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46 Articles

My Daily Reminder That Happiness Can Be Found Anywhere

Most days on my morning walk, I see the same older gentleman approaching from the other end of the path I travel. I’m usually walking my dog, Milo, a mixed breed of mostly hound who likes to approach, sniff and greet all who pass, canine and human alike. I know this gentleman has memory loss of some kind because always, as he’s petting Milo’s head, he says the same thing: “He’s such a soft dog, a friendly dog. What’s his name?” Every day, he gets to meet Milo for the first time, and every day as we part, he says, “Thank you for letting me meet Milo. It’s a real nice thing to pet a dog.” My daily walk means many things to me. Hello, boosted mood, clearer mind, higher energy—and, oh…

My Daily Reminder That Happiness Can Be Found Anywhere

WE LOVE HEARING FROM YOU!

WE SEE YOU “Thank you for publishing Anne’s story. As a mom of an autistic 6-year-old boy, I think about the same things Anne discusses in the article. I feel seen! Thank you for sharing this positive story and for helping to raise awareness for the autistic community.” —Nichole Lewison SHARING IDEAS “With this revamped First for Women, you’ve hit a home run! This new format pulls the reader in. We get health advice that makes sense. I love the tidbits of info; I love the stories of joy. What I love the most? You’re the only magazine that asks readers to be a part of it: telling stories, asking for ideas, etc. Keep it up!” —Tonya Y. SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE “What an enjoyable read the magazine is now! I’m 44, and even my 76-year-old mom has…

WE LOVE HEARING FROM YOU!

THE MOMENT A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS “This is Maggie May—and she is my joy every day. She was rescued from Texas and sent to the East Coast during the pandemic. Sadly, she spent six months in a dark shelter during lockdown and was only let out to walk and eat. We rescued her and she was very shy and timid for a full year. Finally, about six months later, she started slowly warming up and wagging her tail. This is a special photo because it’s one of the first times she hopped onto the couch to snuggle. She loved the warm fireplace and looking at the Christmas lights. She seemed relaxed—finally. It was such a happy holiday!” —JAN GEIGER, BELMAR, NJ MY TREASURE SWEET RING “This modest ring, with its tiny diamond, is a…

10 BRILLIANT USES FOR BUBBLE WRAP

1 ELIMINATE STRESS IN NO TIME The next time tension hits, grab some bubble wrap: It’s a proven stress buster! Indeed, one study found that people felt more energized and calmer after popping bubble wrap. The researchers credit the fact that the instant gratification we get from popping bubbles helps release muscle tension and nervous energy. 2 Add warmth to a pet bed If you worry your pup isn’t warm enough in his bed on chilly nights, simply slip a few sheets of bubble wrap into an old pillowcase and lay it underneath your pet’s bed. The wrap will create a barrier that protects him from the cold, plus it adds cushioning to keep your furry friend extra cozy while he snoozes. 3 Pain-proof your knees From cleaning the baseboards to scrubbing the bathtub, household…

10 BRILLIANT USES FOR BUBBLE WRAP

6 TRUE & UPLIFTING TALES

SIGNS A paws-itive sign “Two weeks after my beloved cat, Martha, passed from old age, I went ahead and decorated my Christmas tree, even though my heart wasn’t in it. I usually had to hang my ornaments on the higher branches because she loved to bat at them. Now, I didn’t have to worry about that and I missed it more than words could say. “One evening, I went to plug in the tree, and I noticed all of the ornaments on the lower section were scattered on the floor. Joyful tears flooded my eyes as I laid a hand on my heart. ‘I’m not even going to scold you,’ I whispered to Martha. ‘I’m going to thank you because that’s the best gift I could have gotten!’” —LINDA ESTES, 62, Madison, WI POWER OF…

6 TRUE & UPLIFTING TALES

Holiday Movie Preview

UPTV 12 Dares of Christmas Ring in the holiday season with this exciting and festive flick that follows a teacher who accepts a challenge from her sister to take on 12 dares in the midst of the merriest season. At the same time, she finds herself working side by side with a French teacher as they put their heads together to organize a Christmas exchange program. Starring Brittany Underwood, Sean Yves Lessard and Marnie Mahannah, the movie premieres on December 8. UPTV NORTH BY NORTH POLE Zoey hopes to put on the ideal Christmas Festival in her hometown, but she clashes with the sponsor’s son, whom she partners with to bring the event to life. When the duo realize someone is trying to prevent the festival from taking place, they must put their differences aside…

Holiday Movie Preview

EASY WAYS TO Pump Up the Volume

WOULDN’T IT BE NICE to wave a wand and take your hair from limp to lustrous and full of life? We turned to a top hairstylist for the tips and tricks that work like magic to volumize fine, thin locks fast. Read on to find out what’s best for your mane. Boost bounce with a blowout “Blowouts are the original ‘volumizers’ that can help hair look fuller,” says celebrity hairstylist Cesar Deleon Ramirez. While it might seem like you can’t achieve the same hair-thickening results of a salon blowout yourself, you absolutely can! All you need to do is to work in small sections using a round brush. The tension from using a round brush coupled with the dryer’s heat is what helps create amazing volume. TO DO: Separate damp hair into four…

EASY WAYS TO Pump Up the Volume

SAY BYE-BYE TO Under-Eye Bags

DERMATOLOGIST FIX Upgrade your eye cream Feel like your eye cream isn’t doing the trick to ease puffiness? New York City–based dermatologist Gloria Lin, M.D., advises using one that’s made with caffeine, and also has a metal applicator, such as La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar Eye Cream (CVS.com). Caffeine constricts blood vessels and improves circulation to expel stagnant and trapped fluids, and the applicator’s cool-to-the-touch feel further eases swelling to speed results. DIY FIX Try a gentle eye massage “Using your fingers, gently massage the area around your eyes to help flush the excess fluids that cause puffiness and bags to form,” says New York City–based dermatologist Debra Jaliman, M.D. To do: Use your ring finger, which has the gentlest touch, to make small taps in a complete circle around each eye for 1 minute. Start the…

SAY BYE-BYE TO Under-Eye Bags

NOTHING SCREAMS holidays like adding a pop of color to your lips with red lipstick—and it’s also a great way to brighten up your complexion, especially for women over 40, says New York City–based makeup artist Ashleigh Ciucci. Even better? The rich shade gives thinner lips more dimension, so they appear plumper. But there is a bit of a learning curve when it comes to red lipstick, such as discovering your best shade, perfecting the makeup you pair it with and figuring out how to make the color last. Here, everything you need to know about rocking the red-hot lip color. 1. Select your most flattering red shade To find the right red, check the veins on your wrist for your skin undertone. “If they look green, you have a warm undertone;…

STRIKING IN VELVET

Amanda Holden A matching velvet set looks très chic, and one with a roomy fit won’t cling to body worries. Amy Adams An off-the-shoulder velvet dress tastefully showcases the décolletage. Gwyneth Paltrow Wearing a velvet duster jacket keeps you warm and “stretches” the figure from head to toe. Garcelle Beauvais A bold velvet suit draws attention for all the right reasons and works for any festive occasion. VELVET PICKS to elevate your look Sponsored HOUSE OF SKYE Our Crystal Sexy Back Bra is your ultimate solution for any outfit, offering 14+ versatile styles, from backless to strapless. Designed with multi-way comfort-lux technology, it provides exceptional support with lightly padded cups, an embedded underwire, and a customizable fit, thanks to its 22-tab patented design and adjustable straps. The seamless construction smooths the side and back, giving you the freedom to wear whatever…

STRIKING IN VELVET

5 WAYS TO SICK-PROOF YOUR HOLIDAYS

KEEPS IMMUNE CELLS CIRCULATING A hat and scarf Your grandma was right: If you’re heading outside on a chilly day, wearing a hat and scarf won’t just keep you warm, it will keep sickness at bay all winter long! That’s the word from Harvard Medical School researchers, who recently found that keeping cozy when you’re outdoors allows blood vessels in the airways to stay relaxed and open, tripling the number of immune cells that are able to quickly reach and destroy invading viruses. STRENGTHENS AIRWAYS A glass of bubbly Another great reason to toast the holidays: A recent Italian study suggests that enjoying 6 oz. of wine (red, white or sparkling) every day could cut your risk of a cold, the flu, COVID-19 or any other respiratory tract infection by as much as 60%. Researchers…

5 WAYS TO SICK-PROOF YOUR HOLIDAYS

FOUND: HELP FOR HOLIDAY SLEEP LOSS

HUNTING DOWN the perfect gift, wrangling in-laws, decking the halls, trying to re-create your mother’s famous Christmas cookies… and on and on. Your formidable list of holiday tasks would make even Santa look like a slacker. No wonder you’re tired. In fact, women are a whopping three times more likely than men to say they don’t sleep as well over the holidays, according to a recent survey. The reasons for this disparity include the usual (and not-so-usual) suspects, from good old-fashioned stress—44% of women report a spike in their anxiety levels during the “most wonderful time of year”—to increased alcohol consumption, which doubles from Thanksgiving to Christmas. “There are so many factors preventing us from getting to bed and waking up on a consistent basis during the holiday season, from a…

FOUND: HELP FOR HOLIDAY SLEEP LOSS

EATING WITH JOY

KNOW Q: What are your best tips for not overdoing it during the holidays? The most wonderful time of the year can also feel like the most stressful. But there are easy tricks you can use to stay on track. TRY MY RULE OF 1. At parties, enjoy 1 of each tempting hors d’oeuvre, 1 plate of food, 1 alcoholic drink and 1 dessert (or a sliver of two, if you can’t decide). BRING A HEALTHY DISH TO GATHERINGS. It’s a win-win—the host will appreciate the gesture, and you’ll know there’s something nutritious to dig into! SQUEEZE IN ACTIVITY. Look for ways to be active: Do extra laps while shopping, go for a long walk to view the festive holiday lights, dance to your favorite tunes while cooking. BE SELECTIVE WITH SPLURGES. We have to remind…

EATING WITH JOY

SIMPLE WELLNESS SOLUTIONS

Another win for weekend warriors Those who tend to be active on the weekends but skip weekday workouts can experience the same healthy benefits as those who exercise throughout the week. In a Circulation study, subjects who got 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity a week, regardless of how many days they exercised, reduced their risk for 264 diseases, like obesity and depression. The researchers emphasize that total activity matters more than timing when it comes to healthy living. EASY SWAP Found: A good reason to eat more chicken Picking chicken over red and processed meat may ward off diabetes, say scientists in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology. Eating as few as two slices of ham a day raised the risk of developing the condition by up to 15% due to the saturated…

SIMPLE WELLNESS SOLUTIONS

“I’ve never felt better!”

I HOPE SHE STOPS, thought Carlyn Craig, seconds before a distracted driver turning out of a parking lot slammed into her car. Unable to maneuver out of the way because of traffic, Carlyn braced for the impact, gripping her steering wheel and praying she wouldn’t be seriously injured. Thankfully, her prayers were answered and Carlyn walked away from the accident with only a minor injury to the muscles of her right upper arm and shoulder. In constant agony “At first, I thought the soreness and stiffness in my arm was normal after being in a car accident; however, being righthanded meant routine tasks like brushing my teeth or preparing dinner were very difficult to accomplish,” she recalls. “Even having clothes or a blanket touch my arm set off shock waves of pain that…

“I’ve never felt better!”

The science behind the story: HOW CUPPING BANISHES PAIN

This ancient practice, in which special cups are placed on the body to create suction, has been used for centuries to ease pain. “It has been shown to promote blood flow to skin and muscles, reduce muscle stiffness, improve muscle quality and accelerate metabolism for treating musculoskeletal impairment,” says Yih-Kuen Jan, Ph.D., associate professor in the Department of Health and Kinesiology at the University of Illinois. Cupping significantly reduced muscle stiffness, especially at the deepest layers of the muscle, in a study Dr. Jan co-authored. This suggests it can help ease pain from lingering injuries, he says. To try it, Dr. Jan suggests first visiting an acupuncturist or massage therapist. Many insurance plans cover the therapy, which costs about $100. Once you’ve had a few sessions, an at-home cupping set may help.…

The science behind the story: HOW CUPPING BANISHES PAIN

Try this too: FOAM ROLLING ELIMINATES MUSCLE SORENESS

Next time you feel achy after an injury or exercise, reach for a foam roller. It’s a surefire way to reduce soreness and tenderness, according to a study published in the Journal of Athletic Training. Plus, it’s easy to target a specific area of the body with a foam roller (available at sporting goods stores). To do: Position a foam roller between the muscle you want to roll and the floor or wall. Apply just enough pressure that you reach a point of discomfort (but not pain), then roll back and forth over the area for 20 to 30 seconds. Rest and repeat as needed.…

PRO TIPS Q: Is there a sweet snack that won’t spike my blood sugar? Try dates. They’re high in carbs and have a caramel-like flavor that’s sweet enough to satisfy fierce cravings, but they don’t send blood sugar skyrocketing. In fact, a small study in Nutrition Journal found that people with type 2 diabetes could eat 7 to 10 dates without a notable sugar spike. That’s because the fiber in dates causes sugar to slowly enter the bloodstream rather than all at once. Plus, dates are rich in magnesium and potassium. Try spreading peanut butter on 4 to 5 dates for a snack with a protein boost. Q: Is my daily coffee habit bad for my heart? On the contrary! Coffee may lower risk of heart issues, per research in The Journal of Clinical…

POWER UP YOUR PROTEIN WITH CREATINE

FEEL GOOD JUST 1 SERVING OF CREATINE POWDER HELPED REVERSE BRAIN FOG CAUSED BY FATIGUE.—Scientific Reports, 2024 There are some stories—like How the Grinch Stole Christmas—that we know by heart. Another tale that may be all too familiar to many of us: How we try to slim, only to regain more weight than we lost. Why does this happen to us over and over again? Experts have identified two main types of weight loss: healthy (when we drop body fat) and unhealthy (when more than 25% of the loss comes from muscle). Top protein researcher Paul Arciero, Ph.D., Director of the Human Nutrition, Performance & Metabolism Lab at Skidmore College, says, “Unfortunately, unhealthy weight loss occurs with most diets.” And once that metabolically active muscle is gone, “resting metabolism drops, and you…

POWER UP YOUR PROTEIN WITH CREATINE

“My clothing size dropped from 20 to 2!”

AFTER HER HUSBAND was diagnosed with lymphoma, Michelle Fox realized, “We often cannot control what happens to our bodies—like getting cancer—but we can control what we do to our bodies.” So the school principal consulted a nutritionist and started eating a healthy Mediterranean diet, rich in protein. She also supplemented with 5 grams daily of creatine monohydrate. It was flavor-free and she found, “I could mix it into anything—my water bottle, even coffee.” Michelle also joined a gym and began lifting weights. She lost up to 5 pounds every month. “Always have a goal in mind,” she advises. “Whether it’s running your first race, getting into a smaller dress size or competing in your first bodybuilding competition, let those goals fuel your motivation.” Today, Michelle is maintaining her fat loss and…

“My clothing size dropped from 20 to 2!”

3 easy ways to try creatine

STIR IT INTO COFFEE. Some people notice a temporary bump in water weight after starting creatine since it hydrates muscles, but Amy Shah, M.D., says, “I’ve been really loving the Rho Creatine because it’s liposomal (mixed with fat for better absorption) and also doesn’t cause bloat and water retention like other creatine supplements.” TRY CANDY BITES. On TikTok, creatine fan @Daphnunez raved about Zhou Creatine Chews as easy, portable pre-workout snacks. She notes, “I am not bulky. I’m telling you: Creatine is a life hack.” And it’s difficult to beat the bold lemon flavor and convenience here. MIX IT INTO DESSERTS. Try this protein-packed chocolate fudge recipe: In a bowl, mix ¾ cup protein powder (we like PlantFusion brand) with 5 Tbs. cocoa powder and ½ scoop powdered creatine (like Naked creatine).…

3 easy ways to try creatine

IN FOCUS Christmas Classics SPARK JOY AND NOSTALGIA WITH TIMELESS DECOR ❯❯ This season, DIY pros are leaning into cherished holiday traditions—and nothing says Christmas like a beautiful stocking! “Stockings are timeless and so festive. They’re proof that going ‘classic’ is just the ticket to creating a heartwarming holiday scene,” says Jeanine Rose, founder of SweetHumbleHome.com. Simply fill striped stockings with goodies and hang on a banister, mantel or door. “For a special touch, personalize stockings by adding a pretty, iron-on monogram to each.”…

SIMPLE HOME SOLUTIONS

‘Hot’ trick for holiday decorating on brick surfaces You’d like to hang outdoor holiday lights on your brick exterior and chimney to add a touch of festive flair. The secret to getting them to stick: hot glue! It’s great at holding light strands in place, and when the season is over, you can use a scraper to pry the glue off the brick. (Note: This works for metal surfaces too; just secure strands with painter’s tape until the glue hardens.) HELP YOUR TREE STAY FRESH LONGER If you love having a real pine tree, but it seems to struggle by the time Christmas rolls around, try this: The first time you water the tree, use boiling water. The reason? When the tree is cut, the sap in the trunk starts to harden, but…

SIMPLE HOME SOLUTIONS

CONFIDENCE, TRADITIONS & ALL THE Good Things

FOR MORE THAN FOUR DECADES, Martha Stewart has been a lifestyle icon. From bestselling cookbooks to hit TV shows to being the first self-made female billionaire in the United States, she’s done it all—and at age 83, she’s still finding new ways to make waves and truly amaze us all. Last year, she made history as the oldest model to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit. Now, she has a new documentary on Netflix simply titled Martha, and Martha: The Cookbook (her 100th!) just hit shelves. How does she do it all? Simply put: “I love my work,” reveals Martha, who adds that “inner strength and a commonsense attitude” are key. She also says a lifetime of learning and staying curious help keep her going, which inspired her…

CONFIDENCE, TRADITIONS & ALL THE Good Things

Martha Celebrates 100 Books

Martha’s first book, Entertaining, hit shelves in 1982—and she’s now released her 100th, Martha: The Cookbook. In it, she highlights 100 recipes (check out a few on pg. 54) from the thousands she has created over the decades. It includes treasured family favorites from her late mother, Big Martha, and her daughter Alexis’ famous chocolate-chip cookies. But her bestsellers go beyond the kitchen. “Not all 100 books are cookbooks, you know,” Martha notes. Some of her top picks: “There’s my Homekeeping Handbook, a masterpiece encyclopedia, and Living the Good Long Life. We have another gardening handbook coming out next year, so that’s 101!”…

Martha Celebrates 100 Books

Martha’s Firsts

▸ FIRST PERFUME: “Chanel No. 5. But then when I was 19, it changed to Fracas—and that’s still my go-to perfume.” ▸ FIRST CELEBRITY CRUSH: “James Dean.” ▸ FIRST ALBUMS YOU PLAYED ON REPEAT: “I loved Joe Cocker. Carole King. I loved Elvis—I have all his records.” ▸ FIRST JOB: “Babysitting for my neighbor’s children.” ▸ FIRST CONCERT: “I saw Aida with my father at the old Metropolitan Opera House.” ▸ FIRST INTERNATIONAL TRIP: “I was 18 and I was invited to model in the collections in Paris. I took my mom and middle sister, and we spent a couple nice weeks together.” ▸ FIRST BOOK YOU RECOMMEND: “100 Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez. One of the greatest books ever written.” ▸ FIRST PET: “Chiggi-Toto, a fantastic cat my husband and I adopted. She learned…

Martha’s Firsts

MARTHA STEWART’S NEW Cookbook

COOKING IS NOT JUST A SKILL for Martha Stewart—it’s a lifetime of cherished moments, traditions and creativity. In Martha: The Cookbook, the lifestyle mogul celebrates her 100th book by sharing 100 of her favorite recipes, along with stories and photos from her incredible life. This collection invites you into Martha’s world, where you’ll find recipes passed down from her mother, Big Martha, as well as those inspired by world-class restaurants and chefs. From her famous Paella to The Perfect Omelette, each delicious recipe is sure to delight! QUOTABLE QUOTE “I have turned to each and every one of these recipes over the years, again and again, and I hope you will too.” Potato Pancakes Active time: 20 min. Total time: 30 min. Serves: 6 “Big Martha taught me the basic recipe for these crispy, crunchy potato…

MARTHA STEWART’S NEW Cookbook

CHRISTMAS TREES GIVE HOPE TO MILITARY FAMILIES

AS CHRISTMAS APPROACHED, Amber Keller—a Navy wife with five children, ages 8 to 16—wanted to feel the spirit of the holiday. But with her husband, Lt. Timon Keller, deployed, she was having a hard time tapping into that joy. Having moved between several bases, she didn’t have family or friends to celebrate with. How can I make things magical for the kids when their dad isn’t here with us? Amber wondered. The answer came in the form of a real, live Christmas tree, a gift from the Christmas Spirit Foundation’s Trees for Troops program. As she and her kids decorated the tree, the rich pine scent filling their home, Amber’s heart over-flowed with love and gratitude. “Kids hug their trees and there’s a joy that resonates through the parents’ eyes.” A joyful mission In 2005, Pam…

CHRISTMAS TREES GIVE HOPE TO MILITARY FAMILIES

3 MORE WAYS TO MAKE THE HOLIDAYS SPECIAL FOR OUR HEROES!

Send a care package The USO Holiday Care Package program sends holiday cheer to deployed service members around the world. They fill packages with seasonal treats like hot chocolate, candy, playing cards, books and games. You can make a contribution to send a special holiday package by visiting USO.org, then click “Donate.” Gift stocking stuffers Help fill a special stocking for military members in the U.S. and across the globe! Simply log on to SoldiersAngels.org, click “Volunteer,” then “Special Campaigns,” then click on “Learn More” under the “Holiday Stockings for Heroes” section to find out how to donate stocking stuffers from their Amazon Wish List. Mail a card Visit MilitaryHolidayCardChallenge.com, and click “How to Send” for all the guidelines on how to create a handmade personalized card for our troops who are stationed far away…

FAITH & LAUGHTER GIVE ME STRENGTH AS A ‘SANDWICH GENERATION’ CAREGIVER

“Her sense of humor is her way of caring for me too.” Shon Lowe couldn’t help but grin when her mother walked into the kitchen, dressed and ready for breakfast. “You put your pants on backwards,” she said gently to her mother Theresa, 68, hoping that it wouldn’t hurt her feelings. Instead, Theresa let out a deep laugh, immediately transforming the moment into something light and joyful. Shon has been caring for her mother since Theresa’s dementia diagnosis four years ago, and she has come to rely on laughter to find strength during some of their hardest days. Here, Shon shares more of her caregiving journey in her own words: “My mom has always been one of the funniest and most positive people I’ve known, and along with the pure joy of…

FAITH & LAUGHTER GIVE ME STRENGTH AS A ‘SANDWICH GENERATION’ CAREGIVER

SIMPLE LIFE SOLUTIONS

Easy way to boost focus Supplementing with 250 mg of grape juice extract improves concentration in 90 minutes and enhances memory after two weeks, say Italian researchers. Experts say grape compounds called polyphenols boost blood flow to the brain and tame the inflammation that can damage brain cells. A product that contains the study-proven extract: Nature’s Way Brain Fuel Gummy (Amazon.com). FEEL GOOD! THE ‘BOB ROSS’ SECRET TO CALM Feeling anxious? A Bob Ross break could be the remedy you need. In a study in the journal Complementary Therapies in Medicine, people who watched an episode of the painter’s iconic show saw significant reductions in anxiety and anger. Authors credit the benefits to Ross’ calm manner and encouraging phrases. To trigger what they call the “Bob Ross Effect,” search for episodes of The Joy…

SIMPLE LIFE SOLUTIONS

Deck the Halls on a Dime

ADD FLAIR WITH DOLLAR-STORE BASICS Garland from the dollar store looks no different on your mantel or banister than the kind you buy at big-box stores, but it costs much less! “You can also find paint, glitter, sequins and glass jars there,” says Zakiyya Rosebelle of HappyRosyDay.com. Use these items for this simple holiday craft project: Pluck acorns, twigs and leaves from your yard and paint them silver, gold, green or red, then sprinkle with glitter. They’re perfect to hang on your garland, tree or mantel. GIVE YOUR HOME A HAPPY HOLIDAY SCENT “When prepping for the holidays, the scent throughout my home is actually at the top of my checklist,” says interior designer Charmaine Wynter, owner of WynterInteriors.com and host of the Instagram Live talk show Chatting with Charmaine. She prefers a…

Deck the Halls on a Dime

SIMPLE PET SOLUTIONS

KEEP A CAT OUT OF A CHRISTMAS TREE Your energetic cat, Socks, takes far too much of an interest in your tree, and you worry about him destroying your decorations or getting hurt. The solution: Place a cat tree near the Christmas tree to encourage your feline to climb that instead. Still no luck? Place aluminum sheets around the base of the tree. Socks will want to avoid stepping on them to get in your tree and will look elsewhere to prowl. SAFETY TRICK MAKE YOUR PUP EASIER TO SEE ON NIGHT WALKS If you worry about your dog staying visible on evening and night strolls, make a collar out of glow-in-the-dark duct tape. To do: Measure his neck circumference and add 2 inches, then cut a strip of duct tape to that length.…

SIMPLE PET SOLUTIONS

A VERY MERRY FEAST

Creamy Sweet Potato Gratin Active time: 30 min. Total time: 1 hr., 30 min. Serves: 8 This dreamy casserole is a make-ahead delight: Reheat it in a low-temperature oven before serving 1½ cups heavy cream1 cup milk2 cloves garlic, minced⅛ tsp. ground nutmeg ⅛ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes1½ lbs. Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into ⅛"-thick slices (5 cups)1½ lbs. sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into ⅛”-thick slices (about 7 cups) ¼ cup chopped fresh chives + additional2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (2 oz.) 1 Heat oven to 400°F. Coat 2½-qt. baking dish with cooking spray. In large pot over medium-high heat, combine cream, milk, garlic, 2 tsp. salt, nutmeg, pepper flakes and potatoes; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium; cook, stirring occasionally, until potatoes begin to…

A VERY MERRY FEAST

FRESH IDEAS FOR HOLIDAY COOKIES

Festive Whoopie Pies Active time: 1 hr. Total time: 1 hr., 45 min. Serves: 16 Cake mix makes it a snap to whip up these sandwiches filled with white chocolate frosting 1 (15.25 oz.) pkg. red velvet cake mix2 eggs½ cup butter, at room temp.2 Tbs. unsweetened cocoa powder1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, at room temp.1 (4 oz.) bar white chocolate, melted½ cup red candy melts, melted 1 Heat oven to 350°F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. In bowl, on medium speed, beat cake mix, eggs, butter and cocoa until dough forms. Roll into balls (about 1 Tbs. each). Place 2" apart on baking sheets. Bake until set, 8–10 min. Transfer to rack; let cool. 2 On medium speed, beat cream cheese and white chocolate until fluffy. Dividing evenly, spread frosting onto flat side…

FRESH IDEAS FOR HOLIDAY COOKIES

SIMPLE HOMEMADE FOOD GIFTS

Cinnamon ’n’ Spice Nuts Active time: 25 min. Total time: 2 hrs. Serves: 16 (makes 4 gifts) Spiced rum adds a warm note to these crunchy clusters—for a nonalcoholic version, simply omit it and add another tablespoon of water ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar⅓ cup granulated sugar1 Tbs. ground cinnamon⅛ tsp. cayenne pepper1 egg white2 Tbs. spiced rum4 cups unsalted mixed nuts 1 Heat oven to 300°F. Line large rimmed baking sheet with foil; coat with cooking spray. Combine sugars, cinnamon, cayenne and 1 tsp. salt. 2 In large bowl, whisk egg white and 1 Tbs. water until frothy. Stir in rum. Add nuts; toss until coated. Add sugar mixture; toss until evenly coated. Transfer to baking sheet, spreading in single layer. 3 Bake, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and crisp, 20–25 min. Let cool on baking…

SIMPLE HOMEMADE FOOD GIFTS

FESTIVE HOLIDAY TREATS

Yule Log Active time: 1 hr., 15 min. Total time: 2 hrs., 30 min. Serves: 12 Wow everyone when you present this Christmas classic that’s filled with rich buttercream frosting ¾ cup sifted all-purpose flour¼ cup + ⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder + additional5 eggs, at room temp.1 cup granulated sugar2 Tbs. butter, melted1¾ cups butter, at room temp.3½ cups confectioners’ sugar3 Tbs. + ⅓ cup milkSugared cranberries and rosemary sprigs (optional) 1 Heat oven to 375°F. Grease 17"x11" rimmed baking sheet. Line with parchment; coat with cooking spray. Mix flour, ¼ cup cocoa powder and ¼ tsp. salt. On medium-high speed, beat eggs and granulated sugar until mixture is thick and fluffy, 4–5 min. Fold in flour mixture ⅓ at a time. In separate bowl, fold 2 Tbs. melted butter into 1 cup batter; fold…

FESTIVE HOLIDAY TREATS

A VERY MERRY FEAST Orange-Spice Glazed Ham ◻ 1 (16 oz.) btle. honey-Dijon salad dressing◻ 1 (1 lb.) pkg. dark brown sugar◻ 1 (2.45 oz.) cont. ground cinnamon◻ 1 (2.62 oz.) cont. onion powder◻ 1 (32 oz.) btle. apple juice◻ 1 orange◻ 1 head garlic◻ 1 (4–5 lb.) fully cooked semi-boneless smoked ham Skillet Dinner Rolls ◻ 1 (8.5 oz.) cont. flaky salt◻ 1 (3.12 oz.) cont. garlic powder◻ 1 bunch fresh parsley◻ 1 bunch fresh thyme◻ 1 (1 lb.) pkg. frozen bread dough◻ 1 (1 lb.) pkg. butter Creamy Sweet Potato Gratin ◻ 1 (1.5 oz.) cont. ground nutmeg◻ 1 (1.5 oz.) cont. crushed red pepper flakes◻ 1 head garlic◻ 1½ lbs. gold potatoes◻ 1½ lbs. sweet potatoes◻ 1 bunch fresh chives◻ 1 bunch fresh thyme◻ 1 (16 oz.) carton heavy cream◻ 1 (32 oz.)…

SPREAD CHEER WITH Nature’s Beauty

1. Dress up a doorway with a merry moment It’s easy to make a foyer inviting with a little mistletoe! TO DO: Cinch mistletoe sprigs together with floral wire, then attach the mistletoe bundle to the top of a pine cone using more floral wire. Tie a ribbon onto mistletoe, then hang ribbon from a nail above a doorframe. 2. Enhance ambience with star-kissed seats Hanging a twinkling wreath from each chair offers guests a magical “hello” as they take their seats. TO DO: Gather evergreen sprigs in your hand and cinch the ends with ribbon; tie to a star-shaped wreath form (from the craft store) wrapped with battery-run fairy lights. Hang on chair. 3. Pretty up presents with citrus slices Gifts go from simple to stunning with a few dried citrus slices. TO DO:…

SPREAD CHEER WITH Nature’s Beauty

CHRISTMAS MAGIC AWAITS IN STRASBOURG!

Nestled on the eastern edge of France, along the German border, is the city of Strasbourg. Nicknamed the “capital of Christmas,” this destination delights with decor all over the city, from bakeries to department stores. First, admire the decorated entrance of Brasserie Au Dauphin as you grab a bite to eat. Says a reviewer from Spain, “The chocolate mousse and cheese platters are both sumptuous.” As dusk approaches, head to the Christmas Market (Christkindelsmärik), where you can shop for handmade goods. Raves Michael W on TripAdvisor.com, “The lights and scenery of this place can take your breath away.”…

CHRISTMAS MAGIC AWAITS IN STRASBOURG!

ROMANCE The Christmas Cookie Wars by Eliza Evans “Every year around the holidays, I make a long list of festive romance books to read—they always get me in the Christmas spirit—and this one was at the top,” says Carissa Mosness, First Assistant Digital Editor. Melody Monroe is desperate to remind her 9-year-old twin boys about the joy of Christmas and its traditions. They lost their father six years ago, and the boys have started asking why Christmas even matters at all. To boost some holiday joy, Melody joins their school’s cookie committee. But this also means she now has to deal with the school’s insufferable principal, Jonathan Braxton. After a small argument, the two find themselves mixed up in a bake-off and competing against each other. Will their rivalry turn into romance?…

FIONA DAVIS’ The Stolen Queen

Pick up the next issue of FIRST (on sale Dec. 20) for part 2 of this captivating read! CHAPTER 1 / NEW YORK CITY, 1978 The staff meeting of the Metropolitan Museum’s Department of Egyptian Art was supposed to start at 10, which meant associate curator Charlotte Cross arrived at 9 to prepare her colleagues for battle. The Met was closed on Mondays, but only to visitors. For the employees, much of the behind-the-scenes work was accomplished on the first day of the workweek: Handlers rearranged paintings, technicians performed condition checks of antiquities, while lampers wandered from gallery to gallery, necks craned, searching for blown-out light-bulbs. Monday was Charlotte’s favorite day, when the museum felt like a private playground. She started in the gallery that housed the 10-foot-high, 4,000-year-old Colossal Seated Statue of a…

FIONA DAVIS’ The Stolen Queen

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

AUDIENCES ENCOUNTERED National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation in 1989. The movie reunited Chevy Chase and Beverly D’Angelo as Clark and Ellen Griswold, with their kids Rusty and Audrey, played by Johnny Galecki and Juliette Lewis—two faces who have become very familiar over the following years. The plot deals with the Griswolds throwing a huge family Christmas where things go pretty much as wrong as they usually do. What follows are the memories of the cast on the making of the film. CHEVY CHASE CLARK GRISWOLD JR. Chevy Chase, who made a name for himself through Saturday Night Live, and later, as Clark Griswold Jr., had done so many physical pratfalls early in his career that it caused serious damage to his body. He told British TV that he was happy that he walked away from National…

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Furniture piece by the sofa 9 Computes the bottom line 13 Stay involved to the end 14 Tugboat sound 15 Actress Cruz 16 Years ago 17 Suffix with access 18 Wheel of Fortune purchase 19 Overdo the acting 20 Collection of online discussion groups 22 Make a blunder 23 Johnny, who portrayed Captain Jack Sparrow 26 She played Minny in The Help, with 32 ACROSS 28 Sudden invasion 31 Pleasure trip 32 See 26 ACROSS 34 Toward shelter 35 Capone and Pacino 36 “What a shame” 39 Lures 41 Hammarskjöld once of the U.N. 42 Aardvark entrée 45 Reverse an action 46 Singer Nettles 48 Apparently are 49 Secret target? 50 Swirling water 51 Wine servers DOWN 1 Phil of hockey, familiarly 2 At no time, poetically 3 Claim innocence of 4 Overtime creator 5 Map collection 6 “Ain’t That a Shame” singer Pat 7 Ida of Old Hollywood 8 Sorbonne summer 9 Molecule member 10 Behave becomingly 11 Set of guidelines 12 Ship class of old 19 “, Brute?” 20…

ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Around December 15, you could feel overwhelmed by an overly packed schedule. Prioritize crucial to-do’s. From December 21 on, thanks to the confident sun in your tenth house of career, you can step into the spotlight and earn deserved recognition. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Around December 19, you could be empowered to go to bat for more responsibility on the job. A hefty dose of positive energy is on your side! From December 21 on, the confident sun in your ninth house of higher learning supports your ability to hone a new skill set. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You could be feeling like taking a step back from your usual buzzy social agenda around December 15, when the full moon is in your sign. Around December 24, reenvisioning how you achieve a long-term professional…

YOU GET THE LAST WORD

“Christmas wouldn’t be the same without…” “Glitter, everywhere!” —BARBARA SMITH CENTEREACH, NY “My mom’s vintage mirrored Christmas house. It has a small Santa and sleigh with a reindeer. An old Christmas tree bulb has a tree-shaped shade over it. It’s old and still works. Such sweet memories it brings.” —DALEENE WADE BUCYRUS, MS “Bizcochos! They’re the beloved state cookie of New Mexico. They are anise-flavored shortbread cookies rolled in cinnamon sugar. They are simple yet complex in flavor and are served traditionally at the holidays.” —MARGARET BENNY HATCH, NM “THE CANDLELIGHT SERVICE AT CHURCH WITH THE WHOLE FAMILY ON CHRISTMAS EVE.” —DEE KRAUS “Oranges. My grandmother gave me one in my stocking every year. It was what she got for Christmas as a child during the Depression. It reminds me that Christmas is about celebrating the simple joys in…

YOU GET THE LAST WORD

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