Midlothian, VA December 2025

Holidays and Giving

Welcome to the Holidays!

Dear Readers,

As we approach the holiday season, a time often steeped in reflection and gratitude, we find ourselves filled with appreciation for each of you. The December holidays are not merely about celebration; they serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of connection, generosity, and community.

In this special issue dedicated to the spirit of giving, we encourage you to take a moment to express your thanks for the people and experiences that have enriched your life throughout the year. Whether it’s a kind word from a neighbor, a shared laugh with a friend, or the unwavering support of family, these connections are what make our lives meaningful. The holidays provide an opportunity to acknowledge these relationships and to reflect on how we can foster them even further in the coming year.

As we decorate our homes with twinkling lights, festive ornaments, and vibrant displays, let us also remember the joy that comes from giving back to our communities. This season, consider ways you can make a difference. Volunteer your time, donate to local charities, or simply lend a helping hand to those in need. Small acts of kindness can create ripples of positivity that uplift our neighborhoods and strengthen our bonds.

Cooking and sharing meals during the holidays is another cherished tradition that brings us together. The kitchen becomes a hub of creativity and love, where we prepare favorite recipes that tell our stories. From baking cookies with family to hosting friends for a festive dinner, these moments are infused with warmth and togetherness. We invite you to explore new recipes and share your culinary creations with loved ones, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Looking ahead, the new year offers a fresh canvas to paint our aspirations and dreams. The bonds we build with chosen family and friends can guide us through challenges and triumphs alike. Let this holiday season ignite a spirit of hope and possibility as we set intentions for the year to come.

As we wrap up another year, we thank you for your continued support and engagement. Your enthusiasm fuels our commitment to bring you content that inspires and connects. May this holiday season be filled with joy, love, and the warmth of community. Here’s to celebrating together, both now and in the future!

Wishing you a wonderful holiday season and a prosperous new year!

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Aaron Swart | aaron.swart@citylifestyle.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Steven Casupanan | steven.casupanan@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Amanda Rae Linas | amandarae@belovedpetphoto.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Amanda Rae Linas | amandarae@belovedpetphoto.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Aaron M. Swart, MSW

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Amanda Rae Linas

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

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Meet the Lab mix with amber eyes, a teddy bear grin, and an endless supply of charm!

Leo the Lovable Goofball

At six years old, Leo has perfected the art of joyfulness. This sweet, goofy Lab mix is as endearing as they come. He is equal parts cuddle buddy, shoe thief, and poolside enthusiast. With his soulful amber eyes and his favorite teddy bear typically in tow, Leo’s personality lights up every room (and backyard) he enters.

Leo’s story began in Danville, Virginia, where he was dropped off at a shelter before being rescued and brought to Richmond. In the fall of 2020, he found his forever family and wasted no time proving he was home to stay. “He’s just the happiest dog,” his family says. “He wants to be close to everyone; literally. He’ll lean his whole body against you or sit partly on your foot just to make sure you know he’s there.”

Training Leo took patience and a healthy supply of treats. He has come a long way. He does still love to steal shoes though. He doesn’t chew them. He just enjoys the thrill of collecting them like prized trophies.

Leo’s other passions include toys, long walks, and swimming. It took him two and a half years to embrace the pool, but now he’s hooked—especially after a hot walk. When he’s not splashing around, he loves romping with his family’s little dog, Arnie.

Despite his big energy, Leo is an easygoing companion with a giant heart. His goofiness might get his large body into the occasional mishap, but it’s all part of his irresistible charm.

Think your pet deserves the spotlight next? Enter them to be Pet of the Month at beloved petphoto.com/shortpump or Midlothian at belovedpetphoto.com/midlothian

HOLIDAY APPETIZERS

SURE TO BE CROWD PLEASERS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, INDULGE IN THESE DELICIOUS, STRESS-FREE RECIPES simple, yet fancy,

Pear & Brie Cheese

Salad Skewers

INGREDIENTS

• 2 pears (or substitute green apple)

• 8 ounces of brie cheese

• 2 cups baby arugula

• 1/4 cup raw walnuts, chopped

• Balsamic glaze

INSTRUCTIONS

• Cut pear and brie into 1/2-inch cubes. Leaving the rind makes skewers less sticky to handle!

• Take (4-inch) skewer, add pear, arugula, and cheese.

• Gently press chopped walnuts onto brie cheese to stick.

• Drizzle balsamic glaze overtop.

Cranberry & Pecan Cheese Crostini

INGREDIENTS

• 1 (8 oz.) container light cream cheese spread

• ½ cup chopped cranberries

• 1 Tbsp. grated orange peel

• ½ cup coarsely chopped pecans, toasted

• Rosemary and olive oil crostinis

INSTRUCTIONS

• Top crostinis with a dollop of cream cheese.

• Add cranberries and pecans.

• Garnish with grated orange peel.

Winter Simmer Magic

ARTICLE BY ARSINE KALOUSTIAN

FILL YOUR HOME WITH THE COZY SCENTS OF TART CRANBERRIES, BRIGHT CITRUS, AND WARMING SPICES

Creating stovetop potpourri is a delightful way to indulge in the scents of the festive season. This Cranberry Orange Potpourri combines sparkling notes of fresh citrus and cranberries with nostalgic spices and woodsy herbs to create a welcoming atmosphere.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup fresh cranberries

• 1 orange, sliced

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 1 teaspoon whole cloves

• 3 star anise

• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

• 2-3 cups water (plus more as needed)

INSTRUCTIONS:

Combine cranberries, sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and rosemary in a pot. Add 2-3 cups of water, ensuring the ingredients are submerged. Simmer on low heat, allowing the aromas to release. Check the water level, adding more as needed to prevent drying out. Simmer for several hours to fill your home with the scents of the season.

This potpourri is perfect for setting the holiday mood, whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or simply want your home to smell warm and inviting.

Christophe Danhier Designer Trunk Show

BREAKFAST HOLIDAY

The holidays are filled with family gatherings. Enjoy these easy, make-ahead recipes to simplify your holiday breakfast; they are sure to impress your guests.

MONKEY BREAD

Ingredients:

• 18-20 Rhodes white frozen rolls

• 1 regular box of cook and serve butterscotch pudding

• ½ cup chopped pecans

• 6 tablespoons butter, melted

• ¾ teaspoon cinnamon

• ½ cup brown sugar

Instructions:

Grease a bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray. Sprinkle chopped pecans around the bottom of the bundt pan. Next, place frozen rolls in the pan, evenly spreading them out. Sprinkle the rolls with the dry pudding mix. Melt butter in a separate container, and add cinnamon and brown sugar and stir. Pour butter and sugar mixture over the rolls. Cover with saran wrap that is sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Place in a cool oven overnight with the light off. Bake the next morning at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Let stand for 5 minutes and then turn the bundt pan over onto a serving plate and gently pry out of the pan, allowing time for the pecans and toppings to drip on top. Enjoy!

HEARTY BREAKFAST CASSEROLE

Ingredients:

• 8 eggs

• 2-3 cups torn bread pieces

• 3 ½ cups heavy whipping cream

• 1 pound breakfast sausage, browned

• 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 2 cups shredded cheese of choice

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

• 1 teaspoon rosemary

• 1 teaspoon thyme

• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Spray 9 x 13 pan with cooking spray. Layer torn bread pieces on the bottom of the pan to cover completely. Sprinkle 1 cup cheese over the bread. Whisk eggs and heavy whipping cream and red pepper flakes salt and pepper. Pour mixture into the baking dish. Add bacon and sausage on top of egg mixture. Top with remaining cheese and sprinkle with rosemary and thyme. Bake at 350 for 35 minutes or until the center is done.

GOURMET HOT CHOCOLATE

Add a little extra pizazz to your hot chocolate by using half and half instead of milk, sprinkle with cinnamon and top with a snowman made out of marshmallows and pretzel sticks

Ingredients:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• ½ cup of cocoa powder

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon, optional

• Milk or half and half

Instructions:

Add dry ingredients to a bowl and stir. For individual servings, mix half of the cocoa mix with a ½ cup milk. Add desired amount of cocoa mix with milk to desired sweetness. Top with whipped cream or marshmallows.

EGGNOG MARTINI

Ingredients:

• 1 ounce vodka

• 1 ounce Kahlua

• 1 ounce brewed coffee cooled

• 3  ounces eggnog

• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

• Dash of cinnamon

Instructions:

Add all ingredients together in a shaker and mix. Pour into a glass and serve over the rocks.

CROISSANT LEMON BERRY DELIGHT

Casserole Ingredients:

• 6 large croissants (from the bakery) sliced into cubes

• 3 cups mixed berries

• 1 package cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup  sugar

• 5 eggs at room temperature

• 2 cups half and half at room temperature

• ¾ tablespoon vanilla extract

• ¾ tablespoon lemon juice

Lemon Glaze Ingredients:

• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 1 tablespoon butter, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and toast the cubed croissants on a baking dish for 10 minutes. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, half and half, lemon juice and vanilla and mix until smooth. Place the toasted croissants into a greased 9 x 13 pan and layer with 1 ½ cups berries. Pour custard mix on top and then add the remaining berries on top. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.  Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and bake, covered, for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes. Set aside and make glaze by adding all ingredients to a bowl and mixing until smooth. Drizzle over the casserole and sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired.

HASHBROWN BITES

Ingredients:

• 20-ounce bag refrigerated hash brown potatoes

• ¾ cup green onions, sliced

• ½ cup  grated parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon sea salt

• ½ teaspoon pepper

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• ¼ cup pepper jack cheese, optional

Instructions:

Spray muffin tins with non-stick cooking spray. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir. Evenly add mixture to each muffin tin and lightly press down. Bake at 400 degrees for 45 minutes. These can be made in advance and reheated for convenience.

WINTER in a glass

HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS

SPICED CINNAMON RUM FLIP

A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz dark or spiced rum

• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup

• 1 oz heavy cream

• 1 whole egg

• Dash of ground nutmeg

• Dash of vanilla extract

Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon

Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:

Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.

Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon. Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.

FESTIVE CRANBERRY GIN FIZZ

A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.

INSTRUCTIONS:

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz gin

• 1 oz cranberry juice

• 3/4 oz lemon juice

• 1/2 oz simple syrup

• 1 egg white

Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda

Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.

BOURBON VANILLA BEAN HOT CHOCOLATE

An ultra-creamy, chocolatey holiday drink with a hit of warm bourbon and a vanilla bean twist.

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 cup high-quality dark chocolate (chopped or chips)

• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup

• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

• Pinch of sea salt

• 2 oz bourbon

Topping: 4 large marshmallows

Optional garnish: grated dark chocolate, whipped cream, cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth and heated through. Add chopped dark chocolate and stir constantly until melted and silky. Lower heat if needed to avoid scorching. Remove from heat, then stir in bourbon. Taste and adjust sweetness or strength to your liking. Top with marshmallows. Add whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and shaved chocolate. Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne for spicy depth

Kid-friendly version: Omit bourbon and add peppermint extract or caramel syrup instead.

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WINTER’S REVEL

Your Guide To a Simple and Stylized End-of-the-Year Soirée

ARTICLE BY NICOLETTE MARTIN

Following closely on the coattails of autumnal and winter holidays, the celebration of the new year can often be overlooked due to an understandable desire to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the season. But, a holiday that celebrates past memories and the opportunity for both new experiences and a fresh start shouldn’t lack any of the glitz of its celebratory predecessors. Round out the final days of the year reminiscing on or saying goodbye to the experiences—good and bad—of the previous 12 months with a simple end-ofthe-year gathering that isn’t lacking any of the glamour.

the drinks

Champagne has long been a traditional drink to toast to the new year. Keep it simple but step up your game with your own DIY Champagne cocktail bar. Consider stocking your bar full of custom Champagne or bubbly choices, festive mixers like cranberry juice or rosemary simple syrup and unique garnishes like fresh fruit and herbs or decorative ice cubes with edible flowers.

the decor

There’s no need to go out and buy a ton of additional decor when you just decked the halls (quite literally) with holiday ornamentation. Make those decorations work as hard as you did by repurposing all the greenery, pine cones and wood place settings you just couldn’t say no to. Throw in some neutral napkins, some natural twine and some dried orange peels for a woodsy (and fragrant) twist.

the snacks

Keep your guests happy with the perfect cheese plate. Consider how many people you’ll be serving, whether you’ll be serving before or after dinner and what cheeses you’ll want to include. According to WineFolly.com , sparkling wines pair best with creamy, sticky cheeses due to the high acidity and carbonation.

WHAT YOU NEED

• Cheese board or serving plate

• Assortment of cheeses

We recommend Brie, Port Salut, Muenster, Camembert or Gruyere

PUTTING IT TOGETHER

Cheese is best served at room temperature, so be sure your cheese has time to rest prior to serving. Slice the cheeses and arrange artfully on your cheese board with labels for each. Consider providing separate serving knives for each cheese to avoid any mixing of flavors. Add any additional bites you’d like and enjoy!

the traditions

No matter where you are in the world when the clock strikes midnight, ring in the new year internationally by taking part in one of these worldly traditions.

+ SPAIN Spend Nochevieja (“old night”) at home watching the countdown on TV—you can party later! Are you in need of some luck for the upcoming year? Wearing red underwear for the night may give you some.

+ MEXICO Be sure to have lots of grapes on hand. Demonstrated by Spaniards as well, this tradition involves eating 12 grapes with every strike of the clock, symbolizing good luck for every month of the new year.

+ DENMARK Destroy your frustrations and start the year fresh by smashing unwanted glassware. Danish tradition calls for smashing plates on the doors of friends and loved ones around midnight, but we think you should probably save that part for when you’re actually in Denmark.

+ SCOTLAND Although its singing has become pretty standard worldwide, “Auld Lang Syne” originated in Scotland in 1788 as a poem by Robert Burns. Go ahead and make a cheat sheet for all your friends—we won’t judge.

EMBRACE THE SEASON WITH THESE HOLIDAY PARTY TIPS AND TRICKS.

Good Holiday PARTY VIBES

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE LEWIS

Just like that, it’s officially the most wonderful time of the year. And while you may still be stuffed from all the turkey, it’s time to start planning the ultimate holiday party. I’ve included some tips and tricks to make sure it is the absolute best time for your guests.

01

SETTING THE ATMOSPHERE IS CRUCIAL.

The mood is subjective to the type of party you’re having, though. This could include a tree in the corner, an advent wreath on the table, a menorah on the counter, or other decor aligning with your celebration. Either way, I personally recommend lighting a fire in the fireplace or playing a looping video of one on your television to create a festive and cozy ambiance.

02

HOLIDAY GAMES ACT AS ENGAGING

ENTERTAINMENT.

I once played a game where little trinkets from the Dollar Tree were wrapped in a massive ball of plastic wrap, and guests had 30 seconds to unwrap as much as possible before passing it to the next guest, claiming the unwrapped trinkets as their prize. It definitely gets the adrenaline up and provokes quite a few laughs at the random items wrapped inside.

04

THE PLAYLIST IS, IN MY OPINION, THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF ANY HOLIDAY PARTY.

While everyone is mingling, it is crucial to have some festive background noise. And, while the classics are well, classic, here are my go-to, more modern song choices for some great holiday fun!

• “Christmas Isn’t Cancelled (Just You)” - by Kelly Clarkson

• “Drummer Boy” - by Justin Bieber

• “Fancy Like Christmas” - by Walker Hayes

• “Hot Chocolate” - by Tom Hanks  (From the Polar Express soundtrack)

• “It’s Not Christmas Till Somebody Cries” - by Carly Rae Jepsen

• “Naughty List” - Liam Payne featuring Dixie

• “Redneck 12 Days of Christmas” - by Jeff Foxworthy

• “Stretchy Pants” - by Carrie Underwood

• “Text Me Merry Christmas” - by Straight No Chaser featuring Kristen Bell

• “The Chanukah Song” - by Adam Sandler

Now go create your own, special playlist, pour yourself a mug of eggnog, and dance the night away!

03

FOOD AND DRINKS PLAY A MASSIVE ROLE IN THE HOLIDAY PARTY SCENE.

Whether a simple apple dip (8 oz cream cheese, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup toffee bits served with apple slices) or a festive drink, such as a cranberry Moscow Mule (2 oz vodka, 1 oz cranberry juice, 1/2 oz fresh lime juice, ginger beer, and fresh cranberries with a sprig of rosemary for garnish), serving holiday-themed food and drinks amplifies the atmosphere.

No one questions the love that we receive from our pups. And even everyone around us can see that. But they don’t always see obedience and good behavior from our doggies! Instead of complaining about another’s canine capers, change it. Gift your beleaguered bestie with superior dog training from DTE this holiday season, and stand back as your life is dramatically altered. No more spontaneous, slobbery greetings to hamper your hygiene or unwanted toenails digging into your fave ugly Christmas sweater. This holiday season, help turn Satan’s Little Helper into Santa’s Little Helper. :)

• Advanced training, such as PTSD/

Help Us Bring More Pets Home for the Holidays.

We’re making spirits (and tails) bright this holiday season!

From now until the end of the year, we’re donating $250 to the Richmond Animal League for every free in-home

*exclusions may apply