Having Granny and her Granddaughter for Dinner

TRIGGER WARNING: Dark retelling of 'Little Riding Hook'

 

Roşu had spent the previous afternoon peeling apples, a chore made easy by using her razor sharp fingernails. This morning, her granny would enjoy a fresh serving of applesauce.

 As Roşu navigated through the forest path, she was startled by an ogre who jumped from a tree branch and landed right in front of her. She turned to run but the ogre’s elongated arm whipped around her neck wrenching her back. After winning the battle, albeit with several deep scratches and puncture wounds, the ogre finally secured her to a tree with a heavy rope.

He was sure she would never be able to sever the dense rope before he returned for a snack. In the meantime, the fresh applesauce would have to sustain him. There was an old woman further down the trail who would make for a delectable, though chewy, bowl of morsels.

Unfortunately, a beast was relaxing in her bed and they began a negotiation over how to divide the spoils.

As the ogre had miscalculated her strength, Roşu quickly rid herself of the ropes and rushed to her granny’s cottage.

Upon reaching the door, her granny’s bed was obscured by the ogre. Roşu reacted, slicing the ogre between his legs after which he collapsed to the floor, writhing in excruciating pain.

Her granny was not in the bed for there sat a beast of a wolf perched in her place. He snarled, “Thank you for taking that ogre down. He was trying to hone in on my eats for today.”

Roşu shakily asked, “Where’s my granny?”

With a sneering grin and a menacing heckle, the beast’s reply came, “She is boiling over there on the stove.”

He took her by the collar of her red dress and growled “Your granny will make a delicious appetizer. But you, my fair lovely, will be the crème de la crème entrée.”

Having his own set of razor claws, he amputated Roşu’s hands in two fell swoops and threw her into a chair while he went to give dear granny a stir.

 

 

Hurricane Preparedness: Be Ready

This Means You!

 

 

        Whether or not a storm is on the horizon, getting prepared now will save you from ‘panic mode’ if you are issued with a mandatory evacuation or the need to be on your own at home without resources.

        Though this article is geared toward hurricane preparedness, it still applies to many other emergency occurrences.

 

Storm readiness

 

        Shawn Little, Director, Technical Property and Catastrophe at Definity recommends that you “strengthen any vulnerable areas around your home such as cracks in your foundation or leaky windows and ensure your sump pump is working properly. When a storm is forecasted, put any outdoor furniture and yard fixtures away and consider unplugging large appliances to prevent electrical issues during the storm.”

 

        In addition, you should:

 

·         Secure loose sports equipment and toys

·         Take down hanging décor

·         Move bird feeders to a secure area

 

        Little also says, “Make sure your yard is kept clean, dead tree branches have been cut and consider replacing gravel with mulch to reduce the risk of gravel flying when a storm rolls through.”

        Regular maintenance that will help protect your property during a hurricane is to make sure eavestrough and shutters are secure. Also, have your roof inspected annually for any loose tabs or places where more sealant is needed, such as around vents and chimneys.

 

Protect your business

 

        “There are steps business owners can take to help prepare if a hurricane is approaching the area”, says Trevor Wall, Field Vice President, Business Insurance at Travelers Canada. Follow these recommendations to keep your business safe:

 

·         Make sure signage and equipment outside your business are properly secured and anchored

·         Establish a system to protect windows and doors

·         Create an emergency response team so people know who will handle what tasks during preparation or cleanup and recovery

·         Assemble necessary supplies in a central location at your business that is protected from the storm

·         If you are in a flood-prone area, create a plan to protect your business from water intrusion

·         If you business has vehicles or mobile equipment, have a storage plan in place

·         Compile a list of vendors for easy access in case your business’ operations are disrupted

 

Both individuals and businesses should have a supply of plywood, if

you have a dry place where it can be stored.

 

If a strong hurricane is forecast, covering windows with plywood will protect the glass from breaking and allowing water to get inside. If it is not used before the storm, it can be used to cover broken windows afterward to prevent further damage.

 

Review insurance policies

 

Little advises that, “at least once a year, review your home inventory

and home insurance policy. Your home inventory is a list of belongings that can help your insurer determine the value of your property and save you time.”

 

Hurricane specifics

 

        Hurricane threats are widespread and include prolonged heavy rainfall, powerful winds, storm surges, flooding, landslides, both inland and coastal damage and can even spawn tornadoes.

 

        Regularly check weather forecasts and sign up for emergency alerts on your phone.

 

        Educate yourself about weather information and terms such as the difference between watches (your area may be affected by a storm) and warnings (your area will experience a storm) and the parameters regarding storm categories. Most commonly, the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale is used. Here is a general outline of the scale:

 

·         Category 1 – Winds 119 to 153 km/hr, minimal damage, unsecured roof shingles, siding and gutters may be dislodged, large branches of trees may snap and shallowly rooted trees may topple, expect power outages

·         Category 2 – Winds 154 to 177 km/hr, moderate damage, building could sustain major destruction, more trees will be uprooted, possibly blocking roads, prolonged power outages

·         Category 3 – Winds 178 to 208 km/hr, major extensive damage, properties may have removal of roof decking and gable ends, many more trees falling on buildings and roads, electricity and water could be unavailable for weeks

·         Category 4 – Winds 209 to 251 km/hr, major extreme damage, some buildings incur loss of roof structure and some exterior walls, with power poles down and severe flooding, the area could be uninhabitable for a lengthy period of time

·         Category 5 – Winds – 252 km/r or higher, major catastrophic damage, buildings totally destroyed with roof failure and collapsed walls, residential areas will be isolated due to downed trees, poles and power lines on roads, most of the area would have been evacuated and storm damage could take months to restore the area before residents can return

 

Emergency kits

 

Little advises that, “you should have an emergency kit stocked” and

ready at all times for any possibly damaging weather event.

 

        Your disaster supply tote(s) should be easily accessible and contain:

 

·         5 Days worth of water for each person/pet and the same in nonperishable food items

·         2 Weeks supply of all routinely used prescription and OTC medications

·         Hand-cranked or battery operated radio and flashlights (with spare batteries)

·         Solar charger or small generator (battery powered) for charging phones

·         First aid kit

·         ABC Fire Extinguisher

·         Manual can opener

·         Hand tools

·         Copies of important documents (For example, identification, insurance policies and credit card numbers, etc.)

·         Specialty items such as sanitary supplies, baby needs like formula and diapers and pet needs

 

There are various lists available online with differing items to include.

You may also order an already assembled emergency kit, but you will still need to include items applicable to your own situation.

 

        If you are on a well and septic system, fill the bathtub with water so you can flush the toilet if there is a power outage.

 

Comfort is an important component

 

        Preparing for the possibility of any forecasted damaging weather event  is more than just ensuring you and your property are safe, it is about being as comfortable as possible while you wait out the storm.

 

        Whether or not you have a family, adding a comfort tote along with your emergency supplies can help pass the time. Including books, board games, activity books, stickers and paper to make pictures and downloaded movies, shows and games on phones and tablets can not only make the time go faster but can distract young children who are likely to be frightened.

 

        Using this advice will make sure you are equipped whenever hazardous weather is forecast.

 

 

 

       

       

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sources

 

https://www.floridadisaster.org/planprepare/hurricane-supply-checklist/

 

https://www.popularmechanics.com/science/environment/a7079/the-homeowners-last-minute-hurricane-prep-checklist/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=mgu_ga_pop_md_pmx_hybd_mix_ca_18645655673&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwufq2BhAmEiwAnZqw8uMQhShxWq3mKTbfsY6Gajv9pWe7STB0DCuJ5UeLrJ4VJ3zZkOFcdxoCL6YQAvD_BwE

 

https://community.fema.gov/ProtectiveActions/s/article/Hurricane

 

https://www.weather.gov/safety/hurricane-plan

 

https://shelterbox.org/disasters-explained/the-saffir-simpson-scale/

 

 

 

 

Practical but Low Cost Christmas Stocking Stuffers:

2025’s Quintessential List

 

Surprisingly, even with an uncertain economy and prices of necessities on the rise, consumers are increasing their Christmas budgets by 8% over 2023, coming in approximately at $972 as reported by Retail Insider and $904 according to the Retail Council respectively.

By adjusting their shopping practices, they are ways to get more bang for their buck. Giving a peek into how Atlantic Canadians are optimizing their spending, they are mindful of where every dollar goes by doing things like juxtaposing Black Friday sales with 32% opting for online shopping and 62% choosing to leave their money at brick and mortar stores.

As consumers are expected to spend more this holiday season as PwC Canada found a 13% rise over 2023 totals but divided their polling differently. Broken down three ways, they found $779 allotted to gifts, $829 for travel and $245 for entertainment.

Across the board, shoppers plan to choose practical gifts even when it comes to stocking stuffers.

Stuffed stockings were first mentioned in the poem ‘A Visit from St. Nicholas’ in 1823 by Clement Clarke Moor of which an excerpt reads:

“And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk, and laying his finger aside of his nose, and giving a nod, up the chimney he rose.”

        For those who celebrate Christmas, that poem, now available across scores of mediums demonstrates a custom that has been practiced throughout decades.

        Mr. C.F. Cecil, a columnist for Farm Forum said, referring to the 1930s, “Our stockings were real stockings, darned many times to plug the toe and hole leaks. Getting an orange was a BIG DEAL. Then, National Tea store had oranges at 29 cents a dozen. Compared to gas that sold for a dime a gallon, oranges came in at the same price of about 3 gallons of gas! It was a gratefully accepted gift for its bright colour and citrusy taste. Added to the cornucopia might be a shiny new penny, a new pair of socks and perhaps a little notebook and a lead elevator pencil.”

        Now that you are primed with some history of the humble Christmas stocking, here are some stuffers that will be most appreciated in 2025. Many fall under the categories of ‘Things I never knew I needed’, ‘Stuff that always needs replacing’ and ‘Oh, cool’.

 

·         Hand warmers

·         Reusable insulated shopping bag

·         Beanie hat

·         Cell phone cleansing pads

·         Meat thermometer

·         Car fresheners

·         Costume jewelry

·         Mini sewing kit

·         Stainless steel ice cubes

·         Individual hand wipes

·         Lip balm

·         Stress handballs

·         Toiletries such as: Body wash, shampoo/conditioner, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush, disposable razors, makeup sponges, lotion and face cream

·         Reusable drink container/travel mug

·         Milk frother wand

·         Gift cards (gas, groceries, Amazon, online gaming)

·         Touch screen winter gloves

·         Multi-tool and/or credit card multi-tool

·         Hair brush/Comb

·         Car safety hammer (window breaker with seatbelt cutter)

 

Of course, being practical doesn’t mean you can’t have fun so add a couple items that don’t fall under the ‘need’ category. Here are a few ideas that may get the giggles going.

 

·         A funny mini-book (If you remove the ‘sensor’ or similar parameter on a shopping site, you can find some good ‘adult’ choices)

·         There are a plethora of comical magnets to choose from and some shops on Etsy make custom orders. Some best sellers include: You just can’t fix stupid, Complaints to the cook can be hazardous to your health, Around here the dog is in charge, Go ahead – eat the last of the chocolate ice cream – I dare you, Raising kids is like being pecked to death by a chicken

·         Yoyo and a list of instructional YouTube videos

·         Brain teasers

·         Funny pair of socks

·         It’s back! Slinky!

·         Rubik’s Cube

 

As for opening the stockings, you may choose to do it on Christmas

Eve or Day but you could also fill each sock with 12 gifts and have the recipient open one gift a day leading up to Christmas. It’s the ‘Advent Sock’! When you think your stocking is empty, remember to reach all the way to the bottom where something might be hiding!

If you are exchanging names such as when you have a large family or

group of co-workers, be sure to set a reasonable dollar limit so you will not burden anyone’s budget.

        When it comes to families, it is mostly siblings that swap names so they only have one stocking to fill. This year, go even easier on your Christmas spending by making the stocking the present and decide not to purchase additional gifts.

        With co-workers, indeed even with everyone, knowing them well, you should avoid items that could prove to be embarrassing.

Most of the time, you do not realize that something everyone else finds funny might be hurtful. I remember a time when some colleagues found out that another workmate never got a stocking as a child. Thinking they would make him happy, they made him a very nice stocking that included a bobble-head of his favourite hockey player.

We gathered for the last couple of hours of our working day in the office lunch room for some delicious catered food and to exchange our gifts as each co-worker bought for one other after drawing names. To start the festivities, they excitedly presented the stocking and told him it was a small token since he never had one as a child. He looked at the stocking turned his head and quietly left the office. After a somber office party overshadowed by a gift gone horribly wrong, when he didn’t come back the stocking was left on his desk. We didn’t learn for a couple of weeks that one of our colleagues saw it in his garbage can.

Remember this story as a cautionary definition of how a well-intended gift can have grievous consequences.

Across several demographics, shoppers indicate their intent to purchase higher quality gifts that have more longevity while some will be seeking out second hand offerings that have plenty of use left in them.

Canadians are evenly divided between financing their purchases and dipping into their savings.

        But what does this mean for the lowly Christmas stocking? Since it began in 1823, at least by way of a poem, I think it is safe to say that this timeless tradition has definite staying-power.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

More Practical and Less Fluff:

Ideas for Christmas gifts 2025

        Practicality is the buzz word when choosing Christmas gifts this year. Faced with less discretionary spending and rising prices, shoppers should be focusing on what is needed rather than a present that would be described by some as a ‘dust-collector’ is in vogue.

        Brent Kinney, a financial planner from Saint John, NB, suggests a couple of things to do before you even get started. He says, “Be realistic about your Christmas budget and divide your spending into a few categories such as food, gifts, etc., in order to keep track of where your money is going.” In regards to purchasing gifts, Kinney advises, “Try to use only cash and don’t rely on credit cards. You want to avoid a situation where the bills start coming in after Christmas and you realize you will be paying for your purchases until 2027!”

        Some of these suggestions will surely find their way into your shopping cart for Christmas, 2026:

·         Though people usually have supplies such as bandages on hand, a first aid kit provides the materials needed in many emergencies. Kept at home, in the car or when pursuing outdoor activities, a first aid kit is an often overlooked necessity.

·         Hand and foot warmers add comfort when spending time outdoors or in an ice rink.

·         A wet/dry vacuum will come in handy for both house and car messes.

·         With many plastics going the way of the dodo bird, reusable bags of all sizes are great for groceries, refrigerator and freezer foods and in lunch bags.

·         Whether for a female or a male, if you know their skincare routine, giving them some component such as face cream for women or beard oil for men are great options.

·         For Apple users, Air Tags can be placed on anything that users frequently misplace such as their Smartphone, glasses and keys. Air Tags save time by instantly being able to locate items no matter where they were left.

·         A vehicle emergency kit is the ultimate ‘better to have and not need rather than to need and not have’. There are several different kits available which typically include battery cables, an emergency blanket, red flashing light, a tow rope and a fire extinguisher.

·         Weighted blankets are on trend with proven scientific results. Steven Carleton (CACIII, LCSW) an executive clinical director at Gallus Detox, in regards to weighted blankets offers, “This pressure puts the autonomous nervous system in a state of relaxation, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.”

·         Kids that are in the toy and building stages will love the Clixo Rainbow 42 Piece Pack. Getting youngsters away from a screen and using their imagination is a welcome gift. Designed by Clixo, this product builds 2D and 3D creations with durable and flexible material, secure magnets, are educational and fun as well as being travel friendly.

·         An insulated water bottle keeps beverages hot or cold and can be taken anywhere.

·         Air Fryers are a favourite for roasting and baking foods with the fan on top ensuring even cooking results. Requiring little to no oil, quickly heating up and fast cooking make them healthier and more convenient than a conventional deep fryer.

·         Solar or battery chargers for Smartphones - when the power goes out, it is a way to charge their phones. This keeps people connected to the outside world which adds security when the lights go out.

·         Soft slippers that come that come in carry pouch are portable, easily fitting into a purse or pocket. Keeps feet snug and warm while visiting or flying.

·         Add fun with your family or guests with a game called ‘Words are Hard’. Played even with younger aged children, this game has a simple concept – flip over a card with a picture and the first one who says a word that starts with the same letter of the photo on the card wins. If a ‘hospital’ picture is depicted then you can win by being the first person to say ‘house’ and slapping the card.

·         Cathy Bittman of Leduc, Alberta, says, “My sister often does a hamper box for my daughter and her family. Over the years there has been everything from a turkey and ham to toilet paper and toothbrushes. Almost anything you can think of that is needed on a regular basis.”

People on your list will appreciate any present that can ease their financial burden into 2026.

Kinney reminds shoppers to, “Plan ahead and keep an eye on the flyers, weekly specials, Internet savings and deal-finder Apps on your phone.” He further advises, “Once this Christmas is in the books, you can make a financial plan for 2026. This way you can save a little extra every month which will ease the budget crunch when Christmas rolls around again.”

While gift cards may seem impersonal they still fall under the old adage ‘it’s the thought that counts’. A tank of gas will surely trump a candle that adds fragrance to a room. Perhaps consider giving the gift card with a small gift such as body wash or adding an item to what the recipient collects.

Giving the donation of your time by way of a certificate for free babysitting, house cleaning, mowing the lawn and clearing away snow will help ease the financial strife and stress felt by so many families muddling through this uncertain economy.

Tanis Easton of Brampton, ON, says, “Reminiscing, listening and sharing stories is worth more than any physical gift can buy.”

Remember it is not about what’s under the tree but rather who is around it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Keeping Your Kids Busy on Christmas Eve:

We got you covered

 

 

        For many kids of all ages, and their parents, those countdown hours until bedtime before the magic of Christmas morning can feel like they last forever. If children do not have activities to help pass the time, they will expel all of their energy on Christmas Eve and wake up cranky, overtired and excited. That combination can leave parents exhausted.

        With a well-planned evening, families can spend Christmas Eve making merry memories followed by a restful sleep during which Santa makes his annual stop to deliver presents.

        December 24^th, 2025 is on the horizon but you still have time to find ways to keep the younger ones occupied.

·         Make homemade decorations and put them right on the tree. This choice fits easily into your budget as dollar stores have ample craft supplies at low prices.

·         Have a competition you can do every year by following the German tradition of finding the pickle ornament on the tree where the winner gets a prize. Pickle ornaments are easy to find in stores and they can sometimes be hard to see even when hanging in plain sight, camouflaged by the other ornaments. Whoever spies the pickle first gets a special prize.

·         Take a drive or walk to look at the neighbourhood lights and decorations. Alexa Brown, of Dartmouth, N.S., a mom with a six and a four year old to keep entertained until bedtime is changing it up this Christmas Eve. She says, “Last year, I had two kids bouncing all over the house, clearly drawing on one another’s energy and I was ready for bed hours before they were. This year, their nanna and grampie are coming for dinner – pizza! After eating, we will all head outside. If there is snow, we’ll head to a nearby hill that is great for sliding or we will just go for a walk around where we live. I hope the fresh air gets them tired and it will be great to have my parents there to help put Santa presents together!” You may get really lucky and have the packy snow needed for building snow people. Making a family of them will tire everyone out!

·         Buy a gingerbread house that your family can help assemble. Remember to check the package to make sure the house is edible as some may not be and also confirm the best before date.

·         Host a casual pot-luck dinner if you have family and/or friends who would like to come. Use paper plates and cups for a quicker clean-up. Before company arrives, kids can spend time making everyone a placemat using 8 ½ X 11 paper.

·         Singing Karaoke is a fun way to put everyone in the Christmas spirit. With a lot of dancing going on, this activity can expend a lot of energy, making the whole family looking forward to bedtime.

·         Made cookie dough ahead of December 24^th and thaw it out in time to make either in the afternoon or evening. Picking a drop cookie recipe is the least labor intensive and everyone can join in.

·         Have each child create a Christmas Eve picture using markers, pencil crayons and stickers that you can laminate for a lasting memory. Don’t forget to add the name of the child who made the original art and the date.

·         As a family, make a fun video you can send to people who will not be there in person to celebrate Christmas with you.

·         Kids of all ages will get excited when you go to the NORAD tracks Santa website. Since 1955, NORAD, the North American Airspace Defense Command, has been tracking Santa as he makes his way around the world. Most kids are taught that Santa does not come until they are asleep and with the bearded one getting close, they will be anxious to get into bed!

·         Kaz Derbyshire of the3AMdiary suggests going to the local zoo before it gets dark. She says, “When we visited the zoo on Christmas Eve day, it was really festive.” This is one activity that is easily overlooked. Check online to see if they have family passes which are cheaper than individual fees and zoos usually drop their prices in the off-season. You have the advantage of seeing more of the animals this time of year when they are not laying in the shade, sheltering themselves from the hot summer sun.

·         Pick a fun movie that can be enjoyed by everyone and let them choose their snacks ahead of time – even those that are usually not allowed. You can find a list of the best Christmas movies of all time here. Getting to have treats that are normally banned is part of the magic of Christmas.

·         Let your children open a present on Christmas Eve and make it something that will keep them occupied such as fun board games, stickers to add to a book or a selection from the ‘Look and Find’ or ‘I Spy’ books that are age appropriate.

·         Wear matching pajamas and get everyone to add different accessories such as hats, glasses and scarves for a fun Christmas photo shoot but matching pj’s are not a necessity. Make it a priority not to spend time behind the lens. A better idea is to set up your Smartphone to take a video across a large swath of the room. Later, you can easily create photographs from the videography.

Planning the choices to keep everyone engaged is the secret to a joyful

but relaxing Christmas Eve. Remember, though, that even the best laid plans can go off the rails for any number of reasons. It is important to expect that this may happen and just ride the wave instead of getting upset if things get off-track.

        Make your list of activities for Christmas Eve, gather the supplies needed to make it happen and revel in those hours making memories together.