Holiday Gift Guide 2018, Tryon Newsmedia, Tryon Daily Bulletin, Life in Our Foothills

HOLIDAY GIFTGIFT GUIDE 20182018 HOLIDAY GUIDE

H O L I DAY G I F T

Guide

LIFE IN OUR FOOTHILLS

TIPS FOR MANAGING THE HOLIDAYS

RECIPES TO SHARE WITH THE FAMILY

HOT GIFT IDEAS

DECEMBER DECEMBER 2018 2018

A product of

LIFE IN OUR 1 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

FOOTHILLS

2 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

Caitlyn

CELEBRATE

Farms

YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY

at Caitlyn Farms

Caitlyn Farms Event Center’s stunning location in the foothills of North Carolina is an idyllic setting for an indoor or outdoor holiday party!

Our beautiful barn, covered patio and large pavillion offer many options for your guests all year round while they sit by our gorgeous new firepit and watch the sun set over Historic White Oak Mountain.

We look forward to helping you kick-off the holiday season and ring in the new year!

CAITLYN FARMS

286 A.R. Thompson Rd. Mill Spring, NC, 28756

info@caitlynfarms.com www.caitlynfarms.com

Find us on:

White OakVillage-Tryon Retirement Community

70 Oak Street, Tryon, NC (828)859-5871 www.whiteoakmanor.com

independent living apartments

assisted living

skilled nursing

our agents are ready to

Share The Love

Our agency consists of agents who either grew up in the area and elected to stay here or agents who grew up somewhere else and selected to move here. Whether by election or selection, it is their love for this area that makes our agents excited about helping buyers or sellers experience that same feeling.

KATHY TOOMEY BROKER/OWNER

285 N. Trade St. • Tryon 828-817-0942 Kathy@KathyToomey.com

NewViewRealtyLLC.com

Experienced agents licensed in both NC & SC • Members of Carolina MLS & Greenville MLS Active members of the community & sponsors of Tryon Beer Fest, Tryon International Film Festival, Carolina Foothills 4 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills Chamber of Commerce, Summer Tracks, Tryon Little Theater, Foothills Humane Society and Tryon Fine Arts Center

H O L I DAY G I F T

W

hether you’re a 4 a.m. Black Friday shopper, a last-minute-Lucy running to stores on Christmas Eve or one who paces out the shopping over the season (who are you? I want to know your secrets!), this Holiday Gift Guide features all local Foothills stores with gifts to suit any taste.

Speaking of taste, we have also included fantastic recipes for your holiday meal. You’ll find information on holiday traditions, decorations and more.

We hope this season is one of fun and magic, friends and family, peace and joy. From the Life in Our Foothills family to yours, may the blessings of the season be with you and your family.

STAFF

Kevin Powell GENERAL MANAGER

Ted Yoakum MANAGING EDITOR

Heather Holbert

Guide

8

Holiday Events

10

Holiday Parades

12

Holiday Gift Ideas

24

Holiday Tips

38

Holiday Recipes

64

Advertiser Index

HOW TO REACH US

Magan Etheridge Trish Boyter MARKETING

Gwen Ring

Jeff Allison Jamie Lewis Alex Greene DISTRIBUTION

PRODUCTION

ADMINISTRATION

6 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

Main number, classifieds and subscriptions: 828-859-9151. FAX: 828-859-5575. e-mail: news@tryondailybulletin.com. Founded Jan. 31, 1928 by Seth M. Vining.

(Consolidated with the Polk County News 1955) Holiday Gift Guide is published annually by Tryon Newsmedia LLC at 16 N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782-6656.

Periodicals postage paid at Tryon, North Carolina 28782. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Tryon Newsmedia LLC., 16 N Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782-6656.

H O L I DAY G I F T

Guide

E V E NT S

Dec. 1

Tuba Christmas 1:30 p.m.

Polk County High School 1681 Highway 108, Columbus

Dec. 6

Landrum Christmas Parade 6 p.m.

Downtown Landrum

Dec. 7

Tryon Christmas Stroll Time TBD Downtown Tryon

8 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

Dec. 8

40th Anniversary Gala and Exhibition Time TBD Upstairs Artspace 49 S. Trade St., Tryon

Dec. 9

Community Chorus Christmas Concert 3 p.m.

Polk County High School 1681 Highway 108, Columbus

Dec. 9

Family Concert with Blissing Trio 4 p.m.

Foothills Equestrian Nature Center 3381 Hunting Country Road, Tryon

Dec. 12

Tryon Christmas Parade 6 p.m.

Downtown Tryon

Dec. 14

Hometown Christmas - Open House and Music Time TBD Downtown Saluda

Dec. 30

Jamie Laval’s Celtic Christmas 7 p.m.

Tryon Fine Arts Center 34 Melrose Ave., Tryon

H O L I DAY G I F T

Guide

PA R A D E S

Area towns will be celebrating the holidays with Christmas parades this month.

The towns of Columbus and Tryon and city of Landrum all host Christmas parades, filled with area floats and displays making their way through the decorated downtowns.

The parades are all hosted downtown with the community invited to attend to see the various fire trucks, church floats, veterans, marching bands, organizations that decorate for the holidays and of course, Santa Claus.

COLUMBUS PARADE Saturday, Dec. 1, 4 p.m.

Kicking off the season in the Foothills area is the Columbus Parade, organized by the Columbus Fire Department, and covering ground from the Food Lion plaza to Mills Street downtown. Santa will be on one of the fire trucks, and you’ll also see floats from churches, civic organizations and schools. You might even catch a glimpse of some superheroes!

LANDRUM PARADE Thursday, Dec. 6, 6 p.m.

Dignitaries include the parade’s grand marshal, who is the Lions Club’s Citizen of the Year, local elected officials and, of course, Santa. The route begins on North Trade Avenue between the Depot and the fire station, continues down North Trade Avenue, turning left on East Rutherford and progressing to Redland Road, with a right turn at O.P. Earle Elementary School. The parade ends at Landrum Middle School. The Christmas Stroll begins after the parade passes, with shops open until 8 p.m.

10 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

Both Landrum and Tryon hold their parades at night with the downtowns lit up for the holidays. Columbus’ parade is during the day, always on the first Saturday of the month.

Saluda does not have a Christmas parade, but does have a Hometown Christmas event. Tryon and Landrum also have Christmas Strolls.

For more information about the parades or how to enter, contact the town or city hall.

TRYON PARADE Wednesday, Dec. 12, 6 p.m.

Santa will make his third swing through the Foothills for Tryon’s Christmas Parade. Prepare for loud firetrucks with riders tossing candy, fun floats, carolers and more.

Shops and businesses in downtown Tryon also welcome you this holiday season with the annual Christmas Stroll on Friday, Dec. 7.

SALUDA HOMETOWN CHRISTMAS Friday, Dec. 14, 6-8 p.m.

Saluda’s businesses will host a community-wide open house and music on Main Street, Greenville Street, and across the bridge. Saluda shopkeepers will greet you for the holiday with refreshments and music.

“All I want for Christmas is a home.

I’m ready to go.”

989 Little Mountain Rd., Columbus, NC 828-863-4444 • foothillshumanesociety.org

Donations Make the Difference Until They All Have a Home © 2018 Foothills Humane Society Creative and photography donated by Verrecchio Marketing Communications

Literary gifts for Christmas: •Give a membership •Dedicate a book 72 Chestnut Street Tryon, NC 828-859-9535 thelanierlibrary.org

MORE THAN EXPECTED

© 2018 Lanier Library Creative and photography donated by Verrecchio Marketing Communications

H O L I DAY G I F T G I F T Guide I D E AS

Clever Ideas

FOR THE HARD TO PLEASE Struggling to find gifts for picky recipients can make anyone feel like a Grinch. Avoid the holiday shopping blues this season with this list of go-to gift ideas, all of which are available on such shopping sites as Amazon.

Whether shopping for an indecisive relative or your incredibly particular best friend, you can rest easy knowing you’re covered with presents that appeal to everyone.

TILE Perfect for those who can never find their car keys or constantly lose track of their phones, this Bluetooth tracker, paired with Tile’s intuitive app, makes it easy to find everything. Gift it to your niece to keep tabs on her favorite stuffed animal or to a friend who always forgets where she parked.

ME TO WE NEEMA NECKLACE The holidays are the season of giving, so consider selecting something that gives back to a bigger cause, like this necklace from ME to WE. Homemade by a woman in Kenya, your purchase gives healthcare access to a mother or child in the same community where the necklace is made, helping them live full, healthy lives.

INSTANT POT A smart choice for everyone from foodies to busy parents, this handy device does the work of nine common kitchen appliances and can prepare almost anything, from cake to rice to yogurt. Plus, it cooks up to 70 percent quicker than other devices, and its functions make mastering one-pot meals a breeze.

NESPRESSO CREATISTA PLUS A coffee lover’s dream, the Creatista Plus not only makes stellar coffee, but comes with a milk frother, too (a nonnegotiable for many java addicts). It brews everything from an espresso to a mocha cappuccino with the touch of a button.

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ARBOR PULLDOWN KITCHEN FAUCET WITH MOTIONSENSE WAVE Whether it’s for your friend who’s constantly baking delicious — but messy — brownies, or your tech-obsessed uncle, this Moen faucet is the ideal present. Its touchless activation allows users to easily turn water on and off with the wave of a hand, providing added convenience and some serious cool factor in the kitchen.

AMAZON ECHO For the techie who dreams of a connected smart home, the Amazon Echo is a perfect place to start. It can play music, make calls, set alarms and timers, start a digital shower and control smart home devices via voice command — just ask Alexa.

OSMO GENIUS KIT This award-winning game system aims to turn any 5- to 12-year-old into a genius. It transforms a tablet into a handson learning tool to foster social intelligence and creative thinking. Those kids spend so much time on their devices anyway, they may as well learn something!

For additional inspiration, visit amazon.com/shop/ GHTested.

Book Ideas

No matter who you’re shopping for this holiday season, books can make great gifts. Here are five engaging volumes to consider.

• “Writers: Their Lives and Works” features more than 100 biographies of the world’s greatest writers, from Shakespeare to Toni Morrison. Biographical entries trace the friendships, loves and rivalries that influenced each writer, while placing their works into historical context.

• From its origins at court and the first national ballet companies, to the contemporary scene and the extraordinary venues that stage productions, “Ballet: The Definitive Illustrated Story” provides an invaluable overview of the history of ballet.

• “Flora: Inside the Secret World of Plants” invites you to explore the plant kingdom from the ground up, and from root to leaf tip. This elegant introduction to botany from DK is packed with photos and illustrations explaining the mechanics of photosynthesis, why leaves change color, how cacti store water and how seeds know when to grow.

• For children who can’t get enough wildlife, consider “An Anthology of Intriguing Animals,” a compendium of the facts, stories and myths behind more than 200 of their favorite animals. Whether it’s how the koala got its name or which animal the ancient Egyptians thought rolled the sun across the sky, readers can learn fun facts while poring over photographs, including detailed close-ups.

• “Robot,” a book for kids, covers artificial intelligence throughout history, including automata created by Leonardo Da Vinci all the way through to modern-day androids. Discover cutting edge robotics, where science, technology, mechanical engineering and computing meet. Bright graphics and photography help readers learn how robots work, how they are made and how they help and hinder modern society.

‘18

NOV 22–JAN 2 ·• Annual Christmas Lighting Ceremony,

Ice Skating & Open House with Santa THANKSGIVING NIGHT, NOVEMBER 22RD

6-9 pm

·• Christmas Parade SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 25TH @ 3-5 pm ·• Live Nativity @ First Baptist Church SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8TH @ 7-8 pm ·• Friday Night Festivities–

Hayrides, Santa’s House, Ice Skating

NOVEMBER 3OTH, DECEMBER 7TH, 14TH, 21nd @ 6-9 pm ·• Saturday Night Festivities–

Carriage Rides, Santa’s House, Ice Skating DECEMBER 1ST, 8TH, 15TH, 22rd @ 5-8:30 pm

·• Sunday Afternoon Santa’s Paws–

Photos with your pets

DECEMBER 2ND, 9TH, 16TH @ 2-6 pm

FUNDED IN PART BY THE RUTHERFORD COUNTY TDA | VISITNCSMALLTOWNS.COM

H O L I DAY G I F T G I F T Guide I D E AS

Coffee and tea lovers Delight the coffee connoisseur and tea aficionado on your holiday gift list with this season’s newest array of on-trend coffee brewers, colorful stovetop teakettles and elegantly crafted infuser-style tea brewers. Here are a few favorite new offerings this fall.

BonJour® Wayfarer® Ceramic 8-Cup French Press ($49.99)

BonJour® MethodTM 8-Cup French Press with Lock & Toss Filter ($24.99)

Ayesha™ 8-Cup French Press ($49.99)

Rachael Ray™ Cityscapes™ Ceramic 5-Cup Pour Over Set ($49.99)

BonJour® Wayfarer® Ceramic 4-Cup Pour Over Set ($49.99)

Ayesha™ 2 Qt. Teakettle ($39.99)

14 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

G I F T I D E AS FOR

Fitness Fans

BLUETOOTH HEADPHONES: Bluetooth headphones connect wirelessly to most devices, and such headphones won’t get tangled up while running or hitting the elliptical at the gym.

REVERSIBLE YOGA MAT: Active yogis know just how much a stretch session can work up a sweat. Throw in an hour of hot yoga, and perspiration will certainly be flowing. When gifting yoga mats, throw in a yoga mat carrier as well.

FITNESS TRACKER: Active people often like to track their progress during a workout or to see just how much they’ve been moving during the day. Fitness trackers are ideal for this.

PERSONAL BLENDER: Diet plays a big role in fitness, and many fitness enthusiasts enjoy protein shakes and smoothies as part of their daily regimen.

SUSPENSION TRAINING KIT: Many workouts are based on counterbalancing body weight to drive up resistance. Suspension training utilizes a network of straps so athletes can put their body weight to use in a variety of exercises.

DUMBBELL SET: Weight training can boost metabolism and strengthen bones and muscles.

WORKOUT BAG: A durable duffel bag that can tote a change of clothes, towel, equipment and more to and from workouts is a gift any fitness enthusiast can enjoy.

H O L I DAY G I F T G I F T Guide I D E AS

Great Gifts FOR THE FAMILY

FOODIES Food-themed gifts make the perfect holiday present for food fanatics, and shoppers have an endless array of options to satisfy their favorite foodies’ appetites.

COOKING KIT: Ingredients and other essential elements of good meals were once taken for granted. But more and more foodies are now creating their own foods from scratch. Bacon fans may fall in love with a kit that helps them cure and smoke their own bacon, while those who love fresh, homemade bread may appreciate a bread-making kit that includes flour, a pan, some recipes and other items necessary to make the perfect homemade loaf of bread.

Cooking kit options are vast, so find a food your loved one can’t go without and purchase the appropriate kit.

GARDENING TOOLS: While the holiday season might not seem like the ideal time to buy your favorite foodie some gardening tools, such items make the perfect gift for your loved one who wants to grow his or her own fruits and vegetables. Locally grown produce has become increasingly popular among foodies focused on eco-conscious cooking practices, and it does not get much more local than home cooks’ own backyards.

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CUTLERY SET: Though it’s easy to overlook, cutlery goes a long way toward making home cooks’ jobs easier. The right cutlery set, which may include one or two chef’s knives, a vegetable knife, a santoku knife, a bread knife and other knives home cooks will appreciate, can make preparing a meal easier and more efficient than cooking without a set. High-end cutlery sets can cost several hundred dollars, but shoppers on more limited budgets can still find quality cutlery sets for less money.

FOOD GETAWAY: Many foodies love to travel so they can experience cuisines popular overseas or in different regions of the country. Men and women whose spouses love food can plan a food-themed getaway weekend to a locale that specializes in a type of food their significant others enjoy or have always wanted to try. For example, men and women who love lobster may enjoy a trip to Maine’s annual Lobster Festival, while those who can’t get enough barbecue may appreciate a trip to one of the country’s more notable barbecue spots, such as Memphis, Kansas City, North Carolina or Texas.

6

Gifts for ideas

HOME COOKS

ELECTRIC CORKSCREW: Nothing complements a good meal quite like an appropriately paired bottle of wine.

COOKBOOK: People who understand the joy of cooking often love to experiment in the kitchen. Choose a book that provides recipes from their favorite styles of cuisine, such as Italian or Indian food.

COOKWARE: Even the best cookware can only take so much usage, and chances are home cooks’ pantries can afford an upgrade or two.

ROLLING PIN: For the person who loves to bake, a rolling pin might make a better gift than non-cooks may appreciate.

COOKING CLASS: Cooking classes can make the ideal gift for novice home cooks who are just beginning to explore their love of cooking.

WINE AERATOR: Much like electric corkscrews can make opening bottles of wine much easier, wine aerators can help aerate red wine more quickly than decanters, which can take up to two hours to fully aerate wine.

H O L I DAY G I F T G I F T Guide I D E AS

Learn and grow

GREAT HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR KIDS

It’s time to think about stuffing stockings and fulfilling wish lists. But if you want your holiday gifts for kids to deliver fun long after the holidays, you may want to consider gifts that will help them learn and grow. Here are some great gift ideas to enrich kids’ lives in a number of ways.

BOOST CREATIVITY Art can inspire creativity, improve fine motor skills and even boost IQ. For beginners, art or crafting kits containing all the supplies they will need to create their own projects may be a great place to start.

Thinking bigger? Consider helping your gift recipient create an artist’s studio. A craft or art table, an easel and a project caddy make a great combination gift for kids.

SPARK IMAGINATION For toddlers, play time can be an extremely valuable opportunity to build skills and reach milestones — with the right toys at hand.

Maximize toddler fun with toys such as VTech’s Go! Go! Smart Wheels playsets, which spark imagination and deliver multisensory learning, teaching first words, letters and more.

The line-up includes the new Launch & Chase Police Tower, which lets kids serve and protect with Po the Police Car. They can launch Po from the dual launchers and chase the Getaway Car through the switch tracks, 18 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

trap doors, and road obstacles, promoting important motor skills. Po responds to SmartPoint locations throughout the playset with lights, sounds and music, encouraging first words and imaginative play.

Another option from the line-up is the Tow & Go Garage, letting kids explore along with Trent the Tow Truck as they exercise important motor skills with this multi-level interactive playset. They can give a friend a lift, go up the elevator to the repair platform, or race down the ramp and get a car wash while exploring SmartPoint locations.

Lastly, the interactive Go! Go! Smart Wheels Take Flight Airport playset strengthens fine motor skills as kids fuel up at the gas station, spin the weather vane and check bags at the luggage belt. They can also launch Aaron the Airplane to take off for flight, spin around the clouds and use the ramp to make a safe landing.

ENCOURAGE MOVEMENT Habits formed in childhood can set the precedent for a lifetime. View gift-giving as an opportunity to encourage kids to engage in healthy hobbies. Whether it’s a baseball glove and bat or a set of skates and protective gear, you can encourage kids to get active in a way that’s fun by outfitting them with all the equipment they need to play their favorite sports.

Build GIFT IDEAS THAT

SOCIAL SKILLS

FOR YOUNG CHILDREN, social-emotional development is one of the most valuable aspects of school readiness.

This holiday season, focus on toys and gifts for preschoolers that will build children’s empathy, communication skills and the ability to resolve conflicts and navigate challenges.

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-Diabetic and Orthotic Shoes -Diabetic and Compression Socks & Hose

Everybody LOVES a Smith’s Drugs Gift Card....The Perfect Gift for Any Occasion!

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EXPERIENTIAL GIFTS A petting zoo can be a great place for kids to learn about compassion. A puppet show may teach important lessons about making new friends or learning how to navigate challenges. The gift of an experience will be an exciting lifelong memory and a great opportunity for you to spend time together while kids hone important skills.

INTERACTIVE TOYS Those who want to help children learn important lessons might consider putting Zoonicorns at the top of their holiday gift lists. Fun and engaging animated music videos, game apps, books and online activities capture children’s imaginations while offering parents and children an opportunity to work through and overcome obstacles together.

Kids can watch inspiring music videos like “Yes, You Can!” on YouTube and play along with the soft and cuddly plush Zoonicorns, which are a combination of a unicorn and zebra. The new Wish Me Zoonicorns by Jay@ Play have four touch points where children may interact with them. When kids kiss the Zoonicorn on the nose the horn glows and kids can make a wish.

The animated videos stories focus on tools children can use to identify and solve problems for themselves through the comforting animal characters of the Zooniverse.

BOARD GAMES Playing age-appropriate card games and board games is a great way for kids to learn to follow rules, take turns, cooperate and be a good sport. Card games such as Uno and Go Fish make great stocking stuffers. As for board games, think classics like Candyland, checkers and Chutes and Ladders, or go for newer games designed specifically to familiarize kids with letters, shapes, numbers and colors.

The Gift Shop at Smith’s Drugs has a Fantastic Selection of: -Jewelry -Home Decor Products -Seasonal Decorations -Handbags

-Backpacks -Toys -Games -Fashion & Accessories

Rutherford County’s Exclusive KAVU Dealer

139 Main Street, Forest City, NC 28043 828-245-4591 • SmithsDrugsFC.com Mon.-Fri. 7:30am-7:00pm & Sat. 7:30am-4pm *Requires Prescription

H O L I DAY G I F T G I F T Guide I D E AS

Cool Tech Gifts GADGET & TECH GIFTS FOR STUDENTS

Gifting students with tech is a surefire way to help them with their educations. In a 2013 Harris Interactive poll, 86 percent of teachers thought it was important or absolutely essential to use edtech in the classroom. In addition, 96 percent of teachers felt edtech increased student engagement in learning. Today’s students are more tech-savvy than ever before, so hot gadgets figure to be coveted items this holiday season. Here’s what to add to holiday shopping lists.

E-READER: Digital e-readers enable students to carry an entire library of books in one small device. Full backpacks or small dorm rooms bogged down by piles of books are a thing of the past. E-readers have highlighting and notetaking features that can facilitate learning.

DIGITAL ASSISTANT: Digital assistants pack a lot of intelligence into their diminutive size. When paired with smart home devices, digital assistants can be used to turn on lights or small appliances, making them an asset in a bedroom or a dorm room.

SMART BULBS OR ALARM CLOCKS: The importance of lighting on mood and function has been well-documented.

Innovative LED bulbs and technology can simulate various times of day and even be used for mood lighting. Instead of waking up to a blaring alarm buzzer, students afraid of sleeping in can set special lighted clocks to gradually brighten, simulating the rising of the sun.

STREAMING MEDIA PLAYERS: Devices like Roku, Amazon Fire stick and Apple TV can broaden media horizons.

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These players are paired with viewing apps (some free; others requiring subscriptions) that can do everything from stream TV, movies and music, and offer connectivity to the internet. They’re a boon when setting up a functional student spot for hanging out.

EARBUDS: Students can never have enough quality earbuds for personal use or school study. Whether walking around campus listening to music, using a classroom chromebook or catching up on an audiobook, earbuds are a must-have for modern students.

DIGITAL TRACKING DEVICES: Students can keep tabs on prized possessions by using Bluetooth-enabled tracking devices, like TrackR. These plastic gadgets can be placed on or in items and paired with Android and iOS apps on smartphones. The user then locates the item through a locate network.

COMPUTER WORKSTATION: Even though handheld digital devices are functional and in demand, a student can always use a quality laptop or desktop computer for writing papers or doing research.

H O L I DAY G I F T G I F T Guide I D E AS

Teacher Gifts Few opportunities to thank teachers for all of the

hard work they do present themselves during the course of a typical school year. But a thoughtful holiday gift is one way that students and parents can show their appreciation for a teacher’s efforts.

It’s customary for students to offer teachers small tokens of their affection, whether it’s during the holiday season, at the end of the school year or both. The following gift ideas are essentially universal in their appeal, making them great gifts for the special educator in your life.

HANDWRITTEN NOTES FROM STUDENTS: Rather than trinkets that proclaim “World’s Best Teacher,” students can write their own sentiments about their teachers and present it with a gift card or another gift that doesn’t take up much space. A heartfelt note of appreciation and gratitude can be all it takes to put a smile on a teacher’s face this holiday season.

FOOD: Food can be enjoyed in and around the season.

Avoid making items yourself, as some people are particular about eating foods that were cooked in someone else’s kitchen. Stick to pre-packaged food baskets, or even treat the teacher to a meal with a gift card to a restaurant.

SOMETHING SCHOLARLY: A gift that provides a teacher with some intellectual stimulation might just do the trick this holiday season. For example, a set of safety goggles or a kit for doing in-class experiments might work well for a science teacher, while a biography or a best-selling novel may fit the bill for English teachers.

22 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

GIFT CARDS: Very often, all of the students in a class donate a small amount toward a gift card. Consider a card that is redeemable at a nearby store or a generic cash card the teacher can use anywhere credit and debit cards are accepted.

CLASSROOM SUPPLIES: Budget constraints have forced many teachers to supplement classroom materials out of their own pockets. So a gift of school supplies or a gift certificate to an office-supply store or teacher-supply center may be greatly appreciated.

CATERED LUNCH: Consult with the school principal to set aside a day when teachers can enjoy a catered lunch provided by the students. Each class parent can collect funds, which can then be pooled to host a lunch for the teachers.

When gifting teachers, there are some gifts to avoid.

TRINKETS AND MUGS: Through the years a seasoned teacher has likely collected a fair share of trinkets and coffee mugs. Chances are he or she does not need another one.

PERFUME AND LOTION: Avoid scented lotions, perfumes and other cosmetic products, as such items are more personal.

OVERLY EXPENSIVE GIFTS: Do not give a gift that is beyond the standard range of others in the classroom, which usually falls between $10 and $20. It could appear as if you’re buying affections for the student, and it could make the teacher uncomfortable.

ONE MORE THING last minute gift ideas BOOKS: Books are often overlooked, especially now that so many readers use e-readers. But books can be an ideal gift and especially convenient for last-minute shoppers, who can even gift e-books. For example, Amazon, which has thousands of e-books in its online library, makes it easy for shoppers to gift e-books to Kindle users, who will simply receive an email on Christmas morning informing them that their books are ready to be downloaded to their devices.

EXPERIENCES: A 2017 survey by the global research firm NPD Group found that roughly 40 percent of holiday shoppers planned to give experiences as gifts last year.

Experience gifts open up a host of possibilities for lastminute shoppers stuck on what to give those loved ones who seemingly have it all.

Many holiday shoppers also adhere to the time-honored tradition of last-minute shopping.

These last-minute gift ideas may be just what shoppers need to put smiles on the faces of their loved ones this holiday season.

FOOD/BEVERAGE: Television channels such as The Food Network have changed the way many people look at food. When gifting the family foodie, last-minute shoppers may not need to look further than the latest hotspot restaurant or specialty grocery store for the perfect gift. Take them out for a night on the town or give a gift card they can use at their convenience.

The craft beer boom has created a host of devoted and knowledgeable beer drinkers, so a gift card or growler from a local craft brewery is sure to please people who love hoisting frosty pints.

STREAMING SERVICE SUBSCRIPTIONS: Many people are cutting the cord with their cable companies in favor of streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu. Subscriptions to such services can make ideal and affordable holiday gifts. A six-month or yearlong subscription likely won’t break shoppers’ budgets and will provide months of entertainment to loved ones.

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H O L I DAY G I F T HOLIDAY TIPS

Guide

THE HISTORY OF

Black

Friday Black Friday marks the unofficial start of the

holiday shopping season. Come Black Friday, shoppers strive to get the lowest prices on gifts for their loved ones.

Much of the focus of Black Friday is on finding the best deals, but it can be interesting to take a breath and learn how this phenomenon developed and how it has evolved over the years.

“BLACK FRIDAY” The term “black Friday” was originally associated with gold prices and manipulation on the part of speculators Jay Gould and James Fisk. This scandal occurred in September 1869. Commodity prices plummeted 50 percent as a result, and the term “black Friday” was coined to refer to that drop.

The phrase “black Friday” also became famous for all the wrong reasons in 1966. Philadelphia police used it to refer to the Friday traffic jams and crowding in downtown stores from tourists and shoppers who flooded into the city in advance of the Army-Navy football game held the Saturday after Thanksgiving each year. Bigger crowds and rowdiness contributed to long hours and stressful shifts for local police.

24 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

BLACK FRIDAY REINVENTED The retail industry started using the term “Black Friday” in the late 1980s. Spin doctors turned previously negative connotations into positive ones by associating the phrase with stores turning a profit and moving accounting ledgers from “red to black” thanks to big year-end sales. Retailers and consumers rallied around low-cost “doorbusters” and other discounted prices.

Interestingly enough, according to the National Retail Federation, Black Friday really hasn’t been the most lucrative day for retailers over the years. In fact, greater profits and larger crowds are often seen on the last Saturday preceeding Christmas.

SHOPPING WEEKEND EVOLVES While Black Friday may have been the catalyst, in recent years shoppers have made the entire weekend of Black Friday a lucrative one for retailers. Many stores now open on Thanksgiving and extend sales through the entire weekend.

Small Business Saturday and Sunday promote patronizing mom-and-pop stores. Cyber Monday emerged when online shopping became a popular way to grab deals, and it marks the close of the opening weekend of the holiday shopping season. In 2017, Black Friday weekend attracted 174 million shoppers who spent an average of $335.47, according to the NRF.

HOW TO TIME

Holiday SHOPPING RIGHT

Consumers are no longer interested in retailers dictating their shopping schedules, and some people have grown accustomed to buying products when they want them — especially when price is of no concern.

So when should consumers do their holiday shopping? It all depends on what fits a person’s individual needs.

SHOP SALES, NOT SCHEDULES: If budget is a big concern, shoppers should grab items that are on sale whenever they are available. That can mean shopping at any time of the year. People can try making a master shopping list early in the year and saving it on their mobile phones. While shopping throughout the year, items from the list can be purchased and stored until the holidays.

SHOP YOUR STRENGTHS: Those who get a thrill from tackling their entire shopping list in one haul can still do that. Shopping in this manner can help shoppers focus on the task at hand and reduce the likelihood of wasting time. But keep in mind that, according to a survey conducted by Business Wire, 65 percent of holiday shoppers scramble to complete their purchases in the last two weeks before Christmas, so shoppers who delay may be stuck in long lines at the mall.

EMBRACE IN-STORE PICKUP: Many retailers are merging their online and brick-and-mortar operations. Shoppers have the convenience of pricecomparison and online shopping, with the physical enjoyment of going out to the store to complete their purchases. In-store pickup often enables shoppers to avoid hefty shipping fees, as in-store pickup is free.

Plus, scoping out items online — and ensuring they’re in stock — saves the hassle of making a trip in vain.

H O L I DAY G I F T HOLIDAY TIPS

Guide

Holiday shopping ON A BUDGET The economic downturn that began in late 2008 forced many holiday shoppers to curb their spending on gifts for friends and family. But even though the economy has since recovered, savvy holiday shoppers are still taking a conservative approach to their shopping, and saving lots of money along the way.

Shoppers often struggle with how much to spend on gifts for their loved ones come the holiday season. The quest for the perfect gift leads many to overspend, but there are ways holiday shoppers can give great gifts without breaking the bank.

LEAVE CREDIT CARDS AT HOME: Stretching a budget when holiday shopping can be tempting, especially when shoppers come across “can’t miss” gifts they know their loved ones will treasure. Succumbing to such temptation typically finds holiday shoppers using their credit cards to make purchases they otherwise cannot afford, and that only lands shoppers in post-holiday debt that can be difficult to pay off. Leaving credit cards at home when shopping for the holidays significantly reduces the likelihood that shoppers will overspend, and it guarantees they won’t be mired in debt come January.

WHITTLE DOWN YOUR SHOPPING LIST: Many holiday shoppers find themselves in financial hot water come the end of the holiday season thanks in large part to seemingly endless holiday shopping lists. Lists may include coworkers, distant cousins, neighbors and a host of other acquaintances. Whittling down holiday shopping lists can 26 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

save shoppers money. Contact loose acquaintances and distant relatives to suggest you stop exchanging gifts come the holidays, saving both parties time and money.

MAKE A LIST OF GIFTS: Blindly shopping for holiday gifts can prove disastrous to your finances. Before heading out on a holiday shopping trip, make a list of gifts you intend to buy for each person on your list. This can help you focus your search and reduce the likelihood that you will make potentially costly impulse purchases as you wander around the mall for hours on end.

AVOID LAST-MINUTE SHOPPING: Last-minute shopping may unearth some great deals, but it’s far more likely to back shoppers into corners as they race against time to complete their holiday shopping. When shopping is put off until the last minute, shoppers don’t have time to comparison shop and find better deals, and that can quickly turn a holiday budget upside down. Begin your holiday shopping as early as possible, and take advantage of holiday sales.

SPREAD OUT YOUR SHOPPING: Holiday shoppers with especially long shopping lists can spread out their shopping over several months to reduce the likelihood that they will accumulate credit card debt or run out of cash during the holiday season. Begin shopping in late summer or early fall, periodically buying gifts for loved ones when you have the cash to do so. This has the added benefit of freeing up time during the often hectic holiday season, and it greatly reduces the risk of compiling post-holiday debt.

H O L I DAY G I F T HOLIDAY TIPS

Guide

Homemade Gifts Handmade gifts, trinkets and treats help make

the holiday season special. Although cookies and other baked goods are some of the most popular homemade creations this time of year, gift-givers young and old can put their talents to use with various craft projects. Ornaments and decorations are one such idea. Here are some clever and not-too-time-consuming craft projects to try this holiday season.

MINI SLEIGHS: Create miniature replicas of Santa’s famous sleigh. Paint several popsicle sticks to form the main body of the sleigh and glue them together. Put one at the top perpendicular to the others to serve as the steering rudder.

Two silver-painted popsicle sticks placed on their thin sides act as the blades of a sled.

POPCORN GARLAND: Garland made of popcorn is a classic handmade holiday project. For a new twist, toss the popcorn with food coloring and allow it to dry before stringing for some bright color on the tree.

PHOTO ORNAMENTS: Print out several different photos that you love. Purchase round or square thin wood pieces from a craft store and attach the photos with Mod Podge.

When dry, drill a hole through the top and thread with twine.

28 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

ADVENT CALENDAR: Make an Advent calendar to count down to Christmas by covering a foam board with fabric.

Use paper tags or small ornaments and write a number on each for each day of the month. Hang these all from the board. As each day passes, move the tag or ornament to the tree.

WOODEN SNOWFLAKES: Have children collect small twigs from outdoors, as well as holly leaves and some sprigs of evergreen. Arrange similarly sized twigs in the shape of snowflakes and glue together, or tie with twine. Embellish with stickers, glitter, dried berries and more.

DOUGH ORNAMENTS: Anyone can have fun molding their own ornaments, letting them dry and then painting them.

Use cookie cutters to get perfect holiday shapes. Craft stores sell various types of modeling clays and lightweight modeling materials. Or, make your own salt dough.

REINDEER BOTTLE TOPPER: Put to use any wine corks you have lying around. Attach googly eyes and a small fuzzy nose to the front of a cork. Insert twisted, brown pipe cleaners to make the antlers up top. Add ribbons, small snippets of faux fur or any other extras you desire.

SWEET SENTIMENTS: Use old Scrabble letter tiles to form a favorite holiday phrase, like “Joy to the World.” Glue the tiles together and hang from the tree on a piece of ribbon.

H O L I DAY G I F T HOLIDAY TIPS

Guide

Wrap it up!

Holiday shoppers spend billions of dollars each

year on gifts for friends, family and co-workers. But holiday shoppers also spend substantial amounts of money dressing up those gifts with bows and wrapping paper. Shoppers may not want to spend much more on wrapping paper, bags and other ways to dress-up their gifts, and by employing a few tricks of the gift wrapping trade, they may not have to. The following are some frugal, yet flashy, ways to wrap presents this holiday season.

CHILDREN’S ARTWORK: Over the course of a school year parents can accumulate dozens of original pieces of art from their children’s time in the classroom. Instead of relegating those pictures to a memory box or temporary glory on the refrigerator, turn them into unique gift wrap. Pair these pieces of art with colored ribbon, and everyone who gets a unique masterpiece will feel special.

NEWSPAPER: Recycle newsprint and comics into wrapping paper. Encourage everyone to wrap in newspaper for a cohesive look come Christmas morning.

CLOTH: Leftover cloth from Halloween or cloth purchased to create homemade curtains can be turned into giftwrap for awkward-shaped gifts. Use decorative ribbon to seal the bundle shut.

30 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

BROWN PAPER: Brown paper tied with twine or ribbon is inexpensive and can easily be recycled after use. Use a marker to put the names of gift recipients on each package to save on gift tags as well.

GLASS JARS: Use mason jars when wrapping smaller gifts, including gift cards, to give them an arts-and-crafts feel.

FABRIC GIFT BAGS: If you’re handy with a needle and thread, sew sacks out of leftover fabric to make gift bags of various sizes.

COOKIE TINS: Find unique cookie tins from yard sales or leftover tins from holidays past and use them as gift boxes.

RECIPES: If you will be giving a cookbook or foodthemed gifts, print recipes that can be used as gift wrap and then later used to make certain dishes.

BABY LINENS: From blankets to wash cloths, use baby linens to wrap infant-themed gifts for new parents.

BASKETS: Wicker baskets are available in various shapes and sizes. They can be used to make a gift collection and then reused over and over again.

H O L I DAY G I F T HOLIDAY TIPS

Guide

Get gifts

THERE ON TIME Thanks to families being more spread out than

ever before, today’s holiday shoppers must figure out ways to get holiday gifts to their destination on time. The holiday season tends to be the busiest time of year for many delivery services. The following tips should help shoppers ensure their loved ones’ gifts arrive on time.

SHIP DIRECTLY: Adobe Analytics reported that online shopping hit a record high of $108.2 billion in the 2017 holiday shopping season, and all indicators suggest online shopping will only increase in the years to come. Holiday shoppers who want to ensure their loved ones will receive their gifts on time can rely on online shopping. When checking out, have gifts shipped directly to loved ones’ homes. Many online retailers will even wrap gifts for a nominal fee.

RESEARCH SHIPPING OPTIONS: In 2018, Christmas falls on a Tuesday. Shoppers who plan to rely on two-day or overnight shipping should keep that in mind. Some delivery services may be open throughout the weekend before Christmas, while others may only be open on Saturday.

Last-minute shoppers, whether they’re shopping online or in-person, should confirm their shipping options well in 32 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

advance of Christmas. Because Christmas is on a Tuesday this year, getting gifts to their destination on time may require shoppers to purchase and ship them earlier than they otherwise might.

PURCHASE PACKAGE INSURANCE: Consumer Reports notes that UPS and FedEx shipments automatically come with declared-value coverage of up to $100 (declared value is the carrier’s maximum liability). Purchasing additional insurance can ease shoppers’ concerns about lost or stolen packages. Just be sure to keep all invoices and receipts in case claims must be filed. Shoppers also should ask for tracking numbers on all packages so they can confirm when packages are delivered.

PROPERLY SECURE THE PACKAGE: Many delivery services now have off-site drop-off boxes that can make it easy to send gifts. This is a convenient service, but shoppers who use them won’t be able to have a company employee provide in-person confirmation that their packages are secured to company standards. Poorly packaged items may never be shipped. Visit the shipping company’s website for packaging guidelines, and include a business card and duplicate label inside the package just in case it is damaged after being dropped off.

Before stringing lights or adding tinsel to the tree, you can truly get into the holiday spirit by finding meaningful ways to give back.

WAYS TO

Give Back THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

SERVE A HOLIDAY MEAL Food is one of the most fundamental ways to show you care, and delicious food and the holidays go hand-in-hand. Consider serving a warm holiday meal to someone who needs it.

There are many ways to do this, such as preparing a meal at home and delivering it to a sick or elderly neighbor, inviting a colleague or friend who doesn’t have family in the area to your home for a holiday meal, or volunteering in a food pantry to serve a meal to other members of your community. If these efforts are not possible, look for a canned food drive near you and pick up some extra groceries to donate when shopping.

GIVE ACCESS TO SAFE WATER Give a gift to a loved one this season that’s not only thoughtful for him or her, but also benefits the community at large. One great way

to do that is through the gift of water. Due to microplastics and other common water contaminants, safe drinking water is not necessarily a given these days. However, you can provide someone you love with at-home and on-the-go access to safe drinking water with a LifeStraw water filtration product.

Helping to reduce plastic waste by providing an alternative to single-use bottles, can make a global difference.

GIVE LIFE Did you know that the simple act of donating blood can save a life? Indeed, one pint of blood is all that’s needed to save three lives, according to America’s Blood Centers. Make an appointment at a local blood bank. It takes just about 10 minutes, and afterwards you can feel good about the potential difference you’ve made.

Another way you can be a lifesaver is by ensuring you are a registered organ donor. Use the holiday season as an opportunity to add your name to the National Donate Life Registry.

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H O L I DAY G I F T HOLIDAY TIPS

Guide

Light it up!

Lighting displays are one of the many things that help make the holiday season a special time of year. Often awe-inspiring, holiday lighting displays present a perfect opportunity for communities and individuals to showcase their festive sides.

Safety should always be a priority when stringing holiday lights both inside and outside a home. The National Fire Protection Association notes that, between 2009 and 2014, fire departments in the United States responded to an average of 210 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year. Lighting displays strung on home exteriors also can pose safety risks if homeowners do not exercise caution.

Fortunately, various strategies can help homeowners safely decorate their homes’ interiors and exteriors this holiday season.

CHOOSE A FRESH TREE: The NFPA recommends celebrants who prefer natural Christmas trees choose ones with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.

Dry trees are more likely to catch fire than freshly cut trees.

Adding water to the tree stand each day will keep trees fresher longer. When placing the tree, avoid placing it too close to heat sources, making sure it is at least 3 feet away from fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.

34 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

CHECK ALL LIGHTS BEFORE STRINGING THEM: All lights, including those going on trees inside a home and those being strung outside, should be inspected prior to being strung. Look for any worn or broken cords and replace any defected lights.

EMPLOY THE BUDDY SYSTEM: When stringing lights, always work with at least one other person. This makes it safe for homeowners who must climb ladders to string lights on especially tall trees and/or on their home exteriors.

AVOID WORKING IN INCLEMENT WEATHER: The weather during the holiday season can sometimes be unpleasant or unpredictable. Check the forecast before stringing exterior lights to ensure Mother Nature won’t pose a threat. Avoid hanging lights if the forecast predicts wet, icy or windy conditions that can make ladders unstable.

TURN LIGHTS OFF WHEN GOING TO BED AND/OR LEAVING THE HOUSE: Interior and exterior holiday lights should not be left on when no one is home or everyone inside is sleeping. If left on overnight or when no one is home, lights may contribute to fires that damage homes and may even prove fatal.

REPURPOSE WITH PURPOSE: There’s no need to make time for a trip to the store or to spend a bundle on party supplies. A pretty, oversized flowerpot or planter that has been cast aside for winter makes a perfect tub for icing down beverages. When it comes to decor, you can cover any old box with some of last year’s leftover holiday paper to add some colorful touches around the home. A similar idea — wrap canvas art or other frames in pretty paper to extend the theme up the walls.

HACKS FOR HOLIDAY HOSTING

MAKE EASY ATTRACTIVE: Most holiday celebrations center on the food, but it’s still an area where you can shave some time. For example, a simple but attractive option like the wide selection of Chinet Classic White products is designed for practical use. They do not bend, fold or leak, and are strong enough for extra helpings no matter the occasion.

For a more elegant affair, the Chinet Cut Crystal collection is the only fully coordinated line of disposable plates, cups, cutlery and wineglasses.

FILL THE FREEZER: Whether your holiday entertaining is more impromptu in nature or you host a single sizable shindig, keeping a wellstocked freezer can help make hosting a cinch.

Dedicate an afternoon to preparing items you can easily defrost and serve later, like casseroles, appetizers, side dishes and desserts.

FORGO FUSSY FOOD: An elegant sit-down meal isn’t the only way to enjoy a holiday gathering. Guests may even appreciate a break from traditional heavier fare. Simple food stations, finger foods and even store-bought meals are all time-saving alternatives. Another time-saving option — dressing up store-bought food as part of a larger spread.

KEEP CLEANUP SIMPLE: For a festive, yet deceptively easy table, consider using kraft paper as tablecloths and let some of that leftover wrapping paper do double-duty as table runners. Simply cut the wrapping paper to your desired length and fold the edges under to create clean seams. Match the DIY table coverings with a coordinated line of disposable tableware to make cleaning up a cinch.

H O L I DAY G I F T HOLIDAY TIPS

Guide

TIPS FOR SPENDING

THE HOLIDAYS

MAKE PLENTY OF CONTACT WITH LOVED ONES: Use devices to your advantage to stay in touch this holiday season. Schedule frequent video chats and share photos so you feel like you are right in the holiday mix. When possible, people spending the holidays away from home should schedule calls or video conferences when family has gathered so they can chat with as many loved ones as possible.

CONNECT WITH PEOPLE IN SIMILAR SITUATIONS: Connect with others who also cannot be with their loved ones for the holidays. Plan your own celebrations and commit to new traditions this year.

DINE WITH A RELIGIOUS GROUP: Many churches or other places of worship open their doors during the holiday season to people who may have nowhere else to go. Take advantage of such chances to share and spread some holiday joy.

36 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

ADAPT FAMILY TRADITIONS: It may be challenging to find an evergreen tree to decorate while stationed in a tropical climate or a fireplace by which to hang stockings, but you can adapt traditions to your current situation.

Better yet, see what the locals do and experience a few new holiday treats that you may want to revisit in the future.

VOLUNTEER: Volunteering is a great way to reduce depression, help others and see some smiling faces. Focus on helping others if you are feeling blue about not being at home.

FIND OUT IF FAMILY CAN VISIT: Just because you can’t make it home for the holidays doesn’t mean the festivities can’t come to you. Play host or hostess this year to family and friends who want to visit.

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H O L I DAY G I F T RECIPES

Guide

BACON, BAKED BRIE AND CRANBERRY HOLIDAY MELTS Start to finish: 15 minutes Servings: 6

Ingredients

Instructions

24 multi-grain crackers 24 small slices Brie cheese 1/4 cup prepared cranberry sauce 2 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Heat broiler to high and position rack in center of oven. Arrange crackers in single layer on foil-lined baking sheet.

Top each cracker with slice of Brie, 1/2 teaspoon cranberry sauce and sprinkle of bacon. Broil 1-2 minutes, or until cheese is melted.

Tip: For vegetarian option, substitute chopped hickory-smoked almonds or pecans for bacon.

(Recipe from Crunchmaster)

38 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

GRAPE CARAMEL SAUCE Ingredients 1 pound green or red grapes, divided 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Start to finish: 20 minutes Servings: 6 3/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup water 1/3 cup heavy cream (optional)

Large pinch of salt Ice cream

Instructions In blender or food processor, combine 12 ounces grapes with lemon juice and puree. Set aside.

Coarsely chop remaining grapes.

In medium saucepan, combine sugar and water then bring to boil, stirring a few times. Simmer without stirring, brushing down sides of pot with brush dipped in water if crystals start forming.

When mixture has turned deep, golden brown, remove from heat and whisk in pureed grapes until smooth sauce has formed. Turn on heat and simmer until mixture has reduced by one-third and forms smooth caramel sauce.

Whisk in cream and salt; stir in chopped grapes and serve over ice cream.

(Recipe from California Table Grape Commission)

From the Red Bell Run Family the

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H O L I DAY G I F T RECIPES

Guide

CRANBERRY-BEET BUNDT CAKE WITH ORANGE-WALNUT GLAZE Ingredients 1 jar (16 ounces) sliced pickled beets, drained 2 1/4 cups granulated sugar, divided 1 1/4 cups dried sweetened cranberries 2 1/2 cups allpurpose flour 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 4 large eggs, room temperature 1 1/2 sticks (12 tablespoons) unsalted

Start to finish: 1 hour, 35 minutes Servings: 16

Instructions butter, softened 1/4 cup vegetable oil 1 orange, zest only, finely grated 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1/2 cup buttermilk ORANGEWALNUT GLAZE: 2 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted 1 orange, zest only, finely grated 1/4 cup orange juice, plus additional (optional) 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 1 cup finely chopped walnuts

Heat oven to 350 F. Butter and lightly flour fluted 10inch Bundt pan.

In food processor, puree beets and 1 cup sugar until smooth, about 30 seconds, scraping down sides of bowl once.

In small bowl, cover cranberries with hot water.

In medium mixing bowl, sift flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg.

In large mixing bowl using electric mixer on mediumhigh, beat remaining sugar, eggs, butter and oil 2-3 minutes until light and smooth. Blend in beet puree.

Add orange zest and vanilla; mix until blended. Add half of flour mixture; beat on low until smooth. Add buttermilk;

(Recipe from Seneca Foods) 40 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

beat on low until smooth then add remaining flour mixture, beating until blended. Drain cranberries; fold into batter.

Turn batter into prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake on center rack 45-50 minutes.

When done, cake will pull away from sides of pan and toothpick, inserted into center will come out clean.

Cool 15 minutes then invert cake onto rack.

To make Orange-Walnut Glaze: In large mixing bowl, combine sugar and orange zest. Add orange juice; whisk until smooth. Whisk in butter. Add additional juice, if necessary.

Spoon glaze over cake while still warm. Sprinkle with walnuts.

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H O L I DAY G I F T RECIPES

Guide

POTATO, TURKEY AND VEGGIE CASSEROLE Start to finish: 45 minutes Servings: 6

Instructions

Ingredients 1 tablespoon, plus 1 teaspoon, olive oil 3/4 pound extra-lean ground turkey breast 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional) 1 can (15 ounces) potato salad 1/2 cup light sour cream 2 cups frozen, thawed or canned mixed vegetables, drained Nonstick cooking spray 1/2 cup bread crumbs

Heat oven to 350 F. In large, nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil. Add turkey, thyme, garlic powder, pepper and salt, if desired.

Cook 5-7 minutes, until cooked through, stirring occasionally and breaking turkey into large crumbles.

Stir in potato salad and sour cream. Add vegetables; stir to combine. Spray 2-quart casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. Spoon in casserole mixture.

Toss together bread crumbs and remaining oil. Sprinkle over casserole. Bake 30 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.

Substitution: Leftover chopped turkey (about 1 1/2 cups) can be cooked 2-3 minutes in skillet in place of ground turkey.

(Recipe from Seneca Foods) 42 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

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H O L I DAY G I F T RECIPES

Guide

GRAPE DUTCH BABY Start to finish: 35 minutes Servings: 4

Instructions

Ingredients 3 large eggs 2/3 cup all-purpose flour 2/3 cup low-fat milk 1/2 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 teaspoon salt 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

2 cups red grapes, halved 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon (optional) Confectioners’ sugar

Heat oven to 450 F. Put large (10-inch) cast-iron or ovenproof skillet in oven.

With electric mixer on high speed, beat eggs until frothy, then beat in flour, milk, vanilla and salt, and beat until smooth, about 1 minute (batter will be thin). Remove skillet from oven and add 2 tablespoons butter, swirling to cover pan. Pour in batter and return to oven. Bake until puffed and golden brown, 14-19 minutes.

While pancake is baking, in another skillet over high heat, melt remaining butter and add grapes, brown sugar and cinnamon, if desired. Cook until grapes are heated through and sugar has melted. Spoon grapes over pancake, sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar and serve.

(Recipe from California Table Grape Commission)

44 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

EDIBLE WREATH CENTERPIECE Ingredients 1 cheddar cheese ball (10 ounces) 1 container (11.3 ounces) sharp cheddar cheese spread Sesame seeds or poppy

seeds Bacon bits or chopped walnuts 10-12 small pretzel sticks Rosemary, for garnish (optional)

Instructions Place cheese ball in center of large, round platter.

To make mini cheese balls, shape 1-2 tablespoons of cheese spread into balls. Roll lightly in seeds and bacon bits or walnuts.

Insert pretzel sticks into mini cheese balls up to 1 hour prior to serving. Store in refrigerator. Remove from refrigerator about 15 minutes before serving.

Garnish with rosemary sprigs, if desired.

(Recipe from Kaukauna Cheese)

H O L I DAY G I F T RECIPES

Guide

FANCY MAC Start to finish: 40 minutes Servings: 4

Ingredients

Instructions

Nonstick cooking spray 1 package macaroni and cheese 1 package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained 1 1/4 cups shredded gouda cheese, divided 1 package thick sliced hardwood smoked bacon, cooked and broken into pieces 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 2 eggs, lightly beaten

Heat oven to 400 F. Spray four ramekins with cooking spray.

Heat macaroni and cheese according to package directions.

Once cooked, stir in spinach, 1 cup cheese, bacon, salt and pepper.

Let mixture stand 10-15 minutes to cool. Add eggs. Spoon evenly into ramekins. Sprinkle with remaining cheese.

Bake 20 minutes, or until centers are set.

(Recipe from Bob Evans)

46 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

FRESH PORK WITH SWEET BALSAMIC-RED WINE REDUCTION Ingredients 1 pork loin filet 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided 1/3 cup dry red wine 3 tablespoons balsamic

Instructions

Start to finish: 30 minutes Servings: 4 vinegar 2 tablespoons sugar 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary

Cut pork loin filet into 3/4-to-1inch thick chops.

In large, nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat 1/2 tablespoon olive oil.

Cook half the pork chops 4-5 minutes on each side until internal temperature reaches 150 F. Remove pork chops from skillet and place on rimmed serving platter; cover to

keep warm. Repeat with remaining olive oil and pork chops.

In same skillet, combine wine, vinegar and sugar. Bring to boil over medium-high heat; cook 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened, or until liquid is reduced to 1/4 cup.

Serve pork chops drizzled with wine reduction and sprinkled with rosemary.

(Recipe from Smithfield)

H O L I DAY G I F T RECIPES

Guide

REINDEER HOT DOGS Start to finish: 20 minutes Servings: 10

Ingredients

Instructions

1 can refrigerated crescent rolls 1 package hot dogs 1 slice white cheese Black olives Ketchup

Heat oven according to crescent roll package directions.

Cut hot dogs into three equal sections.

Lay out crescent rolls and wrap around middle sections of hot dog pieces.

Cut triangles out of end sections to look like antlers.

Cut two slits at top of dough; press end hot dog pieces into slits.

Bake according to crescent roll package directions. Cut out small circles from sliced cheese for reindeer eyes. Cover cheese pieces with small slices of black olives for pupils. Add ketchup to hot dogs for red noses.

(Recipe from Gwaltney)

48 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

ASIAGO AND BACON ORZO MEDLEY Ingredients 4 ounces bacon, chopped 4 ounces white onion, diced 1 teaspoon garlic, minced 2 cups fresh asparagus tips 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved 1/4 cup white cooking

Start to finish: 15 minutes Servings: 11 wine 1/4 cup chicken stock 3 cups orzo, cooked according to package directions 1/2 cup shaved Asiago cheese

Instructions In large saucepan, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Add onions and garlic to pan with bacon and sautĂŠ until fragrant and soft. Cook onions until translucent.

Add asparagus tips, cherry tomatoes, chicken stock and cooking wine to saucepan and deglaze.

Add cooked orzo and Asiago cheese, stirring to combine.

Cook 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

(Recipe from Holland House Cooking Wines)

H O L I DAY G I F T RECIPES

Guide

GARLIC AND HERB LAMB CHOPS WITH MARSALA MUSHROOM SAUCE Ingredients 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped 4 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced, divided 1 tablespoon lemon zest, grated 3/4 cup Marsala wine, divided 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 racks of lamb (approximately 3-4 pounds), trimmed and cleaned

Start to finish: 60 minutes, plus marinating Servings: 7 (about 2 lamb chops per serving)

Instructions MARSALA MUSHROOM SAUCE: 1 tablespoon butter 1 pound fresh baby bella or cremini mushrooms, cleaned 2 tablespoons fresh shallots, thinly sliced 1/2 cup beef stock 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard salt, to taste pepper, to taste 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

In large bowl, combine rosemary, 3 teaspoons garlic, lemon zest, 1/4 cup cooking wine and olive oil. Add racks of lamb, meat-side up, and cover bowl. Marinate 6-24 hours.

After marinating, heat oven to 400 F. Transfer racks of lamb to heated, oven-proof saute pan on stovetop and sear each side 2 minutes until golden brown.

Transfer oven-proof saute pan with lamb to heated oven and cook approximately 10 minutes, or until lamb reaches 135 F in center. Remove pan from oven and take lamb out of pan to rest.

To make Marsala Mushroom Sauce: In same pan, melt butter over medium heat; add mushrooms and saute.

Add shallots and remaining garlic, cooking until fragrant.

Deglaze with remaining cooking wine. Add beef stock and whisk in Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and cook 2 minutes to reduce and thicken.

Carve racks of lamb by cutting between ribs. Serve drizzled with Marsala Mushroom Sauce. Garnish with parsley.

(Recipe from Holland House Cooking Wines)

50 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

FRESH PORK AND KALAMATA FLATBREADS Ingredients 1 pork tenderloin 1 tablespoon extravirgin olive oil 1 can (13.8 ounces)

Start to finish: 40 minutes Servings: 6 refrigerated pizza crust dough 3/4 cup sliced sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil

1/2 cup sliced Kalamata olives, drained 1 teaspoon crushed dried rosemary

Instructions Cut pork tenderloin into 3/4-inch cubes.

Heat oven to 400 F. In large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil.

Stir-fry pork 8-10 minutes, or until well browned.

Unroll pizza dough and press onto greased sheet pan, about 18-by-13 inches; cut into six rectangles.

Drain tomatoes, reserving oil. Brush tops of flatbreads with sun-dried tomato

oil, reserving about 1 tablespoon. Top with pork, drained tomatoes, olives and rosemary, pressing into dough lightly with fingertips.

Bake 18-21 minutes until edges are golden brown.

Remove from oven. Drizzle remaining sun-dried tomato olive oil evenly over flatbreads; let stand on baking sheet 2 minutes before serving.

(Recipe from Smithfield)

H O L I DAY G I F T RECIPES

Guide

MINI MERRY MEATBALLS Ingredients 1⁄2 pound ground beef brisket 1⁄4 pound ground beef ribeye steak boneless 1⁄4 pound ground beef (80 percent lean) 1 cup seasoned stuffing mix 1 egg, beaten 3 tablespoons water 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1⁄4 teaspoon salt 1⁄8 teaspoon pepper

Instructions CRANBERRY BARBECUE SAUCE: 2 teaspoons vegetable oil 1⁄2 cup chopped white onion 1 tablespoon minced garlic 2 1⁄2 cups fresh cranberries 1⁄2 cup orange juice 1⁄2 cup water 1⁄3 cup ketchup 1⁄4 cup light brown sugar 2 tablespoons cider vinegar 2 tablespoons molasses 1⁄2 teaspoon ground red pepper Salt

52 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

Heat oven to 400 F. Combine brisket, ribeye, ground beef, stuffing mix, egg, water, garlic, salt and pepper in a large bowl, mixing lightly but thoroughly. Shape into 24 11⁄2-inch meatballs.

Place on a rack in a broiler pan that has been sprayed with cooking spray. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes until the internal temperature reads 160 F. Meanwhile, prepare the cranberry barbecue sauce.

Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic; cook and stir 2 to 3

Servings: 24

minutes, or until tender, but not brown.

Add remaining ingredients, stirring to combine.

Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until cranberries burst and the mixture has been reduced to a thick consistency, stirring occasionally.

Remove from heat; cool slightly.

Transfer mixture to blender container. Cover, allowing steam to escape. Process until smooth. Season with salt, as desired.

Serve meatballs with barbecue sauce.

COCONUT MUESLI CLUSTERS Ingredients

Start to finish: 20 minutes Servings: 8

Olive oil spray 1 cup plain protein powder 1/2 cup unsalted sunflower or pumpkin seeds 1 cup whole raw pecans 1 cup unsweetened whole

flake shredded coconut 1/2 cup chia seeds or ground flaxseeds 1 tablespoon stevia 2 teaspoons cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric

1 tablespoon coconut oil 1 tablespoon peanut butter 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 large eggs 1/4 cup water

Instructions Heat oven to 350 F. Line large baking sheet with parchment paper, coat with olive oil spray and set aside.

In large bowl, mix together protein powder, sunflower or pumpkin seeds, pecans, coconut, chia seeds or flaxseeds, stevia, cinnamon and turmeric.

In large skillet, combine coconut oil, peanut butter and vanilla extract; melt completely

then stir in nut mixture. Turn heat off and add eggs and water, tossing well. Transfer to prepared baking sheet and spread mixture in layer about 1/2-inch thick.

Bake 10-15 minutes until mixture starts to brown and clumps together to make clusters. Cool completely on baking sheet then store in airtight container, refrigerated, up to 1 week.

(Recipe courtesy of “Atkins: Eat Right, Not Less”) 0920_MortonAd_136.qxp_Layout 1 11/5/18 9:26 AM Page 1

Happy Holidays!

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828-687-7171

40 Vaughn Circle • Fletcher, NC

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H O L I DAY G I F T RECIPES

Guide

BUTTERED POUND CAKE WITH SHERRY MASCARPONE AND SOAKED BERRIES Ingredients 3/4 cup fresh raspberries 3/4 cup fresh blueberries 3/4 cup fresh blackberries 1/2 cup sherry cooking wine, divided 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon lemon zest,

Instructions grated 2 tablespoons honey 1 cup mascarpone cheese 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream 2 tablespoons sugar 2 tablespoons butter 1 pound cake, cut into 20 pieces

In medium bowl, combine rasp-berries, blueberries, blackberries, 1/3 cup cooking wine, lemon juice, lemon zest and honey.

Cover bowl and marinate at room temperature 30 minutes.

In mixer, whip mascarpone by slowly adding heavy whipping cream, sugar and remaining cooking wine.

Once thoroughly mixed,

(Recipe from Holland House Cooking Wines) 54 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

Start to finish: 20 minutes, plus marinating Servings: 10 (2 pieces per serving)

whip to stiff peaks.

Butter both sides of each piece of pound cake and add to saute pan. Over medium heat, brown both sides of cake until golden.

Place two pieces of toasted pound cake in individual serving dishes and let cool.

Place dollop of whipped mascarpone on pound cake pieces. Garnish with marinated berries.

MILK CHOCOLATE PROTEIN MUFFIN Ingredients 2 tablespoons fullfat cream cheese 1 egg 3 tablespoons milk chocolate protein powder

Start to finish: 6 minutes Servings: 1 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 dash salt

Instructions In microwave-safe mug, heat cream cheese 10-15 seconds to soften. Add egg and blend briskly using fork. Add protein powder, baking powder, cinnamon and salt; blend until smooth.

Microwave on high 1 minute; muffin will puff up then deflate slightly once done. Remove from mug and enjoy warm.

(Recipe courtesy of Atkins)

If your Wealth Advisor doesn’t know much about the concerns of horse and horse farm owners, maybe you should talk to one that does.

Peter Shanahan CFP®, CRPC®, MPAS® Senior Vice President Wealth Advisor 475 S. Church Street Suite 100 A Hendersonville, NC 28792 828.233.1900 spggroup.hilliard.com J.J.B. Hilliard, W.L. Lyons, LLC Member NYSE, FINRA, & SIPC

A division of NJK Consulting, Inc.

H O L I DAY G I F T RECIPES

Guide

BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND PEAR SOUP Ingredients 1 tablespoon unsalted butter 1 medium (2 1/2inch diameter) onion, chopped 2 pounds butternut winter squash, cubed 1 medium pear, sliced, plus additional, for garnish (optional) 1 teaspoon curry

Instructions powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper 5 cups chicken broth 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice 1/2 cup heavy cream Nutmeg (optional)

In large pot over medium heat, melt butter. Add onions and sauté until translucent, about 6 minutes. Add squash, pear, curry powder, salt and white pepper; sauté 3 minutes.

Increase heat to high and add chicken broth. Bring to boil then reduce heat to low; simmer 20-25 minutes, uncovered, until

(Recipe courtesy of Atkins) 56 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

Start to finish: 50 minutes Servings: 6

cubed squash is very tender.

Allow to cool about 10-15 minutes.

In blender or food processor, puree soup in batches until smooth.

Return pureed soup to pot and add lemon juice and heavy cream. Stir soup over low heat until hot. Garnish with additional sliced pears and sprinkle of nutmeg, if desired.

SPICED YOGURT MUFFINS Ingredients 6 1â „2 cups Greek yogurt 4 cups water, room temperature 1 box (5 pounds) muffin mix

Servings: 50 3 tablespoons pumpkin pie spice 2 tablespoons chipotle cinnamon

Instructions Combine yogurt and water in mixing bowl.

Whisk until blended. Set aside.

Add spices to dry muffin mix in a large bowl.

Add yogurt and water mixture to the muffin mixture. Mix until just blended. Don’t overmix.

Using a scoop, portion into greased or lined muffin pans. Bake at 350 F for 24 minutes, or 17 to 20 minutes in a convection oven, until the tops are golden brown.

H O L I DAY G I F T RECIPES

Guide

SLOW COOKER SPICED-CRANBERRY PORK Ingredients 3 1⁄2 to 4 pound pork shoulder 1 can (6 ounces) jellied cranberry sauce 2⁄3 cup sugar 3⁄4 cup cranberry juice 2 tablespoons Dijon-

Instructions style mustard 11⁄2 teaspoons ground cloves 1 teaspoon ground black pepper Salt to taste

58 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

Trim fat from pork roast, if necessary. Place roast in 4to 6-quart slow cooker. Use wire whisk to stir together cranberry sauce and sugar in medium bowl.

Stir in juice, mustard, cloves and pepper until well combined. Pour cranberry

Servings: 8

mixture over roast in slow cooker.

Cover slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or until pork roast is tender. Season roast to taste with salt; serve juices with roast.

ROASTED BRUSSELS SPROUTS WITH GRAPES AND BALSAMIC GLAZE Ingredients 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved lengthwise 2 tablespoons extravirgin olive oil

Start to finish: 35 minutes Servings: 4 Pinch of salt 1 cup red grapes 2 tablespoons ready-to-use balsamic glaze

Instructions Heat oven to 450 F. On baking sheet, toss sprouts with olive oil, salt and pepper, to taste, until sprouts are wellcoated.

Roast until deep golden brown, about 17-20 minutes, turning sprouts halfway through roasting. Stir in grapes and roast 3-5 minutes.

Transfer to bowl and drizzle with glaze or drizzle platter with glaze and pile sprouts on top.

(Recipe from California Table Grape Commission)

H O L I DAY G I F T RECIPES

Guide

SWEET POTATO COOKIES Ingredients

Instructions

3/4 cup vegetable shortening 3/4 cup brown sugar 1 large egg 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes 2 cups allpurpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon

Heat oven to 350 F. In large bowl, using hand mixer or paddle attachment, cream shortening and brown sugar.

Add egg and sweet potatoes; mix until combined.

In small bowl, combine flour, baking soda, salt and pumpkin pie spice. With mixer on low speed, slowly add flour mixture to egg mixture until well mixed.

Using small cookie scoop, drop rounds onto greased baking sheets.

pumpkin pie spice 1 cup butter, unsalted 3 cups powdered sugar 1/2 teaspoon maple extract Chopped honey roasted pecans (optional) Mini marshmallows (optional)

(Recipe from Bob Evans) 60 • 2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE by Life in Our Foothills

Servings: 8

Bake 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool completely before frosting.

In separate bowl, beat together butter, powdered sugar and maple extract until frosting is light and fluffy. Frost each cooled cookie with maple butter cream frosting.

Sprinkle with pecans and mini marshmallows, if desired.

Carefully toast marshmallows with culinary torch, if desired, while avoiding melting frosting.

WHOLE BASTED TURKEY WITH ROASTED GRAPE GASTRIQUE Ingredients ROASTED GRAPES: 4 cups assorted grapes (picked, washed and dried) 1 tablespoon olive oil 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1 cinnamon stick Nonstick cooking spray

GASTRIQUE: 2 tablespoons water 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 4 tablespoons water 1 whole turkey (10 pounds)

Instructions To make roasted grapes: Heat oven to 350 F. In bowl, combine grapes, olive oil, salt, pepper and cinnamon stick.

Lightly spray baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray. Pour grape mixture onto baking sheet. Bake 15 minutes. Remove from oven and pour into bowl.

To make gastrique: In small saucepan, combine water and sugar. Bring to boil over medium-high heat, 5-7 minutes, until sugar starts to brown.

Remove from heat and slowly add vinegar. Return to heat and stir until combined. Add cornstarch and water mixture; bring to boil. Remove from heat.

Pour gastrique mixture over roasted grapes and reserve.

To prepare turkey: Thaw completely in refrigerator 3-4 days or, keeping turkey in vacuum-sealed packaging, place in sink full of cold water 5-7 hours, changing water approximately every 30 minutes.

Heat oven to 350 F. Remove turkey from vacuumsealed bag. Place turkey in bag provided; secure bag with twist tie. Place bag in deep roasting pan. Using fork, puncture 6-8 holes in top of bag. For extra browning or crispness, slit top of bag for final 20-30 minutes of roasting.

Roast turkey 2 hours, 45 minutes to 3 hours. Turkey is done when internal temperature measured with kitchen thermometer reaches 165 F. Pour roasted grape gastrique over turkey and serve.

(Recipe from Omaha Steaks)

H O L I DAY G I F T RECIPES

Guide

JESSICA’S 3-LAYER RED VELVET CAKE Ingredients 4 cups all-purpose flour 4 cups sugar 2 teaspoons baking soda 2 teaspoons baking powder 2 teaspoons salt 4 tablespoons cocoa powder 2 cups canola oil 2 cups buttermilk 4 eggs 2 tablespoons red food coloring 2 teaspoons

Instructions vanilla extract 2 teaspoons vinegar 4 eggs 1 cup hot water CREAM CHEESE ICING: 16 oz. cream cheese 2 sticks (soft) unsalted butter 5 cups powdered sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla

CAKE: In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt and coca powder.

Add oil, buttermilk, eggs, food color, vanilla, vinegar, eggs and hot water to the dry ingredients.

Mix until just together.

Prepare three 8 inch pans with pan spray. Divide batter equally into pans.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 35 minutes, or until toothpick comes out clean when inserted into cake.

ICING: Mix butter and cream cheese with paddle attachment on mixer for 2 minutes.

ASSEMBLY: Using an offset spatula, frost the first layer with cream cheese icing. Add second layer, add another layer of icing, then add the third layer. Frost the top and outside of the cake.

Use spatula to create a rough, rustic design. Decorate with cake crumbs, or sprinkles to make as festive as you like!

(Recipe courtesy of Jessica Pullara / All Good Things Bakery, Tryon)

ZUCCHINI AND CORN TAMALES Instructions Ingredients Masa (dough): 3 cups masa harina (corn flour) 2 teaspoons baking powder 2 teaspoons sea salt 2 1/3 cups vegetable broth, warmed 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup vegetable shortening Filling: 1 tablespoon olive oil 1/2 small red onion, diced 1 garlic clove, finely diced 3 cups zucchini, cubed small 1 tomato, cubed small 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon sea salt 1 cup sweet white corn 4 tablespoons cilantro, finely chopped 5 ounces red enchilada sauce 2 1/2 tablespoons Tabasco Pepper Sauce 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, cut into 1/2-ounce strips

To prep husks: Soak corn husks in hot water. Place heavy pot on top of husks to keep submerged at least 1 hour. Once pliable, rinse each corn husk.

To make dough: In large bowl, mix corn flour, baking powder and sea salt. Using hands, mix in warm vegetable broth to make firm dough. In mixer, cream butter and shortening until fluffy then add dough in small amounts until well mixed. Continue mixing at lowmedium speed 5 minutes, scraping dough off sides of bowl. Reserve dough.

To make filling: In large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil; saute red onion and garlic until translucent.

Add zucchini and mix 1 minute.

Add tomato, dried oregano and sea salt; continue mixing 1 minute. Add corn and chopped cilantro. Stir and continue cooking about 2 minutes more; zucchini should be cooked but al dente. Remove filling to heatresistant bowl.

In small bowl, combine enchilada sauce and Tabasco pepper sauce. Add half of sauce mixture to filling; mix

Tempo Music

Servings: 16 tamales

well. Reserve remaining sauce.

To assemble tamales, spread 2 tablespoons dough onto wide end of each corn husk. Dough should extend across corn husks, except 1 inch on sides and about 3 inches from narrow end.

Scoop about 1 tablespoon zucchini and corn filling into middle of dough. Add 1 teaspoon reserved sauce over filling and one strip cheese on top. Fold right side of corn husk over filling and seal closed with dough. Fold over left side of corn husk tightly and fold narrow end of corn husk up. Cut strips from extra corn husks and tie around each tamale to secure.

Place tamales vertically, filling-side up, in steam pot with enough water to steam 40-45 minutes. Cover tamales with extra corn husks to trap in steam; place lid on pot. Tamales are ready when masa dough separates easily from husks. Add water to pot, as necessary, for longer steaming.

Let tamales rest 10 minutes before unwrapping. Remove corn husks before serving.

(Recipe courtesy of Sylvia Garza of QuĂŠ Mami Organics)

ADVERTISER INDEX Barton Brothers Inc. 62 Boon Choo 59 Brunson’s Furniture Center & Patio Shoppe 57 Caitlyn Farms 1 Carolina Hearth & Patio 29 Cason Builders Supply 17 Carolina Storage Solutions 21 Carruth Furntiure 51 Claussen Walters LLC Inside Front Conserving Carolina 31 CooperRiis Healing Community 61 EcoView Windows, Doors, Siding 27 Foothills Humane Society 11 Garland Goodwin 64 Habitat for Humanity 35 Harper Eatery & Pub 9 Heartwood Contemporary Crafts Gallery 15 Henson Building Materials 45 Hilliard Lyons 55 Home Technology Consultants 55 Hospice of the Carolina Foothills 5 Lake Pointe Landing 7 Landrum Drugs 47 Landrum Veterinary Hospital 31 Lanier Library 11 LaurelHurst/LaurelWoods 45 McFarland Funeral Chapel and Crematory 37 Midway Baptist Church 29 Morton Buildings 53 Nationwide 29 New View Realty 4 Odean Keever & Associates Inc. 9 Parsec Financial 23 Penny Insurance 37

Merry Christmas

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Polk County Sheriff’s Office 62 Polk County Transportation Inside Back Price Services Heating and Air 37 S.G. Power Equipment 53 Saluda Outfitters 63 Seasons of Life Home Care 27 Second Chance Thrift Store 41 ServiceMaster 49 Shealy Electric Co. Inc. 51 Smith’s Drugs 19 Southside Smokehouse 49 St. Luke’s Hospital Back Cover StateFarm 47 Tempo Music 63 The Book Shelf 10 The Community Chorus 25 The Esmeralda Inn & Restaurant 57 The Hare & Hound Pub 33 The Sanctuary & Vineyard at Reb Bull Run 39 Tim Edwards Farm & Landscaping 41 Town of Forest City 13 Tryon Builders Inside Back Tryon Fine Arts Center 43 Tryon Fire Department 3 Tryon Hearing Center 64 Tryon Horse Country Homes 64 Tryon Painters & Sculptors 11 Tuba Christmas 27 Vines of Tryon Gift Shop & Boutique 59 Watson Furniture Flooring Applicances 41 Wells Fargo Advisors Inside Back White Oak Village Tryon 2 Williamson’s Paint 64

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Align goals, investments, and the right advice to make the perfect blend Life changes, markets fluctuate, and your portfolio might need an adjustment to help keep you on track toward achieving your goals. If you’re wondering whether you have the right investments in your portfolio, we’d be happy to give you a professional evaluation. It could be the only thing you need is more cream in your coffee, but your investments are worth an important second look.

Call today for a complimentary consultation over coffee.

Michael Ashworth, CFP® Managing Director – Investments 187 N. Trade St. Tryon, NC 28782 828-859-9499 mike.ashworth@wfadvisors.com wellsfargoadvisors.com

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Katheryn Gordon Financial Advisor 187 N. Trade St. Tryon, NC 28782 828-859-9499 katheryn.gordon@wfadvisors.com

ST. LUKE’S HOSPITAL EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT - WHEN THE HOLIDAYS BECOME A LITTLE TOO HAPPY

My hospital, just in case.

St. Luke’s Hospital understands how the holidays can sometimes get a bit out of control. That’s why we’re proud to offer a 24/7 physician-staffed onsite emergency department with less waiting time than most larger hospitals.

So, relax and enjoy the festivities.

We’ve got you covered.

828.894.3311 SaintLukesHospital.com 101 Hospital Drive Columbus, NC 28722