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Monadock region has full calendar of holiday events

By ASHLEY SAARI Ledger-Transcript

Thursday,Nov.27:10a.m., ThanksgivingRunatConValHigh SchoolinPeterborough.Theinformalrunstartsat10a.m.and startsandendsattheConValHigh Schoolparkinglot.Thecourseison SouthfieldRoad,thebiketrail,and theHuntRoadloopouttoRt202 andbacktoConVal.Run,jogor walkthecourseonyourownor withfriendsandfamily.Organized byMonadnockMilers.

Friday,Nov.28:Peterborough’s PlaidFridayinDepotSquarecelebratesthediversityandcreativityof localandindependentbusinesses. It’safunalternativetothebigbox store“BlackFriday”consumer frenzy,andasaytosupportthe localeconomylocallyownedbusinesses.https://tlcmonadnock.com/plaidfriday.

Saturday,Nov.29:Pictureswith SantaattheNewIpswichFireDe-

partmentfrom9a.m.to1p.m.The slotfrom9-10a.m.isreservedfor childrenwithsensoryissues,and10 a.m.to1p.m.isopentoall.Fresh donutsprovidedbyDeputyDonuts, rafflesandlightrefreshments. Printedpicturesareavailableonsitefor$5fora4×6photoor$8for a5×7photo.Digitalcopiesarealso available.ProceedsbenefittheNew IpswichFirefightersAssociation.

Saturday,Nov.29:TheVFWPost 5613Auxiliarywillholdits12thannualHolidayBazaarfrom9a.m.to2 p.m.attheVFWHallonHathorn RoadinJaffrey.Theeventwillfeaturemorethan40tablesofart, handcraftedgoods,Christmas décor,homedécor,cards,jewelry, candles,andadditionalproducts fromlocalvendors.Santaisscheduledtovisitfromapproximately9 to11a.m.Admissionisfree.Forinformation,contactTracyat vfwaux5613holiday@gmail.com

Saturday,Nov.29:ParkTheatre

Tree-TrimmingParty,4to6p.m., ParkTheatre,Jaffrey.Includes eggnogandtreats.Bringormakean ornamentfortheParkTheatretree inthelounge.Noticketrequired.

Saturday,Nov.29:LivingLocal ArtsFair,10a.m.to3p.m.atthePeterboroughUnitarianUniversalist Church.Thirtylocalandtalented artistswillofferart,jewelry,glassware,homedecor,holidaydecor, woolenitems,leatherbags,children’sclothing,salvesandtinctures,andmore.Bakesaletobenefit Robin’sNestPreschool.

Saturday,Nov.29.Peterborough’s MAXTMakerspaceNightmarket returnsfortheholidayswithart vendorsindoorsandoutdoor,food trucks,outdoorwarmingstands, barandfirepit.Eventrunsfrom2to 7p.m.indowntownPeterborough.Formore:www.maxtmakerspace.org/night-market.

Friday,Dec.5andSaturday,Dec.

SEE CALENDAR PAGE 4

By RACHEL WACHMAN Concord Monitor

Ifyou’vealwayswantedtoshop untilyoudrop(or,inthiscase,until theclockstrikesmidnight!),then MidnightMerrimentisyourdream cometrue.

DowntownConcordwillcome aliveforaneveningofshopping localonFriday,Dec.5,beginningat 5p.m.HostedbyInTownConcord incollaborationwithBreezline, MidnightMerrimentmeansall yourfavoritestorieswillstayopen late,withholidaymusicserenading youasyouwalkfromblockto block.Withcarolersperforming, freehotcocoa,s’mores,theWinter Giftopolisandmore,youdon’t wanttomissthisonce-a-year magic.

6:48thAnnualPineHillHoliday Fair,livemusic,waresfromlocal vendors.OnSaturday,thereischildren’sactivitiesincludingstories,a puppetshow,circusperformance, seasonalmusicandtreats.Fairadmissionisfree,thoughfeesapply forsomeactivities.Fridayhours: 6:30-9:30p.m.(adultsonly).Saturdayhours:10a.m.to3pm.(familieswelcome).

Friday,Dec.5:JaffreyTree Lightingat6p.m.,withavisitfrom

Santaat6:30p.m.Listentocarols andtakeaphotowithSanta.SponsoredbytheJaffreyRecreationDepartment.

Friday,Dec.5:ParkTheatre DickensFestOpeningandProclamationReading,6p.m.,ParkTheatre,Jaffrey.JoinJaffrey’sTown CrierObadiahBrimtopforthecandlelightopeningceremonyand proclamationreadinginfrontofthe ParkTheatre.Concessionswillbe open.Noticketrequired.At7p.m.,

theacclaimedHeatherPiersonJazz Trioperformsthesoundtrackof“A CharlieBrownChristmas,”byjazz greatVinceGuaraldi.Thisperformanceismusiconly.Ticketsare $25foradultsand$10forchildren.

Saturday,Dec.6:Lyndeborough TreeLightingandVisitwithSanta, from4to6p.m.Citizen’sHall,9 CitizensHallRoad,Lyndeborough. Enjoycookiesandhotchocolateat theparkacrossfromtheVillage Store,andafterwardsatCitizens’

Hallforavisitandphotoswith Santa.

Saturday,Dec.6:Community singersandinstrumentalistswill performtheChristmassectionof Handel’sMessiahat4p.m.atthe PeterboroughUnitarianUniversalistChurch. Theperformance willbeconductedbyJamesSharrockandincludeprofessionalvocal andinstrumentalsoloistsanda communitychorusofabout75 singers. The70-minuteconcertis

LEFT:Shoppers atPeterborough’s Living Local Arts Fair.

ABOVE:The PeterboroughLantern Festival.

freeandopentothepublic.The churchsanctuaryisfullyaccessible usingthereardoorandelevator. Forinformationaboutsinging, visitfacebook.com/MessiahPbroor emailfriendsofmessiahptbo@ gmail.com

Saturday,Dec.6.Childreninthe ArtsLanternFestival,6p.m.in downtownPeterborough.TheparadewillbeginbehindtheM&T Bank,35MainSt.,andendat PutnamPark.Polesandlightswill bedistributedfromdistribution pointssetupinfrontofthebank beginningat5:15andtheparade willleavepromptlyat6.Weather dateSunday,Dec.7.www.childrenandthearts.org/annuallantern-festival/

Saturday,Dec.6:JamesA.Tuttle LibraryinAntrimwillholdaholidaycelebrationwithhotcocoa, cookies,andavisitfromSanta,from 4to5:30p.m.TherewillbeasingalongwithGreatBrookMiddle Schoolstudents.Freeandopento thepublic. www.antrimnh.org/node/6291/ events/upcoming.

Sunday,Dec.7:“It’saWonderful Life”attheParkTheatre,Jaffrey,2 p.m.Tickets$10foradults,$9for seniors,children,studentsand

membersofthemilitary.

Wednesday,Dec.10:DickensFest HighTeaattheParkTheatre,Jaffrey,3p.m.Tickets$20.Limited seating,reserveearly.Holiday

Christmas”withFredMarpleand RebeccaRule,attheParkTheatre, Jaffrey,7p.m.Theshowisfamilyfriendlyandappropriateforallages. Tickets$20.

Saturday,Dec.13:ProjectShakespearePresents:“AChristmas Carol”atGatheringWatersSchool (LowerSchool)98SouthLincoln St.,Keene.Tickets$15,$5forchildren.

Saturday,Dec.13:Gingerbread HouseParty,TownHall,Temple, set-upbeginsat4p.m.,partystarts at6.

Saturday,Dec.13:Currierand IvesCookieTour.Tourrestaurants, boutiquesandinnsacrosstheMonadnockRegion,astheyopendoors tothepublictosharehomemade holidaycookies.Participantsmust visitatleast10stopsonthetourto beenteredtowinamonetarygift certificatethatcanberedeemedat anyparticipatinglocationonthe tour.CookieTourmapswillbe availableforpurchaseonDec.1. MapsavailableattheParkTheatre BoxOffice.’

Triviaat7p.m.,withholidaythemedquestionsandeggnogand treats.Bringsomethingtoshare,if youlike.Tickets,$5. Friday,Dec.12:“AYankee

Sunday,Dec.14:AnnualSanta Party,ParkTheatre,Jaffrey,at1 p.m.Freeadmission,treats.Come inyourcoziestpajamas,visitwith

PHOTO

Glass artist Alex Kalish at the Living Local Arts Fair in Peterborough.

Santaandtakepictures.TheEppes Auditoriumwillplaythefilm “HomeAlone”

Sunday,Dec. 14.Francestown OldMeetinghouseHolidayConcert, 4p.m.attheOldFrancestownMeetinghouse, 1NewBostonRoad, Francestown(acrossfromtheTown Hall).TheConValSelectChoirand theduoPam&JPStohrerinThistlewoodHarpandGuitar.Freeand opentothepublic.www.francestownmeetinghouse.org/events.

Sunday,Dec.14:ProjectShakespearePresents:AChristmasCarol attheDublinCommunityCenter, 1123MainSt.,at4p.m.Tickets$15, $5forchildren.

Friday,Dec.15:ProjectShakespearePresents:AChristmasCarol attheFirstCongregationalChurch inRindge,6PaysonHillRoad,at7 p.m.Tickets$15,$5forchildren. Saturday,Dec.20. ANewEnglandChristmaswithSilentwoods Collective,AntrimHistoricalSo-

Francestown's Old Meetinghouse and town holiday tree.

ciety,TuttleLibrary,45MainSt. EnjoytheFestivalofTreesand musicfromtheSilentwoodsCollective.Admissionbydonation,for reservationsgoto: silentwoodscollective.org/events/list/.

Saturday,Dec.20:KazooCaroling onMainStreetinJaffrey,atnoon. JointheParkTheatreforanafternoonofcarolingandkazoos.Those whoparticipatereceiveafreekazoo andholidaytreat.Sign-upsnotrequired.

Saturday,Dec.20:ProjectShakespearePresents:AChristmasCarol atthePeterboroughUnitarianUniversalistChurch,25MainSt.,at2 p.m.Tickets$15foradults,$5for children.

Sunday,Dec.21:ProjectShakespearePresents:AChristmasCarol attheJaffreyParkTheatreinJaffrey at4p.m.,intheEppesAuditorium.

Tickets$15,or$5forchildren. Saturday,Dec.20,Hancock. MusiconNorwayPondpresentsthe HancockFamilyHolidayConcert, 4:30-5:30p.matFirstCongregationalChurchofHancock.Annual holidayconcertfeaturesNorway PondFestivalSingersandtheJr. Mints.Thisyear’sspecialguestsincludeJohnMuratoreonguitar.For ticketsgotohttps://www.musiconnorwaypond.org/upcomingevents/holiday-concert-2024trsds.

Monday,Dec.22:ABaroque ChristmaswithSilentwoodsCollective,7p.m.atAntrimPresbyterianChurch,73MainSt.Holiday andearlyAmerican music.Admissionbydonation,forreservations gotowww.zeffy.com/enUS/ticketing/a-baroquechristmas.

COURTESY

Santa's sleigh at Tuttle Library in Antrim.

WACHMAN / MONITOR STAFF

Concord Monitor held an Apple Vs. Cranberry Showdown on Nov. 11, 2025.

APPLE vs. CRANBERRY

By JONATHAN VAN FLEET

Concord Monitor

Whenitcomestoholiday cuisine,whetheryouare hostingorbringingadish forotherstoenjoy,twoingredients standoutfromthecrowd apples andcranberries.

Bothareextremelyversatileand canbeincludedinavarietyof recipesonboththesweetandsavorysides.Butwhichoneissuperior?

Asaservicetoourreaders,wedecidedtoholdanappleversuscranberryshowdownandletourtaste budsdecide.

Membersofthenewsroomsigned upforTeamApple,TeamCranberryandTeamFusion,thebold fewwhovowedtousebothfruits.

AweekafterConcordvotersdecidedwhowouldrepresentthemon thecitycouncilandschoolboard, weheldourownlittleelectionat theConcordMonitoroffice.(We arestillhereat1MonitorDrivefor

thosewhowerewondering.)

TheCanberrianswereconfident theycouldelicitfamiliarandexcitingflavors.TheAppletonsassertedthetime-honoredclassic virtuesoftheirchoice.TheFusionistsfelttheirformidablecombinationswouldtopthecompetition.

Theentriesincludedapplecake, cranberryapplechutney,cranberry bars,applecrisp,cranberrybrie cheesebites,stovetopcinnamonapples,spicedcranberrysalsaanda cranberryapplesalad.

Tochooseawinner,everyone triedeachdishandrankedthetop threechoices.Thefavoritepickreceivedthreepoints,thesecondfavoritegottwopointsandthethird bestreceivedonepoint.

Thecranberrybarswerehearty withasweet,tartandsaltycombi-

nationthatmadethemdelicious. Thebriebitesweredelicateand fruitywithapresentationarounda sprigofrosemarythatmadethem moreappetizing.Thechutneywas servedwarmanddeliveredabouquetoftangyandsavoryflavors. Theapplecrispwasclean,classic, sweetandtasty.Theapplecakewas cleanandrefinedandwouldwork astheperfectcompaniontoascoop ofvanillaicecream.Thestovetop appleswereelegantintheirsimplicityandwouldbeahitasa dessertorappetizerbeforeorafter anyfeast.Thecranberrysalsa, whichunfortunatelywasdubbed “lumpsauce”bythenewsroom eventhoughitwassmootherthan thechutney,camealivewithhints ofspicethatleftalingeringinterest onthepalate.Thesaladoffereda

medleyofsharpflavorsbutproved somewhatcontroversialbecauseit includedbluecheese.

Thewinnerwith18pointswas thecranberryapplechutney,which isanoldfamilyrecipefromreporterCharlotteMatherly.

WhileTeamFusiontookthefirst placedish,TeamCranberryfinishedwiththemostoverallpoints, 42.Allhailthekingpinofholiday cuisine:thesmall,butmightycranberry.

Hereareallourrecipestotryat home:

Cranberry Apple Chutney (Charlotte Matherly, first place)

Ingredients:

■ 2cupsfreshcranberries

■ 1/2cupraisins

■ 1/2cupcoconutsugar

■ 1/2cupmaplesyrup

■ 1tbspcinnamon

■ 1tbspgratedfreshginger

■ 1/4tspgroundcloves

recipeinspiredbymysister, DeepikaGopalakrishnan

Eventhoughmyeditorinsisted oncallingit“lumpsauce”(whichit wasNOT!),hestillvoteditoneof thebestdishes.Ialsodefinitely caughthimsneakingextrascoops withhistortillachipsmorethan once caught“red”-handedand lovingeverybite!

Ingredients:

■ 1cupcranberries

■ 2cupschoppedtomatoes

■ ½tspturmericpowder

■ ¾tspredchilipowder

■ ¾tspgarammasala

■ 2tspmustardseeds

■ Apinchofasafoetida

■ 2tspbrownsugar

■ Salt,totaste

■ 2tbspoil

Instructions:Blendthecranberriesandchoppedtomatoesintoa smoothpaste.Inapanover mediumheat,heattwotablespoons ofoilandaddthemustardseeds andletthempop.Addinapinchof asafoetida,thenthecranberrytomatopaste,sautéingfor2-3minutes.Then,addintheturmeric,red chilipowderandsaltandcontinue tocook,stirringoccasionally,until themixturethickensintoapaste. Mixinthebrownsugarandgaram

cupsofMcIntoshapplesandplace theminyourbakingdish.It’sactuallygoodifthepiecesaredifferent sizes:you’llgetamixofsaucyapple bitsandlarger,apple-y-erpieces onceit’sbaked.

Snackontheskins–it’sgoodfor you.

Dusttheappleswithcinnamon andadashofnutmegtoyourliking. Addasprinkleofsalt,asqueezeof lemonjuiceandafewtablespoons ofwater.Tosstheapplestocoat, thensettlethemevenlyinyour dish.

Forthecrisp:

masala,cookingforanother2-3 minutesbeforeremovingfromthe heat.Letitcooltoroomtemperature,thenservewithtortillachips orpitabread.

Apple crisp (Catherine McLaughlin)

Likeanygoodapplecrisprecipe, thisonecomesfrommymother andinvolvesafairbitofeyeballing.

Howmanyapplesyouusereally dependsonhowmuchcrispyou’re making.Forreference,Ifindthat fourtosixbaseball-sizedappleswill

fillaloafpanorsmallcaketin.Fora crispthatsize,useabout3/4ofa stickofbutterinthetopping.The ratiosinthisrecipearebasedon that.

Tofollowthisrecipecorrectly, useMacintoshapples.IsupposeI can’tstopyoufromusinganothervariety,butIwilljudgeyou forit.Mymomalwaysusesmacs andthereforesodoI:theyreally arethesweetestandbestforbaking –especiallyifthey’relocalandinseason.

Fortheapple: Peelandcutintochunksafew

Cube3/4ofaroom-tempstickof butterandputitinabowlwith1 cupofsugarand3/4cupofflour.

Usingaforkorpastryblender, mashitallupuntiltrulycombined. Themixtureshouldhaveacoarse, sandyconsistency.Youdon’twant chunksofbutterfloatingaround, becausethey’lljustmeltinthe oven.Awhiskcanbehelpfulifyou don’thaveapastryblender.Youcan addmorespiceshereifyoulike yourappledessertsextracinnamon-y.

Putthemixtureovertopofthe applesinthedish,beingsurethat theapplesarecovered.

RACHEL WACHMAN / MONITOR

Cranberry chutneycreated by Charlotte Matherly.

RACHEL WACHMAN / MONITOR

Apple crisp baked by Catherine McLaughlin.

Clough Tavern Farm Christmas

23 Clough Tavern Road, Canterbury November 28th - December 7th, 2025

9-5 everyday or by appointment 603-731-5574

Please join us for 10 days of Holiday shopping at one of Canterbury’s oldest historic homes. Complementing the farm’s Two Sisters’ Garlic and sheep products are five rooms offering a diversified and eclectic collection from 50 other NH Artisans, Artists, Authors and Antiques. This year look for special themed gifts celebrating a “Celtic Christmas”.

DIRECTIONS: From 93 take Exits 17 & 18 or Rt 4, 9, 106, go to Canterbury Center, take Old Tilton Rd; turn left onto Clough Tavern Rd Follow the Christmas Signs Nollaig Chridheil (Scottish Celtic for Merry Christmas)

NE-475366

Bakeat350°F.After20minutes, checkiteveryfewminutes. Ifindit usuallytakesaround40-45,but you’llknowit’sdonewhenthe applemixturestartstobubbleupat theedges.Letitcoolbefore eatingwithvanillaicecream.Enjoy againforbreakfastthenextday.

Cranberry cookie bars (Rebeca Pereira)

Shortbreadbase:

■ 2stickssoftenedbutter

■ 1cupconfectioner’ssugar

■ 2tbspvanillaextract

■ 2cupsall-purposeflour

■ 1tbspcoldwater

Cranberryfilling:

2canscranberrysauce that’s it!

Streuseltopping:

■ ¾cupall-purposeflour

■ ¾cuplightbrownsugar

■ 1tsp.cinnamon

■ ½tspnutmeg

■ ½tspsalt

■ 1cuprolledoats

■ 1stickbutter,cubedandvery cold

Instructions:

Preparetheshortbreadbasefirst. Usingastandmixer,beattogether thebutter,confectioner’ssugarand vanillaextract.Oncethoseareincorporated,addtheall-purpose

flour.Thedoughwillbesandyat first,thencrumbly.Continuetomix untilthedoughcomestogether, addinginthetablespoonofcold waterifthedoughisn’thomogenizingwell.

Pressthedoughintoaparchment-lined9×9bakingtin,usingthe warmthofyourfingerstosoften andpushthedough.Placethe doughinthefridgefor10minutes toallowittofirmup.Then,prick thedoughseveraltimeswithafork andbakefor35minutesat300degreesFahrenheit.Oncetheshortbreadisfinished,letitcoolonthe counterforanhourbeforeadding

thenexttwolayers.

Forthefilling,emptytwocansof cranberryfillingintoabowlanduse aforktoloosenandstirthefilling. Then,gentlylayerthefillingontop ofthecooledshortbreadbase.

Forthestreusel,mixallofthedry ingredientstogether.Then,addthe coldcubedbutterandmashwith yourfingersuntilonlysmallclumps remain.Layerthestreuselontopof thecranberryfilling,andbakeat 350degreesfor35minutesoruntil thetoppingturnsgoldenbrown. Letthecookiescoolcompletely onthecounter,thenchillthe dessertinthefridgeovernightto

allowthelayerstoset.Cutinto squarebarsandenjoy!

Apple cake (Rachel Wachman)

Makesone9-inchapplecake.Perfectfortheholidayseason.

Ingredients:

■ 1cupall-purposeflour

■ 1teaspoonbakingpowder

■ 1/2teaspoonsalt

■ 1teaspooncinnamon

■ 1/2teaspoonnutmeg

■ 1/4teaspoonallspice

■ 1/2teaspoongroundginger

■ ½cup(1stick)unsaltedbutter, roomtemperature

Bridal Sale Event You Won’t Want to Miss!

November 28 & 29 — 2-Day Exclusive Event

Say “yes” to your dream dress and enjoy 10% off all ordered Maggie Sottero gowns during this limited-time designer promotion.

November 28 – December 22

The savings continue! Discover stunning off-the-rack gowns at exceptional discounted prices—perfect for brides seeking affordable elegance!

*Receive an entry to win a special giftbasket with purchase of a bridal gown. Spots fill fast- call or book your appointment online today!

for an otherworldly adventure! A Land to Treasure, the sequel to Out Far Enough and book 2 in the Station Saint-Sebastien-des-Etoiles series by Monadnock region author Linda Tiernan Kepner. Give the gift of adventure with a trip to the future! ORDER TODAY AT

This Christmas, join Jem

and

www.lindatkepner.com/science-fiction.html or ask for it at your local bookstore.

RACHEL WACHMAN / MONITOR

Cranberrycookie barsbakedby Rebeca Pereira.

Grayson

Alexandre de Bourriac

■ cupgranulatedsugar

■ 2largeeggs

■ 1teaspoonvanillaextract

■ 2-3apples,cutintocubesor sliced

Instructions:

Combinethedryingredientsina smallbowl.

Withamixer,creamtogetherthe butterandthesugaruntilfluffy. Addtheeggs,oneafteranother.

Greasea9-inchcakepanandline withparchmentpaper.Preheatthe ovento350degrees.

December 4th, 6-8pm** A $5 donation will get you a holiday bag to fill, with 20% off almost everything that will fit in your bag! (some exclusions apply) Refreshments will be served. We hope to see you there!!!!!

Both Henniker and Antrim Stores

Your $5 donation will go directly to “Locke’s Promise” ~ a local non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about MS (Multiple Sclerosis) while generating critical resources for those in need - such as financial assistance, grants for medical expenses, mobility equipment, and more.

RACHEL WACHMAN / MONITOR Apple cake baked by Rachel Wachman.

Apple-cranberry salad (Jonathan Van Fleet)

Let’sbehonest,holidaydinnersareladen withheavy,decadentfoods.Often,wewant somethingtastythat’salsoonthelighterside. Andvoila,wehavesalad.Thisrecipeismore assemblythancookingandcanbeputtogetheronthego.

■ 12-ouncecartonof50/50springsaladmix andbabyspinach

■ 5-ouncepackageofunsweeteneddried cranberries

■ 4cut-upapples(actualrecipeusedgolden russets)

■ 16ouncesofsweetcherryorgrapetomatoes

■ 1packageofcandiednuts(actualrecipe used5ozEmeraldMapleBourbonPeacans)

■ 1packageofbluecheesecrumbles(substitutefetaifyoufearbluecheese)

■ Servewithatangybalsamicvinaigrette

Mixwell.

Addthevanilla.

Spoonthedryingredientsintothewetingredientsandmixonlyuntilnostreaksof flourarevisible.

Foldinthechoppedapples.

Transferbattertothecakepan,sprinklinga pinchortwoofsugaroverthetopifdesired.

Bakefor35-40minutes(rotatehalfway through)oruntilthecakeisagoldenbrown colorandthetoothpickcomesoutclean.

Cinnamon stovetop apples (Emilia Wisniewski)

■ 3mediumtolargeapples,peeledand sliced

■ 1tablespoonlightbutter

■ 1tablespoon+ 1/3 cupwater

■ 2teaspoonscornstarch

■ 2tablespoonspackedbrownsugar

■ ¾teaspooncinnamon

Instructions:

■ Placethebutterandonetablespoonof

SPA DOLLARS SPA DOLLARS

wateronapanandbringitovermediumheat untilthebutterismelted.

■ Puttheapplesinthepanandcoatthem withthebutter.Stirtheapplesoccasionally for4-5minutesoruntiltheapplessoften.

■ Inaseparatebowl,stirtogetherthecorn starchand 1/3 cupofwater.Oncemixed,pour itintothepanwiththeapples.Addthecinnamonandbrownsugaralongwithit.

■ Stiruntilwellcombined.Placetheheaton lowandsimmerfor3-4minutesuntilthemixtureisthickened.

SPA DOLLARS SPA DOLLARS

SPA DOLLARS

SPA DOLLARS SPA DOLLARS

SPA DOLLARS

SPA DOLLARS SPA DOLLARS

SPA DOLLARS

SPA DOLLARS ONE DAY

SPA DOLLARS

SPA DOLLARS SPA DOLLARS

SPA DOLLARS

SPA DOLLARS ANNUAL ONLY BLACK FRIDAY SPA DOLLAR EVENT! FRIDAY

SPA DOLLARS

SPA DOLLARS SPA DOLLARS

SPA DOLLARS

RACHEL WACHMAN / MONITOR

Apple cranberry pecansalad prepared by Jonathan Van Fleet.

RACHEL WACHMAN / MONITOR

Cinnamon stovetop applesmade by Emilia Wisniewski.

the gift of books

25 great reads to celebrate the season

By KATHARINE NEVINS

Mainstreet Bookends of Warner

Tistheseason,andgivingbooks isthebestwayweknowofto letsomeoneknowtheymatter toyou.

Sohere,incategoriesbutnotin anyrankingformat,areour25Book SuggestionsfortheSeason.Enjoy, andthinkbooks!

Cookbooksarealwaysahit,sowe chosethesetwotosparkyourappetite.

“Turtle Island: Foods and Traditions of the Indigenous Peoples of North America,” by Sean Sherman

NotjustgreatrecipesfromthreetimeJamesBeardAwardwinning OglalaLakotachefSeanSherman, butloadedwithindigenoushistory andtraditions.

“Something from Nothing: A Cookbook,”

by Alison Roman

Everyone’sfavoriteNewYorkbasedcook,AlisonRoman,hasjust released100easyrecipes,withingredientsyoucanpullrightfrom yourcupboards.

“Here in New England: Unforgettable Stories of People, Places, and Memories That Connect Us All,” by Mel Allen Mel Allen.

Thelongtimeeditor fromYankeeMagazine,has collected50yearsofhis wonderfulstoriesaboutthecharactersandcharacterofNewEngland.Delightfulstories,thisisa must-have,andamust-send,foreveryonethatknowsandlovesNew England.

“Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts,” by Margaret Atwood

Theacclaimedwriterbehind “TheHandmaid’sTale”and“Cat’s Eye”sharesthejourneyofherunconventionalandmagicallife throughherlong-anticipatedmemoir.

“Finding My Way: A Memoir,” by Malala Yousafzai

Inherlatestwork,educationactivistMalala Yousafzaitakesthereader behindthecurtainand sharesherlifeasayoungwomanin college,makingmistakesand growingfromthem.Theauthentic memoirshineslightonhowrole modelsarenavigatinglifethesame asanyoneelse.

foolery,” by Nick Offerman

Thismuchbelovedactor,author andmusicianhas12family-friendly andfunwoodworkingprojectsto geteveryonecraftingandlaughing.

“An Almanac of Birds: 100 Divinations for Uncertain Days,” by Maria Popova

FromwriterandpoetMaria Popova,creatoroftheweekly Marginalian,comesthemostelegantanduniqueofgifts:aboxedset of100cardswithdailyinspirations ongorgeouscollagesfromtheillustrationsof19th-centuryornithologicalbooks.Anartisticandliterary gem.

Weareexcitedaboutthesetwo brandnewmemoirsofpureinspiration.

“Little Woodchucks: Offerman Woodshop’s Guide to Tools and Tom-

“Always Remember: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, the Horse and the Storm,” by Charlie Mackesy

Ontheheelsoftheworldfamous bestseller,“TheBoy,TheMole,The FoxandTheHorse,”comesthissequel,equallylovelyandinspiring.

“Letters From Father Christmas, Centenary Edition,” by J. R. R. Tolkien

ForallofyouJ.R.R.Tolkienfans, hereisagorgeousreproductionof thelettersandillustrationsthathe senttohisownchildren,courtesyof FatherChristmas.Akeepertobring outeveryChristmas.

“The Land of Sweet Forever: Stories and Essays,” by Harper Lee

Hereisacollectionofjust discoveredshortstories, andessaysovertheyears fromHarperLee. Justto hearhervoiceagainisan immeasurablegift.

“Carcrash Parker and the Haven of Larpers,” by Ian M. Rogers

FromWarner’sownIanM.

Rogerscomeshislatestbookoffiction,“CarcrashParkerandthe HavenofLarpers.”Ahilarious, heartfeltcollisionofoldschoolfantasy,’80sand ’90scultclassics,andthe magicoffriendship.Takes placeinalandoffantasy thatlooksanawfullotlike Warner,NewHampshire!

“The Suspect: Murder in a Small Town,” by L. R. Wright

Thankstocustomerrecommendations,wearenowobsessedwith thispsychologicalthrillermystery

seriesaboutacop,alibrariananda sleepyCanadiantown(thinkof LouisePenny).Written30to40 yearsago,therearenineofthese cultclassicstokeepyougoing.

“Spirit in Creation: Two Women, One Vision Finding Peace and Truth in Creation,” by Marjorie A. Burke and Patricia O’Connor

Atrulydelightfulpoetrycollectionfromtwolocalauthors,MarjorieBurkeandPatriciaO’Connor, whospentayearwritingintandem

abouttheeverydaymiraclesright hereunderournoses.Peopleand placesweallknowandlove,abook tobegivenandtreasured.

“The Library of Unruly Treasures,” by Jeanne Birdsall

Newfromtheauthorofthedelightfulchildren’sseries,“The Perderwicks,”comesthisabsolutely enchantingtaleaboutayounggirl,a library,andahugesecret.While seekinghomeandfamily, heradventurestakeherinto theIsabellaStewart GardnerMuseum.What couldbemoremagical!

“Gather,” by Kenneth M. Cadow

abuddingandverytalentedlocal artist.HehasgoneontohavehisillustratedbooksmaketheNewYork Timesbestsellerslist.Hereishis perfectlydelightfulnewest,which hebothwroteandillustrated.

“Boar and Hedgehog,” by David Elliot

Wedidn’tdiscoverDavidElliott, butwecanclaimhimasafellow Warnerresident.Aprolificauthor offunchildren’sbookswrittenin poetry,hereishislatest. YoucancatchDavidright hereatMainStreetBookEndsonSaturday,Dec.6at noon,readingthisand signingallhisotherbooks aswell.

Iconfesstobeingalate arrivaltothisperfectly beautifulYoungAdultnovel, writtenbyaVermontschoolprincipal.Thisisaboutateenstruggling againstalloddstofindcommunity andsupport,andmasteringresiliencealongtheway.

“Winter is the Worst!” by Dan Tavis

Weliketothinkwe“discovered” DanTavisasateenmanyyearsago,

“The

Book of Fairies,” by Susie Spikol

HereisthelatestbookfromSusie Spikol,anaturalistattheHarris CenterforConservationEducation inHancock,whohasmasteredthe artofbringingchildrenoutintonature. Discoverhowyoucanfindthe fairiesofearth,air,fireandwater thatexistallaroundusinnature.

“The Forest Revealed: An

Illustrated Year,” by Jada Fitch and Kateri Kosek

Thisisabeautiful,oversized book,goodforsprawlingoutonthe floorfordeepinspection.Discover ourNorthernForestthrough12 vividpaintings,eachwithanumberedkeytosearchforandidentify theanimals,plants,insectsand fungipictured.

“The Christmas Sweater,” by Jan Brett

ItwouldnotbeChristmas withoutanew,lushlyillustratedbookfromJan Brett.Surelytojoinher manyotherclassics,such as“TheMitten”and“The Hat.”Now,fortheallimportantcategoryofstocking stuffers.Herearesome smallbooksthatbecomeinstantkeepers.

Ursula K. Le Guin’s “Book of Cats”

Surviving Fascism,” by Stewart Reynolds

Whileweareoncats,hereisafun littlebook,wherecatsfinallyreveal toushowtochanneltheirfeline wisdomtofightevilandrightthe world.

“Poetry Is Not a Luxury: Poems for All Seasons”

Brokendownintothefourseasons,awonderfulcollectionof poemsfromcenturiesofpoetryand allaroundtheworld.From theanonymouscreatorof thebeloved@PoetryIsNotaLuxuryInstagramaccount.

“On the Hero’s Journey”and “On Bliss” by Joseph Campbell

Morethan30poems,meditations anddrawingsfromthebelovedsciencefictionwriterUrsulaLeGuin, andherlifetimeofreckoningwith cats.

“Lessons from Cats for

Forallofuswhosatgluedtothe PBSseries“ThePowerofMyth,” whereBillMoyersinterviewedthe mythologyandphilosophyscholar JosephCampbell,herecomesthe firsttwoinaseriesoftinybooks thatpresenthisthemes.Youcan stillstreamthisamazingseries,and reintroduceJosephCampbelltoa wholenewgeneration.

Give the gift of hand-made concord arts market

By JESSICA LIVINGSTON

ConcordArtsMarketisacommunityoflocalandindependentartistsandmakerswho keepourcreativeeconomythriving. There’snobettertimetocelebrate andsupportlocalindependent artiststhanduringthewinterholidayseason!

In-person shopping opportunities

WinterGiftopolisatMidnight Merriment

Friday,Dec.5from5p.m.to11 p.m.EagleSquareAtriumat7Eagle Square,Concord

It’sourannualholidayshopping eventinpartnershipwithIntown Concord’sMidnightMerriment,the eagerly-awaited,annualshopping nighteachyearwherethedowntownshopsstayopenlate,andholidaycheerisintheair.Admissionis free.

GingerbreadMarketplace

Sunday,Dec.7from12p.m.to6

SweetHomeGingerbreadExhibitioninthehistoricMansionand TheArtisan’sNookbeforeorafter visitingthemarketplace.Admission isfree.

Cam’sAnnualHolidayArts Market

Saturday,Dec.13from11a.m.to 4p.m.CarriageHouseatKimball JenkinsEstateat266N.MainSt., Concord

JoinusforourannualHoliday ArtsMarkettoshopfromunique, handmadegiftsthatwillbesureto delightyourlovedonesthisholiday season.Admissionisfree.

Can’tmakeitinpersontoanyof theevents?Shopfromselectartists online!

10 things to look out for (a.k.a. Jessica’s wishlist):

p.m.CarriageHouseatKimball JenkinsEstateat266N.MainSt., Concord

Comeandcelebratethesweeter thingsinlife!ProducedbyConcord ArtsMarketinpartnershipwith

KimballJenkins’HolidaysattheEstate,theGingerbreadMarketplace willfeaturelocalartistsandmakers offeringsweettreatsandgiftsfor yourholidayshopping.

MakesuretovisittheHome

JackieHansonArt:Iamahuge fanofchickenart(andapparently I’mnotalone).Ialreadyhave Jackie’s“NostalgiaHen”print or asIcallit:“GlitterRainbow Chicken”—butIdefinitelyneed

CONCORD ARTS MARKET / COURTESY

The Concord Arts Market showcases local artisans and their work at a series of events throughout the year. Feb. 2025 willsee the launch of the Winter Arts Market, a two-part event partnership with Kimball Jenkins.

herChickeninSpaceprinttogo withit.(WinterGiftopolis)Stella OrionStainedGlass:Thesestained glasspiecesaresoprettyandeyecatching evenwithoutthesun shiningthroughthem.IfIhadto chooseonething,itwouldbethe MonsteraLeaf.Althoughshehas chickens,too!(WinterGiftopolis, GingerbreadMarketplace)BL. BatchelderArt:ThebeautifullyillustratedAvianTarotDeckhasbeen onmywishlistforthepasttwo years.Itisaperfectgiftfor“Tarot practitioners,divinationenthusiasts,andanyonelookingfora uniqueapproachtotheirmindful practices,birdersandnatureenthusiasts,anyonecuriousaboutthe lyricalintersectionofscienceand symbolismandcollectorsofspecialtytarotcardsandoracledecks.” TheAvianTarotissomuchmore thanatarotdeck youcanalso purchaseprints,stickers,keychains andmoreofthebeautifulavianartworks.(WinterGiftopolis,Holiday ArtsMarket)SquirrelNestPress: Theselinocutprintsaresocooland you’resuretofindsomethingfor everyoneonyourlist.Asadiehard fanofConcord,Ilovethis“Concord Time”t-shirtwiththeclocktower indowntownConcord(whichis

alsoavailableasaprint).Thebirds andfishandcatsandothernature themesaregreat,too!(Winter Giftopolis)J.BergamotArt:Doyou havesomeoneonyourlistwho wouldlikeanoriginalwoodburning ofaplaguedoctororacentaurwith asword?J.Bergamot’soriginalde-

signsareinspiredbyfantasy,nature andthemacabre.Sadly,theoriginal unicornwoodburningIwasgoingto putonmywishlisthasbeensold, butthankfullyshehasthismermaid originalwoodburning!(Winter Giftopolis)NewmanArtStudio:Jeff Newmanhasauniqueselectionof

quirkyandwhimsicalpaintingsand assemblageartpieces.Myfavoriteis definitelyOpheliaSwimswiththe GatorsBecauseit’ssaferthan DatingPrinceHamlet.(Winter Giftopolis,HolidayArts Market)WildPaintsbyKrystin Shields:WhenIfirstmetKrystin andwasadmiringherwork,shetold methatshelikestopaintcreatures thataren’ttraditionallyseenas “cute.”Ican’tdecidebetweenthe ostrich,octopus,orsphynxcats! (WinterGiftopolis,HolidayArts Market)CraftHappens:Kristenisa second-generationleathersmith, havingworkedwithherfathersince theageof12!Excellentquality belts,wristbands,dogcollarsand leashesandmore.Thisbutterfly hairpieceisdefinitelyonmylist (Butalsocheckouttheseadorable leathermoose).(WinterGiftopolis, GingerbreadMarketplace,Holiday ArtsMarket)Sewohva:Sustainabilitythatlooksthiscute?Yes, please!Ijustwantacouplepacksof theseadorablebeeswaxwrapsin everydesign.(Winter Giftopolis)KnittingMetal:Whenit comestoKnittingMetal’schainmaillejewelry,Ican’tchoosejust onepiece.Ilovetheshinybright colors,andboldelementslikethis

stunningfiveflower necklace.(Winter Giftopolis)

Kimball Jenkins presents The Artisan’s Nook KimballJenkinswill behostingaholiday pop-upshop,TheArtisan’sNook,Nov.29 throughDec.19,as partoftheorganization’sHolidaysatthe Estateevent.TheArtisan’sNookwillshowcaselocally-madeart andcraftitemsandfeatureover20localartisans.Fromwearable art,holidaycards,ornamentsandframed works,theshopwillbe fullofuniqueitems perfectforholiday giving.Supportartists andshoplocalthisholidayseason.Forhours ofoperation,please visit

https://www.kimballjenkins.com/holidaysat-the-estate.

CONCORD ARTS MARKET / COURTESY

The ConcordArts Market showcaseslocal artisans and their work at a series of events throughout the year. Feb. 2025will see the launchof the Winter Arts Market, a two-part event partnership with Kimball Jenkins.