Issuu

Holiday TIS THE SEASON TO BE

2026

CRAFTY COOKIE

decorating party

The Best Gifts aren’t

WRAPPED Holiday Moments & Memories

AD 5” x 8”

2 Holiday Moments & Memories

Holiday TIS THE SEASON TO BE

2026

CRAFTY COOKIE

decorating party

The Best Gifts aren’t

WRAPPED

Holiday Moments & Memories

Contents A HOLIDAY MEMORY THAT CREATE 6 CREATE 22 GIFTS WALL FAMILY TIME MOCKTAILS 24 HOLIDAY EVERYONE CAN ENJOY 8 GIFTS FOR HER MOVIE 26 CHRISTMAS BUCKET LIST 10 GIFTS FOR HIM THE SEASON TO ACTS OF 28 SECRET 12 ‘TIS BE CRAFTY CHRISTMAS KINDNESS A COOKIE WRAPPING 14 HOST 30 HANDMADE DECORATING PARTY IDEAS FORGET THE 16 GIFTS FOR KIDS 32 DON’T REINDEER BREAKFAST 18 HOLIDAY CASSEROLE 34 HOLIDAY SHOPPING LIST CHOCOLATE 20 WHITE CRANBERRY LOAF CAKE 36 COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS

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Hometown STAFF Executive Publisher SUZANNE P. FOX Contributing Writers ALYSSA INGRAM GRANT PARKER NELLIE PALMER ELLIE DAGENHARDT SLOAN SMITH

CREDITS 2.4375” x 3.9375”

Design MEGAN PEDERSEN

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Holiday Moments & Memories

memory wall

CREATE A HOLIDAY

hristmas is filled with traditions, but some of the most meaningful ones do not come from a store. A Christmas memory wall turns favorite photographs, handwritten notes, old holiday cards and family stories into a display that celebrates the people and moments that make the season special.

When Should You Make It? Start the wall when you begin decorating for Christmas, usually sometime after Thanksgiving. Add a few favorite photographs and memories to give everyone an idea of what belongs there. Then leave room.

A memory wall itself is not a brand new idea. Family photo and keepsake walls have been used for years to display meaningful pictures and mementos. What feels especially fitting now is giving the idea a holiday twist and making the wall **interactive**, allowing it to grow throughout the Christmas season. Personalization and nostalgia are both prominent in 2026 holiday decorating, making this familiar idea feel particularly timely. What Is a Christmas Memory Wall? Think of it as part decoration, part family scrapbook. Choose a wall, bulletin board, large piece of foam board or even a section of ribbon strung across a mantel. Fill it with Christmas photographs from years past, pictures of loved ones, favorite holiday cards, children’s artwork and little reminders of family traditions. Do not worry about making it look perfect. The personality is what makes it special.

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That empty space is important because the most enjoyable version of a Christmas memory wall is one that continues to grow throughout the season. Let Your Guests Help This is where the idea becomes more than decoration. Place blank cards, colorful paper and pens near the wall. When family and friends visit, invite them to write down a favorite Christmas memory, something funny that happened during

the year, a family tradition they love or even something they are grateful for. Children can draw pictures. Grandparents can share stories. Guests can bring or print photographs to add.

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By Christmas Day, the wall becomes a collection of memories created by everyone who passed through your home. Give It a New Twist for 2026 Instead of making the wall only about the past, divide it into **“Remember When”** and **“Remember This.”** On one side, display old photographs and Christmas memories. On the other, capture the Christmas you are celebrating right now. Take instant photos during parties. Add funny quotes overheard at dinner. Let children write down their favorite gift or activity. Ask everyone to answer a simple question such as, *“What do you want to remember about this Christmas?”* At the end of the season, place the new photographs and notes in an envelope or keepsake box marked with the year. Next Christmas, bring them back out and use them to start the wall again.

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Personalized holiday keepsakes already work this way, with families adding new photographs and milestone ornaments year after year. A Christmas memory wall takes that same idea and turns it into an activity everyone can share. The result is more than holiday décor. It becomes a living family tradition, one Christmas adding another chapter to the story. Holiday Moments & Memories

her

Temperature Control Mug

By Alyssa Ingram

Cost: Approximately $100

GIFT IDEAS FOR

For the woman whose coffee always gets cold, the Ember Mug 2 maintains her preferred temperature while she works, reads or relaxes. It is a practical luxury she can enjoy every day. Ember

Thoughtful gifting in 2026 is all about personal touches, everyday luxury and clever technology.

These six fresh finds offer memorable surprises for every style, interest and budget on your list. Smart Bird Feeder Cost: Approximately $239

WiFi Digital Photo Frame Cost: $149 Load an Aura Carver frame with favorite photographs before wrapping it. Friends and relatives can continue adding new pictures remotely, creating an evolving collection of vacations, celebrations and everyday memories. Aura

Personalized Story Necklace Cost: Approximately $40 to $150

The Birdbuddy Pro Solar photographs visiting birds and delivers the images directly to her phone. With bird identification, video and solar charging, it is a delightful combination of nature and technology. Birdbuddy

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Choose a necklace featuring her initials, children’s birthstones, an engraved date or coordinates from a meaningful location. Personalized jewelry feels entirely her own while remaining easy to wear every day.

Make Your Own Perfume Experience Cost: Approximately $75 to $150 Instead of choosing a fragrance for her, give her the opportunity to create one. Guided perfume workshops allow participants to explore different notes and leave with a completely personalized signature scent.

Wearable Wellness Ring Cost: Starting around $349 A stylish wellness ring tracks sleep, activity, stress and other health patterns without looking like traditional fitness equipment. It is an especially thoughtful choice for someone interested in improving her daily well being.

Prices are approximate and may vary by retailer, model and available promotions.

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GIFT IDEAS FOR him By Alyssa Ingram

Finding the right gift for him is easier with a mix of useful technology, everyday upgrades and memorable experiences.

These 2026 picks offer something for every personality and budget.** Personalized YETI Rambler

AirPods Pro 3 $249

For the man who is always listening to music, podcasts or taking calls on the go, AirPods Pro 3 are a practical upgrade. Active noise cancellation helps block distractions while the compact wireless design makes them ideal for work, workouts and travel.

Oura Ring Starting Around $349

About $35–$50

Give the gift of better insight into sleep, activity and recovery. The sleek Oura smart ring tracks wellness information without the look or bulk of a traditional smartwatch, making it a good choice for health conscious men who also appreciate understated technology.

Upgrade his everyday coffee or cold drink with an insulated YETI Rambler customized with his name, initials or a favorite design. It is a useful gift that feels more personal and works equally well at the office, on the road or outdoors.

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Perfect for athletes, golfers, travelers or anyone who regularly deals with tired muscles, the portable Theragun Mini delivers massage therapy in a compact package. Its small size makes it easy to keep in a gym bag, suitcase or desk drawer.

Theragun Mini About $220

Digital Photo Frame About $100–$200 A WiFi connected digital photo frame turns hundreds of favorite photographs into one gift. Load it with family memories, vacations, pets or special occasions before wrapping it for an especially thoughtful surprise.

Experience Gift About $50–$300+ Instead of giving him another thing to store, give him something to do. Golf outings, concert tickets, sporting events, driving experiences, cooking classes or brewery tours can be tailored to his interests and enjoyed long after the holiday is over. Prices are approximate and may vary by retailer, model and available promotions.

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TIS THE SEASON

TO BE CRAFTY

Just as the Evergreen grows steady and strong so do your family members and the holiday traditions you share together. Create this handprint family tree every December to watch the changes and growth that take place in your home year after year. HANDPRINT TREE Supplies • green construction paper • pencil • scissors • glue • markers • decorating accents (optional) 1. Trace each family member’s handprints four times on green construction paper. 2. Cut out the handprints. 3. Pointing the fingers downward to resemble needles, begin making the top of the tree by gluing four of the smallest handprints together side by side. (see photo) 4. Continue attaching handprints, from the smallest to the largest, to create the cone shape of an evergreen tree until all have been placed. 5. Decorate using markers, sequins, glitter, fabric or whatever other supplies you have to personalize your family tree.

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The holiday season can seem like an eternity to your children. Help them keep track of the passing days by making this unique Countdown to Christmas calendar. SANTA’S BEARD COUNTDOWN CALENDAR Supplies • red, white and tan/peach construction paper • pencil • scissors • glue • googly eyes • ruler 1. Create Santa’s hat and head by tracing and cutting out the pieces needed on construction paper. Assemble as shown. 2. Create Santa’s face by attaching googly eyes and red paper nose. 3. Create Santa’s beard by measuring twelve inches in length on white construction paper then, using the ruler, marking every half-inch from the top to the bottom. 4. Draw lines at each mark to create sections across the beard’s width. (There should be twenty-four sections total when you’re done.) 5. Number each section starting with one at the top and twenty-four at the bottom. 6. Glue Santa’s head and beard together. 7. Invite your children to cut off one section each day, starting at the bottom, so they’ll always know the answer to “How many days ‘til Santa???”

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Host a

cookie decorating party F

ew holiday activities bring people together quite like decorating cookies. With colorful icing, sparkling sprinkles and plenty of laughter, a cookie decorating party offers guests of all ages a sweet way to celebrate the season. Best of all, it can be as simple or elaborate as you choose. Begin by selecting a date before the holiday calendar becomes too crowded. An afternoon gathering works especially well for families, while an evening party can be a festive activity for friends, neighbors or coworkers. Invite guests to wear holiday sweaters or cheerful seasonal colors to make the occasion feel even more special.

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Before the party, bake several batches of sturdy sugar or gingerbread cookies. Choose a variety of seasonal shapes, such as stars, snowflakes, ornaments, trees, mittens and gingerbread people. Plan on six to eight cookies per guest, with a few extras in case some break or disappear before the decorating begins. Set up a decorating station on a table covered with a disposable tablecloth or festive kraft paper. Place royal icing or buttercream in piping bags or squeeze bottles, offering several holiday colors. Fill small bowls or muffin tins with decorating options, including sanding sugar, nonpareils, candy pearls, mini chocolate chips and crushed peppermint.

Provide toothpicks for creating tiny details and spreading icing into corners. To keep the party organized, give each guest a plate, tray or sheet of parchment paper labeled with their name. Children may enjoy decorating paper chef hats or aprons before they begin. Holiday music playing softly in the background will add to the cheerful atmosphere. Serve simple snacks and drinks that do not compete with the main attraction. Hot cocoa, apple cider, coffee and milk are perfect choices. Balance the sweetness with cheese, crackers, fruit, popcorn or a small sandwich tray. Add a little friendly competition by creating categories such as Most Creative, Most Festive, Funniest Cookie and Best Use of Sprinkles. Keep prizes lighthearted, with cookie cutters, holiday mugs or small ornaments for the winners. When the decorating is finished, package each guest’s creations in a bakery box, holiday tin or cellophane bag tied with ribbon. Include a handwritten tag or recipe card as a thoughtful finishing touch. A holiday cookie decorating party is about much more than making beautiful treats. It creates an opportunity to slow down, share stories and enjoy the wonderfully imperfect moments that often become the season’s favorite memories.

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GIFT IDEAS FOR kids By Alyssa Ingram

From interactive pets to blockbuster character toys, Christmas 2026 is bringing big surprises. These five gifts are poised to top kids’ holiday wish lists everywhere

KPop Demon Hunters Singing Doll $32.99

Fans of *KPop Demon Hunters* can bring Rumi, Mira or Zoey home with Mattel’s new singing dolls. Each doll wears a performance inspired outfit and plays music from “Golden,” making this one of the year’s most timely gifts for fans of the hit movie.

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Nintendo Switch 2 $449

For older kids and young gamers, the Nintendo Switch 2 is likely to remain one of the biggest gifts under the tree. Its larger 7.9 inch display, upgraded performance and ability to play at home or on the go make it a major step up for Nintendo fans.

Bitzee Interactive Aquarium $39.99

Digital pets get an underwater upgrade with the new Bitzee Aquarium. Kids can interact with, feed and care for a collection of colorful virtual sea creatures. With 30 aquatic friends to discover, this portable toy blends technology with the fun of raising a pet.

2026 Holiday Barbie About $45 A Christmas classic gets a fresh look for 2026. This year’s Holiday Barbie arrives dressed in a dramatic red gown with an oversized bow, creating a gift that works equally well for imaginative play, holiday display or the beginning of a collection.

LEGO Bluey’s Family House $69.99 Young Bluey fans can build and explore the Heeler family home with this colorful 382 piece LEGO set. Bluey, Bingo, Chilli and Bandit are all included, along with familiar rooms and accessories that encourage building, storytelling and imaginative family play. Prices are approximate and may vary by retailer, model and available promotions.

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Recipe | Breakfast

Holiday Breakfast

Casserole

Warm, hearty, and easy to prepare, this festive casserole is perfect for Christmas morning or a holiday brunch.

Serves: 8 Prep time: 20 minutes Bake time: 45–50 minutes

INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • • • • • • •

1 pound breakfast sausage 6 cups cubed day-old bread 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese 8 large eggs 2 cups whole milk 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard ½ teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon black pepper ½ cup diced red bell pepper ½ cup diced green bell pepper ¼ cup sliced green onions Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions 1. Grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess grease.

2. Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with the cooked sausage, cheddar cheese, bell peppers, and green onions.

3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

4. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole. Gently press the bread into the liquid to help it absorb the custard.

5. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight. 6. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F. Remove the casserole from the refrigerator while the oven heats.

7. Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Holiday tip: Assemble the casserole on Christmas Eve, then simply bake it the next morning. Serve it with fresh fruit, warm cinnamon rolls, and coffee for an effortless holiday breakfast.

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Recipe | Dessert

White Chocolate Cranberry Loaf Cake

By: Nellie Palmen

INGREDIENTS For the Loaf • 1 3/4 cups all purpose flour • 1 teaspoon baking powder • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda • 1/4 teaspoon salt • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened • 3/4 cup granulated sugar • 2 large eggs • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1/2 cup sour cream • 1/4 cup milk • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, roughly chopped • 3/4 cup white chocolate chips • 1 teaspoon orange zest, optional

DIRECTIONS 1. Prepare the pan. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides. 2. Combine the dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. 3. Cream the butter and sugar. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. 4. Add the wet ingredients. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla. Mix in the sour cream and milk until smooth. 5. Finish the batter. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Fold in the cranberries, white chocolate chips and orange zest, if using.

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Sweet white chocolate and tart cranberries come together in this moist, festive loaf cake. It is perfect for holiday brunches, dessert tables, gift giving or enjoying with a warm cup of coffee. Serves: 8-10 Prep time: 20 minutes Bake time: 50 to 60 minutes For the White Chocolate Glaze • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips • 2 tablespoons heavy cream • 2 tablespoons dried cranberries, chopped, for garnish

6. Bake. Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. 7. Cool. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cool completely before adding the glaze. 8. Make the glaze. Place the white chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave safe bowl. Microwave in 15 second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. 9. Decorate. Drizzle the white chocolate glaze over the cooled loaf and sprinkle with chopped dried cranberries. Holiday Tip: For an extra festive finish, sprinkle the top with a little orange zest or sparkling sugar. The loaf can also be wrapped in parchment and ribbon for an easy homemade holiday gift.

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Gifts That Create

By: Grant Parker

Family Time T

he best holiday gifts are not always the ones that get tucked into a closet or forgotten by spring. Sometimes, the most meaningful gifts are the ones that bring everyone together. This holiday season, consider giving something that creates an excuse to slow down, gather around and enjoy one another. From games and cooking experiences to outdoor adventures, gifts that encourage family time can create memories long after the wrapping paper is gone.

START A FAMILY GAME NIGHT A new board game can become the beginning of a holiday tradition. Choose something everyone can enjoy, from classic games like Scrabble and Monopoly to newer trivia, strategy or cooperative games. Create a complete game night gift by adding popcorn, hot cocoa, favorite candies and a deck of cards. Package everything together in a

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basket and include a handwritten invitation for the family’s first official game night.

GIVE AN EXPERIENCE Tickets and memberships offer something especially valuable: time together. Consider passes to a zoo, aquarium, museum, amusement park or local attraction. Concert tickets, sporting events and holiday performances can also become memorable family outings. For a gift that lasts throughout the year, look for family memberships that allow everyone to return again and again. Bring Everyone Into the Kitchen Cooking together

creates conversation, laughter and plenty of opportunities for new traditions. Put together a pizza night kit with pizza pans, sauce, toppings and personalized aprons. A cookie decorating set, waffle maker, ice cream maker or fondue pot can turn an ordinary evening into an occasion. Add a blank recipe book and encourage everyone to record favorite family recipes as you make them.

PLAN FOR OUTDOOR ADVENTURES Encourage the family to unplug with gifts designed for the outdoors. A picnic basket, backyard fire pit, camping equipment, badminton set or portable cornhole game can inspire weekends spent together. Even something as simple as matching water bottles and a list of nearby walking trails can become the beginning of a new family routine.

You might even create a monthly tradition where a different person chooses the movie each time.

PRESERVE THE MEMORIES Finally, give a gift that celebrates the time you have already shared. A digital photo frame loaded with family pictures, a personalized photo album or a family memory book can inspire stories that younger generations may have never heard. The holidays have always been about more than presents. When a gift encourages people to gather, laugh, cook, explore or simply spend an evening together, you are giving something much bigger than what is inside the box.

You are giving the gift of time.

CREATE A MOVIE NIGHT BASKET Turn the living room into a family theater with cozy blankets, popcorn bowls, movie snacks and a few favorite films. Include homemade “movie tickets” that family members can redeem throughout the year.

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Festive Holiday Mocktails for Christmas and Hanukkah

Holiday entertaining does not have to revolve around alcohol. A beautiful mocktail can feel every bit as special as a traditional cocktail, while giving everyone at the table something festive to enjoy. The secret is presentation. Sparkling water, fresh fruit, herbs, citrus and decorative glassware can transform a simple beverage into something celebration worthy. Whether you are gathering around the Christmas tree or lighting the menorah, these two colorful drinks bring plenty of holiday cheer.

Christmas Cranberry Sparkler INGREDIENTS Makes 1 drink • • • • • • • •

3 ounces cranberry juice 1 ounce fresh orange juice 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice 3 ounces sparkling water or lemon lime soda Fresh cranberries 1 rosemary sprig Ice Sugar for the rim, optional

Directions If desired, lightly wet the rim of a glass with an orange wedge and dip it in sugar. Fill the glass with ice. Add cranberry juice, orange juice and lime juice. Stir gently, then top with sparkling water or lemon lime soda. Garnish with a few fresh cranberries and a rosemary sprig. For an extra holiday touch, add a thin orange slice.

Hanukkah Blueberry Lemon Fizz INGREDIENTS Makes 1 drink

• 1/4 cup fresh blueberries • 1 ounce fresh lemon juice • 1/2 ounce simple syrup or honey

• • • • •

4 ounces sparkling water 1 ounce white grape juice Ice Lemon twist Extra blueberries for garnish

Directions Place the blueberries, lemon juice and simple syrup in the bottom of a glass. Gently muddle until the berries release their juice. Fill the glass with ice. Add white grape juice and top with sparkling water. Stir gently. Garnish with fresh blueberries and a lemon twist. Serve in a clear glass so the beautiful blue color can shine.

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DON’T TOUCH THAT DIAL!

ou can’t go shopping … or to a party … or to see Santa EVERY day in December, right? So get a fire going, pour yourself some eggnog, and belly up to your old friend, TV. Christmas just isn’t Christmas if you don’t take in these classic holiday specials at least once a year. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964). Created from wood, wire and fabric, the original puppets used for the show were only 4 to 8 inches tall. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965). At the time of production, Kathy Steinberg (“Sally”) had not yet learned to read so her lines had to be fed to her one word at a time. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966). Dr. Seuss himself wrote the lyrics to all the songs. Frosty the Snowman (1969). It was Jimmy Durante’s final film. Santa Claus is Coming to Town (1970). When shown today, censors often cut the scene when the tyrannical leader burns all the children’s toys because it’s been deemed “too traumatizing.” The Year Without a Santa Claus (1974). In 2004, the swing revival band Big Bad Voodoo Daddy released a cover of the infamous Heat Miser/Snow Miser anthem.

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Community

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

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GIVING s Better Than

Really i

RECEIVING

e’ve all heard it since we were kids. But we don’t always learn to appreciate its meaning until we’re a little older. There are so many ways to brighten someone else’s world. We just need to decide which one works best for our budgets and schedules.

moment to think about which area of service best suits you and choose your recipient carefully so your experience is a positive one. If you’re a little nervous about going at it alone, consider bringing a buddy.You get the companionship and your chosen charity gets an extra pair of hands.

Financial Donations. In today’s technologically-advanced world, it’s the easiest way to give. Most charitable organizations have websites that allow you to donate from your computer or smart phone with the click of a button.

Purchasing Gifts that Support the Community. Want to score a real win-win with your gift? Give something to the receiver that also gives to the community such as tickets to a neighborhood theater production, a painting created by a local artist or a gift certificate to the best mom and pop restaurant in town.

In-kind Donations. Set aside a little time to check your closets, drawers, shelves, attics, etc. because everyone’s got something gathering dust that could best be used elsewhere. Even better, think about the needs of your chosen recipient in advance. Then pick up a few essentials the next time you’re at the store and donate something new. Volunteerism. Want to help with children, animals, the elderly? Take a

Random Acts of Kindness. These moments in life often present themselves when we least expect them. And they needn’t cost a dime. Is the woman behind you in line struggling to quiet her crying child? Let her go ahead of you. Has the elderly man in the parking lot just dropped his entire bag of groceries? Help him gather them up. There are opportunities to be a hero all around you every day.

Still not sure where to start? VISIT www.VolunteerMatch.org to select a charitable opportunity that works best for you in your area.

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DIY WRAPPING

IDEAS TO SOLVE EVERY UH - OH MOMENT

Help! I ran out of wrapping paper! No problem. Lots of things can double for it. Try newspaper, sheet music or even spare fabric (bonus: it’s green because it’s reusable) for beautifully unique packages. Well, I have paper but it’s birthday-themed. So wrap it inside out, hand it to your child with a box of crayons or colored markers and let him or her get to work.Your recipient might like the wrapping even more than the gift! Okay, except my kids aren’t home! Even if there isn’t a child in sight, you can still decorate that plain white package by covering it in spray adhesive and rolling it in confetti, glitter or even something as crazy as Fruit Loops.

I love it, but I don’t have a gift box. You have a pantry, don’t you? Cereal, crackers and other foods all come in boxes. Use one for a very unique package. If you’re feeling creative, cut it up and reverse it to create your own label-free box.

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Don’t Forget

TEAM SANTA!

Reindeer Food

The good news is that reindeer aren’t picky.They’ll eat just about anything you leave out for them. So it’s a great time to clean out your pantry … and refrigerator … and, well, maybe even craft closet. Plus anyone from age two to ninety-two can make reindeer food.You just need to think (and see, smell and taste) like a reindeer.

INGREDIENTS • BASE: You’ll need at least one grain like oats, breadcrumbs, cereal, wheat germ, etc. • SHINE: Include something bright to help them see it like red sprinkles, glitter*, etc. • SCENT: Cinnamon is best but ginger, nutmeg or allspice works, too. • CHUNK: Throw in a few bigger things like nuts, raisins or marshmallows. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl or a large plastic bag. Once blended, sprinkle outside in nine little piles … one for each reindeer, including Rudolph. *Don’t worry. The reindeer know not to eat the glitter. No one knows how.They’re obviously just very smart animals.

Treats for SANTA

RUDOLPH COOKIES Santa will love these special cookies when he stops by your house on Christmas Eve.They’re also great for class parties, play dates or just when you’re craving a little sweet snack during the holidays. INGREDIENTS • refrigerated sugar cookie dough • pretzels • chocolate chips • Red Hots (or another round, red candy) 1. Preheat oven according to sugar cookie directions. 2. Slice sugar cookie roll into ¼ inch discs. 3. Place on greased cookie sheet. Be sure they are well separated. 4. Using two pretzels per cookie, create antlers. 5. Using chocolate chips and Red Hots, create eyes and nose. 6. Bake according to sugar cookie directions.

TIPeaSte all of Santa’s reindeer, To cr r noses. Only e us black candies fo se! Rudolph gets a red no r, use ee ind re To create baby s. ist tw l miniature pretze

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Shopping List

 Spouse ___________________________________________________________________

 Children __________________________________________________________________

 Mother ___________________________________________________________________

 Father ____________________________________________________________________

 Sisters ____________________________________________________________________

 Brothers __________________________________________________________________

 In-Laws ___________________________________________________________________

 Grandmothers ______________________________________________________________  Grandfathers ______________________________________________________________

 Aunts ____________________________________________________________________

 Uncles ____________________________________________________________________

 Cousins ___________________________________________________________________

 Nieces ___________________________________________________________________

 Nephews __________________________________________________________________

 Friends ___________________________________________________________________

 Neighbors _________________________________________________________________

 Bosses ___________________________________________________________________

 Co-Workers _______________________________________________________________

 Teachers __________________________________________________________________  School Staff (cafeteria, bus, etc.) ______________________________________________  Household Helpers (housekeeper, babysitter, etc.) _________________________________  Service Workers (mailmen, garbage collectors, etc.) _______________________________

 Clergy ____________________________________________________________________

 Pets _____________________________________________________________________

Countdown to

CHRISTMAS Get a Christmas tree.

Hang a wreath on your front door.

Enjoy a warm cup of cocoa, mulled cider or eggnog.

Send someone a holiday card.

Stop and talk to an elderly person.

Create a homemade ornament for a friend.

Sing a Christmas carol.

Burn a seasonal candle in your home.

Shop with a friend.

Have someone over for dinner.

Take in some nearby Christmas lights.

Call an old friend to catch up.

Talk to an excited child about Santa Claus.

Build a gingerbread house.

Listen to holiday music in your car.

Clean out your closet; then donate to a local shelter.

Bake with a loved one.

Overtip your waiter.

Wear something red. Or green. Or both!

Buy a stranger breakfast

Wrap presents.

Give a little gift to your mailman.

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Watch It’s a Wonderful Life.

Take a quiet moment to appreciate what you have.

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