Holiday Guide I

West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn. — Saturday, November 18, 2017 1

2017

Holiday Lifestyle Guide I

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D2 Saturday, November 18, 2017 — West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn.

‘Tis the season of hustle & bustle

Holiday festivities galore set across west central Minnesota

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he holiday season brings many special festivities. From family gatherings to school concerts and church programs, there are many events in which people may choose to participate. Listed are several concerts, festivals and other public activities set for the coming weeks.

Nov. 18  The Renville County Historical Society and Museum will have a bake sale from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Old Morton gym.  The 2017 Holidaze will begin with activities at 4 p.m. in downtown Willmar. The lighted parade is at 6:30 p.m.  5th annual Indoor Christmas Tree Walk, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Lyon County Museum, 301 W. Lyon St., Marshall; trees decorated by area businesses and nonprofit organizations, vote for your favorite tree or trees by placing money in the present next to the tree.

Nov. 19  The Renville County Historical Society and Museum will have a pancake breakfast from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at the Morton Senior Center.

Nov. 20-22  5th annual Indoor Christmas Tree Walk, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Lyon County Museum, 301 W. Lyon St., Marshall; trees decorated by area businesses and nonprofit organizations, vote for your favorite tree or trees by placing money in the present next to the tree.

is available for comments; any money donated will go to Busy Go Getters 4-H club that helped put up the lights. The address is 525 20th Ave. S.E.; four miles south of Benson on Highway 29, turn left on 50th Avenue, go one mile east and turn onto 20th Avenue.

 5th annual Indoor Christmas Tree Walk, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Lyon County Museum, 301 W. Lyon St., Marshall; trees decorated by area businesses and nonprofit organizations, vote for your favorite tree or trees by placing money in the present next to the tree.

Nov. 22  Thanksgiving celebration begin Jardar Johansen presents “The ning at 1:30 p.m. at the Willmar ComNorwegian Christmas Concert” at 8 munity Center. Dempsey Schroeder fidp.m. at Faith Lutheran Church in Spicer; dling with Maggie Harp followed by a freewill donation. Johansen is one of barn dance at 2:30 p.m. for kids and northern Norway’s foremost performers. adults. Turkey tacos will be served at 4 p.m. and there will be holiday crafts, Nov. 23-Jan. 7 the kid’s play area will be open and  The 10th and final “Celebrate the legos and other games will be available.

Light of the World” fundraiser for the Donations for the Willmar Area Food Salvation Army will be open from 4:30 Shelf and the Link Pantry accepted. to 11 p.m. daily at the Chad and Angela Koosman home, 3903 60th Ave. N.E., Nov. 27-Dec. 2 Willmar; take Kandiyohi County Road  5th annual Indoor Christmas Tree 9 out past Willmar High School to the Walk, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, until 7 corner of County Road 9 and County p.m. on Thursday and closes at 4 p.m.

Road 26. There will be two drive-in Saturday, Lyon County Museum, 301 W. movies at 6:30 p.m.: “The Elf” on Dec. 1 Lyon St., Marshall; trees decorated by and “Alvin and the Chipmunks” on Dec. area businesses and nonprofit organi2 followed immediately by fireworks. zations, vote for your favorite tree or On Dec. 9 from 4 to 8 p.m. visit Santa’s Den for photographs, along with cookie decorating and carolers. The lights will run all night on Christmas Eve.

Nov. 24-Jan. 2

 The Gralish’s outdoor Santa’s Workshop/Toys for Tots light display is open from dusk until 10 p.m. daily at 20955 115 St. N.E., New London. It’s located just off of State Highway 23, about four miles north of New London near Long Lake. Take a right off Nov. 21-Dec. 27  The Roger Mitteness farm south of Highway 23 at 115 Street Northeast. The Benson welcomes you to drive in and display is on the left side of the road. see the holiday lights up close between There is a huge toy box collecting toys 5:30 and 10:30 p.m. daily. A mailbox for Toys for Tots.

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trees by placing money in the present next to the tree.

Nov. 30-Dec. 1

 The “Festive Forest” at the Kandiyohi County Historical Society Museum, 610 Business Highway 71 N.E. in Willmar, shows holiday trees created by local clubs and organizations. The display will be open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Thursday and Friday.

Nov. 30-Dec. 3

 The Barn Theatre presents “ A Christmas Story” at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday at the theater in downtown Willmar; $20 for adults and $10 for students. Box office open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays, call 320-235-9500; 321 Fourth St. S.W., Willmar.

Dec. 1

 The Willmar Senior High Cardinal Choir and Choralaires present an Advent concert at 1 p.m. at Calvary Lutheran Church in Willmar.

HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES: Page D3

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West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn. — Saturday, November 18, 2017 D3

HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES From Page D2

Dec. 1-2

 Green Lake Lutheran Ministries presents a Christmas dinner theater “The Star” at 5:30 p.m. at the Green Lake Bible Camp in Spicer; $40 per person, call the camp for reservations at 320-796-2181.

Dec. 2

 The 24th annual “Christmas at Trinity” will be from 9 a.m. to noon at Trinity Lutheran Church in Grove City. There will be a cookie walk, crafts, baked goods and ethnic goodies for sale.

Brunch will be served. The church is located at 54384 U.S. Highway 12 East, Grove City.  The second annual Sensitive Santa Breakfast will be from 9 to 11 a.m. at West Central Industries for families with children age birth to 30 years with special needs, sensory issues and social skill challenges; $5 per family, limited seating, pre-registration required, call 320-235-5310, ext. 206.  “A Rockin’ 1950s Christmas in the Village” will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Historic Chippewa City, located at the junctions of Highways 7 and 59 in Montevideo. It will feature horsedrawn rides, candy and bake sales, crafters, Santa Claus, old-fashioned radio show, lunch line and the decorated village. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for ages 12-17 and children 11 and under admitted free.  The 22nd annual Pioneer Christmas will be from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Forest City Stockade. Admission is $5, ages 12 and under will be admitted free.

Have a wagon or sleigh ride, visit with Santa, see a winter Native American encampment with teepee, wall tent and A-frame; tour the historic buildings, pioneer crafts and demonstrations. A variety of food will be available. Dress warmly as many of the activities will be outdoors. Forest City is north of Litchfield in Meeker County.  Bake sales will be from 11 a.m. to

2 p.m. at the Kandi Mall in Willmar; churches, schools, nonprofit groups and organizations are participating.

Dec. 2-3

Did you know?

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 The fourth annual Holiday Soirée outhwatering turkeys are the at the University of Minnesota, Morris, pairs festive food with seasonal centerpieces of many holiday music in “Sounds of the Season.” The dinner tables. Golden roasted Music Department choirs and chamber turkey pairs well with many side ensembles will present a festive meal dishes, and flavors can be customized with dinner entertainment in Oyate Hall, Student Center, followed by the depending on the guest list. concert in Recital Hall, Humanities Fine Arts building. Saturday’s meal is at 6 p.m. and the concert at 7:30 p.m. On Sunday the meal is at 12:30 p.m. and the concert at 2 p.m.

Tickets are available at tickets.umn. edu or 320-589-6077. Meal tickets are $15, concert tickets are $5 adults, seniors $4, 12 and under/UMM students $3.

Dec. 3  The annual Advent tea will be at 2 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Benson. The program is “Journey to Bethlehem Then and Now” with music

by Trinity Senior Choir and Bell Choir.

Refreshments will be served by the St. Lucia girls.

Holiday hosts might want to serve  A pioneer Advent service will be at 2 p.m. in the Old Log Church of New wine with their turkey but may not be London with an old-fashioned hymn sure just which wines will complement sing in both Norwegian and English and traditional refreshments. Pastor Ron Knutson will bring the message. The church, located at the intersection of County Road 40 and 99th Street Northwest near Norway Lake, is not heated.

Dress warmly and bring a blanket for added comfort.  A Christmas choir concert will be at 3 p.m. at Peace Lutheran Church in New London to benefit the Link. The concert will feature the choirs from New London and Spicer area churches.

Donations to the Link will be accepted.

Watch the West Central Tribune and the Holiday Lifestyle Guide II, published Dec. 2, for additional holiday festivities. If you’d like to include an event in the holiday listing, send information to: news@wctrib.com, or mail to Holiday Events, West Central Tribune, Box 839, Willmar, MN 56201.

the meal. Sommeliers may suggest a variety of options, including wines that provide undertones of plum, spices or berry.

Golden roasted turkey pairs well with many side dishes, and flavors can be customized depending on the guest list.

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Wines that focus primarily on red fruit flavors typically pair well with harvest foods and poultry. Consider a Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Syrah or Beaujolais. For those who prefer white wine, the German Gewurztraiminer can be highly aromatic with floral touches and spice notes.

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D4 Saturday, November 18, 2017 — West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn.

Stay safe while shopping this holiday season

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he holiday shopping season is the busiest, and most profitable, time of year for many retailers.

According to the National Retail Federation, holiday retail sales during November and December of 2016 totaled $658.3 billion, exceeding industry projections by $2.5 billion.

Busy malls and retail centers can make it easy for shoppers to overlook safety and security. Thieves and other criminals recognize that and often prey on unsuspecting victims during the holiday season.

can be expensive to replace, and savvy thieves can gain access to their victims’ personal information, including financial and personal data.  Shop using plastic instead of cash.

Fraudulent purchases made with a credit card are protected by the credit card company. Stolen cash, however, is likely lost for good. While shopping with credit may encourage some to overspend, shoppers must recognize that shop-

ping with cash makes them vulnerable to thieves.  Periodically take packages out to your vehicle. Shoppers walking around the mall with multiple bags may be targeted by thieves and other criminals. Defending oneself against criminals with many shopping bags in hand can be difficult, and criminals can prey on that vulnerability while recognizing that people with multiple shopping bags are likely carrying

many valuable items. Periodically take packages out to your vehicle to make shopping easier and to deter criminals.

Millions of people will visit malls and other retail centers to do their holiday shopping this year. Safeguarding personal safety and security should be foremost on the minds of shoppers throughout the holiday season.

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Criminals may be lurking in less traveled areas of city or mall parking lots, recognizing that they can quickly strike and abscond with stolen items.

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For example, the Better Business Bureau notes that thieves can easily commit identity theft at malls, where shoppers preoccupied with shopping bags and looking after their children in crowded stores may be less likely to conceal their credit cards or PIN numbers at checkout counters.

In addition to safeguarding their financial information when checking out, shoppers can take the following steps to stay safe while shopping.  Prioritize parking in well-lit areas.

Mall parking lots can try shoppers’ patience during the holiday season. But shoppers should resist any urges to park in faraway spaces or areas that are poorly lit. Criminals may be lurking in less traveled areas of city or mall parking lots, recognizing that they can quickly strike and abscond with stolen items.

Shoppers should even be mindful of dark parking garages, only parking in such areas when accompanied by friends or family members.  Keep a watchful eye on smartphones.

Unlike the flip phones that came before them, today’s smartphones are essentially mini computers that can store substantial amounts of data, including users’ credit card numbers. Many people have even linked their smartphones directly to their bank accounts in an effort to make shopping simpler. Lost or stolen phones

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West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn. — Saturday, November 18, 2017 D5

Keep safe this holiday season and avoid medical mishaps T

Staying safe during the holidays involves diligence and keeping an eye out for potential dangers.

adults’. When decorating, consider decorating with artificial plants instead of live, potentially poisonous plants.  Alcohol-related incidents: Holiday fun frequently involves alcoholic beverages. Law enforcement officials point out that the rate of driving while intoxicated tends to increase during the holidays. Implementing strict “designated driver” rules and making contact information for taxi or ridesharing services readily available to holiday guests can prevent tragedies.

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 Choking: All of that entertaining and partying means more food is consumed. To keep up with the hustle and bustle of the season, many people must eat on the go. The National Safety Council says nearly 3,000 people in the United States die each year from choking.

Taking small bites and chewing completely, while also avoiding talking while chewing, can help. Children should be kept away from small decorations, as even pine needles can be a choking hazard.  Toxic plants: Some plants, including mistletoe and holly, can be toxic to pets and young children whose smaller bodies may be more vulnerable than

 Medicine mishaps: Relatives visiting for Christmas may bring their prescription medications along when staying overnight. Curious children may encounter the drugs and think they’re candy, so encourage guests to place their medications in childproof bottles or containers.

Staying safe during the holidays involves diligence and keeping an eye out for potential dangers.

Thankfully, many accidents that occur during the holiday season are avoidable if holiday celebrants focus on safe ways to celebrate.

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he holiday season might not be the most hazardous time of the year, but there is an uptick in safety concerns during this season of festivity and fun.

Components of the holiday season such as decorating, shopping, celebrating, and traveling, carry some risk.

The National Fire Protection Association says 30 percent of all home fires occur during the months of December, January and February. Christmas trees and decorative holiday lighting displays contribute to the uptick in fires and other accidents between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. But fire is not the only concern during the holiday season.

Revelers who celebrate a bit too much can pose a threat, as can road weary travelers or overnight guests who unknowingly put loved ones in harm’s way during their stays.

Thankfully, many accidents that occur during the holiday season are avoidable if holiday celebrants focus on safe ways to celebrate.

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D6 Saturday, November 18, 2017 — West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn.

Gifting ideas for budget-conscious families

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he holiday season is a magical time of year when many people celebrate their faith and express their love and appreciation for their families. Such expressions are often made through the exchange of gifts, which can stretch families budgets.

The National Retail Federation reports that retail sales in November and December of 2016 reached $658.3 billion, marking a 4 per-

cent increase over the same period a year prior.

For budget-conscious families, entering the holiday spending fray can have lasting effects that cast a pall over their finances for months to come.

Staying within budget is not impossible during the holiday season. It might take a little creativity and discussion among family Metro Creative Connections

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West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn. — Saturday, November 18, 2017 D7

members, but there are ways to exchange gifts and avoid debt this holiday season.  Embrace a “Secret Santa” exchange. Large families can save money by engaging in a Secret Santa exchange. Rather than asking each member of the family to buy gifts for one another, a Secret Santa exchange asks each participant to pick a name out of a hat and then only buy gifts for that person. This is a great way to

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children, as many adults can simply buy their own gadgets, clothing and other items commonly given during the holiday season.

To save money, adults can forgo gifting traditional gifts to one another, instead resolving to provide an experience for a loved one. Invite a loved one over for a homecooked meal or offer to take a family member out to dinner once the holiday season has come and gone and there’s more room in the budget.  Connect with your creative side. In lieu of purchasing a gift made by someone else, make your

own gift. Skilled crafters can create a one-of-a-kind gift out of supplies they already have on hand, while woodworkers can follow suit. Such gifts are thoughtful and inexpensive, and they will likely prove more memorable than another video game or sweater.

Budget-conscious families don’t have to sit out of holiday gift exchanges, as there are plenty of creative ways to express your love and appreciation for family without breaking the bank.

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From Page D6

save both money and time, and it saves participants from the potential hassle of returning gifts after the season.  Establish spending limits. Whether families embrace a Secret Santa exchange or not, they can save money by agreeing on a spending limit for each gift. Families participating in a Secret Santa exchange can set their spending limits a little higher than those families who will be buying gifts for multiple people.  Share experiences in lieu of exchanging gifts. Adults tend to be more difficult to shop for than

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BUDGET

D8 Saturday, November 18, 2017 — West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn.

9 ways to maximize entertaining space P eople who live in compact homes or apartments may find space is at a premium during regular times of the year. When the holidays arrive, decorations, trees and presents can make homes seem even more cluttered. This can make it especially challenging for holiday hosts who want to open up their homes for festive gatherings.

Even if space is at a premium, all it takes is a little ingenuity to entertain successfully.

1. Put nonessential furniture and other decor away. It’s impossible for would-be holiday hosts to move all of their belongings out of their homes to create entertaining space. But hosts can certainly cut down on clutter.

Check out the flow of a room and then move pieces around as needed to open up

floor space. Push tables or large pieces of furniture up against walls. Swap out armchairs for folding chairs. Stow knickknacks in bedrooms or in closets.

2. Put benches and wide ledges to use.

Narrow benches, such as those common to picnic tables, can seat three or four comfortably. Do not discount deep window ledges as potential seats, as these areas can be made more comfortable with pillows or cushions.

3. Collapse tables after meals. If a sitdown dinner is the goal, set up tables accordingly. Then break down the tables afterward to free up more space. Serve small desserts that can be easily transported from room to room.

4. Use islands and countertops. Tables can take up valuable space. When enter-

taining a lot of guests, set up an all-purpose counter island and add barstools.

This can be an area for food prep, eating and entertaining.

5. Create conversation areas. Encourage guests to spread out by setting up intimate spots in various rooms. This way guests won’t feel the need to congregate in the same space. Bistro tables in a den, a few floor pillows in front of the fireplace and stools by a kitchen island will create conversation areas.

6. Expand outside, if possible. Rent a tent that can be warmed with a space heater. If your home has a closed-in porch or patio space, cover screens with insulating plastic to create a comfortable added room.

7. Skip a sit-down meal. Large tables

take up a lot of space, so serve a buffet, tapas or passed hors d’oeuvres so guests mix and mingle rather than sit down at one large table.

8. Use all available surfaces. Invest in some sturdy serving trays that can be placed on television stands, upright speakers, ottomans, or even wooden crates. This will increase the amount of room you have to serve and store items.

9. Spread out refreshments. Avoid bottlenecks in common areas by putting food, beverages and other items in various locations. Fill up the kitchen sink with ice and make it an oversized beverage cooler.

Holiday entertaining requires some creativity when hosting in compact spaces.

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West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn. — Saturday, November 18, 2017 D9

Holiday stress-busting tips

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any people find the holiday season can be stressful. Holiday hosts may bear the brunt of seasonal stress, but the season also may be challenging for those who have lost loved ones or do not have close families to celebrate with. When holiday hustle leads to frayed nerves, there are some things people can do to reduce their stress.  Hit the gym. The American Society for Exercise Physiologists says exercise has been shown to increase one’s sense of well-being, mood, self-esteem, and stress responsivity. Stress can rev up adrenaline, and exercise can help relieve any pent-up energy and frustration.  Eat the right foods. Stay hydrated and eat plenty of fiber, fruits and vegetables. This can help stabilize blood sugar levels and decrease cravings for comfort foods. Do not turn to caffeine, sugary sweets and alcohol to reduce stress, as such foods and beverages may only compound the problem.  Get ample rest. Go to bed and rise at the same time each day. Many adults

function best when they get between seven and eight hours of sleep per night, and a good night’s rest can help in the fight against stress.  Engage in activities you enjoy.

Make time for activities that you like to

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do, such as crafts, hobbies and listening to music. Take time away from holiday tasks to give yourself a break.  Skip the need to be perfect. Christmas movies and holiday ideals portrayed

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in advertisements can put undue pressure on the average person. Ignore any perceived pressure to have a perfect holiday season, instead resolving to enjoy the time with family and friends.

Stress can impact the ability to enjoy oneself during the holidays. But stress can be overcome, even during this busy time of year.

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Set your sing-a-long party apart C

hristmas carols became part of holiday celebrations roughly 200 years ago. Initially gaining popularity in England before becoming holiday traditions in the Americas, carols are part and parcel of modern holiday celebrations.

can sign up for an account and access lyrics and music that can be streamed over a computer or any device with an internet connection.

Provide bound carol books Give each guest a custom-designed book of Christmas carols, complete with sheet music or just lyrics that they can use to follow along while joining in singing. Afterwards, this book can be a take-home present and memento.

One popular holiday party theme is a sing-a-long. Although door-todoor caroling has long been a holiday staple, celebrants can enjoy staying in and singing as well. To make your sing-a-long party unique, include some of these ideas in the celebration.

Rent or borrow karaoke equipment

select a holiday title out of a basket and then have to draw their interpretation so others can guess what song is being drawn. Afterward, everyone joins in to sing the tune.

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Increase the performance factor by securing a karaoke machine. Many are Pair picture-drawing with preprogrammed with holiday stan- singing dards. Various karaoke services exist Combine singing sessions with a online as well. For a small fee you game of “guess the picture.” Guests

Book live accompaniment Singing along to live music can be a treat. Find someone who is proficient on the piano, guitar or another musical instrument who will come and guide the musical interludes. Guests will gather around and offer their own voices. If the goal is to hire an accom-

panist, note that the holiday season can be a busy time for performers, so book early.

Highlight a singing virtuoso

Chances are there is someone in your group of friends or family who is adept at singing. Ask this person if he or she would be willing to perform a special solo.

Set the mood

Dim overhead lights and sing by candlelight or by the twinkling lights of a Christmas tree. Guests may feel less inhibited if they aren’t on full display.

Holiday songs are intertwined with the magic of Christmastime. A singa-long party can be the ideal way to gather friends and family.

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D10 Saturday, November 18, 2017 — West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn.

RSVP etiquette for any gathering iday party invitations are sent.

Hosting a party involves a lot of coordination. Party hosts rely on an accurate head count in order to plan accordingly. This is only achieved if invitations reach their intended recipients, and invited guests respond in a timely manner.

Anyone who has ever hosted a party understands the feeling of having to wait for everyone to

RSVP. And in an era of immediate digital gratification, party host patience may be lacking.

Failure to RSVP is a failure of party etiquette, and hosts may feel as though their efforts are not appreciated if guests fail to RSVP on time.

To avoid a manners mishap – and even worse, miss the party altogether – practice this RSVP etiquette for each and every event.

Avoid laziness

RSVP is an abbreviation for the French phrase “respondez s’il vous plait.” This means to “please respond.” Until roughly 50 years ago, RSVP was not commonly included on invitations because it was implied that guests would do the right thing and respond of their own accord to the hospitality

ETIQUETTE: Page D11

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t’s exciting to be invited to a party any time during the year, but the rate of invites seems to increase come the holiday season.

According to party planning resource Punchbowl, holiday party invitations reach their peak in mid- to late-November, but continue to be sent through December.

The first Monday in December is the day when the most online hol-

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West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn. — Saturday, November 18, 2017 D11

ETIQUETTE

manner adds additional work to the party host. This person has to track you down. Or he or she may misinterpret a lack of response as lack of interest.

From Page D10

time of getting a little forgetful.

But when hosts are counting on your response to plan their events, it pays to make responding a priority, and doing so within 24 hours is best.

Regrets only?

Only if the invitation states that.

Some people think they don’t have to respond unless they’re not coming to the party. The fact is, unless the invitation specifically says to RSVP for “regrets only,” assume that you have to respond one way or another.

Recognize the RSVP’s importance to the host Put yourself in the place of the host. He or she is counting on receiving responses to invitations.

Failure to respond in a timely

Rescinding your response It is improper etiquette to agree

to attend a party only to cancel at the last minute if a better invitation comes along. Unless it is an emergency situation or someone is sick, canceling an RSVP without a good reason is rude.

Etiquette for hosts

Send invites out several weeks in advance so people can check their schedules. As the date approaches, it is fine to reach out to guests who didn’t RSVP. Be polite and ask nicely if that person will be able to join you.

Metro Creatives Connection

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D12 Saturday, November 18, 2017 — West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn.

Celebrating the holidays as a blended family E

motions run deep come the holSome families choose to divvy iday season. Holiday planning up particular holidays throughcan be hectic, especially for out the year in advance. blended families.

Others may do it as plans get arranged.

As long as the arrangement is fair to Today’s families are increasingly everyone, the choice is up to the famiblended, meaning they’re a combina- lies. The plans should be made known tion of families due to divorce or death. to all involved.

Even though the holidays are meant to be joyous, navigating traditions and Discuss expectations accommodating the unique needs of all The Stepfamily Association of Ameriinvolved – including cultural traditions, ca says that communication during the visitation schedules, rituals, and reli- holiday season is vital, especially for gious beliefs – can be challenging. children so they know what to expect.

But blended families need not fret as Writing down specific itineraries can they attempt to negotiate Christmas, help alleviate the stress of not knowing Chanukah, Kwanzaa, or New Years. where they will be at a given time.

All members of the family should Logistics vocalize how they feel about particuThe first step to holiday planning is to lar aspects of the holidays so that no keep in mind predetermined custody or one is disgruntled. visitation agreements. Although there Do not expect others to be mind can be hope for holiday flexibility and readers. Perhaps one person is focusgenerosity, try to stick as close to exist- ing a significant amount of energy on ing arrangements as possible. trimming the tree when that isn’t as

It’s acceptable to have mixed feelings about new traditions, but each member should go into the season with a positive attitude.



important to others. Discussing expectations can make planning that much easier.

Create new traditions The holidays without everyone under the same roof enjoying traditions that have been part of celebrations for years can contribute to feelings of anxiety for people accustomed to these annual traditions.

Draw the focus away from how things used to be done and create new tra-

Blended families may have additional factors to consider as the holidays arrive.

ditions that all can anticipate. Host a holiday movie night if this isn’t the year to have the kids for Christmas.

An annual outing to see a concert or show might be a new tradition the entire blended family can enjoy.

Don’t expect perfection

Putting too much emphasis on trying to make the holidays perfect can backfire. Blended families must recognize that holiday celebrations will change. It can take time to find a new celebratory rhythm, and comparisons always will be made.

It’s acceptable to have mixed feelings about new traditions, but each member should go into the season with a positive attitude.

Blended families may face additional challenges during the holidays. Working together, such families can restore joy to the season and create new traditions.

Metro Creative Connections

Metro Creative Connections

West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn. — Saturday, November 18, 2017 13

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D14 Saturday, November 18, 2017 — West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn.

Christmas tree safety tips C

hristmas trees are staples of the holiday season that can be found in millions of households across the globe. But Christmas trees can be as dangerous as they are heartwarming.

According to the American Christmas Tree Association, Christmas tree fires contribute to $13 million in property damage annually. Many Christmas tree fires involve live Christmas trees that, while beautiful, pose a greater fire threat than artificial trees because they can dry out, making them vulnerable to electric lights and nearby heating sources.

Homeowners can take the following steps, courtesy of the ACTA, to prevent Christmas tree fires.  Purchase a fresh tree. The ACTA notes that fresh trees are less likely to catch fire than trees that were cut weeks before being purchased. Avoid trees that are shedding their needles.

Try to purchase trees with vibrant green needles that are hard to pluck.

Purchasing freshly cut trees from tree



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Warm up with a classic hot toddy this holiday season C

ome the holiday season, hot toddies are ideal for entertaining, providing spirited fun and a means to chasing away the winter chill.

Hot toddies have been around for centuries. Usually a mix of a spirit – either whiskey, rum or brandy – hot water, honey and spices, some believe the word “toddy” comes from an Indian drink of the same name that is produced by fermenting the sap of palm trees.

Other sources say the hot toddy was created by Dr. Robert Bentley Todd, an Irish physician who prescribed a drink made of brandy, white cinnamon, sugar syrup, and water. The drink was dubbed the “hot toddy.”

Hot drinks embellished with alcohol were long used for medicinal purposes.

While alcoholic beverages are no longer used as medicine, hot toddies can still chase away a chill.

farms instead of grocery store parking damaged or burned out, replacing those lot vendors, whose trees might have that don’t pass inspection. been cut weeks earlier, can ensure trees  Place the tree away from heat are fresh. sources. Christmas trees are the centerpieces of holiday decorations. But trees should never be placed near heat sources, no matter how aesthetically According to the appealing certain spots may seem. Keep American Christmas trees away from fireplaces, radiators, Tree Association, candles, heating vents, and lights.

Christmas tree fires  Keep the tree watered. A tree that contribute to $13 gets ample water is less likely to dry million in property out, and dried out trees pose a significant fire risk. Check water levels and damage annually. water trees in the morning and night as needed, and even more frequently  Discard damaged lights. Damif necessary. aged lights are not just an eyesore but  Turn lights off at night. Christmas a significant safety threat. Electrical malfunctions in lights can contribute tree lights should always be turned off to tree fires, so discard any damaged at night when residents are going to lights. Before placing lights on the tree, bed. In addition, lights should never be stretch each strand out on the floor and on when no one is home. plug them in to see if any lights are Metro Creative Connections

“Grog” is another name given to hot alcoholic drinks, or any drink in which unmeasured amounts of spirits are mixed with other ingredients. Grog may also refer to a water-and-rum mixture that sea merchants once drank.

The water kept the merchants hydrated, while the rum prevented the water from spoiling during voyages.

The classic hot toddy can be a versatile drink used to keep guests comfortable and cheerful. This warm libation is soothing and savory, mixing citrus, honey and spices, which each have their various health benefits.

Although hot toddy recipes vary, the following is the recipe for a classic hot toddy, as culled by recipes from Wine Enthusiast, Imbibe and PBS Food.

Classic Hot Toddy 1½ ounces bourbon, whiskey or another brown liquor 1 tablespoon honey 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice 1 cup boiling water Cinnamon stick Lemon wedge Cloves or star anise

Combine liquor, lemon juice, honey, and boiling water together in a mug or Irish coffee glass. Push cloves or star anise into the lemon wedge. Add the cinnamon stick and lemon wedge to the mug. Allow lemon and cinnamon stick to steep in the beverage for a few minutes. Stir and enjoy.

Metro Creative Connections

Metro Creative Connections

Soothe holiday visitors with a hot toddy. The combination of lemon, honey and whiskey makes hot toddies a comforting libation.

West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn. — Saturday, November 18, 2017 D15

A quick and delicious holiday dessert T he holiday season is synonymous with many things, including delicious foods. While Thanksgiving turkeys or Christmas geese will be found on many a table this holiday season, baked goods and desserts are what many people look forward to this time of year.

Holiday hosts with a lot on their plates might not have the time to prepare homemade baked goods for their guests.

Thankfully, the following recipe for “Chocolate-Strawberry Pie” from Addie Gundry’s “No-Bake Desserts” (St. MartinÕs Press) can be prepared in just 15 minutes, all without turning on the oven.

2½ cups half-and-half 6 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped 1/2 tablespoon rum extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Additional strawberries for garnish (optional) 1. Place the strawberry halves in a single layer in the bottom of the pie crust.

2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, cocoa powder, ginger, nutmeg,and salt over medium heat.

3. Whisk in the egg yolks to create a thick paste. Gradually whisk in the Chocolate-Strawberry Pie half-and-half until the mixture thickYields 1 pie ens, about 5 minutes. Bring to a boil 1 pint fresh strawberries, washed, and cook for 1 minute. Remove from trimmed and halved the heat.

1 store-bought (or homemade) choc4. Add the chocolate and whisk until olate cookie pie crust combined. Add the rum and vanilla 2/3 cup sugar extracts. Cool the mixture for 4 min1/4 cup cornstarch utes.

2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa 5. Pour the filling over the strawberpowder ries and up to the top of the crust. Chill 1/4 teaspoon minced crystallized gin- the pie for 2 hours or until set. ger 6. Garnish with additional strawber1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg ries, if desired.

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D16 Saturday, November 18, 2017 — West Central Tribune — Willmar, Minn.

Budget for holiday gratuities I

f the rate of spending during the holiday is any indication, generosity is in full force come the end of the year. During their second annual holiday debt survey, the financial resource MagnifyMoney found consumers who took on debt during the 2016 holiday season started the New Year an average of $1,003 in the red.

That marks an increase of 1.7 percent over 2015.

Rather than finding themselves in debt again next January, shoppers inclined to use their credit cards this holiday season must recognize the importance of budgeting for all holiday expenses – including those that may not immediately come to mind, such as gratuities for service providers.

Gratuities are gestures of kindness and appreciation during the holiday season. Although gratuities are not entirely necessary, many etiquette experts say certain people, particularly those who provide year-round services, are worthy of a little extra money this time of year.

Consider thank-you notes for those people who don’t land on this year’s gratuity list.

The following is a list of service

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Trash collectors often are on the list of people deserving of a holiday tip.

with the local municipality for regulations on tipping public service providers, who can be tipped depending on your budget.  Daycare staff or babysitter: Those tasked with caring for children are worthy of a little something extra. A gift between $40 and $70 can be fitting. In addition, include a handmade gift from the children if kids are old enough. The Emily Post Institute suggests gifting one week’s pay to a live-in nanny or au pair.  Housekeeper: Up to one week’s pay should suffice for housekeepers.  Personal caregiver: Gift between one week and one month’s salary for someone charged with caring for a loved one. In a nursing home setting, provide a gift the staff can enjoy, such as a catered lunch.  Teacher: He or she spends several hours a day with children. Pool resources with other parents to purchase a gift card or thoughtful gift.

Other people that may be tipped include salon workers, building superintendents, doormen, tutors, and pet groomers whose services are required often.

workers whose efforts throughout the year are typically worthy of gratuities come the holiday season.  Postal workers: Postal workers face the elements each and every day to make sure letters and packages arrive on time. Their work is made even more challenging during the rush of the holiday season, when mail flow increases

considerably. The U.S. Postal Service forbids carriers from accepting cash gifts, but gift cards or other tokens of appreciation can be fitting.  Newspaper delivery person: Gift the equivalent of one month of the subscription price, which may be between $10 and 30.  Trash/recycling collectors: Check

ticularly during the holiday season.

Annual holiday weight gain can contribute to weight-based problems such as obesity, heart disease and Type 2 diabetes.

es and then make the smartest selections possible. Avoid creamy sauces, greasy foods and those that are heavy on cheese. Fill up on vegetables and then you won’t feel bad about splurging on a dessert.  Go sparingly on alcohol.

People seldom realize how quickly calories from beverages can add up. A 12-ounce glass of beer has about 150 calories, a five ounce glass of red wine has about 125 calories and a 1.5-ounce shot of gin, rum, vodka, whiskey, Metro Creative Connections or tequila has about 100 caloPack in the fun without packing on the pounds ries, according to the Nationthis holiday season. al Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Furthermore, ing the night before. Maintain a conalcohol lowers inhibitions, so you may sistent workout schedule all through be more likely to overindulge in more the holidays. spirits or extra food when intoxicated.

Holiday weight gain is not inevi You can’t buy back calories with table for those who take control and exercise. Putting in a marathon exercise session the next day probably will not exercise discipline.

Metro Creative Connections undo the damage done from overeat-

Metro Creative Connections

Strategies to avoid holiday weight gain S taying fit during the holiday season can be quite challenging, even for the most ardent fitness enthusiasts and disciplined calorie-counters. Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, many people are offered a wide assortment of foods, beverages and other indulgences – typically in mass quantities.

The holiday season might not be the best time to start a diet, but holiday eating does not have to derail healthy lifestyles. The following are ways to avoid holiday weight gain and still enjoy all of the parties, adventures and time spent with friends and family.  Focus on festivity instead of food.

When hosting holiday festivities, make the bulk of the celebration about an activity rather than food. If guests are focused on fun, such as a sing-a-long, dancing or tree-trimming, they may be less likely to overeat.  Don’t show up starving. Eat a light, healthy snack before participating in any holiday revelry. Hunger pangs may drive one straight to the buffet table.

According to researchers at Stanford University, although the average person only gains around one pound during the holiday season, quite frequently that pound sticks around, and those extra pounds add up year after year. As a result, it doesn’t take too many years of holiday bundt cakes to gain a considerable amount of weight.

Holiday season weight gain is not unique to the United States and Canada.

Investigators at Tampere University of Technology in Finland tracked weight gained in the United States, Germany and Japan during those countries’ festive times and found that each coun Survey your options prior to eating. try’s participants gained weight, par- Guests should scope out the food choic-