December 2001

From the editor

Wreath Roundup

A Gift That's Tried and True

Win a $5,000 holiday shopping spree!

For Our Members

Food Gifts Galore

Celebrate Christmas!

Decorating in the Nick of Time

'Tis the night before Christmas... and "Bah! Humbug!" best describes your house. Don't panic. These elegant trimmings take minutes to make, and you may have the materials on hand.

Holiday greens

Under the dull sky of winter, do not resign yourself to a yard that's all gray and deep asleep. Satisfy your yen for color and life by planting evergreens-- the shrubs and trees that hang onto their leaves and stay green in spite of the cold. Regina Murphy thinks the rhododendron and yew at her door (above) were probably planted when the house was built 50 years ago. She says, "I like these evergreens. They look so beautiful in the snow and they hold the promise of spring." Good enough, eh?

Our Eight Nights of Light

In Connecticut, where December nights can be cold and dark, there's nothing more inviting than the soft glow of candles in the window. Each night for eight nights, we light an additional candle in the menorah, an event that seems as special for adults as it is for children. Perhaps it's because the essence of Hanukkah is expressed in that single moment, when light prevails over darkness, and we're reminded to make the world a better place. For my family, friends, and neighbors, I try to make sure that the festivities within our home are as wonderful as the announcement in our window-- it's Hanukkah!

Season's Greetings

Breathe new life into holiday greetings with displays that bring warm wishes into full view. From natural to playful, these simple ideas give pretty cards a prominent post.

Gifts to Go

These quick and creative gifts will let you get to everyone on your list ... without running out of time or money. Assemble make-ahead gifts that are ready to go at a moment's notice. Plus, the package is part of the present!

Tree Decorating 101

Chances are that decorating a Christmas tree is no mystery to you. You've probably been doing it since you were tall enough to reach the branches.

Silver Snowflake Wreath

Cookies and Cocoa

Fresh Fruit Box

a brighter holiday for homeless families

Naughty or Nice

Santa, looking remarkably like a crash test dummy, arrived early this year for makers of several sport/utility vehicles. Elves at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety made their list, checked it twice, and found that none of the eight vehicles they tested were naughty-- at least not from a safety standpoint-- and four of them were pretty nice.

Our Best Software Picks

Spin a Few Computer CDs for Holiday Cheer

Tell me a story

My father was an artist. He painted scenes, drew portraits, and sculpted faces. But to me he was an artist with words, a storyteller. With his voice, his facial expression, and his mimetic gestures, he helped me "paint" pictures with my mind's eye.

All is calm, all is bright

Discover the joy of simplicity, and you may just find some heavenly peace this season. In this New York home, the hustle-bustle of the holiday seems far away thanks to quiet decorating touches that take their cues from nature. A little clutch of greens tucked into natural wool mittens hints at the simple pleasures inside. Open the door and come on in.

A merry little christmas

In her itty-bitty Minnesota house, Bonnie Broten creates Christmas memories for family and friends. Thanks to her home's simplified look, Bonnie can spend time socializing-- and less time fussing-- as the days count down.

All through the house

This year, welcome St. Nicholas by hanging stockings, wreaths, and garlands with care-- it's easy when you use these natural materials and easy techniques.

ALL IS CALM STOCKINGS PATTERNS

JEWISH HOLIDAY STYLE

A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS STOCKINGS PATTERNS

POTTED AMARYLLIS

ALL THROUGH THE HOUSE STOCKINGS PATTERNS

DECORATING IN THE NICK OF TIME "STARRY ICE"

OVAL CUTTERS SET

Sip of Cheer

Of course you should splurge a little during the holidays-- just pick a drink that has a joyous flavor and a smidge of nutritional benefits.

Bless You!

Wash up

PRESENTS FIT FOR A HEALTHY NEW YEAR

Tai Chi Training with Scott Cole. This 60-minute videotape (beginner/intermediate level) teaches the ancient art of moving meditation known as tai chi. Part one is a 30-minute session with traditional warm-up exercises and flowing movements designed to increase energy, strength, balance, flexibility, and overall body awareness.

Hope: A Gift to Your Children

Parents are challenged, especially during uncertain times, to reassure their children. You want to meet their needs, but you don't have to have all the answers, says Judith A. Myers-Walls, Ph.D., associate professor of developmental studies at Purdue University. It's OK to say, "I'm scared too." Then find ways to deal with your children's concerns. And stay calm-- kids feel less threatened if their parents do not seem angry or agitated.

15 ways to peace & goodwill

Seasonal songs celebrate bustling shops, trees glistening with ornaments, and cozy gatherings. But for many, the holidays are not as smooth as Bing Crosby's croon. Anticipation may give over to anxiety. Here are ways to ease stress-- and, as the old carol says, let nothing you dismay.

Santa's helpers ...

You are heavy with the spirit of generosity but your piggy bank is as light as a feather. Don't worry! Knock your friends' socks off this year with these awesome homemade gifts.

The Shopper's Mart