Christmas presents often feels like a chore, but it doesn’t have to. With a little creativity, you can make gift-wrapping fun — not to mention cheaper and more eco-friendly. Here are a few gift-wrapping ideas to inspire you.

1. Use recycled materials as gift-wrap. Wrap your gifts in recycled household items such as old newspapers and magazines, discarded maps, left over wallpaper and even gently worn clothes. With some extra effort, your presents will look just as beautiful and far more interesting than if they were wrapped in plain old store-bought paper.

holly or other seasonal greenery, save some of the foliage to use as embellishments for your wrapped gifts.

4. Try using furoshiki. Wrapping presents in patterned fabric, or furoshiki, is a Japanese practice that offers an esthetically pleasing and eco-friendly alternative to wrapping paper. Fabric can be reused year after year so you don’t need to buy, and throw away, copious amounts of wrapping paper each holiday season.

5.Have your kids design the paper.

Have your kids decorate large pieces of thin, white paper to use for wrapping presents. The personalized drawings by your children will make the presents that you gift to your family members that much more meaningful.

2. Go monochrome. For a sleek, stylish look, consider using shades of the same hue for wrapping paper, ribbon and gift bags. Or, choose two or three colours to theme your gift-wrapping around (pick a combo other than red and green).

3. Add natural materials as decorations. Try wrapping presents in brown Kraft paper, tying them with string and decorating the packages with sprigs of evergreen or dried flowers. If you’re decking your house with

Four gift ideas for tech-lovers in 2018 Tech-lovers can be tough to buy for. With all the new and exciting products that come out every year, it’s difficult keep up with the latest trends. To help you out, here are four products that tech-lovers are buying en masse this year.

1. VIRTUAL REALITY HEADSETS Virtual reality headsets are the future of both gaming and media. The 360-degree viewing experience transports you to another universe. There’s no need to leave your living room to be courtside at Madison Square Garden watching a Knicks game, in the Egyptian desert taking a tour of the pyramids or even on a spaceship fighting cyborgs.

4. PORTABLE CHARGERS The more electronic gadgets a person uses, the more frequently they’re scrambling around anxiously to find a power source. Put a tech-lover’s mind at ease by giving them a portable charger capable of powering up their phone, tablet, headphones and other electronic devices.

2. DRONES Drones are getting more popular and increasingly sophisticated every year. Nowadays, there are tons of different prototypes available and they come in a wide range of price points. Different models are made to appeal to different interests: choose bet­ween a camera drone, a toy drone or a racing drone.

3. MOBILE WIFI HOTSPOTS Some people can’t survive without an internet connection.

And many have a good enough excuse, as staying connected is vital to their job. Mobile WiFi hotspots are the perfect gift for these people. These palm-sized gadgets provide you with internet access any­where in the world.  / 11

call t do you What k that’s abou a boo ain? the br A: A m

ind rea

der.

Q:

By looking at the first two rows, determine which cat should go in the final position in the third row.

Q:

What happened to the wooden car with the wooden engine?

A: It wooden go.

Hey Kids!

Plattsville Home Hardware is doing another scavenger hunt this year in the store! AND collecting money for a toy drive.

Toys & Gift Cards going towards local families!

1

3

2

Amazing Maze!

FINISH

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Fall Colours Big Bear Tournament – Ann Arbour, Michigan Backrow -Tom Armes, Brayden Bartlett, Sammy Carpenter, Ethan Bartlett, Eli Goodfellow Frontrow – Gabriel Smith, Grayson MacLaurin, Felix Isert-Bender, David Campbell, Carter Marting, Lincoln Fried Goalie – Devon Loerzel

ANSWER : 1 AND 7

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ANSWER : 3

CONGRATULATIONS Plattsville Rage Peewee Rep team for winning the championship and playing undefeated in all 5 games!

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While looking for some local shops to check off all the VIP's on my Christmas list, I was fortunate enough to find a couple of local gems among the many fabulous small local businesses. Here are two that I bought a number of items from and cannot recommend them highly enough! Quality products, affordable prices, and always served with a smile!

When you support these businesses you are supporting a local family.

Stephanie Taves

Local Spotlight: MAD Creations My name is Mary-Anne and I am the owner and head creator of MAD Creations.

My husband Tom and I have 5 kids whom are the inspiration behind MAD Creations products. Some of our coolest ideas stem from there creativity and they are among our most special product testers.

There is a variety of products including home made bars of soap, whipped shea butter, face masks, shampoo and conditioner bars, 4 flavours of lip balm, herbal deodorant and muscle rub to list a few. These are great for everyday use, & make great gifts.

Every product is made from quality ingredients and every recipe is used by everyone in our home. Each product is hand mixed and poured adding care to everything produced.

We have felt a big difference going home made, our skin feels better, our hair is hydrated, and my kids LOVE using my bars of soap with different scents and colours to choose from making bath time fun. Shampoo bars have been a big hit! They are portable for going to the pool and the rink, easy to pack for vacation or to keep in your shower, and with no bottles you get to use it to the last speck. These little bars go a long way, averaging 80 washes and every shampoo bar has a matching conditioner bar.

By far the best part about this is the positive feed back from customers, how they can’t believe the difference these products have made for them and how much they love using them. This is about getting back to the basics, knowing what goes into the products your putting on your skin and keeping the products as natural as possible. Many of them being 100% natural while still making safety a top priority.

I have always enjoyed making things myself, and my family loves using my products. It has now grown from our home to the homes of others.

In December you will find my products at the Plattsville Natural Health Clinic, 16 Albert Street East, Plattsville, how exciting!

I am always happy to answer questions about products, you can find us at: mardonahue@hotmail. com, or on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MADSoaps/

Hidden Gems

Aaron's Wood Creations Woodworking has been a passion of mine for a long time, from building something new, to fixing the old.

I remember as a child going into the garage with my grandpa and father to just watch them work, see how they use tools I knew absolutely nothing about and how they applied their use to the task at hand.

Over the years I learned more and more about those tools until I was asked to lend a hand. It was then when my passion started. Over the years I got more and more involved, acquiring my own tools. Eventually I realized that owning my own woodshop and business would be my dream career. Today, I am working towards that dream. Building lasting relationships with my customers. Acquiring the right tools to do the best possible job, and learning new techniques along the way.

As hard as I have worked to get to where I am today, I had help along the way. My family has been my number one supporters from the beginning. Eventually all of us doubt ourselves in one way or another. I experienced doubt many times, questioning myself at whether or not I was going to achieve my dream. I learned starting your own business is not as easy as I thought it might have been. But despite the challenges of starting a business I am one day closer today then I was yesterday. "Rough lumber, to a finished piece. One board at a time."

Check Aarons creations out on Facebook @aaronswoodcreations Website: www.aaronwoodcreations.com

FUN CHRISTMAS FACTS:

“Jingle Bells” was written for Thanksgiving, not Christmas. The song was written in 1857 by James Lord Pierpont and published under the title “One Horse Open Sleigh”. It was supposed to be played in the composer’s Sunday school class during Thanksgiving as a way to commemorate the famed Medford sleigh races. “Jingle Bells” was also the first song to be broadcast from space.

In the Netherlands, Sinterklaas (the Dutch version of Santa Claus) arrives from Spain, not from the North Pole. And that’s not the only weird thing about the Dutch Christmas. Sinterklaas has his little helpers, but they are not adorable hard-working elves: they are dark faced boys and girls who can steal your kids if they misbehave, and bring them to back Spain which is, according to the Dutch, a severe punishment. Yikes!

Get a quote. It’s fast, simple and it could save you money.

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Book today - 226-789-0441 or jenniferleitermt@gmail.com

#smalltownlife

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Horoscopes

Q: What do you call sad coffee?

A: Despresso.

ARIES

Q: How are coffee beans like kids?

A: They’re always getting grounded!

Week of Dec. 16 -22, 2018

Practical tips for a successful family ski trip Downhill skiing is the perfect activity for an outing with the kids, especially when weather conditions are ideal.

Here are a few tips to make your family ski trip a success.

• Get everything ready the evening before to avoid forgetting any supplies or equipment.

• If you have young children, choose a

resort close to your home (especially if it’s their first time). This way, the kids won’t be weary from the drive before they even hit the hill.

• Bring a sled to carry your gear from the parking lot to the lodge.

Wouldn’t you prefer to embrace the winter months rather than grit your teeth while you wait for the cold and snow to disappear? Here are seven seasonal activities to remind you that wintertime isn’t so bad after all.

1. Ice skating. Hit the rink to improve your strength, endurance, coordination and balance.

2. Snowshoeing. Snowshoeing is both inexpensive and easy to learn, making it a perfect fit for family fun.

3. Snowmobiling. Calling all freedom seekers! Have a seat on your snowmobile and set off to explore scenic spots that are otherwise inaccessible.

4. Downhill skiing or snowboarding. Is there anything more exhilarating than gli­ding down the mountainside at full speed?

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TAURUS

A snow slide in our backyard? Cool!

CANCER

• Remember to use the restrooms before heading up the mountain.

5. Dog sledding. Enjoy the perfect combination of adorable animals, pristine landscapes and crisp fresh air by taking a ride on a dog sled. Memorable moments guaranteed!

6. Winter hiking. Frozen ponds, frosty branches, snowy spruces and immaculate mountains — there’s nothing like a hike to experience winter in its entire splendor.

7. Ice fishing. Thanks to the cold weather, you’ll finally be able to fish with­out being hassled by mosquitos. What more could you ask for?

These are just a few of the fun things you can do to beat the winter blues. Tobogganing, playing hockey or broomball, camping and cross-country skiing are some other suggestions. With so many ways to embrace the season, there’s no reason to hibernate this winter! Let’s go play outside!

• Take regular breaks to rest, rehydrate and snack.

You’ll have a hard time sticking to a budget when it comes to your Christmas shopping.

You’ll want to give your loved ones gifts that are more expensive than you planned. You may find yourself being more generous with some people than others.

INITIATING FIRST-TIMERS Kids aged three and up can start learning to ski. Before you hit the slopes for the first time, break the ice by taking your little one on a tour of the resort and a ride on the chairlift.

Family lessons are always a good way to learn how to ski in a safe and fun environment. Try it out!

• Pack layers of warm clothing and don’t leave without sunscreen — UV rays reflecting off the snow can easily burn unprotected skin.

Seven activities to discover (or rediscover) this winter

• Decide on a gathering place to head to if you lose sight of each other.

Do your kids love to sled?

They’d probably be overjoyed if you told them you were building a sliding hill in your backyard. Are you ready to give it a try and become the envy of your neighbourhood? One big, sticky snowfall and you’re good to go!

Start by choosing a site far enough from the road to allow for a good sliding distance.

Then, pile the snow up, making sure you pack it down as your hill gets taller. When you’re satisfied with the height, trample on your hill for a while to create a slope that’s just steep enough for an exciting yet safe descent.

Once the first part is done, delimit the sliding area (including a few strategically placed bumps, perhaps?) with snow barriers on each side to keep kids from flying off in all directions. Build a wall at the top of the hill by making snow cubes:

fill a large bucket with snow, add a bit of water and some food colouring, pack it down and then unmould. Spray your entire creation with water to solidify it, and take advantage of subsequent snowfalls to maintain your hill. Voila! All that’s left to do is enjoy!

Even if the festivities haven’t officially started, your home will already be full of people. If you have young children, expect them to set up camp with their friends before the holidays start.

HOW TO PLAY :

LEO

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.

VIRGO

Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: You must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column, or 3x3 box. ANSWERS PAGE 27

Let yourself be swept into the holiday spirit.

You’ll be surrounded by big groups of people all week. You’ll finish your Christmas shopping at a crowded mall, and you’ll have a great time.

Enjoy the craziness of the season.

LIBRA

S m a l l To w n L i f e / T h e P l a t t s v i l l e Po s t

Spouse #1: Honey, this coffee tastes like dirt.

Spouse #2: That's not surprising, dear, it was just ground this morning.

GEMINI

You’ll let yourself get carried away by the magic of Christmas, even if you didn’t plan on it. You’ll spend your time and energy on social cau­ses that are important to you and you’ll spread cheer to people who need it most.

Going back to school may be just what you need to advance your career. You’ll be presented with an opportunity that can make you a lot of money, which will make your fi­nancial situation easier.

CAPRICORN

SCORPIO

AQUARIUS

SAGITTARIUS

PISCES

Re-evaluate who you keep in your circle of friends, and concentrate on your partner and family. Don’t waste your time on people who drain your energy or create drama in your life.

Just as they do every year, the people closest to you will expect you to plan all the holiday celebrations. Don’t be afraid to delegate tasks to other people and give yourself a break.

The psychiatrist said, "Well, have you tried taking the spoon out?"

New Life Rule: Coffee is the most important meal of the day

At this time of year, you may find yourself being spread too thin financially. Prioritize your spending this week. You may have to choose between Christmas gifts, social events or a family vacation.

You’ll want more this week. You’re craving adventure and new experiences, so you’ll start thinking about a trip to the tropics. You may even start to look into opportunities for working abroad.

FUN WINTER DESTINATIONS If your yard is too small or if there isn’t enough snow to carry out your hill-building project (or if you just don’t feel like going to the trouble), don’t fret. Just head to a nearby ski resort or hilly park to get your family’s sledding fix.

Q: What’s it called when you steal someone’s coffee?

A: Mugging!

A man went to his psychiatrist and said, "Every time I drink my coffee, I get a stabbing pain in my right eye,"

You’ll start to wrap your Christmas gifts. Take the time to infuse a little bit of magic to spoil your loved ones and children. You’ll impress a lot of people this year.

A special project will make you the centre of attention this week. Maybe you’re planning a spontaneous trip for your family or a big event to celebrate the holidays.

You’ll receive many invitations from friends for different activities, but you’ll feel like staying home. At the last minute you’ll change your mind and you’ll be happy you did.

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Peace United Church,

Plattsville Church

Join us every Sunday at 10:00 am www.peaceunited.ca

Plattsville Church meets every Sunday from 10am11:15am. www.plattsville.church

20 Samuel Street, Plattsville

19 Albert St E, Plattsville, ON

December 2nd is White Gift Sunday

Gifts of new clothing for all ages and toys for children will be given to Operation Sharing/The Christmas Place.

Help make every childs Christmas special this year.

Facebook: The Christmas Place (Operation Sharing), for more information.

Don't miss the December 16th service! The Junior Peace Players will be presenting a wonderful Christmas skit.

CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT SERVICE

You are invited to attend Plattsville Church for an evening of music, readings and reflection on December 24th at 6:30pm.

All ages welcome!

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES Dec. 24th at Peace United:

A family friendly service at 4 pm 7 pm service with Holy Communion celebrated

Zion United Church

215 Peel Street, New Hamburg Join us every Sunday at 9:30am www.zionnewhamburg.ca

Dickens: A Christmas Carol on December 13th at 7:00 pm

An evening of story and song in the spirit of Christmas, followed by refreshments.

Sanctuary at Zion United Church 215 Peel ST New Hamburg

CHRISTMAS TURKEY DRIVE

We are launching our first annual turkey drive for our church family and the community of Plattsville!

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE

If you know someone who could benefit from the blessing of a turkey dinner for their family this season, you can anonymously nominate them by visiting pemchurch.ca.

Join our Youth Group! Our Youth Group meets every other Friday from 7 - 9:30 p.m.

We will be accepting donations of frozen turkeys on Saturday, December 8th from 9am-12pm at the church, and the deacons will put together the fixings for a full turkey dinner and deliver it to each family that is selected.

December 24th at 7:00 pm Sanctuary at Zion United Church, 215 Peel St, New Hamburg

in the Fellowship Hall. All are welcome! Become a member of Zion United Youth Group's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/117804991656247/

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S m a l l To w n L i f e / T h e P l a t t s v i l l e Po s t

WEDNESDAY NIGHT YOUTH All youth in grades 6-12 are welcome to come to Plattsville Church at 7pm every Wednesday for games, snacks and fun!

Bring a friend or make a friend!

What a fun way to bless a family this Christmas season!

**All nominations and recipients will remain anonymous.

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December Drop in centre for youth FREE program This program offers a place for youth to come play games for 2 hours from 6:30 pm till 8:30 pm.

There is also a place where the youth can go get help with home work from 6:30pm till 8:30pm.

This program runs at the Blenheim AND Plattsville Public Schools: Blenheim Public School Dec. 5 - 6:30pm - 8:30pm *Youth can come get there picture with Santa, and also the Drumbo Fire department will be there with special actives to do.

Plattsville Public School Dec. 12 - 6:30pm - 8:30pm *Come get your Picture with Santa and tell him what you would like for Christmas.

Public skating at the Plattsville Arena all FREE

Council meeting at the Township office in Drumbo 47 Wilmot St: • • •

Dec 5, 2018 at 4pm Inaugural council meeting Dec 12, 2018 at 4pm Special meeting Capital Budget Dec 19, 2018 at 4pm Regular Council meeting

Reminder: To assist with snow removal operations, parking is restricted on all Township maintained streets in the urban centres of Bright, Drumbo, Plattsville and Princeton during the winter season.

Parking is restricted on these streets from 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., Monday through Friday from November 1st to March 31st.

Vehicles not respecting these rules will be ticketed.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: We are looking for a part time cleaner for the Princeton Hall call 519-684-7482 if interested.

Looking to book the Plattsville Arena, Lions Hall, or any of the park facilities for 2019?

Call 519-684-7482 for more info.

Princeton Museum Volunteer Project: Volunteers at the Princeton Museum are complying information about Princeton’s history for the new information boards to be professionally printed for permanent display.

Do you have forgotten artifacts, calendars with logos, old deeds or other documents that you can share? All items will be returned after scanning or photographed. Email at princetonmuseum@ocl.net or call 519-458-8392.

Thanks to these Public Skate Sponsors: Future Waste Management, Pettigrews Garage, Tree Baer Lawn Care, Parion • • • •

Plattsville & District Lions Den Blog

Dec. 8 4:30pm - 5:20pm Dec. 15, 4:30pm - 5:20pm Dec. 22, 4:30pm - 5:20pm Dec. 29, 4:30pm - 5:20pm

Plattsville & District Lions Club President Leo Chair for A15

If you are interested in sponsoring the public skate phone 519-684-7482

FREE Skating • • • •

Wed Dec 4, 11am-12pm • Thur Dec 5, 11am-12pm • WedDec 11, 11am-12pm Thur Dec 12 11am-12pm

The beautification project that the Plattsville Lions are currently coordinating are “Light Up Plattsville” It is a program to install beautiful wreaths and lights all down main street for the winter months. Another community project is “Plattsville Truly Canadian” a program to install Canadian Flags all down main street for the summer months.

Wed Dec 18, 11am-12pm Thurs Dec 19 11am-12pm

We offer Euchre games every other Monday night at the Peace United Church, support the Drop in Centre for the youth in our community every other Wednesday at the Plattsville District Public School, Santa Claus Parade, Annual Ladies Night Out, Family Day free skate & chili-hotdog day, and the newest event that occurred this past summer was the Family Fun Day. This event was designed to bring not only families together but also joining communities together. We would love to do more but new members are needed to do and offer more so therefore we are on a membership drive for the next year to recruit enough new members so we can progress with new and dynamic plans for the future.

Extra Sponsored Christmas Skates: • Dec 24, 11am-12 pm Tree Baer Lawn Care • Dec 27, 3:30 -5 pm North Blenheim Mutual • Jan 2, 3pm-4 pm Pettigrews Garage • Jan 4 12-130 Erine Hardeman Pick-up hockey Fridays Plattsville Arena at 3 pm-4 pm, $10/ player EarlyON Child and Family Centres provide opportunities for children from birth to 6 years of age to participate in play and inquiry-based programs, and support parents and caregivers in their roles. These centres will offer safe and welcoming environments open to all families, with qualified professionals and quality programs. Families and caregivers will be able to find support, advice, make personal connections and access a network of resources.

This program is held at the Plattsville Lions Hall Thursday at 9 am.

20 / 

Lions Club International is the largest service club in the world. They assist hundreds of thousands of people every year. It takes many volunteers who care about others to accomplish this. Although the Plattsville and District Lions Club are committed to supporting the causes that Lions International support, we are equally committed to our community and its residents.

S m a l l To w n L i f e / T h e P l a t t s v i l l e Po s t

Consider joining the Plattsville and District Lions who meet the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at the Plattsville Lions Den above the arena. Joining allows you to: * Help your friends and neighbors * Meet new people * Pursue some new ideas you may bring to the club * Just give back to the community “Give Lions a Try” Please feel free to contact me to learn more and explore this opportunity. leo@a15lions.org.

Thanks Phil Bourdeau,President Plattsville Lions SUBSCRIBE: www.smalltownlife.ca

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Mindfully accepting the cold Canadian Weather I remember when I was young I used to spend hours outside in the cold on the farm. I had a huge outdoor skating rink, and I used to make snowmen, forts, and play with the animals.

Now? Well… not so much. So I am on a mindful mission!

My mindful mission is this: I’m going to try my absolute best to IN-Joy the colder weather and Winter this year. Part of being mindful means paying attention and accepting “what is”. So what actually IS? I’ve broken up with Winter so many times I can’t keep track.

I really don’t feel as though I am a true bona-fide Canadian girl. I can only attribute this to the fact that I was choosing fashion over warmth. Image over comfort, and I wasn’t truly embracing our weather here in Canada. Or maybe it’s just getting colder and colder and I can’t cope! Can you relate?

So here’s my checklist of how I will be mindfully in-joy-ing this colder freezing cold weather. (begrudgingly, I might add) What I plan on doing is this: - Greeting each day with gratitude no matter how dark, cold or snowy it looks.

- Finding gratitude in windshield scraping. Breathing (under a scarf) and feeling blessed that I have a car.

- Going to bed with seven layers and the furnace on 80 (just kidding) But maybe not really!

- Sticking to my daily meditation and yoga plan – to increase and keep blood flow and circulation, as well as a strong, healthy mind and present-moment-awareness.

- Weekly baths (not just once a week, but in addition to my daily bathing schedule just sayin’!) with Epsom or Himalayan salts and essential oils to warm up, and feel great.

- I am going to pick me up THE biggest, warmest boots I have ever laid my eyes upon. Even if I can not walk in them – I will be warm, darnn it!

- I am going to stock up on sweaters and check the stockpile in my closet to be sure and certain I have a reserve of warm clothes to draw upon.

22 / 

By Stephanie Van De Ven

- I am going to find the beauty in nature, the gorgeous sparkle that only a fresh snow can bring with the flirt of sunshine in the sky.

- I am going to make sure that my toque and mittens are not only perfectly matching, BUT warm as heck!

- I am going to skate as often as I can, getting exercise while doing something I have always loved.

- I am going to go out there. Yes, out THERE in the cold weather, and walk. I will walk even when my heart and frozen fingertips say NO! - I am going to try and not complain, stay positive, and keep the negative thoughts and words out. It won’t serve me, (or others) and I can’t control the weather anyway. I could go to Arizona. (I really love it there) but that would defeat the purpose of this entire article!

- Lastly, I will reward myself every pay cheque with something small, to indicate that I have successfully made it through another cold week of trying to embrace the colder Canadian weather. Whether it’s a treat from one of our local businesses, or a get together with friends, yoga class, retreats, delicious hot chocolates, maybe a gift card somewhere, or an afternoon out – just to treat me. A little self-care goes a long, long way! Why don’t you try that too?

BUT – if none of the above proves to be a win, I am going to accept my world, the present moment, and all that it brings me with an open heart and open mind – and a whole lot of warm layers from the comfort of my couch, in front of the fireplace, with a good book and a hot cup of tea. Hmmm… doesn’t sound so bad now does it?

It's the most 'delicious' time of the year!

Submitted by Heather Kring

I thought long a hard about what I wanted to share with you this month. Holiday recipes are hard to write because there are so many different treats and tastes. Should I write about something old, something new, a secret family shortbread recipe?

Everyone has their own favourite holiday baking and distinct traditions around what to serve and what spices to use and there is no messing with it. My job at family dinner has been appetizers but there are only so many cheeseballs and pullapart breads that you can look at so I wanted to share something that I wait for - made by someone else whose job it is to bring the vegetables to our table. It’s what I wait for, the sweet treat that takes any veggie hater happy.

Baked Brussels and Butternut Squash

Ingredients: 3 cups brussel sprouts, cleaned and chopped 3 tbsp olive oil 1 pinch of salt 1 butternut squash, cleaned and cubed 2 tbsp olive oil ½ tsp cinnamon Optional Ingredients: 2 cups pecans 1 cup dried cranberries 1 tbsp butter 2 cups cooked quinoa 2 tbsp brown sugar 2-4 tsp maple syrup Directions: Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease two foil-lined baking sheets with olive oil.

Combine brussel sprouts, olive oil and salt in a bowl then lay flat on one baking sheet.

Combine butternut squash, olive oil and cinnamon in bowl then lay flat on other baking sheet.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning one half-way through. Vegetables should be softened and browned when cooked.

Warm pecans, butter and brown sugar to a frying pan. Cook on medium heat for 2-3 minutes stirring constantly until boiling and thickened (caramelized).

Mix roasted sprouts, squash, pecans and other optional ingredients in a bowl (I like both quinoa and cranberries in mine!).

Add 2-4 tsp of maple syrup to taste.

So how will you embrace this colder weather and Winter? I’d love to see your tips, tricks and ways to stay warm and cozy mindfully.

In-Joy, Stephanie Van De Ven The Mindful Mama www.themindfulmama.ca E: asktrustgrow@gmail.com Steph is The Mindful Mama! She is a certified Calming Kids Yoga Instructor, certified Master Mindfulness Practitioner, certified Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Practitioner, and Primordial Sound Meditation Certified. Steph is also a Mom to a now handsome and amazing 10 year old boy. She is the author of The Hay House published book: “The Birdy Book Series - Positive Affirmations for Kids & Their adults.” A regular guest on Rogers TV, CTV, CKCO, 570 News, speaker, and mindfulness coach - she’s working hard to bring mindfulness across North America. The Mindful Mama is a Hay House official affiliate, zen-jewelry creator, horse-riding enthusiast and loves yoga.

S m a l l To w n L i f e / T h e P l a t t s v i l l e Po s t

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Financial Advice

Humpty Dumpty's sister was asked what Humpty had been up to lately.

She said he’d been successful in cleaning up the leaves and preparing the property for winter. She also relayed that he had won several prizes at the local fair.

"I think it is safe to say…"she summarized, "Humpty Dumpty had a great fall!"

Written by Cousin Mark Stevens

with Melissa Gardiner of Pixel Financial

Holiday Fun - without breaking the bank!

The holidays – it’s a time for festive decorations, delicious indulgences and happy get-togethers. But despite all the joyous tidings surrounding this special time of the year, the holidays can be stressful – especially when you consider the financial costs associated with entertaining and gift-giving.

If you’re planning to play host this holiday season or are worried about having enough money to buy gifts for your loved ones, here are some ideas that can help you keep your finances – and sanity – in check.

Budget and plan Budgeting is a no-brainer but it can be easy to overlook amidst the holiday season excitement. Here are some tips: • Limit your guest list to 10 to 12 people. This will help you control the cost as well as the arrangements.

• Come up with a theme for your party. Sticking to the theme will allow you to plan better and stay within budget.

• Write down the total amount you want to spend on gifts and make a list of people you’ll be buying for. This will give you a realistic idea of how much you can spend on each person, and prevent any costly surprises when the bills start to arrive.

• Give yourself time to look for sales and do comparison shopping. By doing so, you can buy items of your choice in advance and don’t have to compromise to simply fit your budget.

• Consider putting a cap on the spending limit for family members. When buying for a couple, get a shared gift that would appeal to both partners. Providing gifts for children only under certain ages is another option that can shorten your shopping list.

Get creative and practical The dazzle of retail items and advertisements can trick us into spending more, but a little creativity can go a long way to help check this urge. Here’s how: • Decorating doesn’t have to be expensive to be appealing.

Use items around your house or yard to decorate. Light tea lights and put them in glasses or on plates. Use evergreen branches and pine cones to decorate jars and create your own wreathes.

• Make your dinner a potluck party. Request that guests bring their choice of food or desserts. Not only will that allow you to save, but it will also give your guests a wide 24 / 

variety of dishes to sample.

• Make your own gift baskets. Combine bargains to create exciting themes.

• Reuse and recycle ornaments for an ornament exchange with your friends.

• Give your child a registered education savings plan (RESP) or a practical lesson in personal finance as a gift this holiday season. Purchasing activities for children, such as swimming lessons, rather than items is a good idea if you’re stumped on gift ideas.

Share your time and talents As much as material gifts are a vital part of the holiday season, your time and special talents can prove even more precious. A few ideas:

***** Doug Ford always wished he was taller. He accepted a request to be Santa’s Helper at the mall, but only on the condition that the big man in red remained seated at all times… thus invoking the ‘notwithstanding Claus’. ***** Ned wasn’t crazy about their daughter’s boyfriend, “… and apparently the cheeky little so-and-so thinks he’s bringing HIS sound system to OUR family Christmas party!!!”

MaryLou liked the boy, “… Oh, a couple of guest speakers will do us no harm.”

CROSSWORD

• Organize a brunch or a homemade pizza party where the focus isn’t so much on food as on having a good time.

• Teach your child the importance of giving by choosing a cause that means something to them to donate to. Help them decide how much to give and encourage them to deliver the donation.

• The best gifts are thoughtful, not extravagant. It can be as simple as a scenic drive or watching a movie together.

• Use your talent or skill to create inexpensive but priceless gifts. You can cook or bake delicacies, knit or sew items or make crafts or jewelry. You can even impart lessons using your talents in areas like music, arts or sports.

• Offer the gift of time and companionship, especially to those who might need it, like the elderly. Helping out with their shopping, laundry or cooking, or just spending time listening to them might be the best gift you could give.

In the end, keeping things simple can help you get the most out of the holiday experience. The spirit of the season is about celebrating and being thankful – it doesn’t have to be about breaking the bank. An open discussion with your financial security advisor can help you make wise budgetary decisions this holiday season.

The information provided is based on current laws, regulations and other rules applicable to Canadian residents. It is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the date of publication. Rules and their interpretation may change, affecting the accuracy of the information. The information provided is general in nature, and should not be relied upon as a substitute for advice in any specific situation.

For specific situations, advice should be obtained from the appropriate legal, accounting, tax or other professional advisors.

Melissa Gardiner, Hon. B.A., MBA Financial Security Advisor Email melissa@pixelfinancial.ca Web: pixelfinancial.ca Phone (519) 574-6151 S m a l l To w n L i f e / T h e P l a t t s v i l l e Po s t

Copyright © 2018, Penny Press

ACROSS 1. Lessens 5. Grasp 9. What bit Cleopatra 12. Part of speech 13. ____ and void 14. Animal’s coat 15. Tale 16. Qualified 17. Boston ____ Party 18. Use an oar 20. Down-and-out 22. Burn with liquid 25. Gapes 26. Hem’s partner 27. Postpones 30. Additions to

houses 60. Colors 32. Ship’s 61. Observer register 33. Measuring DOWN device 1. Printers’ con37. Reply cerns 40. Cooking 2. Tropical utensil constrictor 41. Broad street 3. Pester 44. Give way 4. Growl 46. Makeup item 5. Chew 47. Miles ____ hour 6. Polish 48. Stocking tip 7. Off one’s feed 49. Small, 8. Scads medium, 9. Later or large 10. “Blue ____ 52. Woe is me!

Shoes” 56. Stately tree 11. Appeals 57. On an ____ keel 19. Bizarre 58. Hired vehicle 21. Middle or Far 59. Beam

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Riddle Fun!

22. This girl 23. Coolidge’s nickname 24. Leatherworker’s implement 25. Wise man 28. Word in a threat 29. Tide or key 31. Sensible 34. Copy 35. Friend 36. Call it quits 38. Helped 39. Deli loaf 41. Transform 42. String instrument 43. Opponent 45. Wrathful 47. Corrals 50. Clinging vine 51. Last letter 53. Put 54. Wood-chopping tool 55. Lancelot’s title

Riddle Scramble Unscramble the following words to solve the riddle.

K A I G N B

N I E R W T

Y I D A O H L

R A E T T S

S S U H L

L E D S Using the shaded boxes above unscramble the answer to the following riddle: I am a ball but I never bounce. What am I?

ANSWERS ON PAGE 27

ANSWERS ON PAGE 27

Q:

What word looks the same backwards and upside down?

A:swims

Practical steps for managing holiday finances

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THE PLATTSVILLE & DISTRICT HERITAGE SOCIETY THE PLATTSVILLE & DISTRICT HERITAGE SOCIETY wishes to firstly thank all that were able to come and join us for the REMEMBRANCE DAY SERVICE at the CHESTERFIELD CENOTAPH in November - we were blessed with sunshine and a reasonable temperature in order to have our ceremony outside. It was a memorable impressive service to celebrate one hundred years since the ending of WORLD WAR I. Wreaths were laid to honour the fallen from all wars. Following the service refreshments were served in the archives with a most interesting display of calendars from the district; hockey jackets & pictures through the years; memorabilia and picture scrapbooks of heroes; and pictures from wars through time.

Thank you to the ARCHIVE COMMITTEE for the research and time spent to showcase these stories and artifacts.

As you receive your December issue of THE PLATTSVILLE POST the HERITAGE SOCIETY will have already enjoyed their annual Christmas meeting with the first turkey dinner of the season by most members served by Chef FRANK and his staff at SHAKERS--yum! We will have participated at the BRIGHT and PLATTSVILLE Santa Claus parades and checked out all the little smiling delightful faces along the route and our preparations will have begun for next year's display themed “Celebrating the 50's & 60's"--further details will follow in the January issue.

Trees at the Open the Door to Christmas 2018

spruce and fir trees, ancient peoples hung evergreen boughs over their doors and windows. In many countries it was believed the evergreens would keep away witches, ghosts, evil spirits, and illness. It was a First Nations custom to decorate their homes with the grand fir and red cedar boughs because of their delightful smell and several medicinal properties.

Germany is credited with starting the Christmas tree tradition as we now know it. In the 16th century devout Christians brought decorated trees into their homes.

Some built Christmas pyramids of wood and decorated them with evergreens and candles if wood was scarce. It is a widely held belief that Martin Luther, the 16th-century Protestant reformer, first added lighted candles to a tree. Walking toward his home one winter evening, composing a sermon, he was awed by the brilliance of stars twinkling amidst evergreens. To recapture the scene for his family, he erected a tree in the main room and wired its branches with lighted candles.

Most 19th-century Americans found Christmas trees an oddity. The first record of one being on display was in the 1830's by the German settlers of PENNSYLVANIA, although trees had been a tradition in many German homes much earlier. The Pennsylvania German settlements had community trees as early as 1747. But, as late as the 1840's Christmas trees were seen as pagan symbols and not accepted by most Americans.

To the New England Puritans, Christmas was sacred. They preached against "the heathen traditions" of Christmas carols, decorated trees, and any joyful expression that desecrated "the sacred event". In 1659 there was a law enacted making any observance of December 25 (other than a church service) a penal offense and people were fined for hanging decorations. That stern solemnity continued until the 19th century, when the influx of German and Irish immigrants undermined the Puritan legacy.

This year it seems HERITAGE SOCIETY members have lived Christmas all year round with our theme this summer--the decorations set up for you, the audience, and then back home and hardly making it to the shelf and then back on display in our homes.

History says that long before the advent of Christianity, plants and trees that remained green all year had a special meaning for people in the winter. Just as people today decorate their homes during the festive season with pine, 26 / 

The first German settlers migrated to Canada from the United States in 1700s. They brought with them many of things associated with Christmas we cherish today--Advent calendars, gingerbread houses, cookies--and Christmas trees. In 1846, the popular royals, QUEEN VICTORIA and her German Prince, ALBERT, were sketched in the illustrated LONDON NEWS standing with their children around a Christmas tree. Unlike the previous royal family, Victoria was very popular with her subjects, and what was done at court immediately became fashionable--not only in Britain, but abroad. The CHRISTMAS TREE had arrived.

S m a l l To w n L i f e / T h e P l a t t s v i l l e Po s t

Today trees of many descriptions are in our homes. Many still enjoy a real tree and there are farms which grow these trees for market every year it generally takes six to eight years for one tree to mature and when brought into your home they need plenty of water so the needles don't drop. They only last a short time because the needles dry and they become a fire hazPictured Above: CAROL'S ard. This was the kind of tree FIRST CHRISTMAS TREE, in our home until the 1960s.

1944 - Yes it was assembled Presently some families have outside for a box camera a tradition to go and cut down picture their own tree at one of these farms. The first aluminum or tinsel artificial tree had long branches from the main stem and was easily assembled for use - it stood proudly for both my children's first Christmas Santa visits and I was happily surprised how much he left under the tree for them. During the 70's we had our first tree of brush bristles and it looked so real, did not need water and could be put together and enjoyed from the first snowfall right thru until the middle of January. There is so much warmth from the glow of a Christmas tree and now in my home there are more than one of these decorated trees standing proudly welcoming the season.

My favorite Christmas song is "I'LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS" and it seems that no matter how far one goes in life that home is always where your childhood memories are - to a little farm on the outskirts of town - a tree in the parlor for four munchkins who could hardly close their eyes on Christmas eve and woke before dawn on Christmas day - the biggest stocking from our drawer so that Santa could fill it with nuts, hard rock candy and a orange - turkey dinner with trimmings and some of MOM'S homemade rolls served warm to the table - Sunday School concerts, Santa and another paper bag of candy - playing the organ chimes over the loud speaker to the town every evening from the church in December. A very magical time to remember.

The HERITAGE SOCIETY wishes you a MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR and all the best of the festive season - may each of you enjoy your family traditions; the tree so welcoming and glowing; the cookies so beautifully baked and decorated; the turkey and trimmings served by loving hands; the Christmas carols and music from your church and radio; and most of all good health and happiness.

Carol Coombs

Treasurer for the Society

According to a news story, if global warming continues, in 20 years the only chance we'll have to see a polar bear is in a zoo.

So in other words, nothing is going to change.

When I overheard one of my cashiers tell a customer, "We haven't had it for a while, and I doubt we'll be getting it soon," I quickly assured the customer that we would have whatever it was she wanted by next week.

After she left, I read the cashier the riot act.

"Never tell the customer that we're out of anything. Tell them we'll have it next week," I instructed her. "Now, what did she want?"

"Rain."

ANSWER KEY: BAKING WINTER HOLIDAY TREATS SLUSH SLED

Riddle: I am a ball but I never bounce. What am I? A SNOWBALL

UPCOMING: Annual Meeting for THE PLATTSVILLE & DISTRIST HERITAGE SOCIETY on January 28, 2019 at 7:30 P.M. at SHAKERS DENISE TEW, President Email:denise.tew@hotmail.com or call 519-684-7225 SUBSCRIBE: www.smalltownlife.ca

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