Garden Math often overlooked
While you may not think of it much, mathematics is an important part of yard and garden care. Planning for planting, fertilizing, mulching, and pest control all involve some math, yet it is often overlooked.
December 2022
Read MoreGarden Math often overlooked
Gingerbread goodness
Gingerbread is a broad term that can describe anything from a firm and crispy cookie to a moist, soft cake. Traditionally, gingerbread is seasoned with ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and other aromatic spices. Molasses and brown sugar counteract the spice with sweetness. North Americans have been baking gingerbread in various shapes or forms for more than 200 years, and the recipes even pre-date the American revolution. However, gingerbread dates back even further to the Shakespearean era, with The Bard having mentioned it in one of his plays. Gingerbread's name can be trace to medieval England and once referred to any kind of preserved ginger. The term went on to reference ginger- flavored cakes in the 15th century, and gingerbread eventually became popular throughout the world. Even though gingerbread cakes and cookies have been made for centuries, Germans are often credited with creating gingerbread houses, according to Smithsonian. They were probably modeled after the witch's candy cottage in the German fairy tale, 'Hansel and Gretel.' Even though gingerbread can be made any time of year, it is particularly associated with the Christmas season, with gingerbread men and other fanciful shapes turning up on cookie platters.
A favorite chocolate flavor shines through
So many people love to indulge in rich chocolate every once in a while. It's certainly possible to tempt that sweet tooth by visiting a neighborhood candy shop. But it's just as easy to experiment in the kitchen with homemade confections.
Ugly Holiday Sweaters
Ugly may be in the eye of the beholder, but since the turn of the century, more people are embracing the kitsch and dubious fashion of ugly holiday sweaters. What constitutes an ugly holiday sweater? The definitions vary, though the authors of “Ugly Christmas Sweater Party Book: The Definitive Guide to Getting Your Ugly On,” offer up a wide array of pictures that include just about any sweater that is a bit kitschy, a bit campy and might come with 3D snowballs or bells.
Safety first when buying toys for children this holiday
December is a special time of year for children, millions of whom await the arrival of Santa Claus and the bounty of toys he delivers each year. When buying holiday gifts for youngsters, adults must consider safety. According to the Alliance for Children and Families, approximately 217,000 children are treated at hospital emergency rooms for toy-related injuries each year. Holiday shoppers are urged to stick to age-related recommendations on product packaging and avoid toys that do not contain the ATSM (American Society for Testing and Materials) label.
Community Calendar
First and third Mondays: NC City Council, Gary White Memorial Room/Council Chambers, 1518 Central Ave., 6 p.m. 402-873-5515.
Warm and wow guests with homemade hot mulled apple cider
When hosting friends and family at home, it's understandable that hosts direct so much of their focus to the foods they plan to serve. The main course is often the focal point and most memorable aspect of a dinner party, and that's true whether the get-together is a backyard barbecue, a holiday meal with the family or a formal affair with colleagues.
Gifts for people who love the great outdoors
Certain people feel right at home in the great outdoors. With the sun on their faces and the wind in their hair, rock scramblers and kayaking buffs simply can't get enough of being outside in the elements.
Chocolate dessert with a healthy twist
Quite often people hear the word 'dessert' and immediately think of a calorie- and fat-laden decadence that may set them back several hours on the treadmill. While it is true that some desserts can pack a heavy punch, others need not make people fear for their waistlines.