Last Minute Shopper, December 8, 2012

Advertising Supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Saturday, December 8, 2012 1

2 Advertising Supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Saturday, December 8, 2012

3 Local Holiday Events

Real Deals Home Décor

Downtown Spokane Partnership

4 Holiday Spirits

Dry Fly Distillery

5 Building a Gift Basket

Latah Creek

6 Shopping Local

7 Spokane Shock

Apricot Lane Boutique

Silverwood Theme Park

8 Out on the Town

Anthony’s

9 Saranac

Swinging Doors

10 Chapala

Buckhorn Inn

Ihop

11 The Davenport Hotel

12 & 13 Food Fanatics

Oil & Vinegar Store

The Kitchen Engine

14 & 15 Grilled or Smoked Turkey

Fireborn Gloves

The Guide Shop

16 & 17 Save While Shopping

Music City Spokane

Circling Raven Golf Course

River Park Square

18 & 19 Wish by Candlelight

Madison Home

STCU

20 Color Page

21 Christmas Movie Trivia

Whiz Kids

Sunset Junction Hobby Shop

22 Rockefeller Christmas Tree

Christmas Trivia Answers Dietz Christmas Tree

23 Donating Older Gifts

White Elephant

24 Consider Online Shipping Costs

Louisville Laser

25 Gifts that won’t Break the Bank

Wonders of the World

Sunny Buns

26 Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort

27 Gifts for the Sports Fan

Northwest Golf Pass

28 & 29 Support the Troops

DoughBoys Tools

American Red Cross

30 Forkfl y

31 Personalize Gifts

Community Colleges of Spokane

32 New Holiday Traditions

33 Lolo Boutique

Dan the Piano Man

Clear RF

The Sound of Music Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena

34 Dodging Holiday Weight

35 Gift-giving Etiquette

Beyond Beads

Sure-fi t Seat Covers

Homestead Birkenstock

Interplayers

36 5 Perfect Presents

37 Holiday Trends

Pepé Machinery

38 The Lost Art of Gift Wrapping

39 Affi nity

40 Les Schwab Tires

Stories: Metro, Content That Works, ARA • Photos: Photos.com, Metro, CTW, ARA • Graphic Designer Vickie Schloss

2012 Last Minute Gift Guide features and advertisers:


Coeur d’Alene⁄North IdahoNov. 23-Dec. 31 on select dates. “Cool Yule,”

original holiday musical production presented by the Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre and The Coeur d’Alene Resort, (208) 769-7780.

Nightly Nov. 24-Jan. 1, Holiday Light Show Cruises to Santa’s North Pole Workshop, Coeur d’Alene Resort. Cruise boats depart at 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Call to check availability as some times may be sold out. (208) 664-7268 or www.cdalakecruises.com.

Dec. 14-29 “Traditions of Christmas,” The Kroc Center presents a spectacular holiday show with live animals, gorgeous costumes and tap dancing. (208) 391-2867 or Traditionsofchristmasnw.com.

Dec. 24 Santa’s Traditional Schweitzer Visit. Watch Santa hit the slopes and then the Selkirk Lodge. (208) 263-9555.

Jan. 1 Polar Bear Plunge, Coeur d’Alene. No one knows who fi rst rounded up their friends to jump into chilly Lake Coeur d’Alene to start their year, but now hundreds partake. Some precede their plunging with the Hangover Handicap Fun Run to benefi t TESH.

SpokaneThrough Dec. 21 “White Christmas,” Irving Berlin’s holiday musical

presented by Spokane Civic Theatre. Directed by Yvonne A.K. Johnson. (509) 325-2507 or 1-800-325-SEAT www.spokanecivictheatre.com

Through Dec. 30 “It’s a Wonderful Life,” Interplayers presents the heartwarming holiday story about the difference one man makes in his community. The Frank Capra fi lm gets a radio-play treatment, where all characters and sound effects are performed onstage by fi ve actors. (509) 455-7529.

Dec. 31 First Night. Ring in 2013 in downtown Spokane with a variety of entertainment, artwork, music, programs and more fun, such as a 48-hour fi lm festival, the 5K Resolution Run and fi reworks.www.fi rstnightspokane.org

Through March 3 Riverfront Park, Ice Palace. Various specials and discount days available through the season, plus new skates, a resurfacer and curling this year. Skating lessons and hockey available. (509) 625-6601 www.spokaneriverfrontpark.com

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Holiday Events Calendarat downtownspokane.net

WHAT MAKES THE HOLIDAYS UNIQUE MAKES DOWNTOWN UNIQUE.

The following holiday events throughout the region were provided by area Chambers of Commerce. If you’re interested in more details, we encourage you to contact the appropriate agency to double-check times, dates and locations.

ollowing holiday events throughout the region were provided by area Chamber

Ring in the Season

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Dry Fly introduces our new line of specialty liquors. Dry Fly introduces our new line of specialty liquors. On sale at the distillery and specialty retailers.On sale at the distillery and specialty retailers.Visit our gift shop for great gift ideas and stocking stuffers. Visit our gift shop for great gift ideas and stocking stuffers.

DRY FLY1003 East Trent Avenue | 509.489.2112

Boost holiday spirits with holiday ‘spirits’

The holiday season is a festive time of year when opportunities to entertain abound. The search may be on for the ideal food and beverage recipes to tie into the holiday season.

Although just about any drink can be given a holiday spin with the right name (think Merry Martinis), you may want to come up with a theme drink that fi ts with your particular party. Explore these ideas for delicious and festive alcoholic and nonalcoholic options.

White Christmas Hot Chocolate

3 cups light cream or half-and-half3⁄4 cup vanilla candy melts, chopped1 teaspoon vanilla

Pinch of ground cinnamon1 ounce Irish cream liqueur

Combine 1 cup of the cream with the candy in a saucepan. Melt over low heat, being careful not to burn. Add the remaining cream, vanilla and cinnamon until everything is heated. Add the liqueur and stir. Garnish with more cinnamon. Serve warm.

The Candy Cane

1 ounce vodka1 ounce peppermint schnapps1⁄2 ounce heavy creamDash of grenadine for color

Mix all ingredients in a cocktail shaker fi lled with ice. Pour into glasses fi lled with crushed ice.

Garnish with a candy cane.

Sweet Santa Shots

1 ounce Midori liqueur1⁄2 ounce grenadine syrup

Carefully layer the grenadine syrup and the Midori liqueur in a shot glass to have red and green layers.

Holiday Sparkle

2 ounces apple cider1 ounce club sodaCinnamon stick

Mix cider with club soda and serve in a tall glass with a cinnamon stick garnish. A refreshing and nonalcoholic drink option.


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We make gift giving easy:

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You can customize a gift basket to the occasion and tastes of the recipient, and taking the time to do so shows your thoughtfulness and caring. Building a great gift basket can be fun and easy. The gift

experts at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store offer some advice for putting together a gift basket that will charm any recipient.

The fi rst stepsBegin by deciding what to put in the gift basket — packaged food,

gourmet coffees, collegiate items, apparel, candles, personal care items like soaps or lotions, cooking utensils, books, jewelry, home decor items, gardening tools, ornaments, picture frames, etc. Practically any hobby or area of interest can be an inspiration for a gift basket. Base your choice on the recipient's personality and interests.

Next, choose a container. Baskets, of course, are the classic container, but don't overlook other options, especially if they fi t the overall theme you've chosen. For example, load a toy football helmet with items inspired by his favorite football team. A large stockpot can be ideal for holding cooking utensils for a foodie or budding chef. A planter makes a useful and decorative container for gardening tools.

Arranging itemsOnce you've chosen the perfect container, think about how you'll arrange

the items that go in it. First, add some decorative shredding (available in craft stores, or make your own with colored paper and a paper shredder) to help stabilize items in the container and make it look even more attractive. Then, follow these rules of thumb for arranging items:

Place tallest items in the back. If you're using a round container, choose a side to serve as a visual 'back.' Stair step the rest of your items from tall to short. It's OK if the rows are not perfectly straight or even. In fact, a little variance in the arrangement will make the basket look more appealing.

Be sure to place packaged items with the most interesting side facing forward so it's immediately visible. For example, if you've included a bag of the recipient's favorite coffee, make sure the brand name is showing so he or she will be able to tell at a glance what's in the basket.

Be careful not to completely hide any items. It's fi ne to have things peeping through here or there, but avoid burying anything on the bottom. Buried items could potentially get lost and tossed out with the shredding.

If you need to hold items in place, secure them using some glue lines or glue dots (available in craft stores.) Fitting everything snugly is the key.

The fi nishing touchesOnce your basket is artfully fi lled, place the entire container in a large

cellophane bag. Gather the bag above the contents of the basket, then tie a bow at the narrowest part of the gathered bag. For smaller containers, pull the corners of the bag under the container and tape them. Trim any excess bag at the top.

Building a great gift basket


It’s always nicer to give than receive, from a winter cold to a Christmas present. But if you have someone on your list who is tough to buy for, you’re sometimes left scratching your head.

We’re always advocates of buying as local as possible, especially area merchants who may sell unique products you can’t fi nd anywhere else.

We also love hearing other creative ideas for gifts, like themed gift baskets or even fun homemade coupon books — a massage at a local spa, lunch at a favorite restaurant or tickets to a local play or sporting event.

Here’s a guide to some fun local gift ideas.

■ The gift of sports: Though there’s always football to watch in the living room, sports fans know that there isn’t much that compares to a live game. Consider tickets to the Spokane Shock, Spokane’s talented arena football team, which begins its 2013 season in February www.spokaneshock.com. Or the Spokane Chiefs, the area’s hockey team www.spokanechiefs.com. Or plan ahead and get some tickets to the Spokane Indians, the area’s minor-league baseball team next summer.

■ The gift of gaming. Area casinos make it easy to spend a couple of hours or even a whole weekend playing. Visitors can enjoy not just gaming but elegant restaurants, luxurious spas, world-class entertainment, and fancy hotels, all under one roof. Each location has fun, unique touches, including a 64-foot TV at Northern Quest Resort & Casino or the Coeur d’Alene Casino’s 1,600-plus gaming machines. The Coeur d’Alene Casino’s Winter Packages start at $109.98 and include a one-night stay in Mountain Lodge, 20 percent off Spa Ssakwa’q’n on any service or retail purchase, $10 EPC, $10 gas coupon and free valet parking. Golfers can get excited about next year with discounts on gear, gift items and apparel from The Casino’s Circling Raven Golf Club. And don’t forget about the casino’s spa boutique full of pampering products, and a newly opened gift shop of unique native and local wares. (www.cdacasino.com) Each location offers gift cards, so your recipient can get everything from a pedicure at Northern Quest Resort & Casino’s La Rive Spa to frozen yogurt at its Yogoshop to fi ne cigars. Specials like the “Sweet Suite” Package can be a perfect for Christmas, New Year or anytime – you get a night for two in a luxury suite, two spa day passes, $50 dining credit, $15 in-room movie credit and hand-crafted chocolate from Masselow’s. (www.northernquest.com)

■ The gift of traveling. Make a holiday weekend out of a trip to your favorite downtown. Stay at Spokane’s Davenport Hotel and go shopping and ice skating. Visit Coeur d’Alene and check out the Sherman Avenue shops and the holiday displays around The Coeur d’Alene Resort’s Floating Boardwalk. If you’re up for a fun drive, head west to Seattle, which always has plenty of fun for visitors in December. The Emerald City offers a variety of entertainment, activities and discounts at www.holidaysinseattle.com, including a photo scavenger hunt through the city and the fi nal days of “Tutankhamun: The Gold King and the Great Pharaohs” at the Seattle Science Center. The exhibit of more than 100 Ancient Egyptian items heads back to its native land Jan. 6.

■ The gift of fun: Silverwood Theme Park won’t open its doors until May, but now is a perfect time to start planning a visit to the Northwest’s largest theme park. Season passes are already on sale, and there are discounts up to 40 percent available if you buy them prior to Dec. 31. Early-bird group discounts are available especially if you have at least 15 people. Along with reduced admission, your group can also order a discounted all-you-can-eat picnic meal for only $7.99 that features tender-pulled BBQ pork, buns, hot dogs, potato salad, coleslaw, Vicki’s famous chili beans, cornbread, country green beans, garlic mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, tossed green salad, fruit mix and assorted Pepsi beverages. Visit www.silverwoodthemepark.com or (208) 683-3400 ext. 3 for info.

■ The gift of arts: You can fi nd plenty of artwork to decorate your walls or a loved one’s walls at local galleries, or décor stores items like Real Deals Home Décor. Or try your hand at being creative yourself by getting some materials at Spokane Art Supply. You can also check out performing arts venues, including live theater, the Spokane Symphony and area dance groups. There are theaters in Coeur d’Alene and Spokane, and some fun holiday shows. “Cool Yule,” a musical show put on by the Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre, runs through Jan. 1 at The Coeur d’Alene Resort. CST is also selling 2013 season tickets, including “9 to 5,” “The Music Man” and “Big River.” www.cdasummertheatre.com or call (208) 769-7780. Spokane theater fans can enjoy “White Christmas,” the Irving Berlin classic at Spokane Civic Theater through Dec. 21 www.spokanecivic.com or “It’s a Wonderful Life” at Interplayers through Dec. 30, which will feature the radio version of the Frank Capra classic which requires fi ve actors to play all the parts and sound effects. Visit www.interplayerstheatre.org or call (509) 455-7529.

■ The gift of powder: While we’re not necessarily fond of white stuff on city streets, fresh powder is always worth celebrating at area ski resorts. There are fi ve stellar ski areas within an hour’s drive of Spokane, and more than a dozen more a little farther in every direction. The local resorts (Schweitzer, Silver Mountain, Lookout Pass, 49 Degrees North and Mt. Spokane) each have their own traditions, amenities and seasonal specials. Visit www.skinwrockies.com/ or individual resort pages for special promotions and info. Or visit outdoor stores like REI or Mountain Gear for your equipment.

Consider shopping, giving locally

http://www.spokaneshock.com

http://www.spokanechiefs.com

http://www.cdacasino.com

http://www.cdacasino.com

http://www.northernquest.com

http://www.holidaysinseattle.com

http://www.silverwoodthemepark.com

http://www.cdasummertheatre

http://www.spokanecivic.com

http://www.interplayerstheatre.org

http://www.skinwrockies.com/


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Dining out for the holidays is a tradition for many families. Restaurants have many advantages, including no cleanup once the meal is over and a more varied menu that provides guests more

choices than the standard holiday fare.

Eating out can also prove less expensive for the holiday host. The tab at the end of a night on the town can be split among the guests, whereas the food bill when hosting a holiday dinner at home is often left to the host and the host alone.

Dinner out does require some work, even if none of that work involves scrubbing dirty dishes or fi nding extra seats. When planning a holiday dinner at a restaurant, consider the following tips.

Do your homework. A favorite restaurant might be tops on your list, but do some

comparison shopping before settling on a restaurant. Prices can vary

greatly when it comes to private parties, and some might not even be capable of accommodating the kind of large party that might accompany you for a holiday dinner. Start shopping well before the holiday season to see who offers the best menu, the most affordable prices and the best accommodations.

Choose a restaurant that’s accessible to everyone.

Guests can stay overnight when a holiday dinner is at a relative’s house. However, guests will almost certainly be driving home after a holiday dinner at a restaurant. Make everyone’s post-meal commute home as easy as possible by choosing a centrally located restaurant that’s

for the perfect

Dining out for the holidays


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equidistant from everyone’s home. Consider the proximity of public transportation to the restaurant as well, as some guests might prefer to avoid holiday traffi c by taking public transportation.

Inquire about a restaurant’s pricing. There might be room for negotiation regarding the menu, including

choices on the food and beverages being offered, but you’ll never know if you don’t ask. Traditional holiday fare will likely be available, but discuss alternatives, such as vegan, vegetarian or gluten-free meal options. In addition, some restaurants might be willing to negotiate price, especially for large parties.

Be an early bird. If the responsibility of planning or hosting the dinner has fallen on

your shoulders, then get to the restaurant before your guests. This gives you time to ensure everything is ready and increases the chances your holiday dinner will go according to plan.

Don’t forget invitations. Treat the holiday dinner like you might treat a wedding reception or a

birthday party, inviting guests several weeks in advance so everyone has time to plan their trip. Include directions to the restaurant in your invitations, and remind guests that holiday traffi c might require they leave earlier to make it to the restaurant on time for the start of the meal.

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Gift ideas for the food fanatic on your listSome people are a cinch to shop for come the holiday season, while others can be more of an enigma.

When it comes to the latter, shoppers should determine what tickles their mysterious friend or family member’s fancy, such as a favorite hobby or even something to do with his or her profession.

Food is a passion for many people and provides holiday shoppers with a great opportunity to make a loved one’s holiday season even more special. Perhaps thanks to the increase in cable networks focusing on food, foodies, those people with an appreciation and passion for cuisine, have grown in number in recent years, and holiday shoppers with foodies on their lists have a host of potential gift options at their disposal.

■ Cooking class: Many foodies don’t just like eating food but cooking their favorite cuisine as well. For those who like to get their hands dirty before fi lling their bellies, consider paying for a cooking class. Many communities have cooking classes for various types of cuisine, so consult your friend or family member,

asking them which cuisine they’d like to learn and when they’re available. Or let them fi nd their own class and then pay for the class. This can be a great way for foodies to learn something new and meet fellow food affi cionados along the way.

■ Specialty spices: Spices can make the difference between an ordinary meal that’s void of fl avor and a meal that’s so fl avorful it won’t soon be forgotten. When spicing things up for a foodie this holiday season, don’t just buy regular spices at the grocery store. For example, instead of standard cinnamon, buy a specialty spice like Mexican or Vietnamese cinnamon. Such specialty spices can add extra fl avor to a meal while becoming the go-to spice for the home chef among your friends and family members. Also consider specialty oil and vinegars, both

come in an huge assortment of fl avors that will tantalize any taste.

■ Pressure cooker: Many foodies are fawning over pressure cooking, which can cut down on

cooking times without sacrifi cing nutrition. Some recipes may take half the time to prepare with a pressure cooker as they might with a more traditional cooking method, an important time saving element that’s attractive to foodies who want to enjoy their favorite foods but feel pressed for time on weeknights. And while pressure cookers employ steam to cook foods quickly, that steam also traps fl avor, whereas boiling can wash fl avor out.

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Many foodies also laud pressure cookers for their nutritional benefi ts. Steaming certain foods can intensify their fl avor, which allows cooks to rely less on potentially unhealthy additions like salt or butter to ensure a meal is fl avorful.

■ Serving dishes: Of course, many foodies want to share the fruits of their labors with friends and family. For the person who loves throwing dinner parties, consider some serving dishes this holiday season. Serving dishes can range from casual (for the foodie who can’t wait to fi re up the grill) to formal (for the gourmet foodie), so get a feel of your friend or family member’s preferences before purchasing a set of serving dishes.

■ Cookbook: The ideal fallback item for holiday shoppers who can’t seem to fi nd anything for their favorite foodies, cookbooks fi lled with recipes for dishes from their favorite type of cuisine (i.e., Italian, Thai, Cajun, etc.) are sure to please. When gifting with a cookbook, peruse a few of its recipes to determine if there are any special ingredients that appear throughout. If there are, purchase these ingredients and gift them as well.


Breaking with tradition is always a test of the home cook’s mettle, especially

around the holidays. Loved ones have expectations and when they aren’t met, disappointment causes upset even Tums can’t relieve. For those looking to make the leap from the oven to the outdoors this year, there are a few general guidelines to make sure that the holiday turkey turns out well done – and not charred or dry.

The USDA Food Safety and

Inspection Service recommends the following pointers for successfully smoking a turkey:

Whole turkeys that weigh 12 pounds or less are the recommended size for safe grilling or smoking. A larger turkey remains in the “Danger Zone” – between 40 degrees F and 140 degrees F – too long. If a larger turkey has been mistakenly purchased, detach the dark meat sections (leg and thigh portions) from the breast and smoke/grill

the turkey parts separately. This procedure should result in the best possible results.

When purchasing a whole turkey or turkey breast, the structure is as important as the weight. Generally, a turkey that is broad and fl at will fi t better under the covered smoker or grill than one that protrudes too high in the breast area. Remember there should be at least one inch of space between the turkey and the lid.

Do not stuff the smoked turkey. Because smoking is at a low temperature, it can take too long for the temperature of the stuffi ng to reach the required temperature of 165 degrees F. Also, smoked stuffi ng has an undesirable fl avor.

Following, a recipe for a smoked turkey and one for a grilled turkey, courtesy the National Turkey Federation.

Where there’s smoke …Popular Trends : Grilling & smoking the bird

Savory Grilled Turkey:

The Ultimate Grilled Turkey

1. Remove giblets from turkey (discard or save for another use).

2. Using long-handled tongs, moisten a paper towel with cooking oil and lightly coat the grill rack. Prepare grill for indirect heat, using a drip pan in the center. Skewer turkey openings closed.

3. When the grill temperature has reached about 350° F, place turkey on the grill rack, directly over the drip pan. Grill, covered, over indirect medium heat for 1 hour.

4. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine the remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat. Set aside and cover 2/3 cup for serving.

5. Continue to grill turkey 1 hour-2 hours longer or until a meat thermometer reads 175° F in the thigh, basting frequently with remaining sauce.

6. Cover turkey and let stand for 15 minutes before carving. Serve with reserved sauce.

Delight holiday guests’ taste buds with a new take on the holiday bird. The savory and rich fl avor profi le the grill adds to the turkey will keep your recipe

in the books for seasons to come.

1 (12 pound) whole turkey1 cup unsalted butter, cubed1/2 cup cider vinegar1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon A.1. steak sauce1 teaspoon kosher salt1 teaspoon freshly ground black

pepper1 teaspoon Louisiana-style hot sauce


Smoked Turkey1. When using a charcoal smoker, fi ll the liquid pan with water, wine, apple juice or

the liquid you desire.

2. Fill the charcoal pan with a good quality charcoal. Light the charcoal and place the cover on the smoker. When the smoker has reached an internal temperature of 250 degrees F to 300 degrees F, quickly place the turkey on the smoker rack and replace the cover. (Some smokers have built in temperature indicators. If not, place an appliance thermometer on the smoker rack before starting the heat.)

3. Add charcoal every hour, as necessary, to maintain 250 degrees F to 300 degrees F. Replenish the liquid as necessary. Heat and liquid are critical to maintaining the hot smoke that cooks the turkey.

4. When cooking with a smoker, start with clean equipment. Place the smoker in an area shielded from winds to maintain a consistent cooking temperature. To enhance the fl avors, add chunks or chips of water-soaked hardwood or fruitwood. DO NOT use softwood (pine, fi r, cedar or spruce) as it gives the food a turpentine fl avor and coats it with a black pitch or resin.

5. Smoking time depends on many factors: the size and shape of the turkey, the distance from the heat, temperature of the coals and the outside air temperature. Estimate 20 to 30 minutes per pound if using a smoker. Always use a food thermometer. The whole turkey is done when the food thermometer, placed in the inner thigh, reaches 180 degrees F. The breast is done when the internal temperature reaches 170 degrees F.

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T he holiday season is fi lled with tradition. Many families have their own unique customs, and those traditions create lasting memories for adults and children alike.

One such holiday tradition is shopping for gifts for family and friends. Many people enjoy holiday shopping, anxiously anticipating the look on their loved ones’ faces when they open their presents. But holiday shopping is even more enjoyable for shoppers who can save a little extra money. The following are a few tips for shoppers who still want to give the perfect gifts but don’t want to break the bank.

■ Stop paying for shipping. Many people now do their holiday shopping online. Online shopping can be more convenient and give consumers more options. But some shoppers still shy away from online retailers for fear of high shipping costs. However, some retailers offer free shipping to consumers who spend a certain amount of money. In addition, savvy shoppers can scour the Internet for free shipping codes they can use at checkout. Some retailers even offer free shipping during the holiday season (last minute purchases might not be eligible) to entice customers.

■ Empty your wallet of gift cards. Gift cards are popular gifts come the holidays, but many gift card recipients fail to use their cards prior to their expiration dates. Many cards expire 12 months after their initial purchase date. If your wallet is fi lled with gift cards you received last holiday season, use them to buy gifts for friends and family now before they expire.

■ Make a list. Santa Claus is renowned for making a list come the holiday season, and holiday shoppers should follow his lead. Prior to your fi rst holiday shopping trip, make a list that includes the names of friends and family to buy for and what you want to buy for each one of them. Doing so decreases the chances you’ll forget someone and be forced to drive back to the mall. Reducing the number of shopping trips you have to make will conserve fuel and save you a substantial amount of money and time.

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■ Pay in cash. If you’re not a fan of online shopping, then use only cash when shopping at brick-and-mortar stores. Paying with cash eliminates the risk of overspending with credit cards, which will come back to haunt you in January when the bills are due. Take a predetermined amount of cash with you when shopping, and once that money is gone, then it’s time to go home.

■ Don’t be tempted by retailer credit cards. Retailer credit cards can be very tempting, especially when the cashier offers an immediate 20 percent discount if you sign up for the card at the register. But that discount comes at a steep price down the road. Not only will you be receiving a bill after the holiday season, but that retailer credit card will most defi nitely feature a high interest rate that can negate the initial discount at the register – unless you pay off the balance in full.

■ Create spending parameters with your immediate family. The economy has yet to fully recover from the downturn that began nearly half a decade ago. As a result, many people still approach the holiday shopping season with a degree of trepidation. Get together with your immediate family and establish spending parameters so no person feels like he or she has to spend too much money on holiday shopping. Agree that no gift should cost more than $25. Everyone will still enjoy the holiday season and one another’s company, and they won’t be forced to deal with the stress of overspending.

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Wish by Candle ight THE PERFECT DISPLAY

Pillar candles: Pillar candles are great for décor purposes, whether on their own or in candlescapes. If they’re going to be used on a dining table, however, make sure they don’t obstruct the view, since they tend to be larger candles.

Floating candles: In a large glass bowl, floating candles make a nice centerpiece. Single floating candles can serve to personalize a table.

Container candles: If you're looking for a strong scent, go for container candles. Since the wax in a container can be softer, they hold more fragrance than votives or pillars, which are made of harder wax.

Votive candles: These versatile candles work for arrangements or the dinner table. Since they are shorter than pillars, "you can get all the sparkle and the warmth of candlelight, but you can still see across the table,” says Barbara Miller, spokeswoman for the National Candle Association. Try arranging votives on a mirrored surface for an extra glow.

Tealight candles: “I’ve noticed that customers want tapers and tealights probably five to one more during the holidays,” says Diana Schrank, owner of Porch Swing Candles in West Columbia, Texas. “That truly sets the ambiance at a party, or even if it’s a family enjoying quiet time at home.”

Candlestick/taper holder

Lantern candleholder

Apothecary jar

Votive holder

Pillar holder

Tealight holder

Taper candles: Taper candles are the traditional choice for tables, but they also work well in arrangements.

The warm, fl ickering glow of candles embodies the holiday season. Here’s a primer on candle basics, plus a rundown of the latest trends

Gel candles: Gel candles are also good for decoration, and because they need to be in a container, you can get creative with their presentation.

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warm glow of candles will be complemented by frosty winter wonderland colors and fragrances.

“There’s a sense of icy, fresh, watery — like a really light snow that’s glistening over things,” says Barbara Miller, spokeswoman for the National Candle Association. “That’s not only in the colors, you also have it in the fragrances.”

Gold candles and metallic décor accents are adding extra shimmer to the holiday season. Yankee Candle is promoting its “All That Glitters” holiday 2012 collection, with candles presented in a gold-accented jar.

“Gold will play a signifi cant role in the holiday season,” Miller says. “So the harvest golds of the fall will turn into metallic golds for the holidays.”

In Santa Claus, Ind., — yes,

there is such a place! — the Santa Claus Christmas Store is skipping traditional candles in favor of the fl ameless, battery-powered variety, which they call luminaria. “This year we’re seeing more of the winter wonderland look, which is our silvers and whites and ice,” says manager Holly Xanders. The luminaria are pillars of lightly

scented wax, and they operate on a timer, glowing for fi ve hours at a time. Xanders says the fl ame is life-like, and customers appreciate the safety as well as the décor possibilities.

In addition to frosty motifs, candles that beckon nostalgia are also popular this season. At Porch Swing Candles in West Columbia, Tex., owner Diana Schrank says this year’s Christmas candles are all about coziness. “Everything feels so back to basics right now,” she says. Porch Swing’s hand-poured candles will be more muted in color to evoke the comforts of home.

Evergreen smells and gourmet scents are always popular, and this holiday they’ll be enhanced by the frosty theme. Yankee Candle’s “Pine Cone and Lime,” for example, is a riff on a traditional scent. The citrus adds an icy crispness to the fl avor.

Many of the newer candle scents this season aren’t holiday-specifi c, so they can be burned long into the New Year. That also means they make great gifts, and not just for women.

New York City-based Izola introduced a line of candles for men in early 2012. The collection features hand-poured, vegetable wax candles with a masculine design and scents that aren’t overpowering or too sweet. “Magnolia” is ideal for the holiday season, says Ian O’Brien, business development director at Izola. “Magnolia resembles that of the magnolia tree fl ower, so it has a lemony essence,” he says.

To ensure any holiday candle lasts for seasons, trim the wick before each use. If it’s a scented container candle, place a lid on it after each use to preserve the fragrance.


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Test your knowledge of popular Christmas moviesWhat would the holidays be without snowfl akes falling outside, a mug of hot

cocoa in hand and a favorite Christmas movie on television?

Watching Christmas movies is a holiday tradition for many families. So much so that lines from popular movies are easily remembered and recognized. Those who can recite movies verbatim might enjoy testing their mettle with the following Christmas quiz loaded with memorable quotes from holiday classics.

Movie Quotes Quiz1. “It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags.”

2. “Uh, since the United States Government declares this man to be Santa Claus, this court will not dispute it. Case dismissed.”

3. “If TV has taught me anything, it’s that miracles always happen to poor kids at Christmas. It happened to Tiny Tim, it happened to Charlie Brown, it happened to The Smurfs, and it’s gonna happen to us!”

4. “I want an offi cial Red Ryder, carbine action, 200 shot range model air rifl e.”

5. “Bless this highly nutritious microwavable macaroni and cheese dinner and the people who sold it on sale. Amen.”

6. “Iris, in the movies, we have leading ladies and we have the best friend. You, I can tell, are a leading lady, but for some reason, you’re behaving like the best friend.”

7. “Who gave you permission to tell Charlie there was no Santa Claus? I think if we’re going to destroy our son’s delusions, I should be a part of it.”

8. “I want to wash my hands, my face, my hair with snow.”

9. “We’re not just doing this for us. We’re doing it for the kids. For every kid who ever sat on Santa’s lap. For every little girl who left cookies and milk for Santa on Christmas night. For every little boy who opens a package Christmas morning and fi nds clothes instead of toys. It breaks my heart.”

10. “We all know that Christmas is a big commercial racket. It’s run by a big Eastern syndicate you know.”

11. “I fear you more than any spectre I have seen. But as I know your purpose is to do me good, and as I hope to live to be another man from what I was, I am prepared to bear your company, and do it with a thankful heart. Will you not speak to me?”

12. “Seeing is believing, but sometimes the most real things in the world are the things we can’t see.”

13. “Light the lamp, not the rat, light the lamp, not the rat! Put me out, put me out, put me out!”

14. “Tell me something, Billy. How come a cute little guy like this can turn into a thousand ugly monsters?”

15. “Wanna see some magic? OK, let’s watch you disappear!”

16. “That’s not ‘my’ Christmas! ‘My’ Christmas is fi lled with laughter, and joy... and this: my Sandy Claws outfi t. I want you to make it.”

17. “That’s neither pig nor pork, it’s beef.”

18. “I passed through the seven levels of the Candy Cane forest, through the sea of swirly twirly gum drops, and then I walked through the Lincoln Tunnel.”


Movie Triva

answers from page 211. “The Grinch Who

Stole Christmas” 2. “Miracle on

34th Street” 3. “The Simpson’s

Christmas” 4. “A Christmas Story” 5. “Home Alone” 6. “The Holiday” 7. “The Santa Clause” 8. “White Christmas” 9. “Jingle All the Way”10. “A Charlie Brown

Christmas”11. “A Christmas Carol”12. “The Polar Express”13. “The Muppets

Christmas Carol”14. “Gremlins”15. “Bad Santa”16. “The Nightmare

Before Christmas”17. “Babes in Toyland”18. “Elf”

The fi rst Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center was erected in 1931, two years before the opening of Rockefeller Plaza, where the tree now draws thousands of tourists each year.

The tradition began when construction workers hard at work on building Rockefeller Center decorated a roughly 20-foot tall balsam fi r tree on Christmas Eve in 1931. Strings of cranberries and tin cans were among the items used to decorate the tree. While there was no tree in 1932, the fi rst offi cial tree was unveiled in 1933 in Rockefeller Plaza, and the lighting ceremony was broadcast over NBC Radio. The 1933 tree, at 50 feet tall, dwarfed the 1931 tree. However, the 1933 tree paled in comparison to the 10-ton Norway Spruce erected in 1999, which measured 100-feet tall and

remains the tallest tree ever erected at Rockefeller Center. The tradition of the Rockefeller Center tree continues to evolve to this day, but the evergreen is no longer lit with incandescent light bulbs. LED bulbs that consume a fraction of the energy of traditional bulbs are the bulbs of choice now. In addition, in 2007 Rockefeller Center partnered with Habitat for Humanity, who used the tree after it was taken down to furnish lumber for home construction.

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The holiday season is one fi rmly ensconced in the tradition of exchanging gifts. To address storage issues, some families choose

to make charitable donations of some of their past holiday fi nery in preparation for the arrival of new gifts and goodies.

The average person has many belongings he or she may not need. According to the Self Storage Association, there are 2.3 billion square feet designated to self-storage space in the United States, and one out of every 10 households in the country rents a unit. Many fi nancial analysts say that the self-storage industry is essentially recession-proof. That’s because once a person moves items into storage, they’re not likely to move it out anytime soon.

Many of the items relegated to self-storage units across the nation could be holiday gifts from years past. But rather than store items that will never see the light of day, why not help a good cause and donate such items to charity?

Make it a traditionFamilies can make donating items prior to the holidays a tradition so

that it is something that everyone anticipates and looks forward to.

Much as you would decorate the home or shop for fancy holiday clothing, you can set aside a day for sorting through infrequently used items and preparing them for donation. Doing so can teach children the benefi ts of generosity, which often goes hand-in-hand with the season.

Work with an organizationThere are certain organizations that gather used or new toys and other

items to give to the less fortunate. Begin with churches and synagogues and inquire if they sponsor or host a collection program. Schools also may hold item swaps to help raise money for parent-teacher associations or to donate to charities.

If you cannot fi nd an organization that serves as the middleman for donations, take it upon yourself to solicit safe houses, hospitals, veteran groups and more to see if they will accept your items.

Set limits on new giftsEncourage family members to give back while gifting as well. While

one or two new items will be appreciated, you may want to specify that donations to charities that you support, or helping to fund extracurricular activities, is your preference.

Organize storage spacesOnce clutter has been removed, use this opportunity to install new

closet organizers, storage bins, shelving, and any other methods of organization that you prefer. Sort and categorize existing toys and items so that new ones can be added neatly.

Involve children in the donation processWhen donating items, bring the kids

along so they can see how their former toys and books will be put to use by other children who may not have the same advantages. It will serve as a good lesson and may help children walk away with a heartwarming experience.

Donating older gifts

H001


If given the choice of receiving a discount on an item purchased online or getting free shipping, most customers would select the free shipping, says a survey from the market research fi rm, Lab42.

Information like this may guide more offerings from online retailers this holiday season.

The advantages of online shopping are well documented. The 24-hour appeal continues to draw record numbers of shoppers, and the ease with which prices can be compared is attractive to bargain hunters. Also, shopping online allows customers to fi nd items they might not be able to fi nd at a local brick-and-mortar retailer.

According to a survey from Nielsen Online, most people who shop online during the holidays do it to save time. The survey of 1,000 online shoppers found that 81 percent shop online because they can shop any time of the day. In addition, 77 percent said they like to save time while 61 percent said they like to comparison shop and 56 percent said they like it because they can easily fi nd items.

Although convenience is a major factor, online shoppers prefer free shipping promotions more than any other offers. In 2007, a survey

conducted for Shop.org found that free shipping is a big draw. About 61 percent of respondents said that free shipping without conditions was one of the promotions they would most like to see. The popularity of such offers has only grown.

Lab42 surveyed men and women ages 25 to 44, and 96 percent of respondents said they'd be more likely to shop at a site offering a free shipping promotion. Almost as many (87 percent) said they'd be swayed by free returns.

The same survey uncovered some additional insight into the mind of the online shopper.

• Nearly three-quarters (73 percent) of those surveyed said they shopped online more now than even two years ago, and just 5 percent said they shopped less.

• Nearly 75 percent of the group said they do at least half of their shopping online, while 66 percent said they preferred to shop online rather than in a store.

• About 95 percent of respondents do their shopping at home from a personal computer. Just under 4 percent use a smartphone or a tablet.

• Eighty-one percent of respondents said that customer reviews played a big role in the purchases they made as well as those they did not make.

Online shopping has many advantages. Deterrents like not being able to see or feel the quality of the item and diffi culty returning items may be overlooked when retailers offer free shipping to prospective customers.

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Giving is synonymous with the holiday season. But in a holiday season

where people are still dealing with a sagging and unpredictable economy, giving in a way that won’t break the bank is imperative for many thoughtful holiday shoppers.

In response to the economy, many families have set limits on how much family members can spend on holiday gifts. Such budgets are a great idea and can even make holiday shopping more fun as shoppers hunt down the perfect gift without having to worry about how they’re going to pay for it. Low-cost holiday gifts come in many shapes and sizes, and the following are a few ideas to help you get started.

Food & BeverageIf you need to fi nd an inexpensive

gift for the family foodie, then you’re in luck. Plenty of culinary gifts can be had for less than $25. Early risers might appreciate some gourmet coffee beans accompanied by a new coffee mug, while those who prefer tea instead of coffee would no doubt appreciate a variety pack of herbal teas and a new teacup or teapot.

Men and women who embrace mealtime as an opportunity to experience various styles of cuisine would likely love a cookbook fi lled with recipes from all over the world or a particular country whose cuisine inspires them.

Another great gift for foodies is a membership to a club such as “Pastry of the Month” or “Coffee

of the Month.” Such gifts cost a little more than thrifty shoppers would care to spend, but there are some deals to be had on such memberships come the holiday season.

PhotographyThe dawn of the digital age

has made photography more popular than ever before. Amateur photographers can now take photos with a digital camera or even their cellular phones and post their pictures to the Internet in a matter of seconds. Though online photo albums are popular, a traditional photo album is a thoughtful and inexpensive gift for a loved one who can’t take enough pictures. New parents might also consider giving their youngster’s grandparents a photo album fi lled with photos of the family’s newest addition.

Film FansMovie buffs are passionate

about their favorite fi lms, and feeding that passion can be easy and inexpensive. Many fi lm fans have a favorite director or actor, so why not gift a collection of that director or actor’s work? Perhaps thanks to the growing popularity of streaming movies online, DVDs are now more affordable than ever.

Many fi lm fanatics are also interested in the history of the fi lm industry, so a book detailing that history might appeal to your loved ones.

Of course, all fi lm fans generally appreciate a gift certifi cate to their local multiplex.

Pet ParentsPet parents are enamored

with their furry friends, so a pet-oriented gift is sure to make their holiday season even more special. A new bowl, a fl ashy new collar or some additional attire aimed at helping their beloved

pooch or cat stay warm through the winter months won’t cost much, but it’s certainly something most pet owners and their pets need.

For the pet parent who seemingly has everything, remember that pets can never have enough toys. Pets tend to play rough, so their toys aren’t known for their longevity. Some new pet toys can be had on the cheap, and pet parents will appreciate the gesture.

Rest & RelaxationArguably one of the best holiday

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Few things make holiday shoppers happier than giving a gift that instantly lights up a loved one’s eyes. All the work that goes into fi nding and securing the perfect gift becomes worth it and then

some when the recipient’s smile stretches from ear to ear.

When gifting the family sports fan, the options are endless. Sports fans tend to wear their hearts on their sleeves, and they’re liable to be just as vocal with appreciation if any of these gifts are waiting under the tree for them this holiday season.

Magazine subscription: Many sports fans feel they can never get enough information on their favorite teams and sports. A magazine subscription to Sports Illustrated or another periodical focusing on a particular sport can provide insider access for a year or longer. Magazine subscriptions are typically inexpensive, but they provide lots of bang for your gifting buck, especially weekly publications. In addition, many magazines now give print subscribers access to exclusive content online, playing to your favorite sports fan’s ever-growing desire for more knowledge.

Sports apparel: According to IBISWorld, a California-based market research fi rm, online sporting apparel sales were expected to approach $5 billion in 2012. Driving those sales are sports fans who can’t wait to don the gear of their favorite teams. Apparel makes a great holiday gift, whether it’s an authentic player jersey, a team logo hoodie or a personalized T-shirt.

Memorabilia: Sports memorabilia can be costly, but shoppers can still fi nd great deals on everything from autographed items to relics of a franchise’s fl edgling days. When shopping for memorabilia, be wary of auctions, where “shill bidding” can drive up the price of coveted items. Shill bidding occurs when owners bid on their own items at auction in an attempt to drive up the sale price. And authentication can be an issue with regard to sports memorabilia. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has been cracking down on fraudulent memorabilia. Shoppers without knowledge of the memorabilia industry might want to focus on less expensive items that will be a hit under the tree but not their bank accounts.

Video games: Many sports fans indulge in their love of a favorite sport by playing video games. Like most technology, video games are consistently reinvented, so last year’s game might already be outdated, making video games an ideal holiday gift. Those who want to go the extra mile can include a new gaming console.

Tickets: Sports fans might like nothing more than tickets to see their favorite teams play. Buying directly from a sports team is a safe bet, but it can also be expensive. Savvy shoppers can explore the legal secondary market, which includes online retailers like StubHub.com or even league-affi liated programs like NFL Ticket Exchange, where they might fi nd more affordable tickets. When gifting tickets, do in advance of the game so fans have time to plan their trip and, if need be, take a day off from work.

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Ideal gifts for the family sports fan


Supporting the troops is an important thing to do — but sometimes it’s hard to fi gure out how to give your support.

Here are fi ve easy ways to thank those people who keep us safe every single day — even if you don’t personally know someone serving. And it’s the perfect time of year to do it. With the holidays coming up, many of these service men and women are away from family.

Send a thank-you giftGive a personal thank you directly to the men and women serving the

country. Some retailers are making it easy to support the troops this holiday season. For instance, national retailer Things Remembered is helping people — even those on a budget — send unique, personalized gifts to deployed service members.

Through Nov. 20, Things Remembered shoppers purchasing gifts for deployed military personnel received 25 percent off and free shipping on any personalized gift sent to an APO/FPO address. With more than 600 stores nationally, Things Remembered is helping any American personally thank those protecting our nation in time for the holidays.

Even shoppers who don’t personally know any deployed servicemen or women can show their support. All Things Remembered stores will be featuring local deployed military members who would love to receive gifts from their hometown neighbors.

Volunteer your timeTroops serving overseas do not have the luxury of spending the

holidays with their loved ones, but there are also former service members stateside who should be recognized.

Show your appreciation for those who have helped protect our country by volunteering at your local VA hospital or nursing home this season, even if only for a few hours.

You are sure to meet some fascinating men and women, and you’ll bring holiday cheer to those who may not have many visitors.

Give bloodIt may not seem like it would directly impact men and women

overseas, but giving blood through an organization like the American Red Cross can actually help troops hundreds and thousands of miles away.

Five easy ways to support the troops during the holidays

but


Military units may depend on rush shipments of blood during times of need, and maintaining an ample supply of all blood types is important. You may even host a blood drive at your workplace or community center, encouraging others to give the gift of life this holiday season.

To fi nd a blood drive or donation location near you, visit www.redcrossblood.org.

Support troops’ familiesWhen troops are deployed, they leave their strongest supporters

behind. Particularly during the holidays, it is important to remember the families of active duty service members in our communities.

Whether it’s a parent, spouse or child of a deployed troop, someone in your area will likely be without a loved one this season. There are countless ways to show your support of those behind our military, whether it’s a plate of holiday cookies, community event or simply a handwritten card.

During this diffi cult time, it truly is the thought that counts, and your efforts will be appreciated more than you know. Find a local family to support through an organization like Military OneSource.

Be vocalEncouraging others to remember our deployed troops is one of the

most wide-reaching ways to support the active military during the holidays.

By reminding neighbors that our men and women overseas may need a boost of holiday cheer, you could touch hundreds of service members’ lives this season. Talk to people, post on Facebook, send out Tweets or include a reminder in your holiday cards.

Every person you impact also becomes an advocate, which can quickly multiply into hundreds of acts of support. Be proud to support our service men and women this year and encourage others to do the same.

Although the holidays can be a diffi cult time for deployed service members and their families, there are countless ways you can show your gratitude and appreciation this season. Whether it’s a personalized gift, visit to a veteran, blood donation or support for their families, you can give back to those who give so much to our country.

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Choosing the perfect gift for your loved ones can be a diffi cult task. However, you don’t have to stress about going from store to store wondering if you’re picking out the right size or color or whether it

fi ts your budget.If you fi nd yourself struggling to fi nd the perfect gift this holiday season,

consider taking a different approach - personalize gifts you know your friends, family and coworkers will love unwrapping. Personalized gifts show that you care enough to invest your time and energy to create the perfect present. In particular, photos from an event or family trip will often hold special meaning and can serve as the inspiration to a myriad of gift giving options. Here are a few ideas:Bring memories back

Opening a gift featuring memories of the great moments over the past year will have your loved ones beaming with happiness. Help the recipient keep track of important dates and meetings while also reliving favorite events of the past with a photo calendar. Take favorite photos to a print center or order online, choose from calendar designs, and pick up the fi nished calendar in a few hours. Need another gift for your loved ones? Use those same favorite pictures to create personalized photo books, mugs or key chains which make great stocking stuffers.Create something artistic

You can really wow your loved ones this holiday season with a personalized gift that has an artistic touch. Photographs are one form of art, and you can turn a favorite photograph — whether it’s of a person, landscape or really intricate design — into a large mural. Available in various sizes, allowing you to size the gift perfectly for the recipient’s home. One way to really make the photo mural stand out is to frame it to perfectly match the decor of the room where it will be hung.Frame it your way

If you don’t have time to put a collage together for a calendar or photo book, a great last minute gift option is a basic photo enlargement. You can purchase a lovely frame to turn a simple picture into an elegant gift or have a larger version mounted or laminated.

Finding ways like these to personalize gifts will show the recipients just how much you care, and how much thought you put into making the perfect present. That extra touch will be just what’s needed to make your loved ones feel special.

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Did you know?People are not

the only ones who enjoy a

holiday treat. Pets are often deserving of a little special treatment, too. Operation Santa Paws encourages shelters across the country to collect donations of toys, treats and supplies to benefi t needy shelter animals, which may have been abused or abandoned. More information is available at www.hautedogs.org/santapaws

Much of what makes the holiday season so special is the traditions that people hold dear. While families have traditions that stretch back decades, there is plenty of opportunity to embrace new means of celebration to breathe new life into Christmas, Chanukkah or the season’s other holidays.

Chances are you’re already hanging stockings or going caroling this year. You can add some of these and modify as they fi t for your family.

1. Feed the wildlife. During the cold days of winter, birds and small animals that don’t hibernate may fi nd it diffi cult to forage for food. By trimming an outdoor pine tree in edible snacks you’ll have a beautiful tree and one that benefi ts the wildlife as well. String peanuts and other nuts for the squirrels. Make little ornaments out of suet and string for the birds. Berries and corn can be enjoyed by all. Be sure to choose a tree that is far enough away from the home, so you don’t have too many scavengers hunting and pecking around the house.

2. Create a photo Advent calendar. Make your own Advent calendar that has small doors that open up to photos of different family members. Or use a collection of children’s pictures that showcase how they’ve changed as they’ve grown older.

3. “Adopt” a child for holiday gifts. Each year you can bring a smile to a child in need by purchasing a present for an underprivileged kid. Some post offi ces sponsor “Letters from Santa” events where participants can respond to one of the thousands of letters mailed to The North Pole. Or work with a local charity that organizes events to bring gifts to children in hospitals or in foster care.

4. Holiday story countdown. Every night in December watch a movie or read a story that tells an uplifting holiday tale. Use this as a method of counting down until Christmas. On the night prior, reading “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” should suffi ce.

5. Remember someone who has passed on. The holiday season is one made beautiful by lit candles and twinkling lights. Remember a loved one or a friend who has passed away by lighting a remembrance candle in his or her honor. It’s a way this person can still be part of the festivities.

6. Have a holiday sing-a-long. Sure it may be tradition to go around the neighborhood singing carols, but it’s just as fun indoors. Have a singing party where guests are given lyrics to popular tunes they can sing around the piano or karaoke machine.

7. Bring some joy to a public servant. Police offi cers, fi refi ghters, military personnel ... many of these workers do not get off for the holidays. There are a certain number of public servants who must remain on call in the event of an emergency. Treat these people to something enjoyable when they may be missing their own festivities. Cook or cater a meal for a fi re house, deliver cookies to the police station or put together care packages for people living on a military base.

8. Banish the holiday blues. When the holidays are set to go for another year, many people fi nd they become a little down. After all, a home that was once fi lled with merry trinkets may now go back to the bare essentials. Create a tradition where everyone in the family receives one more gift — a personalized ornament that can be packed away for use next year — that’s given in January before the decorations are packed away. It’s another opportunity to open a present, and it symbolizes looking forward to the joy of next year.

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The holidays are full of fun activities, tasty treats and plenty of celebration, but being busy and eating all the extras can quickly lead to weight gain. With a few key strategies, it’s surprisingly

easy to enjoy the season to the fullest and still avoid Santa’s extra bulge.

Dr. Christopher Mohr is a fi tness and nutritional expert who consults for television, print and radio outlets throughout the country. He understands the diffi culties of staying health-focused during all the festivities. Mohr offers some good reminders and unique insights on how to avoid gaining extra weight during the holidays.

Eat quality calories‘Too many people think that to avoid weight gain you need to avoid

calories. In reality, you need to eat calories to stay healthy, but you need to focus on quality calories,’ says Mohr. ‘Choose foods that are packed with vitamins and nutrients, rather than just empty calories.’

Seek out ‘real’ foods for snacks and meals over processed junk foods full of salt, unhealthy fats, and sugar. The fresher the better, because when foods are minimally processed, they typically retain higher levels of vitamins and minerals. For example, skip the bag of chips and snack on fresh fruits and veggies. When possible, cook meals at home where you can control the ingredients and reduce unhealthy extras like butter, salt and oil.

Manage stress and focusDuring the holidays, people tend to try to do too much. This quickly

leads to stress, which can have many unhealthy consequences, including overeating and weight gain. Being extremely busy also can lead to convenience eating, where you hit up the nearest fast food restaurant to save time, rather than head home to cook a nutritious meal.

‘Remember to stay focused during the holiday season and take breaks,’ reminds Mohr. ‘If you’re too stressed, you will be more likely to eat unhealthy foods and get less sleep. That combination may compromise your immune system. The last thing you want is a few extra pounds and a bad cold at the conclusion of the holidays.’

Support a healthy metabolism‘In order for your metabolism to function as effi ciently as possible,

you need to fuel your body regularly,’ Mohr explains. ‘That means you need to eat balanced meals and take supplements that support your metabolism.’

He advises to never skip breakfast, no matter how busy you are. Breakfast jumpstarts your metabolism and helps it function well all day. Additionally, consider taking a fi sh oil supplement that supplies the body with essential omega-3 fatty acids. “Studies show that omega-3s support a healthy metabolism,” Mohr says. “People generally know about the health benefi ts of omega-3s to brain and cardiovascular health, but they are surprised to fi nd out a high-quality fi sh oil supplement, like Ultimate Omega-D3 from Nordic Naturals, helps keep your metabolism functioning well.”

Indulge strategically‘Deprivation isn’t a good weight-loss strategy, and it certainly isn’t

much fun during the holiday season. Instead of avoiding all the candy, cookies, and rich foods served at festive gatherings, think of your own personal strategy before you go to an event,’ Mohr says.

He suggests picking just one item you love, such as Granny’s apple pie or Aunt Jude’s stuffi ng, and let that be your one-time no-guilt holiday indulgence. In exchange, cut out other extras you don’t like as much. Remember, just because it’s being served doesn’t mean you need to eat it. Cut out high-calorie items like sauces and gravies, and holiday beverages like cocoa and eggnog. You’ll get to enjoy that one item you look forward to all year and, by avoiding others you care less about, you won’t risk holiday weight gain.

Celebrating the season to the fullest doesn’t mean you need to end the year with a few extra pounds. Follow these expert tips and you’ll enjoy the holidays and start 2013 looking and feeling healthy.

Secrets for dodging holiday weight gain


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Gift Certifi catesThe rules of etiquette have loosened a bit from centuries past. However, when it comes to holiday gifting, erring on the side of caution and following proper etiquette can make exchanging gifts

go more smoothly.Being considerate when gifting helps make the holidays enjoyable and as

stress-free as possible. Some may fi nd it unfortunate that so much pressure is placed on giving gifts this time of year. When exchanging, heed these suggestions.

■ Gift-giving is about the recipient and not you as the giver. The idea is to create that warm and fuzzy feeling for the person on the receiving end of the gift. Think about the person’s interests and fi nd a gift that pertains to these interests. It may not be the easiest to fi nd a rare book or those collectible golf clubs, but putting forth the effort will mean more to the person getting the gift.

■ Don’t up the ante. When exchanging gifts with a person, do not try to anticipate what he or she will spend and then go above that price. Instead, choose a price that you can readily afford and fi nd the nicest thing within that range. If a person with whom you hadn’t anticipated exchanging gifts gives you something, simply offer thanks and don’t feel uncomfortable that you do not have something to offer in return.

■ Gift receipts are very thoughtful. Including a gift receipt with your gift tells the recipient that you tried to fi nd something that he or she will enjoy, but that you’re comfortable with them returning the gift if it’s not just right. Again, this conveys your feelings for the recipient. Do not, however, use gift receipts as a “get out of jail free” pass. That means, don’t simply grab anything off the rack, attach a gift receipt and attempt to pass it off as a meaningful gift.

■ Do not e-mail thank you notes. If you are not able to thank a person in person for a gift, it is in better taste to send a hand-written note than to fi re off a quick e-mail. While writing letters has become a lost art, a hand-written thank you note stands out and shows how much you appreciate the gift.

■ It’s unnecessary to give your boss a gift. Gifting your boss may come across like you are trying to win favor. It also may create a competition within the offi ce.

■ Gift cards do not break etiquette rules. Although gift cards may seem like the easy way out of gifting, they’ve become more acceptable and popular. If you want to personalize a gift card, try using a photo or special memory that correlates to the gift card. Otherwise, package the gift card with a few inexpensive items to create a gift basket.

■ When in doubt, stick with non-intimate gifts. Perfume, cologne, intimate apparel and similar items say that you know a person on a deeper level and are extremely personal. For friends and acquaintances, stick with safer gifts that do not give off intimate undertones.

■ Don’t regift. Whenever possible, graciously accept gifts and do not try to pass them off as your own to other people. If caught, you will be more embarrassed than if you had not given a gift at all.

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The holidays are a special time of year to show the important people in our lives how much we appreciate them — and that means gift-giving. If picking out holiday gifts is painless for you,

you're one of the lucky ones. More often than not, people have a tough time fi nding the perfect present for friends and family, particularly if you have someone on your list who already seems to have everything. So, if you're stumped as to what to get that impossible-to-buy-for person, consider these fi ve gift ideas that are sure to brighten anyone's holiday:

1. Gift your servicesRather than giving a tangible item, give your services; it's the

perfectly practical gift for the person on your list who may be short on space, lacking fi nancial resources or would just appreciate a little extra help. Love kids? Offer free child care so the recipient can enjoy an evening out on the town without worrying about the little ones. Have a knack for cooking? Gift a weeknight meal that you deliver to the recipient's doorstep. Known for your organization? Offer your skills to help the recipient organize a closet, offi ce or other cluttered space.

2. Make a miracle happenPositively impacting others by giving a charitable gift in the

recipient's name embraces the true meaning of the season. The new Give Miracles Holiday Catalog from national nonprofi t Children's Miracle Network Hospitals features in-demand pediatric items and services that local children's hospitals need — anything from comforting teddy bears ($30) to a case of extra-small preemie diapers smaller than the palm of your hand ($170)! For high-impact gifts like a physical therapy toy kit ($375) or a pediatric wheelchair ($970), funds can be collectively raised by numerous gift-givers. This option is ideal for extended families looking to do something more meaningful than the typical gift exchange.

And to make that 'do-good' feeling for the recipient last long after the holidays are over, Give Miracles donors receive ongoing communication from Children's Miracle Network Hospitals throughout the year about how their gift is making

an impact at their local hospital. Browse the gift catalog at www.GiveMiracles.org.

3. Purchase a membership to a monthly club

Rather than wasting money on a new gadget that will quickly be forgotten, give a gift that benefi ts the recipient all year long. Monthly clubs provide fun deliveries to a loved one's address, an ongoing reminder of your generosity. Monthly gift clubs are available for just about anything, from wine and beer, to jams and cheese, to bacon and fruit.

4. Give a gift that growsPotted plants are a fantastic gift idea because they represent hows

your love continues to grow for that special someone. Plus, plants are a wonderful addition to interior decor and help clean the air. With so many houseplants readily available, you're sure to fi nd the perfect one for the person who has everything. Does he gravitate toward decor with vivid color? Choose a fl owering plant that provides delightful blooms. Does she love Asian culture? How about gifting a bonsai tree or a bamboo plant?

5. Provide an experienceOften, it's not what's in the box, it's the memory that stays with so

many people after the holidays have passed. That's why giving a special experience can make a truly meaningful gift. Think about what really interests the recipient or an activity they've had on their bucket list. Perhaps it's a hot air balloon ride or a white water rafting daytrip. If the person really loves to shop, hire a personal shopper for the day and let

them see what it's like to live like a star. If the recipient loves gourmet food, purchase a spot in a class taught by your town's hottest chef.

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Whether you began your holiday shopping in July or will wait until the last minute, whether you enjoy the festive fun of shopping in a crowded store or the solitude of shopping online,

this year’s gifting trends aren’t about spending a lot of money. Instead, it’s a matter of being clever and creative with some practical pizazz.

Accessorize: There’s no doubt about it, technology is always evolving. Your list is fi lled with people who already have all the latest in gadgetry. Tech accessories are great gifts and easy on the budget. Compliment her smartphone with novelty earbuds, a waterproof cover or an armband case for exercising. Give him a wireless keyboard, a portable speaker or a stand for his tablet.

Serve it up: Instead of exchanging gifts, treat close friends and family to a merry night of food and drink on the house - yours that is. The memories of this joyous evening will last much longer than the gift cards you gave out last year.

Multi-purpose gifts: Who doesn’t want to give a gift that is appreciated twice? Gifts that have multiple purposes are a big trend this year.

Personalize a serving platter for Mom at your local pottery store and she can use it for special occasions throughout the year.

Take advantage of this year’s gifting trends and you’ll end up with thoughtful and practical gifts ... unlike that partridge in a pear tree.

hether you began your holiday shopping in July or will w

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Have we become a society that is too busy for gift wrap? When a birthday arrives or the holidays come around in

full force, where do most people turn? To the ultra-convenient gift bag, that’s where.

Gift bags have largely taken over the party aisles at most stores, where rows and rows of gift bags in all shapes and sizes are not uncommon. If you’re trying to fi nd a roll of wrapping paper, good luck. For birthdays, anniversaries and even baby showers, paper designs have essentially become obsolete.

It’s true that wrapping paper seems to make a rebound come the holiday season, when stores begin to devote aisles of space to holiday

supplies. But even when shiny foils and smiling Santas beckon customers from the tightly packed rolls, many people still choosegift bags.

Gift bags do have many advantages. They are easily portable, generally inexpensive and come in some very clever designs. They’re also touted as a “green” product because they can be reused.

But there are plenty of people who feel that the elimination of intricately wrapped presents takes some of the magic out of the holidays. Carefully wrapped gifts show that a person put in time and effort to present a gift in a way that is sentimental and personal. Although it may take mere minutes to pry away the paper and fi nd a treasure inside, there’s something to be said for paper-wrapped gifts. It means the gift-giver sat down, pondered the paper design and carefully chose the bow or ribbon with the recipient in mind.

Before you eschew wrapping paper for a gift bag this holiday season, think about all of the advantages to spending some time and reacquainting yourself with the art of gift wrapping. Here are some reasons to save the gift bag for another time.

Wrapping can be green, too. Wrapping paper can be reused if it is carefully removed from a gift. You also can create your own wrapping paper by decorating brown postal paper with a rubber stamp or having children color their

own special murals. Don’t overlook newsprint as wrapping as well.

Paper is more cost-effective. You are bound to get more bang for your wrapping buck by choosing wrapping paper. Although there are scores of discount stores that sell low-priced

gift bags, often the quality isn’t the same, and the handles could tear after one or two uses. Wrapping paper per inch is defi nitely more affordable than gift bags, particularly when purchased on sale.

Wrapping paper lets you be creative. Cover a box with a patchwork of different

paper scraps, choose to stagger colors of paper with boxes towered one on top of another or tie on the biggest bow you can fi nd.

Paper is traditional. Look back to the classic stories of yuletide and you are bound to fi nd images of Santa Claus pulling wrapped boxes out of his enormous gift sack. Also think about how department stores used to (and some still do) offer complimentary gift wrapping.

Wrapped gifts travel better. When carrying your bounty of gifts to friends and family, carefully wrapped boxes tend to stand up to travel better than gift bags. No one wants to receive a gift bag that has been wrinkled and crushed into some amorphous shape. Plus, wilted tissue paper can be off-putting.

There’s something magical about wrapping paper. The anticipation, the drama, the build-up to peeling aside wrapping paper and revealing the gift has brought smiles to children’s (and adults’) faces for generations. It is hard to improve on something that has been successful for years and years.

Although the public may be swept up in rushing from here to there, there are traditionalists who appreciate sitting down and spending time creating holiday magic by way of beautifully wrapped gifts.

Has gift wrapping become a lost art?

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Documents

Last Minute Shopper, December 8, 2012