tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5388472765975456312024-03-19T01:47:12.264-07:00Organic GrannyLiving the Green LifeCynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.comBlogger312125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-83376009343394603082024-03-18T18:42:00.000-07:002024-03-18T18:42:56.790-07:00Vancouver Living<p> </p><span id="docs-internal-guid-2fb520e2-7fff-5312-1a1e-10b558f885a4"><h3 dir="ltr" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Pros:</span></span></h3><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Natural Beauty</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">: Vancouver is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and ocean views. The city’s beauty is unparalleled.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Outdoor Activities</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">: You can enjoy hiking, biking, skiing, and water sports all year round. Stanley Park, with its seawall and beaches, offers endless outdoor recreation.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Cultural Diversity</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">: Vancouver is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and cuisines. You’ll find a rich tapestry of people from around the world.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Education</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">: Vancouver has excellent schools and universities. The University of British Columbia (UBC) is renowned for its academic programs.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Healthcare</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">: Canada’s universal healthcare system ensures access to medical services.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Public Transportation</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">: The SkyTrain and buses provide efficient transportation within the city.</span></span></p></li></ol><h3 dir="ltr" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Cons:</span></span></h3><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">High Cost of Living</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">: Vancouver is one of the most expensive cities in Canada. Housing costs, rent, and dining out can strain your budget.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Traffic Congestion</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">: Traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hours. Commuting can be time-consuming.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Rainy Weather</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">: Vancouver experiences a lot of rain, which may affect your mood and outdoor plans.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Property Crime</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">: While Vancouver is relatively safe, property crime (such as theft) can be an issue, especially in certain neighborhoods.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Homelessness</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">: The city faces homelessness challenges, and you’ll encounter homeless individuals in some areas.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Nightlife</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">: Vancouver’s nightlife scene is quieter compared to other major cities. Strict noise bylaws affect bars and clubs.</span></span></p></li></ol><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 6pt 0pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">COST OF LIVING FOR A SINGLE YOUNG PERSON IN VANCOUVER AREA </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 6pt 0pt 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The estimated cost of living for a single person in Vancouver can vary based on lifestyle choices and individual needs. Here’s a breakdown of monthly expenses:</span></span></p><ol style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Rent: Rent prices in Vancouver can be high. </span><a href="https://www.zumper.com/apartments-for-rent/vancouver-bc/downtown-vancouver/1-beds" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">On average, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around ?? Canadian dollars per month1</span></a><a href="https://www.vancouver-local.ca/articles/11/cost-of-living-in-vancouver-canada-a-comprehensive-guide" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">2</span></a><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Food and Dining:</span></span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Vancouver" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Groceries: A gallon of milk costs approximately 11.55 CAD, a loaf of fresh white bread is around 3.88 CAD, and a dozen eggs are about 6.04 CAD1</span></a><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Vancouver" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Eating Out: A meal at an inexpensive restaurant is roughly 25 CAD, while a mid-range three-course meal for two people can cost 120 CAD1</span></a><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">.</span></span></p></li></ul><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Transportation:</span></span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Vancouver" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Public Transit: A one-way local transport ticket is about 3.15 CAD for 1 zone, and a monthly pass costs around 190 CAD</span></a><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> for 3 zones.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Vancouver" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Gasoline: The price of gasoline per gallon is approximately 7.38 CAD1</span></a><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">. (People who pick you up or drop you off by car will expect something in the range of of what they pay for gas, so maybe $5 to $10 per ride? Some of this expense will go toward their parking costs as well as general car maintenance and courtesy. </span><a href="https://www.urbanyvr.com/uber-lyft-vancouver-launches/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Uber and Lyft costs range from $15 up</span></a><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">)</span></span></p></li></ul><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Utilities:</span></span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Vancouver" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for a 915 sq ft apartment amount to around 229 CAD per month1</span></a><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">. Mobile will cost about 66 CAD and Internet will run about $85 CAD per month.</span></span></p></li></ul><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: decimal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Entertainment and Miscellaneous:</span></span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Vancouver" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Going out for a domestic beer (pint) costs about 8 CAD, and a cappuccino is around 5.41 CAD1</span></a><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: circle; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Other expenses include personal items, entertainment, and leisure activities. Better not count on buying clothing or makeup on a regular basis or being able to afford a decent hair cut.</span></span></p></li></ul></ol><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 6pt;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Keep in mind that these are estimates, and actual costs may vary based on personal preferences and spending habits. Vancouver’s high cost of living is balanced by its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and quality of life. It’s essential to budget wisely and explore affordable options. You can probably spend somewhat less on rent if you join a commune and live 3 zones out of downtown Vancouver. </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 6pt 0pt 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><h6 dir="ltr" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 7pt 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 8.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Learn more</span></span></h6><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 7pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Vancouver" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1</span></span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 7pt;"><a href="https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Vancouver" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">numbeo.com</span></span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 7pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.vancouver-local.ca/articles/11/cost-of-living-in-vancouver-canada-a-comprehensive-guide" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2</span></span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 7pt;"><a href="https://www.vancouver-local.ca/articles/11/cost-of-living-in-vancouver-canada-a-comprehensive-guide" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">vancouver-local.ca</span></span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 7pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/vancouver-cost-of-living-single" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3</span></span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 7pt;"><a href="https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/vancouver-cost-of-living-single" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">dailyhive.com</span></span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 7pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://unicreds.com/blog/cost-of-living-in-vancouver-for-students" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">4</span></span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 7pt;"><a href="https://unicreds.com/blog/cost-of-living-in-vancouver-for-students" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">unicreds.com</span></span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: -1pt 0pt 0pt 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">STAYING AT THE YWCA-- Rates for 1 and 2 person rooms available Sept-May each year. <span></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: #f3f3f3; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 6pt 0pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://ywcavan.org/hotel/rooms/residence-monthly-extended-stays">https://ywcavan.org/hotel/rooms/residence-monthly-extended-stays</a></span></span></p><h3 style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.894); font-family: SegoeUIVariable, SegoeUI, "Segoe UI", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, "Microsoft YaHei", "Meiryo UI", Meiryo, "Arial Unicode MS", sans-serif; font-size: var(--cib-type-subtitle1-stronger-font-size); font-variation-settings: var(--cib-type-subtitle1-stronger-font-variation-settings); font-weight: var(--cib-type-subtitle1-stronger-font-weight); line-height: var(--cib-type-subtitle1-stronger-line-height); margin: 8px 0px 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text; word-break: break-word;">Government-Run Institutions:</h3><ol style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.894); display: flex; flex-direction: column; font-family: SegoeUIVariable, SegoeUI, "Segoe UI", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, "Microsoft YaHei", "Meiryo UI", Meiryo, "Arial Unicode MS", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; gap: 4px; margin: 8px 0px 0px; padding-inline-start: 24px;"><li><p style="display: inline; font-size: var(--cib-type-body1-font-size); font-variation-settings: var(--cib-type-body1-font-variation-settings); font-weight: var(--cib-type-body1-font-weight); line-height: var(--cib-type-body1-line-height); margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text; word-break: break-word;"><strong style="font-size: var(--cib-type-body1-strong-font-size); font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: var(--cib-type-body1-strong-line-height);">University of British Columbia (UBC)</strong></p><ul style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; gap: 4px; margin: 12px 0px 0px; padding-inline-start: 24px;"><li><strong style="font-size: var(--cib-type-body1-strong-font-size); font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: var(--cib-type-body1-strong-line-height);">Vancouver Campus Address</strong>: 2329 West Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4</li><li><a appearance="system-link" class="ac-anchor" h="ID=SERP,5042.1" href="https://www.ubc.ca/about/contact.html" is="cib-link" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; position: relative; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">UBC Website</a></li></ul></li><li><p style="display: inline; font-size: var(--cib-type-body1-font-size); font-variation-settings: var(--cib-type-body1-font-variation-settings); font-weight: var(--cib-type-body1-font-weight); line-height: var(--cib-type-body1-line-height); margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text; word-break: break-word;"><strong style="font-size: var(--cib-type-body1-strong-font-size); font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: var(--cib-type-body1-strong-line-height);">British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT)</strong></p><ul style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; gap: 4px; margin: 12px 0px 0px; padding-inline-start: 24px;"><li><strong style="font-size: var(--cib-type-body1-strong-font-size); font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: var(--cib-type-body1-strong-line-height);">BCIT Address</strong>: 3700 Willingdon Avenue, Burnaby, BC V5G 3H2</li><li>BCIT Website</li></ul></li><li><p style="display: inline; font-size: var(--cib-type-body1-font-size); font-variation-settings: var(--cib-type-body1-font-variation-settings); font-weight: var(--cib-type-body1-font-weight); line-height: var(--cib-type-body1-line-height); margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text; word-break: break-word;"><strong style="font-size: var(--cib-type-body1-strong-font-size); font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: var(--cib-type-body1-strong-line-height);">Simon Fraser University (SFU)</strong></p><ul style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; gap: 4px; margin: 12px 0px 0px; padding-inline-start: 24px;"><li><strong style="font-size: var(--cib-type-body1-strong-font-size); font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: var(--cib-type-body1-strong-line-height);">SFU Address</strong>: 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6</li><li>SFU Website</li></ul></li></ol><div><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "Microsoft Yahei"; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-55643069933945426802024-03-17T16:25:00.000-07:002024-03-18T08:36:39.421-07:00The Best Small Dog for Retirees<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA_pIL87MYhD_ijpWTTeZsF8boe73Sw8zyBgEbhlINSQjsl0wEPSCQGRNd1_TEYDxAwODqznRVERFLljisV0QA8GQ6kWXFh_iUU6jq-SFzSqmeo2uAhCLZVBDlu-bDnRk8ZTOUQWkdNT-pKAdbNCegBMs0hhAp4Z1-CvN2djDEvERPZEtZ2Q-cEvrFhq9L/s1860/20240317_160651.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1101" data-original-width="1860" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA_pIL87MYhD_ijpWTTeZsF8boe73Sw8zyBgEbhlINSQjsl0wEPSCQGRNd1_TEYDxAwODqznRVERFLljisV0QA8GQ6kWXFh_iUU6jq-SFzSqmeo2uAhCLZVBDlu-bDnRk8ZTOUQWkdNT-pKAdbNCegBMs0hhAp4Z1-CvN2djDEvERPZEtZ2Q-cEvrFhq9L/w400-h236/20240317_160651.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Terry-Berry Muffin in the Daffodils</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Choosing the best small dog for retirees involves considering various factors such as temperament, size, energy level, grooming needs, and companionship. While there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer, several breeds stand out as excellent choices for retirees due to their adaptability to a quieter lifestyle and their ability to provide companionship and joy to their owners.</span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5pHQpm-SFdmZOCgmwd8eb0Lv7WKmjgsnlNp9rwkwyJdLtDnux_mH4ScNQdKchyjXu2koG18KCNxLYtNYq2qs3rxjejcpkYFLP7pqkU9Sx1OXVBU5WSAzxXlvLHE12cEW9fdkFQsUosFrSfhVqpyublozAek3v82Bt6iB2-mo8azzlvAJWdfAtX7lwfGwn/s800/cavalier-king-charles-spaniel-puppy-vibrant-green-top-hat-looking-camera-st-patricks-day-298782489.webp" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5pHQpm-SFdmZOCgmwd8eb0Lv7WKmjgsnlNp9rwkwyJdLtDnux_mH4ScNQdKchyjXu2koG18KCNxLYtNYq2qs3rxjejcpkYFLP7pqkU9Sx1OXVBU5WSAzxXlvLHE12cEW9fdkFQsUosFrSfhVqpyublozAek3v82Bt6iB2-mo8azzlvAJWdfAtX7lwfGwn/w400-h266/cavalier-king-charles-spaniel-puppy-vibrant-green-top-hat-looking-camera-st-patricks-day-298782489.webp" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soft little Cavalier King Charles Spaniel</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">One of the top contenders for retirees is the <b>Cavalier King Charles Spaniel</b>. This breed is renowned for its gentle and affectionate nature, making it an ideal companion for seniors. Cavaliers are small in size, typically weighing between 13 to 18 pounds, which makes them suitable for apartment living or smaller homes. They are known for their adaptability to various environments and their love for human companionship. Cavaliers are also relatively low-energy dogs, enjoying leisurely walks and cuddle sessions on the couch, making them perfect for retirees who may prefer a more relaxed pace of life.</span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi85TV4TKynAvct7roJ3ygf1SAbrz6VzGOPDNiBTfgB8wQxBm3viNW12uK-Wq4jWMlCpHVZQi7QQwfl7HFSHQDFqLQmQxaYa3BdTVRA3HsKK2w-blNztw1SCqVo55aKhtyHADZ69rGtA320593nImxSX7-QPpjjjUsnWUviqvFmbOHHM2-cuiZN5kzCGZNZ/s2048/Firefly%20little%20Maltese%20dog%20with%20his%20person,%20a%20pleasant%20looking%20grandma,%20holding%20him%2010884.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi85TV4TKynAvct7roJ3ygf1SAbrz6VzGOPDNiBTfgB8wQxBm3viNW12uK-Wq4jWMlCpHVZQi7QQwfl7HFSHQDFqLQmQxaYa3BdTVRA3HsKK2w-blNztw1SCqVo55aKhtyHADZ69rGtA320593nImxSX7-QPpjjjUsnWUviqvFmbOHHM2-cuiZN5kzCGZNZ/s320/Firefly%20little%20Maltese%20dog%20with%20his%20person,%20a%20pleasant%20looking%20grandma,%20holding%20him%2010884.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nana's cuddly Maltese</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Another excellent choice for retirees is the <b>Maltese</b>. Known for their small size, weighing around 4 to 7 pounds, Maltese dogs are affectionate, playful, and loyal. They thrive on human interaction and make devoted companions to their owners. Despite their small stature, Maltese dogs have a big personality and enjoy participating in activities with their families, whether it's a short walk or a game of fetch indoors. Their hypoallergenic coat also makes them suitable for retirees who may have allergies or prefer a dog with minimal shedding.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIbcEcsbsiRPQqaaEm0podscpyCDWrD7NPyUQk193qtYlCPXQItb72ck0SMaXl6W-zBoGKVVydwF-Vt9iIsgfau359GjrnnGEO6FB8vnVelfm9-JbHBmiP3-c0g_zaqa5swQfZlgln15O7jGB-66jPeoJp0iU1FAZSHlJIfqhEtVI35X0grkYY-YqDklwX/s2048/Firefly%20Grandpa%20with%20his%20French%20Bulldog,%20playing%20a%20little%20fetch%205919.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIbcEcsbsiRPQqaaEm0podscpyCDWrD7NPyUQk193qtYlCPXQItb72ck0SMaXl6W-zBoGKVVydwF-Vt9iIsgfau359GjrnnGEO6FB8vnVelfm9-JbHBmiP3-c0g_zaqa5swQfZlgln15O7jGB-66jPeoJp0iU1FAZSHlJIfqhEtVI35X0grkYY-YqDklwX/s320/Firefly%20Grandpa%20with%20his%20French%20Bulldog,%20playing%20a%20little%20fetch%205919.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The playful French Bulldog</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">The </span><b style="font-family: inherit;">French Bulldog</b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> is another popular choice for retirees due to its affectionate and laid-back demeanor. Frenchies are small, sturdy dogs with a distinctive appearance and a charming personality. They are known for their playful nature and love for companionship, making them great indoor pets. French Bulldogs typically weigh between 16 to 28 pounds, making them well-suited for apartment living or smaller homes. While they enjoy short walks and playtime, they are not overly energetic, which can be appealing to retirees seeking a canine companion that matches their lifestyle.</span><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiRz4wA273LAPNkDwgTR7aQ289gQUJE0Eb18lUzDN86erysA2yOjDiJ-uaUlLSoxF2WfMrTPF5uTyhBoICpaY5cInANJx_bwqraBHgi38Pckd95bhHghw4Cj7C3xPZDQXLMhggmGKorBrAtS_63GD1c8d4sOwjhWckO5fIhKdBuH0aclj-aJPvdCfG2M2y/s2048/Firefly%20Grandpa%20going%20for%20a%20walk%20with%20his%20little%20shih%20tzu%2010076.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiRz4wA273LAPNkDwgTR7aQ289gQUJE0Eb18lUzDN86erysA2yOjDiJ-uaUlLSoxF2WfMrTPF5uTyhBoICpaY5cInANJx_bwqraBHgi38Pckd95bhHghw4Cj7C3xPZDQXLMhggmGKorBrAtS_63GD1c8d4sOwjhWckO5fIhKdBuH0aclj-aJPvdCfG2M2y/s320/Firefly%20Grandpa%20going%20for%20a%20walk%20with%20his%20little%20shih%20tzu%2010076.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Granddad walks the Shih Tzu</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">And, of course, the <b>Shih Tzu</b> is a beloved breed among retirees for its friendly disposition and manageable size. Shih Tzus are small dogs weighing around 9 to 16 pounds, with a luxurious coat that requires regular grooming. Despite their grooming needs, Shih Tzus make excellent companions for retirees due to their affectionate nature and adaptability to indoor living. They enjoy spending time with their families and are known for their playful antics, bringing joy and laughter to their owners' lives.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ultimately, the best small dog for retirees depends on individual preferences and lifestyle. It's essential to consider factors such as temperament, grooming needs, and energy level when choosing a canine companion. Whether you prefer the gentle nature of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, the playful personality of a Maltese, the laid-back demeanor of a French Bulldog, or the friendly disposition of a Shih Tzu, any of these breeds can make a wonderful addition to a retiree's life, providing love, companionship, and joy for years to come. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">You disagree with the 'panel' on the above little furbabies being chosen as THE BEST? I have a little <b>Chihuahua</b> cuddled up on my lap right now and would be disloyal if I didn't say she is possibly the sweetest little dog-- what an entertainer-- that we have ever 'parented'. But she is also pretty dictatorial (I want to eat RIGHT NOW... and then a WALKee) and amazingly active for her age (12). </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Anyhow, if you want to tell about why another small breed of dog should be on this list, please be my guest and comment (below). Thanks!!</span></p></div>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-28181420772274597792024-03-08T16:51:00.000-08:002024-03-08T17:04:46.641-08:00Happy International Women's Day OR Happy Virtue Signaling Day? 2024<span id="docs-internal-guid-05348f0c-7fff-0199-15a5-fb6154923e2d"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgohZgK1kYvC_pG1FjJonJZfBk04Kve6oLYXWB9G_QbGObC6Q6GC3SuCvu7oPXtBhh6DHLGKDJ-5A2BxhH4JWPcwSd_rXDRoTHyRnB_HI3z9XbVIk0cFVwxitbHU7Q7zKZ7Mm3FXFFB6PfKcwZGhSmhaUfJ-VOy0ezP7bXIEQXUnhZxiG12x18jsTV6_ncL/s2688/Firefly%20colorful%20dreamscape%20of%20women,%20old,%20asian,%20white,%20young,%20brown,%20some%20fat,%20skating%20together%20Ha.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2688" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgohZgK1kYvC_pG1FjJonJZfBk04Kve6oLYXWB9G_QbGObC6Q6GC3SuCvu7oPXtBhh6DHLGKDJ-5A2BxhH4JWPcwSd_rXDRoTHyRnB_HI3z9XbVIk0cFVwxitbHU7Q7zKZ7Mm3FXFFB6PfKcwZGhSmhaUfJ-VOy0ezP7bXIEQXUnhZxiG12x18jsTV6_ncL/w640-h366/Firefly%20colorful%20dreamscape%20of%20women,%20old,%20asian,%20white,%20young,%20brown,%20some%20fat,%20skating%20together%20Ha.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy International Women's Day 2024<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">A friend just wrote "Happy Virtue Signaling Day" on Facebook. The comment "Happy Virtue Signaling Day" in reference to International Women's Day suggests a negative and dismissive view of the observance. Here are some potential implications and criticisms that this comment may be alluding to:</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Virtue signaling refers to the perceived outward expression of moral values or progressive views, especially on social media, in order to gain approval from others rather than out of authentic belief. The implication is that some people or organizations publicly celebrate International Women's Day not out of genuine support for women's rights, but to portray themselves as virtuous or progressive.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">It suggests that International Women's Day has become more of a symbolic gesture or superficial trend, rather than promoting substantive progress on women's issues. Critics may view some of the messaging and social media posts as empty rhetoric not backed by meaningful action.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">There is a perception among some that International Women's Day has become commercialized or co-opted by corporations and brands for marketing purposes, rather than genuinely advancing the feminist cause.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The sarcastic tone implies frustration with what some view as the excessive amplification or overemphasis placed on International Women's Day by mainstream society and media.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">More broadly, it reflects a cynical view of activism around gender issues, implying that much of the public support is disingenuous or driven by a desire to virtue signal rather than authentic advocacy.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">It's important to note that this is one critical perspective, and many others deeply value International Women's Day as an important annual opportunity to raise awareness about gender equality, celebrate achievements, and catalyze positive social change. As with any observance or cause, there can be genuine differences of opinion about its significance and impact.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> <b> pOEm IWD 2024</b></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">A friend's post - "Happy Virtue Signaling Day"</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Sarcastic jab at society's shallow celebration</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Of International Women's Day</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Corporations jump on the bandwagon</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Marketing feminist slogans on shirts and mugs</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">As if selling merch is achieving progress</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Social media feeds filled with vacant symbolism</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Empty words and recycled inspirational quotes</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Hollow platitudes mistaken for activism</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Eyes roll at the superficial responses</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The commercialization of a serious struggle</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Reducing a movement to a trendy hashtag</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Yet beneath the cynical cloud, a glint of truth</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">There are those who fight this battle daily</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Chipping away at ingrained injustice</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">With calloused hands, they lift others up</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Prying open doors long locked shut</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Demolishing barriers in their path</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Unsung heroes giving voice to the voiceless</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Extending opportunity's reach wider</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">An eternal vigil for the disenfranchised</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">They see beyond the corporate pandering</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Piercing the veil of performative gestures</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">To enact real, lasting societal reform</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Their life's work transcends token recognition</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Of a single day meant to celebrate progress</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">They embody the spirit we strive to uphold</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Equity, freedom, rights long denied</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Not just slogans but an eternal mission</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Blazing a trail for all to rise unshackled</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 1pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #29261b;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">(Or let's pray this is so).</span></span></p></span>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-10308060850039214792024-02-29T17:31:00.000-08:002024-02-29T17:38:18.207-08:00Celeriac Soup-- Four Versions<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisLW_Ohavs5Jn-ngNUypo1bSd7XEE1fh1txQ4ndQYCAfoQrLLDHj4TTw8LqmEIJoJRiPO_CSrQF_EGcg7f88ml-F29LQQNT6EQ3otAXOBS0RGiV_d4BsRLHzZzbAAwbCR2FoXn1MP1fLM0kJEpBkjviLI91O7teIBepBxP7F4WqmaDFjJQhBYl9NadmzKe/s1024/celeriac-soup.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisLW_Ohavs5Jn-ngNUypo1bSd7XEE1fh1txQ4ndQYCAfoQrLLDHj4TTw8LqmEIJoJRiPO_CSrQF_EGcg7f88ml-F29LQQNT6EQ3otAXOBS0RGiV_d4BsRLHzZzbAAwbCR2FoXn1MP1fLM0kJEpBkjviLI91O7teIBepBxP7F4WqmaDFjJQhBYl9NadmzKe/w640-h640/celeriac-soup.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celery Root and Root Vegetable Soup</td></tr></tbody></table><p>So one day this Spring-- a chilly day-- our resident son came home from town with an ugly bulbus "root vegetable" that I remembered from the days with my German mother-in-law as "celery root" or celeriac. It is not the root of the celery most of us are familiar with, the stalks we use in our morning juice, but a root vegetable on its own with a wimpier version of stalks that can grow from it.</p><p>I looked up some recipes and we innovated. We love this root vegetable. It has a mild celery-like flavor and combines creamily and harmoniously with many other vegetables and flavours. He brought home a few more of these roots and the following soup recipes evolved. </p><p>The recipes are:</p><p><b>
<a href="#sectionVP6"><b>Creamy Mushroom and Celery Root Soup</b></a></b></p><p><b><a href="#sectionVP7"><b>Celery Root and Sauerkraut Soup</b></a></b></p><p><b><a href="#sectionVP8"><b>Root Vegetable and Celery Root Soup</b></a></b></p><p><b>
<a href="#sectionVP9"><b>Classic French Onion and Celery Root Soup</b></a><br /></b></p><p><b><b><b><span style="font-size: large;">1.</span></b></b></b><b><b><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Creamy Mushroom and Celery Root Soup</b></span></b></b></p><p></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>1 celery root, peeled and diced</li><li>1 onion, chopped</li><li>3 cloves garlic, minced</li><li>1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced</li><li>2 cups soy milk</li><li>4 cups vegetable broth</li><li>2 tablespoons olive oil</li><li>Salt and pepper to taste</li></ul><p></p><p>Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)</p><p><b><b><b><span style="font-size: large;">Instructions:</span></b></b></b></p><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until softened.</li><li>Add diced celery root and sliced shiitake mushrooms, cook for another 5 minutes.</li><li>Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until celery root is tender, about 20 minutes.</li><li>Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth.</li><li>Stir in soy milk, season with salt and pepper to taste.</li><li>Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.</li></ol><h2 id="#sectionVP7"><b><span style="font-size: large;">2. Sauerkraut and Celery Root Soup</span></b></h2><p></p><p style="font-weight: bold;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>1 celery root, peeled and diced</li><li>1 onion, chopped</li><li>3 cloves garlic, minced</li><li>2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed</li><li>4 cups vegetable broth</li><li>2 tablespoons olive oil</li><li>1 teaspoon caraway seeds</li><li>Salt and pepper to taste</li></ul><p style="font-weight: bold;"></p><p>Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)</p><p style="font-weight: bold;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Instructions:</span></b></p><p style="font-weight: bold;"></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.</li><li>Add diced celery root and sauerkraut, cook for 5 minutes.</li><li>Pour in vegetable broth, add caraway seeds, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.</li><li>Season with salt and pepper to taste.</li></ol><p></p><p>Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.</p><p><b style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrbf6va6S-t0bGKdRIENecf_EyrxW3cPoNEFO30I-9WO1uxVBI9zR8IO9hmUh7HEBYPJ8tUJuc6H5u4OZeYrTiTSoIWaG7dG5f_wK1wkJZ6uHHlI4Qh-XA9pgerEsFl5U1Of5RVG9_M0M_Va7ptM84WJQwyIh-j5P6qU_RevGPPP8ksmqX_rAL1kInU2da/s2166/20240222_164757.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1860" data-original-width="2166" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrbf6va6S-t0bGKdRIENecf_EyrxW3cPoNEFO30I-9WO1uxVBI9zR8IO9hmUh7HEBYPJ8tUJuc6H5u4OZeYrTiTSoIWaG7dG5f_wK1wkJZ6uHHlI4Qh-XA9pgerEsFl5U1Of5RVG9_M0M_Va7ptM84WJQwyIh-j5P6qU_RevGPPP8ksmqX_rAL1kInU2da/s320/20240222_164757.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></b></div><p></p><h2 id="#sectionVP8"><b><span style="font-size: large;">3. Root Vegetable and Celery Root Soup</span></b></h2><p></p><p style="font-weight: bold;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>1 celery root, peeled and diced</li><li>1 onion, chopped</li><li>2 carrots, peeled and diced</li><li>2 parsnips, peeled and diced</li><li>3 cloves garlic, minced</li><li>4 cups vegetable broth</li><li>2 tablespoons olive oil</li><li>1 teaspoon ground cumin</li><li>Salt and pepper to taste</li></ul><p></p><p>Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)</p><p style="font-weight: bold;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Instructions:</span></b></p><p style="font-weight: bold;"></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until softened.</li><li>Add diced celery root, carrots, and parsnips, cook for 5 minutes.</li><li>Pour in vegetable broth, add ground cumin, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are tender, about 20-25 minutes.</li><li>Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth.</li><li>Season with salt and pepper to taste.</li></ol>Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives if desired.<p style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b></b></span></p><h2 id="#sectionVP9"><b>Classic French Onion and Celery Root Soup</b></h2><p></p><p style="font-weight: bold;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>1 celery root, peeled and thinly sliced</li><li>4 onions, thinly sliced</li><li>3 cloves garlic, minced</li><li> 4 cups vegetable broth</li><li>2+ tablespoons olive oil</li><li>Salt and pepper to taste</li><li>Grated Gruyere cheese for topping (vegan shreds if you are vegan)</li><li>Crusty bread slices for serving</li></ul><p style="font-weight: bold;"></p>
<p style="font-weight: bold;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Instructions:</span></b></p><p style="font-weight: bold;"></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cook (stir) until caramelized, about 30-40 minutes.</li><li>Add thinly sliced celery root and cook for an additional 10 minutes.</li><li>Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a simmer, and cook for another 10-15 minutes.</li><li>Season with salt and pepper to taste.</li><li>Preheat broiler. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, top with crusty bread slices and cheese shreds.</li><li>Place the bowls under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly.</li><li>Serve hot, with additional crusty bread on the side.</li></ol><p></p><p>Enjoy these flavorful and comforting soup recipes!</p><p style="font-weight: bold;"></p><p></p>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-74903547300046277322024-02-25T15:44:00.000-08:002024-02-26T13:31:33.242-08:00Potty Training: Two Parenting Styles in Taking Care of Business<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjztWPOlGjcMx2JcH8h_mNgGQXY-mfntgxCJvD1410oEwYhTWv7btwDyrfJ3el_8msBOJGOsQrsgc1y1xqWFg-GlOpYnOGhvVlalgq2f0YQ-sAkiHWUUupfk-MTpCZ8oMUv25tIlEvUGw6A7AeAQ-XURtXKVcGbEbnEjIFQbEAv99sO_vdSYIvBHYnXZGY3/s2048/Firefly%20picture%20of%20a%20child%20in%20diapers%20looking%20with%20interest%20at%20a%20potty%20in%20a%20bathroom.%2058527.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjztWPOlGjcMx2JcH8h_mNgGQXY-mfntgxCJvD1410oEwYhTWv7btwDyrfJ3el_8msBOJGOsQrsgc1y1xqWFg-GlOpYnOGhvVlalgq2f0YQ-sAkiHWUUupfk-MTpCZ8oMUv25tIlEvUGw6A7AeAQ-XURtXKVcGbEbnEjIFQbEAv99sO_vdSYIvBHYnXZGY3/s320/Firefly%20picture%20of%20a%20child%20in%20diapers%20looking%20with%20interest%20at%20a%20potty%20in%20a%20bathroom.%2058527.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Potty Training starts - image via Firefly AI</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">Potty training can be approached in various ways, and both Adlerian parenting (often associated with Positive Parenting) and Attachment parenting offer philosophies and techniques that parents may find helpful. Let's break down each approach:</span><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b>Adlerian Parenting (Positive Parenting):</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Philosophy</b>: Adlerian parenting focuses on understanding the child's perspective, fostering a sense of belonging and significance, and encouraging cooperation rather than coercion or punishment.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Techniques:</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Encouragement:</b> Positive reinforcement is a key aspect. Instead of focusing on punishment for accidents, parents emphasize praise and encouragement for successes.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Routine and Consistency</b>: Establishing a consistent routine around bathroom breaks and praising the child for following it helps create habits.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Involvement:</b> Involving the child in the process, from choosing their potty to celebrating milestones, fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Books by Adlerians:</b> Adlerian approaches to potty training, are likely referred to in Jane Nelson's "Positive Discipline," which offers insights into how Adlerian principles can be applied to various aspects of parenting. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Pros:</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Focuses on building the child's self-esteem and sense of competence.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Emphasizes positive reinforcement rather than punishment.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Encourages cooperation and mutual respect between parent and child.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Cons:</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Requires patience and consistency from parents.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">May take longer for some children to fully grasp the concept without the use of stricter methods.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b>Attachment Parenting:</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Philosophy:</b> Attachment parenting emphasizes creating strong emotional bonds between parent and child, meeting the child's needs with sensitivity and responsiveness.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Techniques:</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Baby-Led Approach:</b> Parents often wait for signs of readiness from the child before starting potty training.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Closeness and Connection:</b> Maintaining close physical and emotional proximity during the process helps the child feel secure.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Gentle Guidance:</b> Instead of pressure or coercion, parents gently guide the child through the process, respecting their pace and preferences.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Books by Attachment Parenting Advocates:</b> Authors like Dr. William Sears, who wrote "The Attachment Parenting Book," offer guidance on various aspects of attachment parenting, though not exclusively focused on potty training.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Pros:</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Prioritizes the emotional well-being of the child.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Supports a gentle and responsive approach to meeting the child's needs.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Can strengthen the parent-child bond through shared experiences.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Cons:</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">May take longer for some children to independently master potty training.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Requires a high level of parental involvement and responsiveness, which can be challenging for some families.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"><b>Parental Perspectives:</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Adlerian Parenting:</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Pros</b>: Parents often appreciate the emphasis on building their child's confidence and cooperation. Many find that the positive reinforcement approach fosters a healthier parent-child relationship.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Cons:</b> Some parents may find it challenging to maintain consistency and patience, especially if their child takes longer to grasp the concept.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Attachment Parenting:</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Pros: </b>Parents value the emphasis on emotional connection and responsiveness, which can strengthen the bond with their child. Many find that the gentle approach aligns well with their parenting values.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Cons:</b> Some parents may find it difficult to balance their child's emotional needs with practical considerations, such as time constraints or social expectations regarding potty training readiness.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">In summary, both Adlerian parenting and Attachment parenting offer valuable approaches to potty training, each with its own strengths and challenges. Ultimately, the effectiveness of either method may vary depending on the child's temperament, the family's dynamics, and the parent's ability to implement the techniques consistently and compassionately.</span></p><p><br /></p></div>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-89370123965639156292024-02-20T18:29:00.000-08:002024-02-20T19:02:52.405-08:00Late Life Bloating<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDsB8cYDGodf44IlBWhAIiCVP5mhZOo3Q-SMVENXrI7UTyWb4PuQOavO8NNOB2mmCaO0_8eyZnDQyhVLGEgfD8TvUopE-TeEayuaNH7eets0zaM-sTeXCoPFIftN6z-ASsk4A-2oSbCF7JfCYAFtvh5ncdE9RCOeQpIYE0Byx-ap9-aR8CjALyl-SmIX77/s2048/Firefly%20A%20pleasant-looking%20older%20woman%20(in%20her%2070swith%20grey%20hair%20)%20has%20a%20somewhat%20uncomfortable%20bloa.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDsB8cYDGodf44IlBWhAIiCVP5mhZOo3Q-SMVENXrI7UTyWb4PuQOavO8NNOB2mmCaO0_8eyZnDQyhVLGEgfD8TvUopE-TeEayuaNH7eets0zaM-sTeXCoPFIftN6z-ASsk4A-2oSbCF7JfCYAFtvh5ncdE9RCOeQpIYE0Byx-ap9-aR8CjALyl-SmIX77/s320/Firefly%20A%20pleasant-looking%20older%20woman%20(in%20her%2070swith%20grey%20hair%20)%20has%20a%20somewhat%20uncomfortable%20bloa.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I have a dear friend in her 80s who asked if I had any ideas why her stomach/gut is recently often bloated up so that she feels like she appears pregnant. I have experienced that, and I know many others do/have, as well.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> I did a run through the usual health-knowledge info online and found a number of possibilities. I am not a medical person, so I suggest that you take this information and definitely go to your trusted health care provider with any of the following if they might appear to be a possible explanation for your bloat. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Stomach or gut bloating can be caused by various factors, and it can affect individuals of any age, including older women. Some common causes of stomach or gut bloating in older women include:</span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-041739d4-7fff-981f-e27d-a81b494b541a"><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Digestive Disorders: </span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, or celiac disease can lead to bloating and discomfort in the stomach and gut.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Food Intolerances:</span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Some older women may develop intolerances to certain foods, such as lactose or gluten, which can cause bloating when those foods are consumed.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Constipation:</span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Constipation, which becomes more common with age due to factors like decreased physical activity and changes in diet or medication, can lead to bloating and discomfort.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Menopause</span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">: Hormonal changes associated with menopause can affect digestion and lead to bloating in some women.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Medications: </span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Certain medications, including pain relievers, antacids, and some antidepressants, can cause bloating as a side effect.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Gas:</span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Gas in the digestive tract can result from swallowing air while eating, drinking carbonated beverages, or as a byproduct of digestion, leading to bloating.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Poor Diet:</span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Consuming a diet high in processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and sugars, and low in fiber can contribute to bloating and digestive discomfort.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><br /></b></span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>Compression Fractures:</b> "Bowel problems are a common complication of compression fractures. The most common problem is constipation, which can be caused by the pressure of the fracture on the nerves that control the bowels. This pressure can also cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating. In severe cases, the intestine can become blocked, which can be life-threatening." *
<b>Impaired Diaphragm Function:</b> "An injury at the upper levels of the spinal cord may affect innervation of the diaphragm. Diaphragm contractions push down on the abdominal cavity, which may increase pressure and contribute to the sensation of bloating." **</span></span></p></li></ul><div><span face="Roboto, sans-serif"><span style="font-family: inherit; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span> </span><span> </span></span></span></div></span><div><span><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Fluid Retention: </span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Conditions such as heart failure, liver disease, or kidney disease can cause fluid retention, leading to bloating in the abdomen.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Gastroparesis:</span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> This condition, which involves delayed stomach emptying, can cause bloating, nausea, and other digestive symptoms.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Gastrointestinal Obstruction:</span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Partial or complete blockages in the gastrointestinal tract can lead to bloating, along with other symptoms like abdominal pain and vomiting.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Bacterial Overgrowth:</span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) occurs when there's an excessive amount of bacteria in the small intestine, leading to bloating, gas, and other digestive issues.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Stress:</span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Chronic stress can affect digestion and contribute to symptoms like bloating and discomfort in the stomach and gut.</span></span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">It's important for older women experiencing persistent or severe bloating to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment plan.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">* taken from <a href="http://www.brandonorthopedics.com/compression-fracture-a-common-cause-of-bowel-problems/">Brandon Orthopedics</a></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">** taken from <a href="https://www.flintrehab.com/spinal-cord-injury-bloated-stomach/">Flint Rehab</a></span></p><div><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span></div>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-17838165087367699362024-02-14T19:56:00.000-08:002024-02-21T19:26:11.870-08:00What is Ash Wednesday? Q & A About Lent<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAonpazoxmxqWScn3n2dol7OCKLJUz2QUxK5BJvdUwu7fG9ffmWpZlmfoMLI4QhQjv1Ud8yeVV65W1kmpMUnwQ_ZukTNfSFLHLmFBHVoQLSPLLp6iXSUm9G__KumWAAnYtcoG84pFKq6KJoAbj1nvzevIIpo1V-NiyADkEAA-T4kA4BX-HiGX9Qm9R2hyphenhyphenm/s2048/Firefly%20ash%20wednesday%20face%20of%20a%20woman%20with%20ashes%20on%20her%20forehead%20coming%20out%20of%20a%20church%2032441.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAonpazoxmxqWScn3n2dol7OCKLJUz2QUxK5BJvdUwu7fG9ffmWpZlmfoMLI4QhQjv1Ud8yeVV65W1kmpMUnwQ_ZukTNfSFLHLmFBHVoQLSPLLp6iXSUm9G__KumWAAnYtcoG84pFKq6KJoAbj1nvzevIIpo1V-NiyADkEAA-T4kA4BX-HiGX9Qm9R2hyphenhyphenm/w400-h400/Firefly%20ash%20wednesday%20face%20of%20a%20woman%20with%20ashes%20on%20her%20forehead%20coming%20out%20of%20a%20church%2032441.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<p><a href="#sectionVP2"><b><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; font-size: large;">CLICK to Read About Lenten Pilgrimages Below</span></b></a></p><b> <span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></b><span id="docs-internal-guid-9eea1c6b-7fff-05ca-26ef-1e81f71de20c"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Most of us know what Easter is, but what is Lent? </b></span><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Lent is a Christian observance lasting approximately 40 days before Easter.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">It commemorates Jesus Christ's 40 days of fasting in the wilderness.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">It's a period of reflection, repentance, and preparation for Easter.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Many Christians fast, pray, and practice self-discipline during Lent.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">It begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Holy Saturday.</span></li></ul></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><div><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><p><a href="#sectionVP3"><b><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; font-size: large;">CLICK to Read About Some Extreme Lenten Practices Below</span></b></a></p></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>What is Shrove Tuesday and what does it represent? </b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Shrove Tuesday, also known as Pancake Day, is the day before Ash Wednesday.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">It marks the beginning of Lent.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Traditionally, Christians would use up rich foods like eggs and fats before fasting for Lent.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Pancakes became associated with the day due to their use of these ingredients.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">It symbolizes preparation for fasting.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div><div><b>What is Ash Wednesday?</b></div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Ash Wednesday marks the start of Lent in many Christian traditions.</li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>It occurs 46 days before Easter Sunday.</li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>On this day, worshippers receive ashes on their foreheads in the shape of a cross.</li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>The ashes symbolize mortality, repentance, and the desire for spiritual renewal.</li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>It's a day of prayer, fasting, and reflection.</li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Are there other days that are significant during Lent? </b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Palm Sunday:</b> Commemorates Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Holy Monday, Holy Tuesday, and Holy Wednesday:</b> Often marked by reflection on Jesus' teachings and events leading up to his crucifixion.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Maudy Thursday:</b> Inspired by Jesus washing the feet of his disciples as an act of humility and service, some Christian churches practice foot washing ceremonies on Maundy Thursday. This ritual symbolizes the importance of humility, service, and love for one another. This is a standard ritual in Adventist Churches about 4 or 5 times a year. Many other traditonal rituals as well.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Good Friday:</b> Observes the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Holy Saturday:</b> Reflects on Jesus' time in the tomb and anticipation of his resurrection.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Easter Sunday:</b> Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, marking the end of Lent.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Why is Good Friday called GOOD? It doesn't seem good</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">Good Friday is considered "good" because it commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, which Christians believe led to the redemption of humanity. Despite the sorrow and suffering associated with Jesus' crucifixion, it is viewed as the ultimate act of love and sacrifice, paving the way for salvation and eternal life. The term "good" may also be interpreted in the sense of "holy" or "pious."</span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>What "Christian" -influenced denominations/religions do NOT observe Easter with the majority of Christians?</b></span></div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Some Christian-influenced denominations or religions that do not observe Easter in the same way as the majority of Christians include:</span></li></ul></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Jehovah's Witnesses: They do not celebrate Easter, viewing it as a pagan holiday.</span></li></ul></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Some branches of the Church of God (Seventh Day): They emphasize Sabbath observance and may not observe Easter.</span>Certain segments of the Churches of Christ: Some congregations may not observe Easter due to their focus on New Testament teachings and the absence of explicit biblical instructions for celebrating Easter.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Certain independent fundamentalist churches or groups may also abstain from observing Easter due to theological differences or objections to its pagan roots.</span></li></ul></div><div><b style="font-family: inherit;">Why do Jehovah's Witnesses see Easter as a pagan holiday?</b></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Jehovah's Witnesses view Easter as a pagan holiday due to its historical origins and associations. They believe that many Easter customs, such as the Easter bunny and eggs, have pagan roots, tracing back to pre-Christian fertility celebrations. Additionally, they see Easter as lacking biblical authorization and instead prioritize the commemoration of Jesus' death through the observance of the Memorial of Christ's Death, held annually on the date of the Jewish Passover.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Do the Churches of Christ who do not celebrate Easter, also not celebrate Christmas?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">The observance of Christmas among Churches of Christ can vary depending on individual congregations and their theological beliefs. While some Churches of Christ may choose not to observe Easter due to a lack of explicit biblical instruction, they may still choose to celebrate Christmas as a commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ. However, like Easter, there may be theological differences within the denomination regarding the celebration of Christmas, with some adherents opting for a more minimalist approach or choosing not to observe it at all.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>What about Seventh-day Adventists? Do they celebrate Easter and Christmas?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Seventh-day Adventists generally do observe Easter and Christmas, albeit with certain distinctive interpretations and practices. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Easter is typically observed as the resurrection of Jesus Christ, emphasizing its significance in Christian theology. Christmas, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, is also observed by many Seventh-day Adventists, although they may place more emphasis on the religious aspects rather than the commercial aspects of the holiday. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">However, like with many Christian denominations, there can be variations in how these holidays are celebrated among individual Seventh-day Adventist congregations.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Where does the word Lent come from?</b></span></div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">The word "Lent" comes from the Old English word "lencten," which means "springtime" or "lengthening of days." It likely derives from the Germanic root "langa," meaning "long," referring to the lengthening of daylight during the spring season.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"> In Christian tradition, Lent occurs during the springtime in the Northern Hemisphere, further connecting the season with the name Lent.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>What month and year is Jesus actually recorded as having been crucified?</b></span></div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">The crucifixion of Jesus Christ is traditionally believed to have occurred around the year 30 or 33 AD, although there is ongoing debate among scholars about the exact year. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Gospels in the New Testament do not provide a specific date for the crucifixion, but they do offer details about the events leading up to it, such as the Last Supper, Jesus' arrest, trial, and crucifixion. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">The exact month and day of Jesus' crucifixion are not recorded in historical documents.</span></li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>What season does the Bible propose was the time of the crucifixion of Christ? What season would that be in Canada?</b></span></div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Bible doesn't explicitly mention the season of Jesus' crucifixion, but it does provide some contextual clues. For instance, it notes that during the events leading up to the crucifixion, it was Passover time, which typically falls in the spring season according to the Jewish calendar.</span></li></ul></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">In Canada, spring typically occurs from March to June, with temperatures varying depending on the region. So, if we were to correlate the season of Passover in the Middle East with that in Canada, it would also be during the spring season.</span></li></ul></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>What denominations do not observe Lent?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Several Christian denominations do not traditionally observe Lent or do so with varying degrees of emphasis. These may include:</span></li></ul></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Many evangelical and non-denominational Protestant churches, which may not have a strong emphasis on liturgical seasons.</span></li></ul></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Certain independent fundamentalist churches or denominations, which may prioritize other aspects of Christian faith and practice.</span></li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Some Restorationist groups, such as Churches of Christ, who emphasize a return to New Testament practices and may not observe Lent due to a lack of explicit biblical command.</span></li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Certain Pentecostal and charismatic churches, which may prioritize spiritual renewal and may not adhere to traditional liturgical observances like Lent.</span></li></ul></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Jehovah's Witnesses, who do not observe many traditional Christian holidays and festivals, including Lent, viewing them as of pagan origin.</li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Are Seventh-day Adventists seen as an evangelical denomination?</b></span></div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Seventh-day Adventists are often considered a Protestant denomination, but they are not typically classified as part of the evangelical movement. While there may be some similarities in beliefs and practices between Seventh-day Adventists and evangelical Christians, such as a focus on personal conversion and sharing the gospel, Seventh-day Adventists have distinctive doctrines and practices that set them apart.</span></li></ul></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Seventh-day Adventists emphasize adherence to the Sabbath on Saturday, belief in the imminent return of Jesus Christ (Adventism), healthful living principles, and a unique understanding of prophetic interpretation, particularly regarding the end times. These distinctive teachings differentiate them from mainstream evangelicalism.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>So, do Adventists observe Lent?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Seventh-day Adventists, as a denomination, do not have a uniform observance of Lent like some other Christian traditions. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">While individual Seventh-day Adventists may choose to observe Lenten practices on a personal basis, such as fasting, prayer, and reflection, it is not a formal or widespread tradition within Seventh-day Adventist churches. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Instead, Seventh-day Adventists often emphasize spiritual renewal, reflection, and preparation throughout the year as part of their ongoing Christian walk.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Do Catholics still, in the majority, strictly observe Lent?</b></span></div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Yes, in the majority, Catholics still observe Lent as a significant liturgical season. Lent is considered one of the most important periods in the Catholic liturgical calendar. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">During Lent, Catholics typically engage in various spiritual practices such as fasting, abstinence from meat on Fridays, increased prayer, and almsgiving. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">While the degree of observance may vary among individuals, Lent remains a prominent and widely observed season within the Catholic Church.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">
<b><h2 id="sectionVP3"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>What Extreme Practices Might Be Observed?</b></span></h2>
</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Various extreme practices during Lent are observed in different parts of the world, often as acts of penance or devotion. Some examples include:</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b style="font-family: inherit;">Flagellation:</b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> In some regions, individuals may engage in self-flagellatio</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">n, whipping themselves bloody as a form of penance, particularly during Holy Week.</span></li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Fasting:</b> While fasting is a common Lenten practice, some individuals may undertake more extreme fasts, abstaining from food and water for extended periods as a form of spiritual discipline.</span></li></ul></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Extreme pilgrimages:</b> Some people undertake physically demanding pilgrimages or journeys during Lent, such as walking long distances barefoot or climbing steep terrain to reach sacred sites.</span></li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Extreme acts of charity:</b> Individuals may undertake extreme acts of charity or service during Lent, such as volunteering in impoverished or dangerous areas, or performing physically demanding tasks to help those in need.</span></li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Processions and reenactments: </b>Some communities stage reenactments of Jesus' Passion, carrying heavy crosses or participating in processions while bearing replicas of Jesus' crown of thorns or carrying statues depicting scenes from the Crucifixion. Scroll down to read more about Crucifixion enactments in the Philippines (my idea of extreme extreme).</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">It's important to note that while these practices may be seen as extreme by some, they are deeply rooted in cultural and religious traditions and are often undertaken with sincere intentions of devotion and penance. However, some religious authorities may caution against practices that pose risks to health or safety.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBqGHbbKparHVlRLiLI05fBsadYNul_nI8JcCXkGSWDqCrwWyZj9erEbH1s4J0uEKJgKFTKvwrTeSdGADrwtgKfo2lv5YP7LqNr86ZSvxmau0eP3Uj9tGizkU_bl4s8Ckq2eii9k2chsDQZRwPgrYz1V2ikcx1OgBrnRkKafcrTUlxtG6-oyicS6Fs3yCh/s2048/Firefly%20At%20Easter%20in%20the%20Philippines%20there%20are%20often%20enactments%20of%20the%20crucifixion%20of%20Jesus,%20like%20a%20.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBqGHbbKparHVlRLiLI05fBsadYNul_nI8JcCXkGSWDqCrwWyZj9erEbH1s4J0uEKJgKFTKvwrTeSdGADrwtgKfo2lv5YP7LqNr86ZSvxmau0eP3Uj9tGizkU_bl4s8Ckq2eii9k2chsDQZRwPgrYz1V2ikcx1OgBrnRkKafcrTUlxtG6-oyicS6Fs3yCh/w400-h400/Firefly%20At%20Easter%20in%20the%20Philippines%20there%20are%20often%20enactments%20of%20the%20crucifixion%20of%20Jesus,%20like%20a%20.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>What about the crucifixion enactments in the Philippines? How are they regarded by the Vatican?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">The crucifixions that take place in the Philippines, particularly during Holy Week, are a cultural and religious practice primarily associated with the municipality of San Fernando in Pampanga province. These crucifixions involve devotees voluntarily undergoing the experience of being nailed to a cross as an act of penance and devotion to Jesus Christ.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Vatican, as the central governing authority of the Catholic Church, has not issued an official statement specifically addressing the practice of crucifixions in the Philippines. However, it's worth noting that the Vatican generally encourages practices of devotion and penance that are in line with Catholic teachings and respect human dignity. While the Vatican has not officially endorsed or condemned these crucifixions, some Catholic leaders have expressed concerns about the extreme nature of these practices and emphasized the importance of focusing on the spiritual dimensions of Holy Week observances rather than extreme physical acts.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>When did the above practices begin in the municipality of San Fernando in Pamanga, and who started the cultural tradition?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;">The practice of crucifixions as part of Holy Week observances in the municipality of San Fernando in Pampanga, Philippines, dates back to the early 20th century. It is believed to have been initiated by a local resident named Artemio Anoza, who began performing the crucifixion ritual as an act of penance and devotion in 1955. Over time, the practice gained popularity and became a significant cultural tradition in the area, attracting both local devotees and tourists. However, it's important to note that while Artemio Anoza is often credited with popularizing the practice, the roots of such extreme devotional practices may have deeper historical and cultural origins within the Filipino Catholic community.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Does the Russian Orthodox Church have any variations in Lent practices from the rest of the Christian world?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Yes, the Russian Orthodox Church observes Lent with its own unique variations and practices that differ from those of other Christian traditions:</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Length of Lent</b>: The Russian Orthodox Church follows the Eastern Orthodox tradition of Lent, which typically lasts for 40 days, excluding Sundays, leading up to Easter. This period is known as Great Lent.</span></li></ul></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Dietary restrictions:</b> During Great Lent, Russian Orthodox believers abstain from certain foods, particularly meat, dairy products, and eggs. This period of fasting is known as "Great Lenten Fast" or "the Great Fast." The dietary restrictions are often stricter than those observed in Western Christian traditions.</span></li></ul></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Intensity of services: </b>The Russian Orthodox Church places a strong emphasis on prayer, repentance, and spiritual discipline during Great Lent. There are increased opportunities for attending church services, including the celebration of the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts on Wednesdays and Fridays.</span></li></ul></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Prostrations</b>: Russian Orthodox believers may engage in prostrations, which involve bowing down or kneeling to the ground as an act of humility and repentance, particularly during Lenten services.</span></li></ul></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Veneration of icons: </b>The veneration of icons plays a significant role in Russian Orthodox Lenten practices, with believers using icons as aids in prayer and meditation throughout the season.</span></li></ul></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">Overall, the Russian Orthodox Church's observance of Lent is deeply rooted in its rich tradition of spirituality and asceticism, with a focus on prayer, fasting, repentance, and preparation for the celebration of Easter.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><h2 id="sectionVP2">Pilgrimages You Can Take During Lent</h2></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCiXApk0DfcO_DW10kgLlxb3oONGZe1qegbDukHfQnA9VystnoQUbocZ_6JgAkypjjfeZ1ndDn7ISuWjTuWVWKvri6WHAVJMQh3X5pr86byxrxX4upCkz5LDLsVDnC3DmsDLBQj-MILsMCeU4mUft3BWAwEd4yBu81bc2TBt7RU4-V_R_UylbKK18n7hAZ/s2048/Firefly%20modern%20pilgrims%20hiking%20through%20the%20Spanish%20countryside,%20families,%20old%20singles,%20couples,%20with.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCiXApk0DfcO_DW10kgLlxb3oONGZe1qegbDukHfQnA9VystnoQUbocZ_6JgAkypjjfeZ1ndDn7ISuWjTuWVWKvri6WHAVJMQh3X5pr86byxrxX4upCkz5LDLsVDnC3DmsDLBQj-MILsMCeU4mUft3BWAwEd4yBu81bc2TBt7RU4-V_R_UylbKK18n7hAZ/w400-h400/Firefly%20modern%20pilgrims%20hiking%20through%20the%20Spanish%20countryside,%20families,%20old%20singles,%20couples,%20with.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">A pilgrim is someone who embarks on a journey, often to a sacred or significant destination, for spiritual or religious reasons. The journey itself is seen as an act of devotion, reflection, and seeking a deeper connection with one's faith or beliefs.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">While many famous pilgrimage destinations exist, such as the Holy Land, Santiago de Compostela in Spain, Mecca in Saudi Arabia, or Varanasi in India, it's not necessary to travel to these places to engage in a pilgrimage experience. Pilgrimage can be a deeply personal and internal journey, and it can take place within one's own community or even within the confines of one's home.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">Here are some ways to make a pilgrimage during Lent without physically traveling to distant places:</span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <b>Local Pilgrimage Sites:</b> Explore pilgrimage sites within your local area. Many regions have sacred sites, shrines, cathedrals, or historical churches that hold significance for believers. Visiting these places during Lent can provide an opportunity for reflection and prayer. </span>Some local churches host a labyrinth in their church yard. Walking the labyrinth can be a spiritual exercise with chances to reflect and pray.</li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Spiritual Retreats: </b>Attend a spiritual retreat or retreat center during Lent. These retreats offer structured programs focused on prayer, meditation, and spiritual growth. They provide an opportunity to step away from the busyness of everyday life and immerse oneself in a period of contemplation and renewal.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Walking Pilgrimages:</b> Instead of traveling to a distant pilgrimage site, consider embarking on a walking pilgrimage in your local area. Choose a route that holds personal or spiritual significance, such as a path through nature, historical landmarks, or sacred sites. Use the journey as a time for prayer, reflection, and connection with nature. And as above, a labyrinth in a church yard (or elsewhere) can be walked as part of a spiritual discipline, praying and reflecting.</span></li><li><b>Virtual Pilgrimages:</b> With modern technology, it's possible to embark on virtual pilgrimages from the comfort of your home. Many pilgrimage sites offer virtual tours or live-streamed services, allowing you to participate in religious rituals and experiences remotely. You can also engage in virtual prayer groups or join online communities focused on pilgrimage and spirituality.</li><li><b>Inner Pilgrimage: </b>Ultimately, pilgrimage is about the journey of the soul. Use the Lenten season as an opportunity for inner reflection, prayer, and spiritual growth. Set aside time each day for prayer, meditation, scripture reading, and self-examination. Focus on deepening your relationship with God and striving for personal transformation.</li></ol></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;">Regardless of the form it takes, the essence of pilgrimage lies in the intention and devotion with which it is undertaken. Whether you travel to a distant land or embark on a journey of the heart, pilgrimage can be a powerful and transformative experience during the Lenten season.</span></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></span><p></p>
Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-57654772018927367062024-02-12T21:14:00.000-08:002024-02-12T22:12:15.246-08:00Celebrate Galentine's Day!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHSDijvdfC2otfMlQBssr1Kw1ZK6gjREQEzTk1luytGmiZTe4vsjDse5bVi4PEQnn-TwU1La7sD6B9kltYcx2T1eomyByILTC9vekvdhMUQzArsNyszPy8sHDL3oW0WkGVe4e0n9bCBmhCZdpnMnjHid8y5QyxdmPCcNnDTSD3fQ0eo0ALDcWGkl1cMEFE/s2048/Firefly%20A%20fun%20art%20night%20with%20your%20gal%20pals%20for%20Galentine's%20Day--%20all%20ages!%2063760.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHSDijvdfC2otfMlQBssr1Kw1ZK6gjREQEzTk1luytGmiZTe4vsjDse5bVi4PEQnn-TwU1La7sD6B9kltYcx2T1eomyByILTC9vekvdhMUQzArsNyszPy8sHDL3oW0WkGVe4e0n9bCBmhCZdpnMnjHid8y5QyxdmPCcNnDTSD3fQ0eo0ALDcWGkl1cMEFE/s320/Firefly%20A%20fun%20art%20night%20with%20your%20gal%20pals%20for%20Galentine's%20Day--%20all%20ages!%2063760.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Looking to celebrate Galentine's Day in style this year? </span></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Gather your gal pals and indulge in a variety of fun activities that celebrate friendship and independence. Apparently, February 13th is usually set aside for this, but why not ANY day in February? Talk to your buds and see what day/night works for them! </span></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">From a fun-filled brunch to a relaxing spa day, a movie marathon featuring empowering films, or an ART night, there's something for everyone to enjoy. </span></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Get creative with DIY crafts, embark on outdoor adventures, or host a game night filled with laughter and friendly competition. Whether you're exchanging self-care tips, dancing the night away, or giving back to the community through volunteer work, Galentine's Day is all about cherishing the bonds of female friendship. </span></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b584c4c4-7fff-5522-4108-5a458dbf9c6f"></span></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Galentine's Brunch:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> Host a brunch at your place or a favorite spot where you and your gal pals can enjoy delicious food, and each other's company.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Spa Day:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> Treat yourselves to a relaxing spa day or DIY spa at home complete with facials, manicures, and massages.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Movie Marathon: </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Have a movie marathon featuring your favorite chick flicks or empowering films that celebrate friendship and independence.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">ART Night:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> Get together for a paint night where you can unleash your creativity while enjoying refreshments and lots of laughs and conversation.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Game Night: </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Organize a game night with board games, card games, or even video games for a fun and competitive evening with your friends.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Cooking Party: </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Have a cooking party where you and your friends can try out new recipes, cook together, and enjoy a delicious meal.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Outdoor Adventure:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> Plan an outdoor adventure such as hiking, skating, ski-ing or some other fresh air and quality time together.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">DIY Craft Night:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> Get crafty with a DIY craft night where you can make personalized gifts, home decor, or anything else that sparks your creativity.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Karaoke Night:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> Hit up a karaoke bar or host a karaoke night at home where you can sing your hearts out and have a blast.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Book Club Gathering: </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Start a book club with your gal pals and meet regularly to discuss your latest reads over snacks and drinks.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Self-Care Swap: </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Organize a self-care swap where you exchange your favorite beauty products, skincare routines, or relaxation techniques.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Dance Party:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> Turn up the music and have a dance party in your living room or hit the town for a night of dancing and fun. (A play list is suggested below).</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Photography Walk</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">: Take a photography walk around your city or a scenic area, capturing memories and beautiful moments together.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Vision Board Party:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> Host a vision board party where you and your friends can create vision boards to visualize your goals and dreams for the future.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: none; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Volunteer Together:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"> Give back to your community by volunteering together at a local charity or organization that's meaningful to you all. It's a great way to bond while making a positive impact.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 15pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 15pt 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Here's a list of iconic romantic dance tunes from 8 decades:</b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">1950:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">"Unchained Melody" by The Righteous Brothers</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">1955:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">2. "Earth Angel" by The Penguins</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">1960:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">3. "Save the Last Dance for Me" by The Drifters</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">1965:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">4. "Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)" by The Four Tops</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">1970:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">5. "Let's Stay Together" by Al Green</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">1975:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">6. "Love Will Keep Us Together" by Captain & Tennille</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">1980:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">7. "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" by Queen</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">1985:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">8. "Careless Whisper" by George Michael</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">1990:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">9. "I Will Always Love You" by Whitney Houston</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">1995:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">10. "Kiss from a Rose" by Seal</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">2000:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">11. "Smooth" by Santana featuring Rob Thomas</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">2005:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">12. "We Belong Together" by Mariah Carey</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">2010:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">13. "Just the Way You Are" by Bruno Mars</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">2015:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">14. "Thinking Out Loud" by Ed Sheeran</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">2020:</span></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-c04b6f45-7fff-0959-b47a-95ec523baf72"></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Roboto,sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">15. "Blinding Lights" by The Weeknd</span></p>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-29049940811121405862024-02-11T14:51:00.000-08:002024-02-11T16:04:54.168-08:00YES and NO Valentine's Gifts<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjlaTTPWsWNpims_dw3cM9egglSgaQl3Pq8swhlK3T3bYoVl96FK-dFjuF0e23EMo0YQLEJsyW3Oblj1YQm6w-JI8hy29Icni1B1VGyJEtoxn88ndPSmW6H8oiP-wkjHkHZGC9FoRLFRYPfEnrLcipLRIhjwkJ1rzMhQkP3vdAYvt6KzNSidSrDG56SVfS/s2688/Firefly%20a%20Valentine%20lover%20at%20a%20special%20dinner%20with%20his%20date,%20a%20ring,%20chocolates%20and%20flowers%2094691.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2688" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjlaTTPWsWNpims_dw3cM9egglSgaQl3Pq8swhlK3T3bYoVl96FK-dFjuF0e23EMo0YQLEJsyW3Oblj1YQm6w-JI8hy29Icni1B1VGyJEtoxn88ndPSmW6H8oiP-wkjHkHZGC9FoRLFRYPfEnrLcipLRIhjwkJ1rzMhQkP3vdAYvt6KzNSidSrDG56SVfS/w400-h229/Firefly%20a%20Valentine%20lover%20at%20a%20special%20dinner%20with%20his%20date,%20a%20ring,%20chocolates%20and%20flowers%2094691.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The popularity and reception of Valentine's gifts can vary greatly depending on personal preferences and relationships, but here are ten gifts that are generally well-received:</span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-d0af47d2-7fff-5094-b9b9-6d78c8f7b13c"><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Flowers:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Classic and timeless, a bouquet of flowers, particularly roses, is a staple Valentine's Day gift symbolizing love and affection. See about the top florals for Valentine's <a href="https://www.organicgranny.com/2024/02/top-ten-florals-for-valentines-day.html">HERE</a>.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Chocolates: </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Another classic choice, chocolates are often associated with indulgence and romance. Opting for high-quality or personalized chocolates can add a special touch.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Jewelry:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Whether it's a necklace, bracelet, or ring, jewelry is a luxurious and meaningful gift that can be cherished for years to come.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Dinner at a Fine Restaurant:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> A romantic dinner at a fancy restaurant is a popular choice for couples to celebrate Valentine's Day together.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Personalized Gifts: </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Anything customized or personalized, such as engraved jewelry, custom photo frames, or monogrammed items, adds a personal touch to the gift-giving experience.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Spa Day or Massage:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Pampering your loved one with a spa day or a relaxing massage is a thoughtful way to show appreciation and care.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Weekend Getaway:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> A romantic getaway for the weekend allows couples to escape the routine and spend quality time together in a new and exciting location.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Love Letters or Poems:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Handwritten love letters or poems expressing your feelings can be incredibly meaningful and romantic.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Tech Gadgets:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> For the tech-savvy partner, the latest gadgets like smartwatches, tablets, or smartphones can make great Valentine's gifts.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Experience Gifts:</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Consider giving the gift of an experience, such as tickets to a concert, a cooking class, or a hot air balloon ride, creating lasting memories together.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Ultimately, the best Valentine's Day gift is one that reflects the unique connection and interests of the couple involved.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgekoHYeWf3AFhghGhVBZGcwdKShC7t4trKoI_a7_AV-n07yd_h82c9NN-gM7tzPpcP7tlLDN3Hv4cI9ZMX9BCvb9I0r8OvCYhI9ALkQmQdOW0CnDVBc1jSgwdy2-WsPJG407X_1-JDUI48S4tYZ5zMrNEpZRVwV-gm50dmb5TfMRz_JszTzjxcLY7xCwK_/s2688/Firefly%20She%20is%20allergic%20(sneezing)%20to%20the%20dog%20he%20is%20giving%20here%20for%20Valentine's%20Day%2092131.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2688" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgekoHYeWf3AFhghGhVBZGcwdKShC7t4trKoI_a7_AV-n07yd_h82c9NN-gM7tzPpcP7tlLDN3Hv4cI9ZMX9BCvb9I0r8OvCYhI9ALkQmQdOW0CnDVBc1jSgwdy2-WsPJG407X_1-JDUI48S4tYZ5zMrNEpZRVwV-gm50dmb5TfMRz_JszTzjxcLY7xCwK_/w400-h229/Firefly%20She%20is%20allergic%20(sneezing)%20to%20the%20dog%20he%20is%20giving%20here%20for%20Valentine's%20Day%2092131.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: large; font-weight: 700; white-space-collapse: preserve;">UNPOPULAR GIFTS YOU PROBABLY DON’T WANT TO GIVE.. or recieve</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></p></li></ul><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><span id="docs-internal-guid-d0af47d2-7fff-5094-b9b9-6d78c8f7b13c"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: large; white-space-collapse: preserve;">An item clearly chosen without consideration for the recipient's tastes or interests</span></span></li><li>A self-improvement or self-help book implying the recipient needs to change</li><li>A scale or gym membership subscription implying the need for weight loss</li><li>A re-gifted item with the original recipient's name still on it</li><li>Cleaning supplies or household appliances suggesting chores over romance</li><li>An expired coupon or voucher</li><li>A framed photo of yourself instead of a couple's photo</li><li>A cheap or tacky piece of jewelry</li><li>An impersonal gift card without any indication of thought or effort</li><li>A dried up plant </li><li>A cheap box of candy from the Dollar Store</li><li>A pet that the recipient is allergic to</li><li>A subscription to a dating app </li><li>A used or second-hand item from your relative’s yard sale stash</li><li>A "breakup survival kit" implying the relationship may not last</li><li>A gift that clearly benefits the giver more than the recipient (e.g., a gaming console for the giver's enjoyment)</li><li>A generic greeting card with no personalized message</li><li>An IOU for a future gift or experience, without any token of affection.</li></ol></span>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-11830677470317312492024-02-10T19:59:00.000-08:002024-02-10T20:04:39.558-08:00Top Ten Florals for Valentine's Day<p> </p><span id="docs-internal-guid-442316a0-7fff-c6b8-589c-fb9fa2e14d88"><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX4VrfWS-pdSxhwN435jd1_rCWMXMCbD6VHvlWW0HZKzowrH0D-Kjam2DuzyCQx22R4aN5WOh7b4KIH68UeBCvc1JtxXKgYB2V1gH-LyXs7HQeh081xvMUF-fo__QSJEUftqvyoEMQLN44ddn0Fj8JcjW6Xfj_JoNF9_cy6ZWRTcXKguMeRf7_qO1seYme/s2048/Firefly%20Colorful%20flower%20shop%20dressed%20up%20for%20Valentine's%20Day%20with%20roses,%20lilies,%20tulips,%20hydrangeas%20a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX4VrfWS-pdSxhwN435jd1_rCWMXMCbD6VHvlWW0HZKzowrH0D-Kjam2DuzyCQx22R4aN5WOh7b4KIH68UeBCvc1JtxXKgYB2V1gH-LyXs7HQeh081xvMUF-fo__QSJEUftqvyoEMQLN44ddn0Fj8JcjW6Xfj_JoNF9_cy6ZWRTcXKguMeRf7_qO1seYme/w400-h400/Firefly%20Colorful%20flower%20shop%20dressed%20up%20for%20Valentine's%20Day%20with%20roses,%20lilies,%20tulips,%20hydrangeas%20a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Valentine's Day floral arrangements often feature a variety of flowers and foliage chosen for their romantic symbolism, vibrant colors, and pleasing fragrances. While the specific flowers may vary depending on personal preference and regional availability, here are ten popular choices commonly included in Valentine's Day floral arrangements:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Roses:</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> As the quintessential symbol of love and romance, roses are a staple in Valentine's Day arrangements. Red roses, in particular, convey deep love and passion, but other colors like pink, white, and lavender can also be used to represent different sentiments.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Tulips:</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> With their elegant simplicity and wide range of colors, tulips are another popular choice for Valentine's Day bouquets. Red tulips symbolize perfect love, while other hues like pink, purple, and white can convey admiration and affection.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Lilies:</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Lilies are known for their graceful beauty and intoxicating fragrance, making them a lovely addition to Valentine's Day arrangements. Stargazer lilies, in particular, are often featured for their bold colors and striking appearance.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Carnations: </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Carnations are valued for their long-lasting blooms and affordability, making them a common choice for Valentine's Day bouquets. Red carnations symbolize admiration and deep love, while pink carnations represent gratitude and affection.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Gerbera Daisies:</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> With their cheerful appearance and vibrant hues, gerbera daisies add a playful touch to Valentine's Day arrangements. They come in various colors, including red, pink, white, and orange, allowing for creative combinations.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Orchids: </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Orchids exude elegance and sophistication, making them a popular choice for upscale Valentine's Day bouquets. While white orchids symbolize purity and elegance, pink orchids represent admiration and joy.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Freesias:</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Freesias are prized for their delicate appearance and sweet fragrance, making them a charming addition to Valentine's Day arrangements. They come in an array of colors, including white, pink, purple, and yellow.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Alstroemeria: </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Also known as Peruvian lilies, alstroemeria symbolize friendship and devotion, making them a meaningful choice for Valentine's Day bouquets. They come in various shades, including red, pink, orange, and white.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Hydrangeas:</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Hydrangeas are beloved for their lush, voluminous blooms and enduring beauty, making them a popular choice for romantic arrangements. They come in shades of pink, blue, purple, and white, adding depth and texture to bouquets.</span></p></li></ul><div><span face="Roboto, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Baby's Breath and Greenery: </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Baby's breath is often used as a filler flower in Valentine's Day arrangements, adding texture and lightness to bouquets. Various types of greenery, such as eucalyptus, ferns, and ivy, are also incorporated to provide contrast and balance.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">These flowers can be arranged in various styles, from classic roses-only bouquets to more eclectic mixes featuring a combination of blooms and foliage. Ultimately, the best Valentine's Day floral arrangement will reflect the tastes and preferences of the recipient, as well as the sentiment you wish to convey.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></span>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-19568556926129465202024-01-28T19:46:00.000-08:002024-01-28T19:46:40.102-08:0010 Uses for Ginger<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRNkXzYiWWOBDw5cpCbXjN60yzWXW2cAY0T1dPJVFHdH1rp6aZBUVXa9aOlLKO1I9RYzJ163klOQTCcmVkjo_emn4mwDmbyPoHTA3o5g9BV-GVMrinhq31mLjVM2c7NwC-aHYKxM66AmTpxlW12iBvbq4Vue3ah8fnhDI4A9nv41f9iVqxKV4GeTpSGMgM/s2048/Firefly%20Show%20images%20of%20a%20ginger%20plant%20blooming%20and%20the%20bulbous%20root%20of%20ginger%20that%20results%2049529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRNkXzYiWWOBDw5cpCbXjN60yzWXW2cAY0T1dPJVFHdH1rp6aZBUVXa9aOlLKO1I9RYzJ163klOQTCcmVkjo_emn4mwDmbyPoHTA3o5g9BV-GVMrinhq31mLjVM2c7NwC-aHYKxM66AmTpxlW12iBvbq4Vue3ah8fnhDI4A9nv41f9iVqxKV4GeTpSGMgM/s320/Firefly%20Show%20images%20of%20a%20ginger%20plant%20blooming%20and%20the%20bulbous%20root%20of%20ginger%20that%20results%2049529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p> <span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="color: #374151; font-size: medium; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Ginger is a versatile spice that is widely used in various culinary and medicinal applications. Here are several uses for ginger:</span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-d5a06996-7fff-5262-2ef6-ef985ab89d9f"><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>Cooking and Baking:</b> Ginger adds a unique and warm flavor to both savory and sweet dishes. It is commonly used in Asian cuisines, curries, stir-fries, soups, and baked goods like gingerbread and cookies.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>Tea:</b> Ginger tea is a popular beverage and is known for its potential health benefits. It can be made by steeping fresh ginger slices in hot water. Ginger tea is often used to </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-wrap: wrap;">alleviate nausea, aid digestion, and provide a warming sensation.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-wrap: wrap;"><br /></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>Medicinal Purposes:</b> Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is used in traditional medicine to help with various conditions, such as nausea, indigestion, and muscle pain. It may also help reduce symptoms of arthritis.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>Nausea Relief:</b> Ginger is well-known for its ability to alleviate nausea, including morning sickness during pregnancy and motion sickness. It can be consumed in various forms, such as ginger tea, ginger candies, or ginger capsules.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>Digestive Aid:</b> Ginger can help with digestion by promoting the production of digestive enzymes. It is often recommended for individuals experiencing indigestion, bloating, or gas.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>Flavoring Beverages:</b> Grated or sliced ginger can be added to both hot and cold beverages, including smoothies, cocktails, and infused water, to enhance flavor.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>Condiment: </b>Pickled ginger, often served with sushi, is a popular condiment. It provides a palate-cleansing element between different types of sushi.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>Culinary Marinades and Sauces:</b> Ginger is commonly used in marinades and sauces for meats, poultry, and seafood. It adds depth of flavor and complements other ingredients.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>Natural Preservative:</b> Ginger has natural preservative properties and has been used historically to help preserve food.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #374151; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>Topical Applications:</b> In some cultures, ginger is used topically for its potential anti-inflammatory properties. It may be applied to the skin to alleviate pain and reduce swelling.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before using ginger for medicinal purposes, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications. While ginger is generally considered safe in moderate amounts, excessive consumption may lead to side effects for some individuals.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Also see:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><a href="https://www.organicgranny.com/2014/07/25-things-you-can-do-with-lavender.html">Uses for Lavender</a></b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><a href="https://www.organicgranny.com/2021/05/7-thimgs-to-do-with-oregano-flowers.html">Uses for Oregano Flowers</a></b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><a href="https://www.organicgranny.com/2013/06/a-make-ahead-charcoal-poultice.html">The Charcoal Bug-Bite Plaster</a></b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><a href="https://www.organicgranny.com/2021/05/the-lemon-garlic-mixture-recipe-that.html">Lemon and Garlic for your Immune System</a></b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><a href="https://www.organicgranny.com/2021/05/7-things-to-do-with-rosemary.html">Uses for Rosemary</a></b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><a href="https://www.organicgranny.com/2023/12/all-things-gingerbread-house.html?m=1"><b>All Things Gingerbread-House</b></a></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><br /></p><div><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-33778168724964188032024-01-26T13:42:00.000-08:002024-01-26T13:50:20.139-08:00Review Comparing Atomic Habits with The Power of Habit<div class="full module moduleText" id="mod_55194360" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1.3em; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"><h2 class="subtitle" style="color: #6ea6af; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 1.7em; line-height: 1.3em; margin: 0px 0px 0.7em;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></h2><h2 class="subtitle" style="color: #6ea6af; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 1.7em; line-height: 1.3em; margin: 0px 0px 0.7em;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwhqHMfvwHK4nCrqoT3pp2DvAkpnflVn4AnmBlkXzki3vqMOQU21EjIvv3xQyrcZxUDdV9EHAQ9wpH-oygY-Ap51MqelHTLfJw8tlbEx7JSRtCljiBDLg8KMYA2w90uxVUz-xcvcZHERm-kQAc7WZD6P_m5jgp56Z0XbmNUYf9r9GwUk0IpKKRI7dG7Jl6/s2048/Firefly%20A%20beautiful%20older%20woman%20playing%20the%20guitar%2051512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwhqHMfvwHK4nCrqoT3pp2DvAkpnflVn4AnmBlkXzki3vqMOQU21EjIvv3xQyrcZxUDdV9EHAQ9wpH-oygY-Ap51MqelHTLfJw8tlbEx7JSRtCljiBDLg8KMYA2w90uxVUz-xcvcZHERm-kQAc7WZD6P_m5jgp56Z0XbmNUYf9r9GwUk0IpKKRI7dG7Jl6/s320/Firefly%20A%20beautiful%20older%20woman%20playing%20the%20guitar%2051512.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Your habits are how you embody your identity."<br /><i>Atomic Habits</i>, by James Clear</td></tr></tbody></table><br />My husband and I have been married for over fifty-three years. We have been relatively healthy for most of this time, but a health crisis in 2022 prompted us to learn more about changes we might need to make if we plan to avoid dementia, and particularly Alzheimer's Disease. We subscribed to an online group that focused on lifestyle medicine with scientifically-sound evidence base for the beliefs held by the group's neurologist leaders.</span></h2><div class="txtd" id="txtd_55194360"><p style="margin: 0px 0px 0.75em;"><span style="font-size: large;">We learned that our whole-food, plant-based diet was a good start to our plan to optimize our health by keeping our arteries clean and our microbiome in good working order. Exercise and stress management were also on the agenda, as well as reading and learning new skills, such as a foreign language or a musical instrument.</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 0.75em;"><span style="font-size: large;">The group hosted a Book Club for its online members. My husband was in the midst of treatments for cataracts, so I took on the role of reader for both of us. The upcoming book was <em>Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits and Break Bad Ones</em> by James Clear.</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 0.75em;"><span style="font-size: large;">In the arena of self-help literature, habit formation has been a popular topic in the personal development genre. Besides <img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=hubacct1905-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B07VQKP8ZJ" style="border: none; margin: 0px;" width="1" /><a href="https://amzn.to/3UhcKoL" rel="nofollow" style="color: #e25e2b; text-decoration-line: none;"><span class="amazonlink" style="background-color: #e25e2b; border-radius: 4px; color: white; display: inline-block; height: 16px; margin-right: 3px; margin-top: 2px; padding: 4px 4px 0px; text-wrap: nowrap; vertical-align: top;"><span class="alogo" style="display: inline-block; height: 12px; width: 12px;"><svg class="moon tiny amazon"><use xlink:href="#amazon"></use></svg></span></span><em>Atomic Habits</em></a> (published 2018, affiliate link) we were also familiar with Charles Duhigg's <em>The Power of Habit:Why We Do What We Do In Life and Business</em>. (published 2012/2014).</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 0.75em;"><span style="font-size: large;">Both authors delve into the science of habits and provide strategies for positive behavior change. In this comparative review, we'll explore the preferred techniques presented by James Clear in <em>Atomic Habits</em> and examine why these methods may overshadow the approach presented by Charles Duhigg.</span></p></div></div><div class="full module moduleAdSpot desktopAd" id="mod_new38" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1.3em; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-align: center; word-break: break-word;"></div><div class="full module moduleAdSpot desktopAd" id="mod_new36" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1.3em; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-align: center; word-break: break-word;"></div><div class="full module moduleDistributionVideo" id="mod_new34" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1.3em; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"></div><div class="full module moduleText" id="mod_55194367" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1.3em; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"><h2 class="subtitle" style="color: #6ea6af; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.3em; margin: 0px 0px 0.7em;"><span style="font-size: large;">Clear's Focus on Atomic Habits</span></h2><div class="txtd" id="txtd_55194367"><p style="margin: 0px 0px 0.75em;"><span style="font-size: large;">James Clear's <em>Atomic Habits</em> introduces the concept of atomic habits—tiny changes that compound over time to produce significant results. Clear emphasizes the power of small actions, advocating for the idea that focusing on the minute details of behavior can lead to transformative outcomes. This micro-level approach allows individuals to make manageable changes and witness tangible progress, creating a positive feedback loop.</span></p></div></div><div class="full module moduleText" id="mod_55194368" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1.3em; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"><h2 class="subtitle" style="color: #6ea6af; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.3em; margin: 0px 0px 0.7em;"><span style="font-size: large;">Duhigg's Habit Loop</span></h2><div class="txtd" id="txtd_55194368"><p style="margin: 0px 0px 0.75em;"><span style="font-size: large;">In <em>The Power of Habit</em>, Charles Duhigg introduces the habit loop—a neurological pattern consisting of cue, routine, and reward. While the habit loop is a compelling model, it leans more towards the macro level, examining habits as holistic routines. Duhigg's emphasis on identifying and altering the habit loop is insightful, but it may lack the understandability of Clear's concept of atomic habits.</span></p></div></div><div class="full module moduleText" id="mod_55194369" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1.3em; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"><h2 class="subtitle" style="color: #6ea6af; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.3em; margin: 0px 0px 0.7em;"><span style="font-size: large;">The Strength of Clear's Implementation Strategies</span></h2><div class="txtd" id="txtd_55194369"><p style="margin: 0px 0px 0.75em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em>Atomic Habits</em> stands out for its practical and actionable strategies, such as "habit stacking" in which you pair an already established habit with a new habit. An example might be "After my 1/2 hour morning devotional, I will spend 1/2 hour on my German Duolingo program."</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 0.75em;"><span style="font-size: large;">Clear provides a step-by-step guide for implementing habits, making the process accessible to a wide audience. His emphasis on environment design and visual cues adds a layer of specificity that aids in the successful establishment of habits.</span></p></div></div><div class="full module moduleText" id="mod_55194370" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1.3em; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"><h2 class="subtitle" style="color: #6ea6af; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 1.3em; margin: 0px 0px 0.7em;"><span style="font-size: large;">Duhigg's Limited Practical Application</span></h2><div class="txtd" id="txtd_55194370"><p style="margin: 0px 0px 0.75em;"><span style="font-size: large;">While <em>The Power of Habit</em> offers a deep dive into the science of habits and habit loops, the application of this knowledge seems less straightforward. Duhigg's focus on case studies and stories, while engaging, might leave some readers searching for concrete steps to implement in their daily lives. In comparison to Clear's actionable techniques, Duhigg's approach may be seen as more theoretical than practical. I recall asking my Grade 12 Chemistry teacher if there was a practical application for a speciic experiment-- long since forgotten-- but I remember his startled blank look and his mumbling something like, "This is Science-- there might not be "a practical application" for this experiment."</span></p></div></div><div class="full module moduleVideo" id="mod_55194545" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 1.3em; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"><h2 class="subtitle" style="color: #6ea6af; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 1.7em; line-height: 1.3em; margin: 0px 0px 0.7em;">How To Set and Stick To Life-Changing Habits- Presentation by Charles Duhigg</h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="267" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Yf1XtES5bXc" width="489" youtube-src-id="Yf1XtES5bXc"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><div class="full module moduleText" id="mod_55194371" style="clear: left; color: #4b4949; margin-bottom: 1.3em; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"><h2 class="subtitle" style="color: #6ea6af; line-height: 1.3em; margin: 0px 0px 0.7em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Clear's Emphasis on Identity</span></h2><div class="txtd" id="txtd_55194371"><p style="margin: 0px 0px 0.75em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">James Clear goes beyond the mechanics of habit formation by highlighting the role of identity in sustaining habits. He argues that by aligning habits with one's identity, individuals can foster lasting change. Clear's approach taps into the psychological aspect of habit formation, encouraging readers to see themselves as the type of person they aspire to become.</span></p></div></div><div class="full module moduleVideo" id="mod_55194530" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 1.3em; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"><h2 class="subtitle" style="color: #6ea6af; line-height: 1.3em; margin: 0px 0px 0.7em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">"What Would (The Person I Wish To Become) Do? Interview with James Clear</span></h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="330" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_9N7MVcNz8w" width="483" youtube-src-id="_9N7MVcNz8w"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div style="color: #4b4949;"><div class="full module moduleText" id="mod_55194372" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1.3em; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"><h2 class="subtitle" style="color: #6ea6af; line-height: 1.3em; margin: 0px 0px 0.7em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Duhigg's Exploration of Institutional Habits</span></h2><div class="txtd" id="txtd_55194372"><p style="margin: 0px 0px 0.75em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Charles Duhigg's exploration of organizational and societal habits is a notable strength in <em>The Power of Habit</em>. However, for readers seeking personal change, these sections may feel less directly applicable. Clear's focus on individual habits and the cumulative impact of small changes will likely resonate more with those looking for immediate, personal transformation.</span></p></div></div><div class="full module moduleText" id="mod_55194503" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1.3em; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"><h2 class="subtitle" style="color: #6ea6af; line-height: 1.3em; margin: 0px 0px 0.7em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">The Flexibility of Clear's Approach</span></h2><div class="txtd" id="txtd_55194503"><p style="margin: 0px 0px 0.75em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">James Clear recognizes the uniqueness of individuals and provides a flexible framework for habit formation. He encourages readers to adapt strategies to their own preferences and circumstances. This flexibility caters to a diverse audience, making <em>Atomic Habits</em> applicable to various lifestyles and personalities.</span></p></div></div><div class="full module moduleText" id="mod_55194504" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1.3em; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"><h2 class="subtitle" style="color: #6ea6af; line-height: 1.3em; margin: 0px 0px 0.7em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Duhigg's Emphasis on Habit as a Key to Success</span></h2><div class="txtd" id="txtd_55194504"><p style="margin: 0px 0px 0.75em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Charles Duhigg explores the idea that understanding and manipulating habits can lead to success in various aspects of life. While this overarching theme is compelling, the practical steps to achieve this success feel less explicit than Clear's approach. Clear's focus on the minutiae of daily habits offers a more hands-on guide to achieving success through behavior change.</span></p></div></div><div class="full module moduleText" id="mod_55194514" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1.3em; overflow-wrap: break-word; word-break: break-word;"><h2 class="subtitle" style="color: #6ea6af; line-height: 1.3em; margin: 0px 0px 0.7em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Conclusion</span></h2><div class="txtd" id="txtd_55194514"><p style="margin: 0px 0px 0.75em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Both <em>Atomic Habits</em> by James Clear and <em>The Power of Habit</em> by Charles Duhigg contribute valuable insights into the study of habit formation.. However, Clear's emphasis on atomic habits, practical strategies to utilize habits, and the integration of identity into habit formation sets his work apart.</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 0.75em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> The narrative skills and flexibility of Clear's approach make <em>Atomic Habits</em> a standout resource for those seeking not just to understand habits but to actively and effectively change them. </span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 0.75em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">While Duhigg's exploration of the habit loop and societal habits is insightful, it may leave some readers longing for the actionable steps and personalized guidance that Clear so adeptly provides. In the end, <em>Atomic Habits</em> emerges as a preferred choice for individuals looking to make lasting, positive changes in their lives.</span></p></div></div></div></div></div><div id="video_2171302" style="color: #4b4949; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.8px;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /></div></div>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-45578552192873020272024-01-20T16:15:00.000-08:002024-01-20T16:28:27.010-08:0010 Options for Wheelchair Accessiblity in Your Home<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfp7i5YWtHrWhOQWNX185cMmtgoHpTpa5XrRgSpGJLx3kBcD8yuejWBS-8LUuq07DcM_vvmPAGyERouV4P2veqU7Q2aQvI30niDWfbZKuLyivCiJnSglemRJebKtX_UoAXHJNh37ufOuzr0OcgW2Trvj2H1CxIUkkF5laXSmQf4LtV3nDo4y-5a_LbdkOS/s2048/Firefly%20Photo%20of%20an%20older%20man%20in%20a%20wheelchair%20at%20the%20bottom%20of%20a%20nice%20staircase%20leading%20to%20his%20upsta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfp7i5YWtHrWhOQWNX185cMmtgoHpTpa5XrRgSpGJLx3kBcD8yuejWBS-8LUuq07DcM_vvmPAGyERouV4P2veqU7Q2aQvI30niDWfbZKuLyivCiJnSglemRJebKtX_UoAXHJNh37ufOuzr0OcgW2Trvj2H1CxIUkkF5laXSmQf4LtV3nDo4y-5a_LbdkOS/w395-h354/Firefly%20Photo%20of%20an%20older%20man%20in%20a%20wheelchair%20at%20the%20bottom%20of%20a%20nice%20staircase%20leading%20to%20his%20upsta.jpg" width="395" /></a></div><p></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-cc04f88f-7fff-32c3-404e-015f91cac3db"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Home accessibility is crucial for individuals who face challenges with climbing stairs. Here are ten options along with their potential pros and cons:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">1. <b>Ramps:</b></span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Pros:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Provide a gradual slope for wheelchair users and those with mobility aids.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Cons:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Requires significant space, might not be suitable for all home layouts.</span></p></li></ul><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">2. <b>Stair Lifts:</b></span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Pros:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Allows individuals to be transported up and down stairs while seated.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Cons:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Installation can be expensive, and the design may not be suitable for all staircases.</span></p></li></ul><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">3. <b>Platform Lifts:</b></span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Pros:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Offers a platform for wheelchair users to move between levels.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Cons:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Requires more space than a stair lift, may be costly.</span></p></li></ul><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">4. <b>Home Elevators:</b></span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Pros:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Provides a smooth and comfortable transition between floors.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Cons:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Expensive to install and maintain, requires significant space.</span></p></li></ul><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">5.<b> Wheelchair Lifts:</b></span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Pros:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, versatile.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Cons:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Can be expensive, may require regular maintenance.</span></p></li></ul><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">6. <b>Door Widening:</b></span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Pros:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Improves accessibility for wheelchair users.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Cons:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Can be a costly renovation, may require structural modifications.</span></p></li></ul><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">7. <b>Portable Ramps:</b></span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Pros:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Temporary solution, easy to install and remove.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Cons:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Not suitable for all types of wheelchairs, might not provide a permanent solution.</span></p></li></ul><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">8. <b>Lift Chairs:</b></span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Pros:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Assists individuals in standing up or sitting down, looks like a regular recliner.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Cons:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Limited to one area, doesn't provide access to other parts of the house.</span></p></li></ul><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">9. <b>Home Modifications (Single-Story Living):</b></span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Pros:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> Rearranging spaces to ensure that all necessities are on one level.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Cons:</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> May require extensive renovations, may not be feasible in all homes.</span></p></li></ul><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">10. <b>Telepresence Robots:</b></span></p></li><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Telepresence robots are robotic devices that allow individuals to remotely interact with their environment. </span><a href="https://www.bing.com/aclk?ld=e8Hvlny-b43I0qkGGeWtxUODVUCUy8mVKa_duiJcJZTKEwb-WA_kowhK-HQVkK1eeCUdj8Z8WZwLwfqhISCNPIubBCExDOmEerZsGupfc0SOyS1Afsm6l1d7OjprMbs13FCPI920gqeVcz5bqKLaw-alqjv_dMYjfANU_hvKONdfyTK1fC&u=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&rlid=a68ca6b571db184b286fc31927ab29fe" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">They are controlled by a computer and typically include a video camera, audio system, and various sensors </span></a><a href="https://www.tffn.net/what-is-a-telepresence-robot/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">1</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">. </span><a href="https://telepresencerobots.com/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Telepresence robots can be used to safely work and visit others remotely, and they allow individuals to virtually move around the house 2</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">. </span><a href="https://telepresencerobots.com/what-telepresence-robot-and-what-can-they-do" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">They can be used to attend meetings, conferences, and events, and they can also be used to visit friends and family members who live far away 3</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">One of the main advantages of telepresence robots is that they allow individuals to move around the house without physically being there. </span><a href="https://telepresencerobots.com/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">This can be especially helpful for people who have mobility issues and cannot walk up stairs 2</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">. </span><a href="https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/LHTN-03-2023-0035/full/html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Telepresence robots can also be used to help people with disabilities to participate in social activities and events 4</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">However, telepresence robots also have some limitations. One of the main disadvantages is that they offer limited physical interaction. </span><a href="https://www.bing.com/aclk?ld=e8Hvlny-b43I0qkGGeWtxUODVUCUy8mVKa_duiJcJZTKEwb-WA_kowhK-HQVkK1eeCUdj8Z8WZwLwfqhISCNPIubBCExDOmEerZsGupfc0SOyS1Afsm6l1d7OjprMbs13FCPI920gqeVcz5bqKLaw-alqjv_dMYjfANU_hvKONdfyTK1fC&u=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&rlid=a68ca6b571db184b286fc31927ab29fe" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">While telepresence robots allow individuals to see and hear what is happening in the environment, they do not allow for physical touch or interaction </span></a><a href="https://www.tffn.net/what-is-a-telepresence-robot/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">1</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">. </span><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/article/best-telepresence-robot/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Additionally, high-tech solutions like telepresence robots may be costly, which can make them inaccessible to some individuals 5</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Overall, telepresence robots can be a useful tool for individuals who have mobility issues and cannot walk up stairs. They allow individuals to virtually move around the house and participate in social activities and events. However, they also have some limitations, including limited physical interaction and high cost.</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p></li></ul></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">When considering home accessibility options, it's essential to assess the specific needs of the individual and the layout of the home. A combination of solutions may be necessary to create a fully accessible living space. Additionally, consulting with a professional or occupational therapist can provide valuable insights into the most suitable options for a particular situation.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">If you are building a home as a younger adult, you might want to design it to be as accessible as possible to people you know who have limited mobility: friends, family, potentially, yourself. The accessibility features you build in will be attractive to home buyers in the future as well. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">My brother-in-law and his wife had their dream home built in a pleasant new development several years ago. Their new next-door neighbors opted out of having a den and a TV room for the inclusion of a good-sized main floor bedroom. My brother-in-law now regrets that they went for the den and the TV room, separately small areas. He fell and broke his leg below his hip and is now constrained from using the stairs to the upper master bedroom or the basement rooms. A bedroom with a closet and an ensuite shower would have been such a boon in his current situation.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Learn more</span></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.tffn.net/what-is-a-telepresence-robot/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">1</span></a></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.tffn.net/what-is-a-telepresence-robot/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">tffn.net</span></a></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://telepresencerobots.com/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">2</span></a></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://telepresencerobots.com/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">telepresencerobots.com</span></a></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://telepresencerobots.com/what-telepresence-robot-and-what-can-they-do" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">3</span></a></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://telepresencerobots.com/what-telepresence-robot-and-what-can-they-do" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">telepresencerobots.com</span></a></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/LHTN-03-2023-0035/full/html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">4</span></a></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/LHTN-03-2023-0035/full/html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">emerald.com</span></a></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/article/best-telepresence-robot/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">5</span></a></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.zdnet.com/article/best-telepresence-robot/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">zdnet.com</span></a></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://bing.com/search?q=Telepresence+Robots" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">6</span></a></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://bing.com/search?q=Telepresence+Robots" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">bing.com</span></a></p></li><li aria-level="2" dir="ltr" style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 11pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">1of5</span></p></li></ul><div><span style="color: #0f0f0f; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-30891368487384725432024-01-03T20:02:00.000-08:002024-01-04T13:29:40.946-08:00Navigating the Digital Waves: Stay Safe and Connected Online in January and February<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3UIOUvNyJPMMC5GpsSsFAB6-pzX1bE2GjtxlW7HK4HTqmL7FJxQIhyphenhyphenp8yGm_8JlLh0lZzbmhMZDgIUnmUZj1qP_CKkQPRLyjJj_cKn9AB9tMswXhyphenhyphenNYmt0QIlOmMw7x4Pp-Ztv7ywrJlIGgdf99BM0fcqyFE9V5EPJf5PolPj1WdxSCbTb9ArdNeU6LyU/s2048/Firefly%20a%20cat%20is%20watching%20a%20bird%20with%20a%20telescope,%20a%20new%20hobby%20for%20the%20cat%2068196.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3UIOUvNyJPMMC5GpsSsFAB6-pzX1bE2GjtxlW7HK4HTqmL7FJxQIhyphenhyphenp8yGm_8JlLh0lZzbmhMZDgIUnmUZj1qP_CKkQPRLyjJj_cKn9AB9tMswXhyphenhyphenNYmt0QIlOmMw7x4Pp-Ztv7ywrJlIGgdf99BM0fcqyFE9V5EPJf5PolPj1WdxSCbTb9ArdNeU6LyU/w400-h400/Firefly%20a%20cat%20is%20watching%20a%20bird%20with%20a%20telescope,%20a%20new%20hobby%20for%20the%20cat%2068196.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span id="docs-internal-guid-521ad0d9-7fff-7aef-aded-f6eea27b2a34"><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 15pt 0pt 18pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">As the New Year arrives, icy winds may not be the only chill in the air. January and February bring unique online currents for seniors, with a mix of exciting opportunities and lurking dangers. From festive scams to health-focused resources, staying informed and navigating these trends safely is key to enjoying the vibrant, ever-evolving digital world.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 18pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Guarding Yourself Against the Digital Undertow:</b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 18pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Scam Savvy: </b>The holiday hangover doesn't always end with decorations. January sees a surge in online scams, preying on the optimism of New Year's resolutions and the generosity of the season. Fake weight-loss apps, bogus financial schemes, and phishing emails masquerading as legitimate companies can easily snare the unwary. Exercise skepticism against unsolicited offers, especially those promising "quick fixes" or large returns. Remind yourself to stick to trusted websites, verify sender information, and avoid clicking on suspicious links.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 18pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Beware the Valentine's Day Phantoms</b>: Love is in the air, but so are online predators looking to exploit the vulnerability of hearts seeking connection. Romance scams flourish around Valentine's Day, luring seniors into sharing personal information and sending money. Practice caution with online relationships, especially those blossoming quickly or demanding secrecy. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 18pt;"><span style="color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Instead of delving into specific methods that could potentially benefit scammers, I'd like to offer some general strategies to help anyone stay safe from online romance scams:</span></p><p data-sourcepos="5:1-5:15" style="background-color: white; color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 24px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">1. Be wary of rapid relationship escalation: Legitimate connections take time to develop. If someone professes instant love or declares you their soulmate soon after meeting online, proceed with caution.</p><p data-sourcepos="7:1-7:219" style="background-color: white; color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 24px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">2. Watch out for sob stories and pleas for financial help: Genuine partners wouldn't pressure you for money, especially early on. Be wary of manufactured emergencies or sob stories meant to manipulate your emotions.</p><p data-sourcepos="9:1-9:145" style="background-color: white; color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 24px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">3. Verify information and photos: Conduct reverse image searches on photos to see if they appear elsewhere online. Research the person's name and profile details to see if they match up.</p><p data-sourcepos="11:1-11:238" style="background-color: white; color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 24px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">4. Be cautious about offline communication: Scammers may pressure you to switch to private messaging platforms or phone calls to avoid platform security measures. Stick to the platform's communication tools until you feel comfortable.</p><p data-sourcepos="13:1-13:180" style="background-color: white; color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 24px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">5. Never share personal or financial information: Legitimate connections wouldn't require access to your bank accounts, social security numbers, or other sensitive information.</p><p data-sourcepos="15:1-15:167" style="background-color: white; color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 24px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">6. Trust your gut instinct: If something feels off or too good to be true, it probably is. Don't be afraid to disengage from any interaction that raises red flags.</p><p data-sourcepos="17:1-17:186" style="background-color: white; color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 24px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">7. Report suspicious activity: If you encounter a suspected scammer, report them to the platform you're using and relevant authorities. This helps protect others from falling victim.</p><p data-sourcepos="19:1-19:172" style="background-color: white; color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 24px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">8. Seek support and advice: Talking to trusted friends, family, or even online support groups can offer valuable perspectives and help you avoid emotional manipulation.</p><p data-sourcepos="21:1-21:139" style="background-color: white; color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 24px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">9. Educate yourself: Stay informed about common romance scams and their evolving tactics. Knowing the red flags can empower you to make safer choices online.</p><p data-sourcepos="23:1-23:163" style="background-color: white; color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 24px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">10. Remember, online relationships require healthy skepticism: Take your time, build trust gradually, and prioritize your safety and well-being above all else.</p><p data-sourcepos="25:1-25:275" style="background-color: white; color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin: 24px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">By following these general tips and maintaining a healthy dose of skepticism, anyone can navigate the online dating world safely and build genuine connections. Remember, if something feels wrong, it probably is. Trust your instincts and prioritize your safety above all else.</p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 18pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Stay Vigilant, Stay Safe:</b> The internet, despite its benefits, offers fertile ground for misinformation and malicious actors. Develop a healthy dose of skepticism towards anything you encounter online. Cross-check information, consult trusted sources, and don't hesitate to seek help from younger generations or tech-savvy friends when navigating unfamiliar territory.</span></p><h1 style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 18pt; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #1f1f1f; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Embrace the Positive Tides:</span></b></span></h1><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 18pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Tech-Assisted Health Journeys:</b> January often sparks a renewed focus on health and well-being. Telehealth, with its convenient virtual doctor visits, is gaining traction. Familiarize yourself with video conferencing platforms and encourage exploration of their healthcare providers' online portals. These resources can make managing appointments and accessing health information easier and more efficient.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 18pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Heart-Healthy Resources:</b> February's spotlight on heart health shines a light on a multitude of online resources offering valuable information and support. Explore reputable websites and apps focusing on cardiovascular health, diet, and exercise. These resources can provide valuable insights and motivation for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 18pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>The Power of Connection: </b>The internet provides invaluable tools for staying connected with friends and family, especially during cold winter months. Social media platforms can help bridge geographical gaps and foster a sense of community. Explore video calls, messaging apps, and online photo sharing, fostering positive social interactions and combatting isolation.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 18pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Learning Never Ends:</b> The digital landscape is constantly evolving, and continuous learning is key to staying safe and comfortable online. Local libraries, senior centers, and community organizations often offer computer classes and workshops tailored specifically for seniors. Encourage participation in these programs to build confidence and digital literacy skills.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 18pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Empowering Tech Champions: </b>Seniors themselves can be powerful advocates for safe and responsible online use within their communities. Sharing their own experiences, both positive and negative, can educate others and promote awareness of online risks and opportunities. This peer-to-peer learning builds a safety net of shared knowledge and support.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; padding: 0pt 0pt 18pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Ultimately, the key to navigating the digital waves in January and February is a blend of caution, curiosity, and active engagement. By staying informed about potential dangers, embracing the positive trends, and continuously learning, seniors can unlock the vast potential of the online world, enhancing their health, connections, and overall well-being. Remember, the internet is a vast ocean, and with the right tools and guidance, seniors can become skilled sailors, charting their course towards a fulfilling and enriching digital voyage.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 18pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Additional Resources:</b></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #1f1f1f; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 18pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Telus Health (Canada)</span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><a href="https://www.telus.com/en/health/my-care/doctors" style="font-size: 12pt; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">https://www.telus.com/en/health/my-care/doctors</span></a></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #1f1f1f; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Telus Mental Health (Canada) </span><a href="https://www.telus.com/en/health/my-care/psychologists" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">https://www.telus.com/en/health/my-care/psychologists</span></a></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #1f1f1f; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">AARP Fraud Watch Network: </span><a href="https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/fraud-watch-network/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/fraud-watch-network/</span></a></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #1f1f1f; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">National Council on Aging: </span><a href="https://www.ncoa.org/index.htm" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">https://www.ncoa.org/index.htm</span></a></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #1f1f1f; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Senior Tech Center: </span><a href="https://cyberseniors.org/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">https://cyberseniors.org/</span></a></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="color: #1f1f1f; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 11pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">National Institute on Aging: </span><a href="https://www.nia.nih.gov/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">https://www.nia.nih.gov/</span></a></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 18pt; margin-top: 18pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">This article offers a starting point for further exploration. Remember, open communication, ongoing learning, and a healthy dose of critical thinking are the essential ingredients for a safe and rewarding online experience for seniors in January and beyond.</span></p><div><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: transparent; color: #1f1f1f; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-25842555519382863132023-12-26T20:30:00.000-08:002023-12-26T20:30:22.998-08:00A Tapestry of New Year Celebrations: Exploring Cultural Traditions Across the Globe<p> <span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">As the world bids farewell to the old and welcomes the new, New Year celebrations manifest in a tapestry of diverse traditions across the globe. This article explores 10 distinct cultural New Year celebrations, delving into the rich history, unique rituals, and the fascinating ways in which different societies mark the passage of time.</span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNWDbfPIWqTJ0hqQ9ELNxwaZRdZqhdFwdcL-zdaExXM94KY2FJ-DE3co5t-JeSdgKCd48YHdJzBSkcyclbBAIp7ogzR1pVa2TnSO3FsEGKkZdtAkgFjDzvo78SOEdrrKFqLWkGztezwsTnO6S3GT8Kq5_B4OS_3YcEIpQrgzBUFdQgrjjBD_7uKwIu5nd_/s2048/Firefly%20New%20Year's%20Eve%20from%20Time's%20Square;%20colorful%20fireworks%20in%20the%20city%2095991%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNWDbfPIWqTJ0hqQ9ELNxwaZRdZqhdFwdcL-zdaExXM94KY2FJ-DE3co5t-JeSdgKCd48YHdJzBSkcyclbBAIp7ogzR1pVa2TnSO3FsEGKkZdtAkgFjDzvo78SOEdrrKFqLWkGztezwsTnO6S3GT8Kq5_B4OS_3YcEIpQrgzBUFdQgrjjBD_7uKwIu5nd_/s320/Firefly%20New%20Year's%20Eve%20from%20Time's%20Square;%20colorful%20fireworks%20in%20the%20city%2095991%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Year's in Times Square, December 31-January 1st</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-38cbf10f-7fff-f102-8f84-e342cd0b774b"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>North American New Year Celebrations:</b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">In North America, New Year's Eve celebrations have become synonymous with parties, fireworks, and the iconic Times Square ball drop in New York City. The tradition of counting down to midnight dates back to the 19th century, with the first New Year's Eve ball drop occurring in 1907. The celebration marks the end of the old year and the beginning of the new, symbolizing a fresh start.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">In the New World, New Year's Eve celebrations began with the arrival of European settlers. The date was initially observed by religious services and social gatherings. As the years passed, the observance evolved to include festivities, feasting, and resolutions. The modern emphasis on parties and social events emerged in the 20th century.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Establishing the timing of the New Year is rooted in the Gregorian calendar, which became widely adopted in the Western world in the 18th century. The transition from December 31st to January 1st symbolizes the completion of a full orbit around the sun.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Hogmanay (Scotland)</b>:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnh45tUn-u-qAx4a4dsRZ2nnOCirlI4dj3tfsY7HBRtJqGbKj8G2lbuUVRpfk3qBpmEIukAF_c4bhtSxrkDLyqup2Fe_CyDVail5_1aqDB1zbJISY_gSUEqEsYtX5_RhKZ-RdgxqdjUtT_CjcKT4XppCvKONueov9r7TEJL2CVqRP5aT7MOCVElxTIQZKp/s2688/Firefly%20Hogmanay%20dancing%20and%20traditional%20celebration%20scene,%20modern%20times%2024580.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2688" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnh45tUn-u-qAx4a4dsRZ2nnOCirlI4dj3tfsY7HBRtJqGbKj8G2lbuUVRpfk3qBpmEIukAF_c4bhtSxrkDLyqup2Fe_CyDVail5_1aqDB1zbJISY_gSUEqEsYtX5_RhKZ-RdgxqdjUtT_CjcKT4XppCvKONueov9r7TEJL2CVqRP5aT7MOCVElxTIQZKp/w400-h229/Firefly%20Hogmanay%20dancing%20and%20traditional%20celebration%20scene,%20modern%20times%2024580.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hogmanay dancing and celebration January 1, 2024</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">In Scotland, Hogmanay is a spectacular New Year celebration deeply rooted in tradition. The origins of the name are uncertain, but the celebration itself predates the Gregorian calendar reform. Traditionally, the festivities last for several days, with customs like "first-footing," where the first person to enter a home after midnight brings symbolic gifts for good luck.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Chinese New Year (China)</b>: </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1IIfNWLFWhfcZA4_6uEE7GvrvyBafmpliyaSHUJsJWfo2-Myyo8TU7gHDKXBnqbObmWKU9VYONA39ZMlXPUUgP0fmyG9H0O8cCppOL0asGsLD_9pvi_SwzaHyHD4MsbCmLxKvVSEFAZtXoX2RlTRgIHi3lSJRTL7LA3uldAeEMjBJKeISde0hWbJbZO_o/s2688/Firefly%20Chinese%20New%20Year%20with%20lanterns%20and%20Dragon%20Dance%2035572.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2688" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1IIfNWLFWhfcZA4_6uEE7GvrvyBafmpliyaSHUJsJWfo2-Myyo8TU7gHDKXBnqbObmWKU9VYONA39ZMlXPUUgP0fmyG9H0O8cCppOL0asGsLD_9pvi_SwzaHyHD4MsbCmLxKvVSEFAZtXoX2RlTRgIHi3lSJRTL7LA3uldAeEMjBJKeISde0hWbJbZO_o/w400-h229/Firefly%20Chinese%20New%20Year%20with%20lanterns%20and%20Dragon%20Dance%2035572.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Year of the Dragon starts February 10, 2024</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">One of the most widely celebrated New Year festivals globally, Chinese New Year, or Spring Festival, marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring in the lunar calendar. Festivities include dragon and lion dances, family reunions, and the iconic red envelopes containing money for good luck. Each year is associated with an animal from the Chinese zodiac, cycling through a 12-year cycle. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><br /></b></span></p></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Diwali (India):</b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Nj3lHZl7NYz3K1l-sIK9chpos8AxMtBo6JJck-7hrrdLDyNh6eMaDMYqWrPNVAJgnjKAgP1TMj-RFLAnCSucHTO9Zf4calJkgLEVDOCPWK4_cTt5LHn9dlzhS8Hy6uX1yOVtqAJPx_iy1KwK_iVIMnHqF_jJpv9zlv6pBFPOIbKvRwNdyqV8qipgEYSK/s2688/Firefly%20Diwali%20dancing%20and%20lights%2095991.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2688" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Nj3lHZl7NYz3K1l-sIK9chpos8AxMtBo6JJck-7hrrdLDyNh6eMaDMYqWrPNVAJgnjKAgP1TMj-RFLAnCSucHTO9Zf4calJkgLEVDOCPWK4_cTt5LHn9dlzhS8Hy6uX1yOVtqAJPx_iy1KwK_iVIMnHqF_jJpv9zlv6pBFPOIbKvRwNdyqV8qipgEYSK/w400-h229/Firefly%20Diwali%20dancing%20and%20lights%2095991.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diwali dancing and celebrations Thursday, October 31, 2024</td></tr></tbody></table></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">While not strictly a New Year celebration, Diwali, or the Festival of Lights, is a significant cultural and spiritual event in India. Celebrated by Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs, Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Families light oil lamps, burst fireworks, and share sweets during the festivities.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Nowruz (Iran and Central Asia):</b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><br /></b></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3eCqRwmvVaKD2njCy754RrHKJatXSgsHUu1gZz7X_NbBNoUuMt4oRR2BdyZDU1Dkv7mmG1SM8bXcAnhlUwA7E4l6bFGv6dd8bX73HI1uU_DdMJqb4k4in6SX9cj-ZeW_l3IjkyO87FX71lFTXW0mblo0APWCbXdAvJBQEKUbVoZSc2rb1Q0mfE4flQCFh/s2688/Firefly%20Nowrus%20half-seen%20table%20during%20Persian%20New%20Year,%20with%20symbols%2067950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2688" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3eCqRwmvVaKD2njCy754RrHKJatXSgsHUu1gZz7X_NbBNoUuMt4oRR2BdyZDU1Dkv7mmG1SM8bXcAnhlUwA7E4l6bFGv6dd8bX73HI1uU_DdMJqb4k4in6SX9cj-ZeW_l3IjkyO87FX71lFTXW0mblo0APWCbXdAvJBQEKUbVoZSc2rb1Q0mfE4flQCFh/w400-h229/Firefly%20Nowrus%20half-seen%20table%20during%20Persian%20New%20Year,%20with%20symbols%2067950.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nowruz- or Persian New Year - March 20, 2024 starts 6:36AM Tehran</td></tr></tbody></table><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Nowruz, meaning "New Day," is the Persian New Year and has been celebrated for over 3,000 years. Held on the vernal equinox, Nowruz marks the arrival of spring. Traditional customs include the cleaning of homes, preparing special dishes, and the Haft-Seen table adorned with seven symbolic items starting with the Persian letter 'S.'</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Songkran (Thailand):</b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDJM0BndD-d3_eA9qTjuMlnfULtnUEeKuHmkZ1FnAjtxr0MuwdJ5pQ9MBCd2FlD0YoJmS72IsY65nn0pMPY-_nucpOZZLyEiJpWaB3AZCl1RyY6RksjRI6P41MH8T73IlRiqWwguUQRaf5vF3arG6Thf0b_yMRc39lrfogX5wC3Z0e_pXyako6bLdVSOGi/s2688/Firefly%20Songkran%20in%20Thailand--%20pouring%20water%20over%20the%20Buddhas%2024580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2688" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDJM0BndD-d3_eA9qTjuMlnfULtnUEeKuHmkZ1FnAjtxr0MuwdJ5pQ9MBCd2FlD0YoJmS72IsY65nn0pMPY-_nucpOZZLyEiJpWaB3AZCl1RyY6RksjRI6P41MH8T73IlRiqWwguUQRaf5vF3arG6Thf0b_yMRc39lrfogX5wC3Z0e_pXyako6bLdVSOGi/w400-h229/Firefly%20Songkran%20in%20Thailand--%20pouring%20water%20over%20the%20Buddhas%2024580.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Songkran, Thai New Year, April 13-16, 2024</td></tr></tbody></table></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Songkran, the Thai New Year, is celebrated with a water festival symbolizing purification and the washing away of sins. Water fights and the gentle pouring of water over Buddha statues are common rituals during this lively celebration. Songkran usually takes place in April.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year):</b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV8iFMzv0zGj-1ybb2cjIpfmHs2B0n2wbTW8Z1TsInQXRGrQZISFbCrbx-IAOsPL6lNwkIFOlsvSD8yCpxl3VRlN0pNcp0gq5_NNu3D0IWhLUt-eg8nU0fKIUD42bDMrrSFaB9Uz6iNVcFp55XGxBMejwsjk017RLFwvEvJ4A-qoVqhibLp8RiGMb9xts-/s2688/Firefly%20Rosh%20Hoshannah%20with%20shofar%20being%20blown,%20and%20other%20celebrations%2024580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2688" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV8iFMzv0zGj-1ybb2cjIpfmHs2B0n2wbTW8Z1TsInQXRGrQZISFbCrbx-IAOsPL6lNwkIFOlsvSD8yCpxl3VRlN0pNcp0gq5_NNu3D0IWhLUt-eg8nU0fKIUD42bDMrrSFaB9Uz6iNVcFp55XGxBMejwsjk017RLFwvEvJ4A-qoVqhibLp8RiGMb9xts-/w400-h229/Firefly%20Rosh%20Hoshannah%20with%20shofar%20being%20blown,%20and%20other%20celebrations%2024580.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rosh Hashanah October 2- October 4, 2024</td></tr></tbody></table></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Rosh Hashanah, observed by Jewish communities worldwide, marks the beginning of the High Holy Days. The blowing of the shofar (a ram's horn), special prayers, and festive meals are integral parts of the celebration. Rosh Hashanah falls on the first and second days of the Jewish month of Tishrei.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Chol Chnam Thmay (Cambodia):</b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqS4YOC5qB4lV42oqIXo_4LJF3Lc5LSEde1cwmrwIzuUmBmLY7EbZfzG0ZVP1y8N0wJ_7UsD2b6KrU0YVHAVCI5gMCbOW8mNsbjW9XStKyBjCV4G_RsPSpzfXRZsYZP5uWUQEO85-DiFld1NAYNylQc8uljhNPPnUctcEFVSGVJGtLrXLyientWf264MIN/s2688/Firefly%20Chol%20Chnam%20Thmay,%20Traditional%20Cambodian%20New%20Year%20dancing%2095991.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2688" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqS4YOC5qB4lV42oqIXo_4LJF3Lc5LSEde1cwmrwIzuUmBmLY7EbZfzG0ZVP1y8N0wJ_7UsD2b6KrU0YVHAVCI5gMCbOW8mNsbjW9XStKyBjCV4G_RsPSpzfXRZsYZP5uWUQEO85-DiFld1NAYNylQc8uljhNPPnUctcEFVSGVJGtLrXLyientWf264MIN/w400-h229/Firefly%20Chol%20Chnam%20Thmay,%20Traditional%20Cambodian%20New%20Year%20dancing%2095991.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chol Chnam Thmay dancing, April 14-17, 2024</td></tr></tbody></table></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Chol Chnam Thmay, the Cambodian New Year, is a three-day celebration in April that marks the end of the harvest season. The observance includes religious ceremonies, traditional dance performances, and the cleansing of Buddha statues with scented water.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Losar (Tibet):</b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizjHkQvHCXLJRn4gNn19H3_lylvJuLuoM67et_C46KGEpYMiDK3nOuggARyNHvcSNDPTbS22mPREL_uNh1dGS4DeMycAxnVfesz5Shfqb7TB5P1tU70spryyeoknLesTiu7fE9QNp02xiUq6xtMcFJouX3RSuESv1buR52IeB9YJCj2LjADb-ZCKbmeLMl/s2688/Firefly%20Losar%20-%20Tibetan%20New%20Year%20celebrations%20with%20sand%20mandalas%2067950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2688" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizjHkQvHCXLJRn4gNn19H3_lylvJuLuoM67et_C46KGEpYMiDK3nOuggARyNHvcSNDPTbS22mPREL_uNh1dGS4DeMycAxnVfesz5Shfqb7TB5P1tU70spryyeoknLesTiu7fE9QNp02xiUq6xtMcFJouX3RSuESv1buR52IeB9YJCj2LjADb-ZCKbmeLMl/w400-h229/Firefly%20Losar%20-%20Tibetan%20New%20Year%20celebrations%20with%20sand%20mandalas%2067950.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Losar in Tibet- Begins February 10, 2024</td></tr></tbody></table></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Losar, the Tibetan New Year, is a 15-day celebration that begins on the first day of the Tibetan calendar. Festivities include religious rituals, traditional dances, and the creation of intricate sand mandalas. Each year is associated with one of the five elements and one of 12 animals in the Tibetan zodiac.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Korean New Year (Seollal):</b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiODIovvjkwUPLYrU3PECUjgaVtVEsqJW9k3NMa6qGApEhs-djcDeNGfRyWeKJ8y2TkHhK1RQBMFOyKKLnEFSj5PM_HUrK-bvIywjPBmWkFYYhyphenhyphenkws5QK9v60QHJPqigaBg9fmUtTUUuBjJH3u4SgYPn3VFRQzHkfzVC5lsT5akIDjmeJzVSRAJ1Nzm8S-D/s2688/Firefly%20Korean%20Seollal%20wearing%20traditional%20clothing%20and%20doing%20ancestoral%20rites,%20offering%20rice%20cakes%20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2688" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiODIovvjkwUPLYrU3PECUjgaVtVEsqJW9k3NMa6qGApEhs-djcDeNGfRyWeKJ8y2TkHhK1RQBMFOyKKLnEFSj5PM_HUrK-bvIywjPBmWkFYYhyphenhyphenkws5QK9v60QHJPqigaBg9fmUtTUUuBjJH3u4SgYPn3VFRQzHkfzVC5lsT5akIDjmeJzVSRAJ1Nzm8S-D/w400-h229/Firefly%20Korean%20Seollal%20wearing%20traditional%20clothing%20and%20doing%20ancestoral%20rites,%20offering%20rice%20cakes%20.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; text-align: left; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Seollal in Korea-- February 9-12, 2024</span></td></tr></tbody></table></span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Seollal, the Korean New Year, is a time for family reunions and paying respects to ancestors. Traditional rituals include the performance of ancestral rites (Charye), wearing traditional clothing (Hanbok), and the making and sharing of special foods like Tteok (rice cakes).</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Matariki (</span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">New Zealand):</span></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><b><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjws8DfJceojmesid8pDyAeAkMRy89MB_bsUFf3TMJf1QN4RPi0_bmcg9eGZzDmd9DrVcJIH_RuKIHj-xSOy_Mi9TnuhdgNIo-MmMXHi7OGRfQep58Xyfl49n6Kbsxx082SP5woPyU_OF4GqYbsVmKOYU4qPsGa9N6h2eJ4neCH6ZQ3_Yq0jKMi7oG8Z-of/s2688/Firefly%20Matariki%20in%20New%20Zealand,%20people%20on%20the%20beaches%20seeing%20the%20star%20cluster%20before%20dawn%2088746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2688" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjws8DfJceojmesid8pDyAeAkMRy89MB_bsUFf3TMJf1QN4RPi0_bmcg9eGZzDmd9DrVcJIH_RuKIHj-xSOy_Mi9TnuhdgNIo-MmMXHi7OGRfQep58Xyfl49n6Kbsxx082SP5woPyU_OF4GqYbsVmKOYU4qPsGa9N6h2eJ4neCH6ZQ3_Yq0jKMi7oG8Z-of/w400-h229/Firefly%20Matariki%20in%20New%20Zealand,%20people%20on%20the%20beaches%20seeing%20the%20star%20cluster%20before%20dawn%2088746.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matariki June 28, 2024 - Maori New Year</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Matariki, or the Māori New Year, is celebrated with the appearance of the Matariki star cluster. The festival involves cultural performances, storytelling, and the planting of new crops. It holds deep significance for the indigenous Māori people of New Zealand.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">In this global exploration of New Year celebrations, we've witnessed a kaleidoscope of traditions, each with its own unique history and cultural significance. From the lively water fights of Songkran to the solemn shofar blowing of Rosh Hashanah, these celebrations reflect the diversity of human experiences and the universal desire to embrace new beginnings. As we welcome the New Year, let us appreciate the richness of these traditions that connect us across borders and celebrate the enduring spirit of renewal.</span></p><div><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-88372691923350839092023-12-25T16:00:00.000-08:002023-12-25T16:49:45.111-08:00All Things Gingerbread-House<p> Christmas is a time when even the most austere iconoclasts have at least one or two pretty little traditions they hark back to. Everything from purchasing expensive tree ornaments to serving the homeless the big public dinner on the day. Some individuals and families have taken up building a yearly Gingerbread House. Generally a cute, creative, fun event with a lot of baking and sticky globs of icing involved.</p><p>For those who want to go a step further with their Gingerbread House tradition, here are several ideas that you can pull out next Christmas:</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg56zz01qxMH-pDDu887Mbyv93ogMu-zGXw8-dbbb1vO61zKwK_2ainH5epRnwsrg5X4mS5EV19VfWJR85xWPpSbP80hmT-fp9eEB0kvFvRWrtpwZG4Jt1-kThSn_XpMeFkeHouAj5iEtqpD0K1O3xsGtR0p71xVTdyV_EHRPip5E7Q7i1ibEW6Qr5NP6Wp/s2304/Firefly%20a%20gingerbread%20house%20decorating%20party%20with%20many%20happy%20children%20decorating%20gingerbread%20houses%20.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1792" data-original-width="2304" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg56zz01qxMH-pDDu887Mbyv93ogMu-zGXw8-dbbb1vO61zKwK_2ainH5epRnwsrg5X4mS5EV19VfWJR85xWPpSbP80hmT-fp9eEB0kvFvRWrtpwZG4Jt1-kThSn_XpMeFkeHouAj5iEtqpD0K1O3xsGtR0p71xVTdyV_EHRPip5E7Q7i1ibEW6Qr5NP6Wp/s320/Firefly%20a%20gingerbread%20house%20decorating%20party%20with%20many%20happy%20children%20decorating%20gingerbread%20houses%20.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Include a Grandma or two in this party!</td></tr></tbody></table><ol style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; counter-reset: list-number 0; display: flex; flex-direction: column; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">1. Gingerbread House Decorating Parties:</span> Gather friends or family to decorate gingerbread houses together.</p></li></ol><div><span face="Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, Segoe UI, Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, Noto Sans, sans-serif, Helvetica Neue, Arial, Apple Color Emoji, Segoe UI Emoji, Segoe UI Symbol, Noto Color Emoji" style="color: #374151;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></div><ol style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; counter-reset: list-number 0; display: flex; flex-direction: column; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">2. Gingerbread House Competitions:</span> Host a friendly competition to see who can create the most elaborate or festive gingerbread house.</p></li></ol><div><span face="Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, Segoe UI, Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, Noto Sans, sans-serif, Helvetica Neue, Arial, Apple Color Emoji, Segoe UI Emoji, Segoe UI Symbol, Noto Color Emoji" style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></div><ol style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; counter-reset: list-number 0; display: flex; flex-direction: column; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">3. Gingerbread House Workshops:</span> Attend workshops where experts teach techniques for creating stunning gingerbread houses. If you can't attend the workshops, there are always a lot of workshops on YouTube and elsewhere online.</p></li></ol><ol style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; counter-reset: list-number 0; display: flex; flex-direction: column; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><br /></p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">4. Gingerbread House Tours:</span> Some communities organize tours of gingerbread houses, showcasing creative and artistic designs. If this appeals to you, and you don't have such a thing in your community, maybe you could organize one? Maybe even just on your street to share in your blog or on Facebook/Instagram/Pinterest?</p></li></ol><div><span face="Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, Segoe UI, Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, Noto Sans, sans-serif, Helvetica Neue, Arial, Apple Color Emoji, Segoe UI Emoji, Segoe UI Symbol, Noto Color Emoji" style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, Segoe UI, Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, Noto Sans, sans-serif, Helvetica Neue, Arial, Apple Color Emoji, Segoe UI Emoji, Segoe UI Symbol, Noto Color Emoji" style="color: #374151;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://greatestbaker.com/2023/bailey-mardell" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="560" data-original-width="700" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr8cnJpXRzVBnwMxHiXMxoRDtkCdsNeQMiLvJ2cEmT1gNORSH6KkFKFntgc9zk0mXzrTAp-8GngmBj6xJ5cHHcE_vx1_bHUGMfpuvZQi6cVz3Y5MtYCAQyMdH1vEJqWUQRx1ELKfAioOcAylpX3oJLsEyry32D15utTb3XDTbYO6d2YUSckKWxQys49lts/s320/BaileyMardell-gingerrbread-house.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vote for 2023 "Greatest Baker" Bailey Mardell</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></div><ol style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; counter-reset: list-number 0; display: flex; flex-direction: column; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">5. Gingerbread House Contests:</span> Participate in local or online contests to showcase your gingerbread house masterpiece. Above is Bailey Mardell, a young creator from Saskatchewan who baked up and decorated this dream home for the "Bake From Scratch" contest. At this point, you can still <b><a href="https://greatestbaker.com/2023/bailey-mardell" style="background-color: white;">VOTE</a></b> in the "Greatest Baker" contest for Bailey's house.</p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><br /></p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">6. Gingerbread House Kits:</span> Purchase <b><a href="https://amzn.to/3RBBlBF">gingerbread house kits</a></b> that include all the necessary components for easy assembly. (Amazon affiliate link above)</p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;"><br /></span></p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">7. Gingerbread House Displays:</span> Visit public spaces, like malls or community centers, bake shops, museums, featuring displays of professionally crafted gingerbread houses.</p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><br /></p></li></ol><div><span face="Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, Segoe UI, Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, Noto Sans, sans-serif, Helvetica Neue, Arial, Apple Color Emoji, Segoe UI Emoji, Segoe UI Symbol, Noto Color Emoji" style="color: #374151;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivlB0WslBU3UTyBm8PoDqPID5NBorgqnFMiwQJ5pAXozv4shGD9Tz1lnezF3JAuZDiucCoAPqyRq_1deRqHXRDvwaBP6zPJv00E4rE-Na4m43DA2iz_egUqSmflfyce98-bYjlwNa5NoVBOCFjm84yeDlP1zp7xTnZiiT7V7NZ0mlSrsLFlTwDRFmBz7xk/s2304/Firefly%20a%20VERY%20simple%20plastic%20gingerbread%20house%20ornament%20for%20the%20Christmas%20tree%20made%20from%20plastic%20(s.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1792" data-original-width="2304" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivlB0WslBU3UTyBm8PoDqPID5NBorgqnFMiwQJ5pAXozv4shGD9Tz1lnezF3JAuZDiucCoAPqyRq_1deRqHXRDvwaBP6zPJv00E4rE-Na4m43DA2iz_egUqSmflfyce98-bYjlwNa5NoVBOCFjm84yeDlP1zp7xTnZiiT7V7NZ0mlSrsLFlTwDRFmBz7xk/s320/Firefly%20a%20VERY%20simple%20plastic%20gingerbread%20house%20ornament%20for%20the%20Christmas%20tree%20made%20from%20plastic%20(s.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">simple plastic gingerbread house for the tree</td></tr></tbody></table></span></div><ol style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; counter-reset: list-number 0; display: flex; flex-direction: column; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">8. Gingerbread House Ornaments:</span> Hang miniature gingerbread houses as ornaments on the Christmas tree. The one in the picture above is plastic.</p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><br /></p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjijSxBHGp7vROhfsJKhy-n9vr6EyEe-mm1Q39sdUJN7w98Zo1IQkcG9XGm23r8L1wQti42P9ia990MW9ZU6MFOOsJTlMmzUb5vB0bAdgAiIlOqaFx7cM1viv0vSmZGCbZK8Lm34OG80vzDg6GNbpqtQdAfF427NOceNbF8s86Gmxh2yKvvBkM_sfDvxlFI/s2304/Firefly%20Gingerbread%20House%20centerpiece%20with%20a%20burning%20candle;%20with%20blurry%20background%2087114.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1792" data-original-width="2304" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjijSxBHGp7vROhfsJKhy-n9vr6EyEe-mm1Q39sdUJN7w98Zo1IQkcG9XGm23r8L1wQti42P9ia990MW9ZU6MFOOsJTlMmzUb5vB0bAdgAiIlOqaFx7cM1viv0vSmZGCbZK8Lm34OG80vzDg6GNbpqtQdAfF427NOceNbF8s86Gmxh2yKvvBkM_sfDvxlFI/s320/Firefly%20Gingerbread%20House%20centerpiece%20with%20a%20burning%20candle;%20with%20blurry%20background%2087114.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gingerbread House centerpiece</td></tr></tbody></table><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><br /></p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">9. Gingerbread House Centerpieces:</span> Use gingerbread houses as edible centerpieces for holiday tables.</p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><br /></p></li></ol><div><span face="Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, Segoe UI, Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, Noto Sans, sans-serif, Helvetica Neue, Arial, Apple Color Emoji, Segoe UI Emoji, Segoe UI Symbol, Noto Color Emoji" style="color: #374151;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkHPVoOWjjHy3C8kSXEoPd7ZgiW8nDz53RBwg4YlS7AYKHnk_9jNSlcufqY5Y1hLaI_HlrN4qbDQ3xFMjonbmNMJkMTpCvedUWwoqb43u0TmSMYoZAdmN3vio7onDt1jeeYLkkQKcAxyBgckNHGpBsn5SxysdCkpb1_zg6fCndKUWL3ti68J8YlA-BpeJV/s2304/Firefly%20PRINTED%20Gingerbread%20House%20Advent%20calender--%20many%20little%20gingerbread%20houses%20PRINTED%20on%20a%20larg.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1792" data-original-width="2304" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkHPVoOWjjHy3C8kSXEoPd7ZgiW8nDz53RBwg4YlS7AYKHnk_9jNSlcufqY5Y1hLaI_HlrN4qbDQ3xFMjonbmNMJkMTpCvedUWwoqb43u0TmSMYoZAdmN3vio7onDt1jeeYLkkQKcAxyBgckNHGpBsn5SxysdCkpb1_zg6fCndKUWL3ti68J8YlA-BpeJV/s320/Firefly%20PRINTED%20Gingerbread%20House%20Advent%20calender--%20many%20little%20gingerbread%20houses%20PRINTED%20on%20a%20larg.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Create a Gingerbread House Advent Calendar</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span></div><ol style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; counter-reset: list-number 0; display: flex; flex-direction: column; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">10. Gingerbread House Advent Calendars:</span> Create or purchase advent calendars with mini gingerbread houses for each day leading up to Christmas.</p></li></ol><div><span face="Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, Segoe UI, Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, Noto Sans, sans-serif, Helvetica Neue, Arial, Apple Color Emoji, Segoe UI Emoji, Segoe UI Symbol, Noto Color Emoji" style="color: #374151;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, Segoe UI, Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, Noto Sans, sans-serif, Helvetica Neue, Arial, Apple Color Emoji, Segoe UI Emoji, Segoe UI Symbol, Noto Color Emoji" style="color: #374151;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvqNcxsThcU8I0_L5Mbu7XaXwI9yp1IIFLSGqKrBnAJz6ODT7XfsLDGerPFkvJCMV1PQji-umMYLjGFoGgx0HItlZXyBdQF01ZjxPJSpC7uyFNr5p1oL6Yd6foy8hG0h6vDdZJOWZnsruqWu4TVsJZ7loNh9WCGTO2v5b704NuGG-Jt_fSHVPi7tXojGu_/s2304/Firefly%20Gingerbread%20House%20Photobooth%20interior%20that%20is%20big%20enough%20to%20fit%20two%20adults%20with%20all%20the%20Chri.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1792" data-original-width="2304" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvqNcxsThcU8I0_L5Mbu7XaXwI9yp1IIFLSGqKrBnAJz6ODT7XfsLDGerPFkvJCMV1PQji-umMYLjGFoGgx0HItlZXyBdQF01ZjxPJSpC7uyFNr5p1oL6Yd6foy8hG0h6vDdZJOWZnsruqWu4TVsJZ7loNh9WCGTO2v5b704NuGG-Jt_fSHVPi7tXojGu_/s320/Firefly%20Gingerbread%20House%20Photobooth%20interior%20that%20is%20big%20enough%20to%20fit%20two%20adults%20with%20all%20the%20Chri.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gingerbread House Photo Booth</td></tr></tbody></table></span></div><ol style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; counter-reset: list-number 0; display: flex; flex-direction: column; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">12. Gingerbread House Photo Booths:</span> Set up a festive photo booth with gingerbread house props for holiday gatherings.</p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><br /></p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitxrNPMpvogxqNPGxNloE1Eu7eN3P6rdSpm_I25sqwAIKUA1LcLZ1f9-oTOYL7MuHS930wRwNs870S-MIqFWu5C4LMD_hyCb2INc7EFHeT_ntIXs2uCUt-KgLlaDErLqRhyphenhyphenm_ILR6pUhn3wIdMeZFCQ1lqt_u54bw7QKBDgyfHf1HgHh-1635XT8AZMlCE/s2304/Firefly%20Inside%20a%20Christmas%20store%20with%20a%20whole%20wall%20full%20of%20baking%20tools%20that%20can%20be%20used%20to%20make%20Gin.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1792" data-original-width="2304" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitxrNPMpvogxqNPGxNloE1Eu7eN3P6rdSpm_I25sqwAIKUA1LcLZ1f9-oTOYL7MuHS930wRwNs870S-MIqFWu5C4LMD_hyCb2INc7EFHeT_ntIXs2uCUt-KgLlaDErLqRhyphenhyphenm_ILR6pUhn3wIdMeZFCQ1lqt_u54bw7QKBDgyfHf1HgHh-1635XT8AZMlCE/s320/Firefly%20Inside%20a%20Christmas%20store%20with%20a%20whole%20wall%20full%20of%20baking%20tools%20that%20can%20be%20used%20to%20make%20Gin.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Giving Gingerbread House themed Gifts</td></tr></tbody></table><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><br /></p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">12. Gingerbread House Themed Gifts:</span> Give gingerbread house kits or related baking tools as Christmas gifts.</p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><br /></p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><br /></p></li></ol><div><span face="Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, Segoe UI, Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, Noto Sans, sans-serif, Helvetica Neue, Arial, Apple Color Emoji, Segoe UI Emoji, Segoe UI Symbol, Noto Color Emoji" style="color: #374151;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFWq0GnPeOF_vpUGbNM5ZvOL0pq_ijMzAsWuhHXW_Zg8UL-H_GEBa-w6vTIaFUn5bim7IJ7Lb5GOKA0knGRNBN0OntjHojE2-a_TZFkdKhOS0k_9Nnr6rMc_AusAXk50qqg9n5MFmzU6MPtS5HQ6Ghiufj087aBTe1W1FN-r_DgdTZx7CiOma5fmCNb3g0/s2304/Firefly%20small%20cast%20iron%20gingerbread%20house%20candle%20holders%20with%20thin%20candles%20flickering%20stuck%20in%20the%20c.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1792" data-original-width="2304" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFWq0GnPeOF_vpUGbNM5ZvOL0pq_ijMzAsWuhHXW_Zg8UL-H_GEBa-w6vTIaFUn5bim7IJ7Lb5GOKA0knGRNBN0OntjHojE2-a_TZFkdKhOS0k_9Nnr6rMc_AusAXk50qqg9n5MFmzU6MPtS5HQ6Ghiufj087aBTe1W1FN-r_DgdTZx7CiOma5fmCNb3g0/s320/Firefly%20small%20cast%20iron%20gingerbread%20house%20candle%20holders%20with%20thin%20candles%20flickering%20stuck%20in%20the%20c.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small decorative cast iron GBH candleholders</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></div><ol style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; counter-reset: list-number 0; display: flex; flex-direction: column; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">13. Gingerbread House Candle Holders:</span> Use small gingerbread houses as charming candle holders for holiday decor.</p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><br /></p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSl2K0KrNxQPTk0b9KSvgoMPrX53un-7ZkDtp_IPeUroxSrUh9vDw7D6Fq3Y6rUMDu_qa9Kmpp4dwwBA6OkaXZ8BxSTn85mOAyMtBquBbhy7rkmGVkwCOpYPb3V7bpfYYsu3iZRV6Hj2sdTDsuK0D7ZPG3lRm5vyFdWiiwZllABlmZDLfjf31CsQ71wskh/s2304/Firefly%20miniature%20gingerbread%20houses%20in%20a%20village-%20store,%20church,%20school,%20townhall,%20houses,%20railway%20.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1792" data-original-width="2304" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSl2K0KrNxQPTk0b9KSvgoMPrX53un-7ZkDtp_IPeUroxSrUh9vDw7D6Fq3Y6rUMDu_qa9Kmpp4dwwBA6OkaXZ8BxSTn85mOAyMtBquBbhy7rkmGVkwCOpYPb3V7bpfYYsu3iZRV6Hj2sdTDsuK0D7ZPG3lRm5vyFdWiiwZllABlmZDLfjf31CsQ71wskh/s320/Firefly%20miniature%20gingerbread%20houses%20in%20a%20village-%20store,%20church,%20school,%20townhall,%20houses,%20railway%20.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GBH Miniature Village</td></tr></tbody></table></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">14. Gingerbread House Village:</span> Build a miniature gingerbread village with various houses, creating a festive tableau.</p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><br /></p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><br /></p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipI8aZzUA_zieN4Zy6-01XXztOLOeJjS8WGWVHWR1l9-RfKq3NJYXnl1OW2weO_EkFLFLdgRoXoy8N7GTBnPbLaSDvE6NJuf-nn2Lo43umrC_DFNy8OP7AEDAtPc09a-mNALt7O8DONM_Ugmw2PMi8QAehQlBhjZTkHDVIhdkMNQVmt4gxNn1HTYfVbNoG/s2304/Firefly%20gingerbread%20fondue%20party%20with%20melted%20chocolate%20in%20fondue%20pot%20eaten%20on%20pieces%20of%20gingerbread%20.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1792" data-original-width="2304" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipI8aZzUA_zieN4Zy6-01XXztOLOeJjS8WGWVHWR1l9-RfKq3NJYXnl1OW2weO_EkFLFLdgRoXoy8N7GTBnPbLaSDvE6NJuf-nn2Lo43umrC_DFNy8OP7AEDAtPc09a-mNALt7O8DONM_Ugmw2PMi8QAehQlBhjZTkHDVIhdkMNQVmt4gxNn1HTYfVbNoG/s320/Firefly%20gingerbread%20fondue%20party%20with%20melted%20chocolate%20in%20fondue%20pot%20eaten%20on%20pieces%20of%20gingerbread%20.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gingerbread House Chocolate Fondue Party</td></tr></tbody></table><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">15. Gingerbread House Fondue Parties:</span> Dip gingerbread house pieces in chocolate or fondue for a delicious twist.</p></li></ol><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi23n5nfX9qr_QbFLmwlLDcWRxXnnyrJpiJsWMq5OpeHNEVqYKXKhCJAxciu2ecQ3DTu1YpZG57JQo16_6H3xoZcQ0Hg7Iujylvl02N-hfapLvAy4FrgufwLUD5EI7aWV1U-OH00VJ6k4qxwCSg4ZKKJJ6GAtMsXmfcB-ll6KO8zm37dYxhXjsA3EvsRSwZ/s2304/Firefly%20gingerbread%20house-themed%20ice%20cream%20sundae%20party%20with%20parts%20of%20gingerbread%20houses%20used%20to%20bui.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1792" data-original-width="2304" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi23n5nfX9qr_QbFLmwlLDcWRxXnnyrJpiJsWMq5OpeHNEVqYKXKhCJAxciu2ecQ3DTu1YpZG57JQo16_6H3xoZcQ0Hg7Iujylvl02N-hfapLvAy4FrgufwLUD5EI7aWV1U-OH00VJ6k4qxwCSg4ZKKJJ6GAtMsXmfcB-ll6KO8zm37dYxhXjsA3EvsRSwZ/s320/Firefly%20gingerbread%20house-themed%20ice%20cream%20sundae%20party%20with%20parts%20of%20gingerbread%20houses%20used%20to%20bui.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GBH-themed Ice-Cream Sundae Party</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><ol style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; counter-reset: list-number 0; display: flex; flex-direction: column; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">16. Gingerbread House Ice Cream Sundae Bar:</span> Incorporate gingerbread house pieces into an ice cream sundae bar for a sweet treat.</p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><br /></p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN5oZhAvKN9FxBJlT2l7rAUo3T4FwQafp9YBs9OBBQehKCl8xsBGnNVHvC9xqKw55gu6_P-m91xsPQdpE0DAjEZWLxk0-GHVZJhTXsEjvlMCQF65OgAQUmu5uR7zALsLDiFTCQ9MB8e8mcVgErFHnzWgemsQX5UefoamfpiIF36TAYxLPk4dhqcUVESJjn/s2304/Firefly%20An%20old%20children's%20book%20called%20-Visiting%20Hansel%20and%20Gretel%20for%20Xmas-%20laying%20on%20a%20table%20with%20a.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1792" data-original-width="2304" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN5oZhAvKN9FxBJlT2l7rAUo3T4FwQafp9YBs9OBBQehKCl8xsBGnNVHvC9xqKw55gu6_P-m91xsPQdpE0DAjEZWLxk0-GHVZJhTXsEjvlMCQF65OgAQUmu5uR7zALsLDiFTCQ9MB8e8mcVgErFHnzWgemsQX5UefoamfpiIF36TAYxLPk4dhqcUVESJjn/s320/Firefly%20An%20old%20children's%20book%20called%20-Visiting%20Hansel%20and%20Gretel%20for%20Xmas-%20laying%20on%20a%20table%20with%20a.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Visiting Hansel and Gretel for Christmas</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">17.Gingerbread House Storytelling:</span> Craft stories or narratives around the history and magic of gingerbread houses during holiday gatherings.</p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><br /></p></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 1.25rem;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><br /></p></li></ol>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-50896842941697538542023-12-20T17:42:00.000-08:002024-02-04T18:40:15.080-08:00Unlocking Your Potential: Turning Gap Year Jobs into Future Success<p> </p><span id="docs-internal-guid-1aed95f6-7fff-5493-98e8-17c6d3a88ad5"><h1 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.33333; margin-bottom: 46pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 52pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Unlocking Your Potential: Turning Gap Year Jobs into Future Success</span></h1></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0151a3a1-7fff-6bed-4e61-c6af5d6e4fd6"><h2 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 18pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 17pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Embrace the Journey: Building Skills and Shaping Careers</span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Embarking on a Gap Year is a thrilling adventure filled with self-discovery and new experiences. As you navigate this transitional period, consider taking on entry-level jobs that not only pay the bills but also serve as stepping stones to a future career. Let's explore a variety of roles and the valuable skills they can impart, offering pathways to more lucrative and fulfilling professions.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Jl1axkgqgDafTVHcroPttV4-iDLRkYCrLP4n3Wf-O9CJBPc2LgiipWXGb2Cq4_jYt_d9-qoLfz-dPkn5rWlnlUVsf9lV7qcGRx8MQW5P7unOdrC4Qp2MeMrA57_t2CeL6I2JWBf4euFspz8RMfEV83YDJqyD-sa2li-k8IGCePnnpOE_G9CW99yFHCuC/s2048/Firefly%20A%20cat%20in%20a%20fast%20food%20place%20wearing%20an%20apron%20and%20helping%20with%20the%20burgers%2035572.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Jl1axkgqgDafTVHcroPttV4-iDLRkYCrLP4n3Wf-O9CJBPc2LgiipWXGb2Cq4_jYt_d9-qoLfz-dPkn5rWlnlUVsf9lV7qcGRx8MQW5P7unOdrC4Qp2MeMrA57_t2CeL6I2JWBf4euFspz8RMfEV83YDJqyD-sa2li-k8IGCePnnpOE_G9CW99yFHCuC/w400-h400/Firefly%20A%20cat%20in%20a%20fast%20food%20place%20wearing%20an%20apron%20and%20helping%20with%20the%20burgers%2035572.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 16.5pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1. Griller in a Burger Joint</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Skills Developed:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Time Management: Juggling multiple orders under pressure.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Teamwork: Collaborating with kitchen staff for efficient service.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Customer Service: Handling inquiries and special requests.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Adaptability: Adjusting to changing menus and preferences.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Stress Management: Efficiently working under high-pressure situations.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Potential Career Paths:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Culinary Arts Program</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Food Safety Certification</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Restaurant Management Courses</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Business Administration with a focus on Hospitality</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip-M_-HTPJIlWje_KgrAKgMqSV2clbtqMnpvb6GzWxVc7iX8HmomDBBlqhW9rAyvzRqE4TmU6rmSvLZ1EuNbffBl9Xoxdeq_0vYFAqCNwr1pWzxDEWdKtKqqsMeiZazYed0XH3IL2M2PSCoBJsqK3Becm1iaDx3L1DyBazpRNKLUUC-TpCqtC4DUMtfpA9/s2688/Firefly%20A%20cat%20in%20a%20bakery%20wearing%20a%20baker's%20cap%20and%20apron%20and%20helping%20with%20baking%20bread%2067950.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2688" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip-M_-HTPJIlWje_KgrAKgMqSV2clbtqMnpvb6GzWxVc7iX8HmomDBBlqhW9rAyvzRqE4TmU6rmSvLZ1EuNbffBl9Xoxdeq_0vYFAqCNwr1pWzxDEWdKtKqqsMeiZazYed0XH3IL2M2PSCoBJsqK3Becm1iaDx3L1DyBazpRNKLUUC-TpCqtC4DUMtfpA9/w640-h366/Firefly%20A%20cat%20in%20a%20bakery%20wearing%20a%20baker's%20cap%20and%20apron%20and%20helping%20with%20baking%20bread%2067950.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">2. Baker's Assistant in a Bakery</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Skills Developed:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Baking Techniques: Learning the basics of baking and pastry preparation.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Precision: Measuring and mixing ingredients accurately.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Creativity: Assisting in the creation of new baked goods.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Organization: Managing inventory and ordering supplies.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Team Collaboration: Working with other kitchen staff for seamless production.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Potential Career Paths:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Culinary or Baking and Pastry Arts Program</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Advanced Baking Techniques Workshops</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Small Business Management Courses</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Nutrition and Dietetics</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwNJPlSOpuAMGmZwdg2Z2rTVL5phSEsR4WZersBML__RU3CsBcTit1aJ13QbYoriIbZ7tI4v2oaiVKR2ggFn_DNTD6IyfkhnEE8homCXVTTN82wLMPGwka5n0iltkc0UEB4gf9uUrOrZo1SozK7jJS38k71BTjhO7eq7Mjzbs6UsTvCHjAfBYkdViM2fvH/s2048/Firefly%20A%20cat%20on%20her%20hind%20legs%20in%20a%20dress%20store%20with%20hangers%2038776.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwNJPlSOpuAMGmZwdg2Z2rTVL5phSEsR4WZersBML__RU3CsBcTit1aJ13QbYoriIbZ7tI4v2oaiVKR2ggFn_DNTD6IyfkhnEE8homCXVTTN82wLMPGwka5n0iltkc0UEB4gf9uUrOrZo1SozK7jJS38k71BTjhO7eq7Mjzbs6UsTvCHjAfBYkdViM2fvH/w400-h400/Firefly%20A%20cat%20on%20her%20hind%20legs%20in%20a%20dress%20store%20with%20hangers%2038776.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That looks stunning on you!<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">3. Clerk in a Dress Shop</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Skills Developed:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Customer Service: Assisting with clothing choices and sizes.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Salesmanship: Promoting and upselling merchandise.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Cash Handling: Operating cash registers and processing transactions.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Visual Merchandising: Arranging clothing for maximum appeal.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Time Management: Balancing tasks during peak shopping times.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Potential Career Paths:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Retail Management Courses</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Fashion Merchandising Program</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Marketing and Sales Training</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Business Administration with a focus on Retail</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwOEOJloMG8XMZGRwfZIEzeQl38TtmQq1Q4VljnlOkrBh5PPCovN8MZh4RkHHmv_pocrHhuHUtb2n-hEdG_alFfWEe8nNLjA54S7fsH5HK1cirQwHbwYxZ16Ft0YFCd3gGHXu_q08j_2Dn2lR3RDL9GL0aiCkwpqnexj4Nz4B7W3Ahj1LpriHSd_w-OE3z/s2048/Firefly%20A%20cat%20at%20an%20information%20desk%20in%20a%20hospital%20with%20a%20uniform%20top%20and%20an%20INFORMATION%20sign%20on%20the.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwOEOJloMG8XMZGRwfZIEzeQl38TtmQq1Q4VljnlOkrBh5PPCovN8MZh4RkHHmv_pocrHhuHUtb2n-hEdG_alFfWEe8nNLjA54S7fsH5HK1cirQwHbwYxZ16Ft0YFCd3gGHXu_q08j_2Dn2lR3RDL9GL0aiCkwpqnexj4Nz4B7W3Ahj1LpriHSd_w-OE3z/w400-h400/Firefly%20A%20cat%20at%20an%20information%20desk%20in%20a%20hospital%20with%20a%20uniform%20top%20and%20an%20INFORMATION%20sign%20on%20the.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">May I help you?</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span><p></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">4. Volunteer at the Information Desk in a Hospital</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Skills Developed:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Empathy and Compassion: Dealing with individuals in various emotional states.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Communication: Conveying information clearly and concisely.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Problem Solving: Addressing queries and finding solutions.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Crisis Management: Managing urgent situations and emergencies.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Cultural Sensitivity: Interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Potential Career Paths:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Health Administration Program</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Medical Office Management Courses</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Patient Advocacy Training</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Volunteer Coordination and Management</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqjQx0tIEjr2_NHoKdqIVn3Mx2E_dVkjx2WKY2TDc_oS5DbWd0ILUPQS8fqOlo_oyLelpLmcVXbz-H8-rqcFFqH4tIRW4rYpzqcnbl7XKhHchyphenhyphenuSj0pxj8PKOb5VrKnnpD57eN_QTZdd05iVPZYTF2pfJ78k8WERT4o3kN4nBNZFZquhrXbTEbw6m-gZAT/s2048/Firefly%20A%20cat%20in%20a%20call%20center%20at%20one%20of%20the%20call%20desks%2041105.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqjQx0tIEjr2_NHoKdqIVn3Mx2E_dVkjx2WKY2TDc_oS5DbWd0ILUPQS8fqOlo_oyLelpLmcVXbz-H8-rqcFFqH4tIRW4rYpzqcnbl7XKhHchyphenhyphenuSj0pxj8PKOb5VrKnnpD57eN_QTZdd05iVPZYTF2pfJ78k8WERT4o3kN4nBNZFZquhrXbTEbw6m-gZAT/w400-h400/Firefly%20A%20cat%20in%20a%20call%20center%20at%20one%20of%20the%20call%20desks%2041105.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cat on Call</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span><p></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">5. Customer Service Representative in a Call Center</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Skills Developed:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Communication: Handling customer inquiries via phone or chat.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Problem Solving: Resolving issues and providing solutions.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Patience: Managing challenging customer interactions.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Time Management: Meeting service level agreements.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Multitasking: Handling multiple inquiries simultaneously.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Potential Career Paths:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Business Administration with a focus on Customer Service</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Sales and Marketing Courses</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Quality Assurance and Process Improvement Training</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Operations Management Programs</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ZnaD53JVuvDpx9APg3IkzgC3042iLGDnaGCchjfPWj9287qg8_8i4Y5OzZySaAR_R8QR5tCOvmhahODV1GQvIBXbsBsZ1WW3mQkABfhS8coeX_Blqa-N8i2KnoCugYh-k3UegIs_jF5cI1rqPyJDB8LXe7jtdYYk4R3O9PIXQ8IUc8i_i7WkxIYFMuan/s2048/Firefly%20A%20cat%20in%20an%20office%20in%20a%20business%20at%20a%20desk%20with%20a%20computer%2033652.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ZnaD53JVuvDpx9APg3IkzgC3042iLGDnaGCchjfPWj9287qg8_8i4Y5OzZySaAR_R8QR5tCOvmhahODV1GQvIBXbsBsZ1WW3mQkABfhS8coeX_Blqa-N8i2KnoCugYh-k3UegIs_jF5cI1rqPyJDB8LXe7jtdYYk4R3O9PIXQ8IUc8i_i7WkxIYFMuan/s320/Firefly%20A%20cat%20in%20an%20office%20in%20a%20business%20at%20a%20desk%20with%20a%20computer%2033652.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><p></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 16.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">6. Office Assistant in a Corporate Setting</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Skills Developed:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Administrative Skills: Managing schedules, appointments, and correspondence.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Organizational Skills: Coordinating office activities and maintaining order.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Technology Proficiency: Using office software and communication tools.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Team Collaboration: Assisting colleagues with various tasks.</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Time Management: Prioritizing tasks for maximum efficiency.</span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Potential Career Paths:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Business Administration Program</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Office Management Courses</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Human Resources Training</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">Executive Assistant or Administrative Professional Certification</span></p></li></ul><h2 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 18pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 17pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Navigating Your Future</span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">These entry-level jobs not only provide financial support during your Gap Year but also equip you with skills that can shape your future career. Whether you choose to delve deeper into a specific industry or pivot towards entrepreneurship, the experiences gained during this period are invaluable.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Consider furthering your education with targeted courses and certifications that align with your interests and career aspirations. Embrace each role as a chance to grow, learn, and open doors to opportunities you might not have considered before.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Remember, your Gap Year is not just a pause; it's a launching pad for future success. Seize the moment, embrace the challenges, and pave the way for a rewarding and fulfilling career ahead. Your journey starts now!</span></p><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwO9Ki1zoqb7Z-FYIjrX6Dy4E4kIpjBjYl9fOx7u2E_UDE-CT3YQyB7ExOs6BH_QUF8cw64j-Ak6TgydKBOyZ8MOOMdW8IVJDMg0gVNnZM9Pi1y-jpOiQ-r84-CI6tc7a7OVS77gTAmmlgHhP6dqfv0f-KLXubw8zo4Lc3VqQJKeMtyGsyvsZR_KUS4OTu/s2048/Firefly%20A%20cat%20in%20a%20fast%20food%20place%20wearing%20an%20apron%20and%20helping%20with%20the%20burgers%2035572.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwO9Ki1zoqb7Z-FYIjrX6Dy4E4kIpjBjYl9fOx7u2E_UDE-CT3YQyB7ExOs6BH_QUF8cw64j-Ak6TgydKBOyZ8MOOMdW8IVJDMg0gVNnZM9Pi1y-jpOiQ-r84-CI6tc7a7OVS77gTAmmlgHhP6dqfv0f-KLXubw8zo4Lc3VqQJKeMtyGsyvsZR_KUS4OTu/s320/Firefly%20A%20cat%20in%20a%20fast%20food%20place%20wearing%20an%20apron%20and%20helping%20with%20the%20burgers%2035572.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-73616227493763194382023-12-14T11:28:00.000-08:002023-12-20T21:08:22.616-08:00Seven Plant-based Shortbread Recipes for the Holidays<p><span style="font-size: large;"> I had grannies with Scottish backgrounds, so shortbread was always "a thing" in my growing up Christmases. It was also the first cookie recipe I remember experimenting with baking-- I read the recipe wrong and used a pound block of butter vs. the cup that was called for. My mother kindly referred to my gaff by saying, "These are delicious-- <i>very</i> rich!" </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-family: Satisfy; font-size: x-large;"><span style="text-align: start; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b><i>Evergreen whispers,
Vegan shortbread gently bakes,
Christmas joy unfolds.</i></b></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">I still like to experiment with recipes. I hope that you maybe try one that you haven't tried before and let me know what you think in the comments below. Feel free to do your own innovations on these recipes and let me know what worked for you! </span></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Classic Scottish Shortbread</span></span></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">2. No-bake Almond Shortbread</span></span></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Carob Shortbread</span></span></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Oatmeal Shortbread</span></span></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Gluten-free Almond Flour Shortbread</span></span></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">6. Peppermint Shortbread</span></span></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">7. Ginger Shortbread</span></span></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">8. How to make Powdered Sugar</span></span></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">9. A Simple Vanilla Glaze</span></span></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">10. Quick Chocolate Dip</span></span></p><p><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Scroll for the s</span></span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: x-large; white-space-collapse: preserve;">even plant-based shortbread recipes:</span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN2IxKSNIWnAGJh-jnVxQ3ZC7wIax6SJ5HEDOtgZal9LBboDFf33AOpPzUJzdCJfGZe-2qS5jQY7ai2j95NiGgISWdjuOTL3phcL0Kb_phNImyPMjAKCoSLe455lrs57SGv6_qyRA8JufDOhUUtafsT3M347fa4AwrL-Fo1PGlFaWGF73UkfzlmtEN8lL9/s2048/Firefly%20ONE%20(1)%20slice%20of%20THIN%20shortbread,%20black%20background,%20no%20other%20items%20in%20picture%2094077.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN2IxKSNIWnAGJh-jnVxQ3ZC7wIax6SJ5HEDOtgZal9LBboDFf33AOpPzUJzdCJfGZe-2qS5jQY7ai2j95NiGgISWdjuOTL3phcL0Kb_phNImyPMjAKCoSLe455lrs57SGv6_qyRA8JufDOhUUtafsT3M347fa4AwrL-Fo1PGlFaWGF73UkfzlmtEN8lL9/s320/Firefly%20ONE%20(1)%20slice%20of%20THIN%20shortbread,%20black%20background,%20no%20other%20items%20in%20picture%2094077.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Traditional Scottish Shortbread</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-1b048db9-7fff-18b0-c85a-7b7ffb33f2f3"><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Classic Scottish Shortbread:</span></span></h3><h4 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 2pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span></span></h4><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 cup vegan butter (coconut oil works well)</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/2 cup powdered sugar</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">2 cups all-purpose flour</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pinch of salt</span></span></p></li></ul><h4 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 2pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">Instructions:</span></span></h4><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Cream the vegan butter and powdered sugar until smooth.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Press into a parchment-lined square pan and prick the surface with a fork.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Allow to cool before cutting into squares.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFUxOLhMwfWtv_TbicYY5wCT57wTjIgnHuFsKazLPko0Qe2y5FMNB01if7Ai3YLgs_UAxylJc7QY7jRxt2PrKqFQTGgxOuECg7DcURKBdBUZ86WFR3pEoCDOhiZ2KElK8GVqoNvwkvtpRxw3A8hrYFnJisTwrNGBQDGrtWMxGL5v5kOl5CT70Ga6K69PPQ/s2048/Firefly%20square%20of%20UNBAKED%20THIN%20almond%20flour%20shortbread,%20CUT%20IN%20SQUARES%2085741.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFUxOLhMwfWtv_TbicYY5wCT57wTjIgnHuFsKazLPko0Qe2y5FMNB01if7Ai3YLgs_UAxylJc7QY7jRxt2PrKqFQTGgxOuECg7DcURKBdBUZ86WFR3pEoCDOhiZ2KElK8GVqoNvwkvtpRxw3A8hrYFnJisTwrNGBQDGrtWMxGL5v5kOl5CT70Ga6K69PPQ/s320/Firefly%20square%20of%20UNBAKED%20THIN%20almond%20flour%20shortbread,%20CUT%20IN%20SQUARES%2085741.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No-Bake Almond Shortbreads (Gluten-free)</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">2. No-Bake Almond Shortbread:</span></span></h3><h4 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 2pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span></span></h4><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 1/2 cups almond flour</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/2 cup coconut oil (melted)</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/4 cup maple syrup</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 tsp vanilla extract</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pinch of salt</span></span></p></li></ul><h4 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 2pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">Instructions:</span></span></h4><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Mix all ingredients until well combined.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Press the mixture into a lined pan.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, then cut into squares.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLpwEsk4gmv3RCuKEMpHJ6TyL9bSCr0tAsF-JMf94dZp3lMnfUopHmFkyI0nOepkaqko7c_kUo-mdLAYgaMLp7_x_OCLs8imkdrLjRYeqzn8EaML6dch39A2qvgj9e9FLSoNdiaaP3BqeBQ8gVw4vF_Jo93pgupnhxY07aQBiQaYuENSU_wH1c7TU_o6Gt/s2048/Firefly%20homemade%20NOT%20perfectly%20round,%20small,%20plain,%20thin%20CHOCOLATE%20cookies,%20black%20background%20WITH%20BL.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLpwEsk4gmv3RCuKEMpHJ6TyL9bSCr0tAsF-JMf94dZp3lMnfUopHmFkyI0nOepkaqko7c_kUo-mdLAYgaMLp7_x_OCLs8imkdrLjRYeqzn8EaML6dch39A2qvgj9e9FLSoNdiaaP3BqeBQ8gVw4vF_Jo93pgupnhxY07aQBiQaYuENSU_wH1c7TU_o6Gt/s320/Firefly%20homemade%20NOT%20perfectly%20round,%20small,%20plain,%20thin%20CHOCOLATE%20cookies,%20black%20background%20WITH%20BL.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carob Shortbreads</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Carob Shortbread:</span></span></h3><h4 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 2pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span></span></h4><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 cup vegan butter (room temperature)</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/2 cup powdered sugar</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">2 cups spelt flour</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/4 cup carob powder</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pinch of salt</span></span></p></li></ul><h4 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 2pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">Instructions:</span></span></h4><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Cream vegan butter and powdered sugar until fluffy.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Add spelt flour, carob powder, and salt; mix until combined.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Shape into a log, wrap in parchment, and refrigerate for 1 hour.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Slice and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 12-15 minutes. (You can slice by pulling a piece of dental floss through log)</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDbdigPda_bPNG8VrO8TMWz9ig0847Q81Js0JBP9ZN7fYGlv9FNV9m0khbbXIPu_rlJUjhyphenhyphen6WKoFN80xVMHxcz06tzXo1jl1KtU5XSoicWEr0OA70BfnimGqyzFhpZFL6bCjgnYxXFi_JqCrY8AAlso4vnJjcjsoZXM02gvkNmgDeotlsNNQNij-Hr0qyG/s2048/Firefly%20thinner%20oatmeal%20shortbreads%20cut%20into%20squares,%20black%20background%2073861.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDbdigPda_bPNG8VrO8TMWz9ig0847Q81Js0JBP9ZN7fYGlv9FNV9m0khbbXIPu_rlJUjhyphenhyphen6WKoFN80xVMHxcz06tzXo1jl1KtU5XSoicWEr0OA70BfnimGqyzFhpZFL6bCjgnYxXFi_JqCrY8AAlso4vnJjcjsoZXM02gvkNmgDeotlsNNQNij-Hr0qyG/s320/Firefly%20thinner%20oatmeal%20shortbreads%20cut%20into%20squares,%20black%20background%2073861.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oatmeal Shortbreads</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Oatmeal Shortbread:</span></span></h3><h4 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 2pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span></span></h4><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 cup vegan butter (coconut oil works well)</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/2 cup brown sugar</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">2 cups oat flour</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/2 cup rolled oats</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pinch of salt</span></span></p></li></ul><h4 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 2pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">Instructions:</span></span></h4><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Cream vegan butter and sugar until light.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Add oat flour, rolled oats, and salt; mix until combined.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Press into a pan and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20-25 minutes.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsKgojQcFN7qPrhfubOkb_xwsWGCkr5vajBR6vMoSMGGHDkAVtf28zegBTVvMz3xwnzh0Xp5uqzxUqhs5-d4aw2LAoLJ8ewvXhpCOGk1pPVuOwMf9zAmI8xYfHb0h7qmXfnDzPEgcUcqHM27h4-Uwv2-Uuu3TW8PBgKB5QHh1mQlymMK45z7tsQ4cJhem4/s2048/Firefly%20thinner%20almond%20flour%20shortbread%20cookies,%20black%20background%2073861.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsKgojQcFN7qPrhfubOkb_xwsWGCkr5vajBR6vMoSMGGHDkAVtf28zegBTVvMz3xwnzh0Xp5uqzxUqhs5-d4aw2LAoLJ8ewvXhpCOGk1pPVuOwMf9zAmI8xYfHb0h7qmXfnDzPEgcUcqHM27h4-Uwv2-Uuu3TW8PBgKB5QHh1mQlymMK45z7tsQ4cJhem4/s320/Firefly%20thinner%20almond%20flour%20shortbread%20cookies,%20black%20background%2073861.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baked Glutin-free Almond Flour Cookies</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Gluten-Free Almond Flour Shortbread (Baked):</span></span></h3><h4 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 2pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span></span></h4><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">2 cups almond flour</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/4 cup maple syrup</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 tsp vanilla extract</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pinch of salt</span></span></p></li></ul><h4 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 2pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">Instructions:</span></span></h4><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Combine almond flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Form into a ball, roll out, and cut into shapes.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 12-15 minutes.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">May take longer to firm up after cooling. Be patient!</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPy6IMz9pSbo2qKLCFfu67y5D_GSv4j4VW0ka8f9iya-ZTYh3C1NGj8SmVt-AyFH8kkE0t2FSAqZKVvHUvnDBeL9aFyYE2NdWLt7nBAAdiSR_n2tdgtyR23GJdeXyz-qna0nykVZ4v2Fo_PXzzegx-knBxrrXDTOkXaFYeALpgk8ewqQG6-5adomxB9XJf/s2048/Firefly%20peppermint%20shortbreads%20with%20pulverized%20crushed%20candy%20cane%20stuck%20along%20the%20edges%20of%20cookies%20b.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPy6IMz9pSbo2qKLCFfu67y5D_GSv4j4VW0ka8f9iya-ZTYh3C1NGj8SmVt-AyFH8kkE0t2FSAqZKVvHUvnDBeL9aFyYE2NdWLt7nBAAdiSR_n2tdgtyR23GJdeXyz-qna0nykVZ4v2Fo_PXzzegx-knBxrrXDTOkXaFYeALpgk8ewqQG6-5adomxB9XJf/s320/Firefly%20peppermint%20shortbreads%20with%20pulverized%20crushed%20candy%20cane%20stuck%20along%20the%20edges%20of%20cookies%20b.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peppermint Shortbreads</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">6. Peppermint Shortbread:</span></span></h3><h4 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 2pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span></span></h4><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 cup vegan butter (coconut oil works well)</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/2 cup powdered sugar</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">2 cups all-purpose flour</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 tsp peppermint extract</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">About 1/2 cup finely crushed candy canes </span></span></p></li></ul><h4 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 2pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">Instructions:</span></span></h4><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Cream vegan butter and powdered sugar.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Add flour and peppermint extract; mix until combined.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Roll dough and finely crushed candy canes into a log, and refrigerate.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Slice and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 12-15 minutes. (You can slice using a piece of dental floss pulled through instead of using a knife).</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAUDsim_7t3HnCXEs6VCZ_su5s8yMWIbLa6gdGJAa7k07uY0taE7mgvpwbwtxIgJPhVAFp4dC7sx0k9LI-lIBqPujz7xP4rCKFJLgtzbggNz9q7ySiBTxlgMaYe-GDL3oIj5GLZaKSABkcFH6Eg_yhUmfGCUWwy7dwnsTt5wR8qhwjKzThJwHC7Y09_agz/s2048/Firefly%20Christmas%20ginger%20shortbread%20cookies,%20black%20background%2088255.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAUDsim_7t3HnCXEs6VCZ_su5s8yMWIbLa6gdGJAa7k07uY0taE7mgvpwbwtxIgJPhVAFp4dC7sx0k9LI-lIBqPujz7xP4rCKFJLgtzbggNz9q7ySiBTxlgMaYe-GDL3oIj5GLZaKSABkcFH6Eg_yhUmfGCUWwy7dwnsTt5wR8qhwjKzThJwHC7Y09_agz/s320/Firefly%20Christmas%20ginger%20shortbread%20cookies,%20black%20background%2088255.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ginger Shortbreads</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">7. Ginger Shortbread:</span></span></h3><h4 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 2pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span></span></h4><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 cup vegan butter (coconut oil works well)</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 cup brown sugar</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">2 cups all-purpose flour</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">3 tsp ground ginger</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pinch of salt</span></span></p></li></ul><h4 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 2pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">Instructions:</span></span></h4><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Cream vegan butter and sugar until smooth.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Add flour, ground ginger, and salt; mix until a dough forms.</span></span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Press into an 8x8 pan, and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20- 25 minutes. Cool and slice into bars.</span></span></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy these plant-based shortbread variations! Following are a couple of other recipes: one for making your own powdered (icing) sugar and the other for making a simple vanilla glaze to put on a couple of your cookie recipes.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Making Your Own Powdered Sugar</b></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;">Put 1 cup (minimum) or more cups <i>regular</i> white sugar (no, it is not vegan) into the blender, along with 1 tablespoon of corn starch per cup of sugar (corn starch prevents clumping). Run the blender for 4-5 minutes until well pulverized into a powder. Stop the blender and scrape it down as needed. Store in a ziplock bag or a mason jar with a lid.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Vanilla Glaze</b></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">1 1/2 cups powdered sugar</span></span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">2 1/2 tablespoons non-dairy milk</span></span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">1 teaspoon melted coconut oil</span></span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract</span></span></li><li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">pinch of salt </span></span></li><ul><li><br /></li></ul><li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Mix all the above together and put on the cool cookies or cake.</span></span></li></ul><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Quick Chocolate Dip</b></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">In a microwavable dish, (no lid), combine 1 package of chocolate chips and 2 teaspoons of coconut oil. Nuke for 1 minute-1 1/2 minutes. Stir until silky smooth. Dip half of cookie in the dip and place on wax paper until set. Store with wax paper between the cookie layers.</span></span></div><p></p></span>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-29638313907333243492023-12-10T22:02:00.000-08:002023-12-23T08:23:05.353-08:00Christmas Play Lists from the 50s to 2023<p> </p><span id="docs-internal-guid-6e6aad35-7fff-1a61-781f-be9c8f67d107"><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNSkRMw3Xx46LFY7JGB99RvBI-VlAY9w3X_l4PjzRm7FwsQ10o8nyxMUNMd1xQg8d4_bXRMUKooumlx5bZgHz6OPWXVbGZG0-RhRTHieehWrPUpDVOv__-ONqsQyT7EqkpRvvpH_Rc07TgalHAH9j-6ZwhbN3ZMH3jrfHoyKRKl2bypd__D2GSyp4U5ocX/s2688/Firefly%20Dreaming%20of%20a%20White%20Christmas%2025770.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2688" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNSkRMw3Xx46LFY7JGB99RvBI-VlAY9w3X_l4PjzRm7FwsQ10o8nyxMUNMd1xQg8d4_bXRMUKooumlx5bZgHz6OPWXVbGZG0-RhRTHieehWrPUpDVOv__-ONqsQyT7EqkpRvvpH_Rc07TgalHAH9j-6ZwhbN3ZMH3jrfHoyKRKl2bypd__D2GSyp4U5ocX/w400-h229/Firefly%20Dreaming%20of%20a%20White%20Christmas%2025770.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Here are 73 years of playlists, each consisting of popular Christmas songs or singers from different decades that I have celebrated Christmas. I have tucked some fun Canadian Christmas songs in too. Have a lot of fun making your own memorable play lists- </span><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Feel free to mix and match or customize these playlists. </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2.1; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: large; white-space-collapse: preserve;">What songs are missing off my lists that you will have on yours? (mention in the Comments section below-- thanks! and have a Merry Christmas!)</span></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1950-1960 Playlist:</span></h3><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" by Brenda Lee (1958)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Jingle Bell Rock" by Bobby Helms (1957)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"White Christmas" by Bing Crosby (1942, but remained popular in the 1950s)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" by Gene Autry (1949, but popularized in the 1950s)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" by Frank Sinatra (1957)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Ave Maria" by Perry Como (1957)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Mary's Boy Child" by Harry Belafonte (1956)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; text-wrap: wrap;">"Blue Christmas" by Elvis (1957)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheWOpC9pGn_NoIslKEc84Hk5dwHecu-FurEKaYnNlglE3UXEWhyilgAjXe1JrKfTli4BL3vaUgpkK5iq9FQgbOYPv_ecouPJc22GM4qzMrcckOkrJkHLXIIMHiVd793WiMR6jROJRqBBehg20ym6qCY0B7LMi4MeV5hMLligDtcvBhcZqKFPcc0UEdHF4l/s2688/Firefly%20Feliz%20Navidad%20in%20Mexico%2086659.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2688" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheWOpC9pGn_NoIslKEc84Hk5dwHecu-FurEKaYnNlglE3UXEWhyilgAjXe1JrKfTli4BL3vaUgpkK5iq9FQgbOYPv_ecouPJc22GM4qzMrcckOkrJkHLXIIMHiVd793WiMR6jROJRqBBehg20ym6qCY0B7LMi4MeV5hMLligDtcvBhcZqKFPcc0UEdHF4l/w400-h229/Firefly%20Feliz%20Navidad%20in%20Mexico%2086659.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><p></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1961-1970 Playlist:</span></h3><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"The Little Drummer Boy" by Harry Simeone Chorale (1963)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Feliz Navidad" by José Feliciano (1970)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Do You Hear What I Hear?" by Bing Crosby (1962)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Winter Wonderland" by Dean Martin (1966)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" by Darlene Love (1963)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Snoopy's Christmas Song" (Christmas Bells oh Christmas Bells) (1967)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"A Song for a Winter's Night" by Gordon Lightfoot (1967)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"I Wonder As I Wander" by Barbra Streisand (1967)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"River" by Joni Mitchell (1970)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"The Holly Tree" by the Clancy Brothers (Traditional- 1969)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1971-1980 Playlist:</span></h3><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Happy Xmas (War Is Over)" by John Lennon and Yoko Ono (1971)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Wonderful Christmastime" by Paul McCartney (1979)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Danny's Song" by Anne Murray (1972)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Happy New Year" by ABBA (1980)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Feliz Navidad" by Boney M. (1978)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Santa Baby" by Eartha Kitt (1953, but popularized again in the 1980s)</span></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1981-1990 Playlist:</span></h3><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"> "12 Days of Christmas" Doug and Bob McKenzie (1982)</span></span></h3><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Christmas in Hollis" by Run-DMC (1987)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Do They Know It's Christmas?" by Band Aid (1984)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Last Christmas" by Wham! (1984)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Fairytale of "New York" by the Pogues (1987)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">NEW: "Fairytale of New York" Funeral Tribute to Shane MacGowan (2023)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"The Huron Carol" with Tom Jackson (1987-current)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Joe and Mary" by Bryan Adams (1987)</span></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1991-2000 Playlist:</span></h3><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Jingle Bell Rock" by Mariah Carey (2000)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Grown-Up Christmas List" by Amy Grant (1990)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Mary Had A Baby" by Bruce Cockburn (1993)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"This Gift" by 98 Degrees (1999)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" by Mariah Carey (1994)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"I'll Be Home for Christmas" by *NSYNC (1998)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Winter Song" by Fernando Ortega (2000)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Christmas in Killarney" by The Irish Rovers (1999)</span></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">2001-2010 Playlist:</span></h3><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Where Are You Christmas?" by Faith Hill (2000)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Believe" by Josh Groban (2004)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"My Only Wish (This Year)" by Britney Spears (2000)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"The Polar Express" by Tom Hanks (2004)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Perfect Christmas Night" by Trans-Siberian Orchestra (2004)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"O Come, O Come Emmanuel" with Enya (2008)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen/We 3 Kings" Bare Naked Ladies/Sarah Mclachlan (2008)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4VWm1b5vM_FFhvw5WTnb3TEHAaVCZVwoxSVXRyv9mX5wgzlZ4f9K2KSY56iNW3tTj2PQnM-49u_juxepFsM5tXx8Rapib6Bf1oeCzyqLydjd6ggbK3cWbpPB-Qsn9VCZpgcnSWSReOLoNAsZfoQsuuRPOIzWgZLYwoEVRZqMPHGNI5H31lWEJNsUBr-0x/s2688/Firefly%20I%20Got%20the%20Christmas%20Tree,%20I've%20Got%20YOu%20Hear%20With%20Me%2025770.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2688" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4VWm1b5vM_FFhvw5WTnb3TEHAaVCZVwoxSVXRyv9mX5wgzlZ4f9K2KSY56iNW3tTj2PQnM-49u_juxepFsM5tXx8Rapib6Bf1oeCzyqLydjd6ggbK3cWbpPB-Qsn9VCZpgcnSWSReOLoNAsZfoQsuuRPOIzWgZLYwoEVRZqMPHGNI5H31lWEJNsUBr-0x/w400-h229/Firefly%20I%20Got%20the%20Christmas%20Tree,%20I've%20Got%20YOu%20Hear%20With%20Me%2025770.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span><p></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">2011-2020 Playlist:</span></h3><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Underneath the Tree" by Kelly Clarkson (2013)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" by Michael Bublé (2011)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Santa Tell Me" by Ariana Grande (2014)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Mistletoe" by Justin Bieber (2011)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Mary did you Know?" by Pentatonix (2014)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"This Christmas" by John Legend (2018)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Christmas the Way I Remember" by The High Kings (2019)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Must Be Santa" by Bryan Adams (2019)</span></p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.92; margin-bottom: 4pt; margin-top: 14pt;"><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">2021-2023 Playlist:</span></h3><ul style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-inline-start: 48px;"><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Merry Christmas" by Ed Sheeran (2021)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Christmas Tree Farm" by Taylor Swift (2019, but gained popularity in 2020)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Santa's Coming For Us" by Sia (2017, but remains popular)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Under the Mistletoe" by Justin Bieber ft. The Kid LAROI (2021)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"White Christmas Makes Me Blue" by Randy Travis (Remastered 2021)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"It Wasn't His Child" by Trisha Yearwood (2021)</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"Jingle Bells Meets Leg Day" (2023, reel https://www.facebook.com/reel/1557040674833178?s=yWDuG2&fs=e&mibextid=Nif5oz ) Anna Lapwood</span></p></li><li aria-level="1" dir="ltr" style="font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; list-style-type: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 15pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: large; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-wrap: wrap; vertical-align: baseline;">"The Birth of a King" (2023, Live Concert) Tommee Profitt</span></p></li></ul><div><div class="par" dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; height: 117px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><div class="ll-0-2" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">.</div></div></div></span>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-31173127916674270632023-12-08T06:33:00.000-08:002023-12-08T14:00:36.638-08:0025 Ways To Recycle, Repurpose or Reuse Old CDs<p> <span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV8H8SdHIP2fVDfUdwlpH-Uhusv5WvbP7S9tmqrhlvlMD0viYxeu3GMOAMl6nHAoguYeBzwlZ8Gr_iikPkNV606s9ZNzCLfobmf9qi7YB5qtWbUgnYmKaWjISTOJshG5SAJrsPyDlzesMsTVch04MageeUMQOTIv1IjLEeD2cBuozXoRz43tjDE6TvN8QU/s5680/Compact_Disc.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5680" data-original-width="5662" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV8H8SdHIP2fVDfUdwlpH-Uhusv5WvbP7S9tmqrhlvlMD0viYxeu3GMOAMl6nHAoguYeBzwlZ8Gr_iikPkNV606s9ZNzCLfobmf9qi7YB5qtWbUgnYmKaWjISTOJshG5SAJrsPyDlzesMsTVch04MageeUMQOTIv1IjLEeD2cBuozXoRz43tjDE6TvN8QU/s320/Compact_Disc.png" width="319" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="color: #374151; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Here are 25 creative ways to repurpose, recycle, or reuse old CDs (compact discs):</span><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><span id="docs-internal-guid-089232b8-7fff-5676-d71f-1420702b2d30"><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Coasters</b>: Use the shiny side of the CD as a coaster. You can decorate the non-shiny side with artwork or photos.</span></span></span></li><li><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Mosaic Art:</b> Break CDs into small pieces and create mosaic designs on various surfaces, such as flower pots, picture frames, or mirrors</span></span></li><li><b>Reflective Bird Scare:</b> Hang old CDs in your garden to create reflective surfaces that scare away birds and protect your plants <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimpm8wODlGqigAe9yES2SBxIKLwVPNZqNYJaG0lK20X1MxP3bdwsthAwtt56sTbYGhgY_FP2TXvwC0RCegBoAXs3KXO7LD2-yNh69agjXtVi7yqiwidAJHByLMKv778KxodEJjDkIQWyrjOcu_mywHcHjLiPFGKwsGYGVqMvxWWBIPO9cu4ZRJUoyhOSkA/s2048/Firefly%20Reflective%20Bird%20Scare-%20Hang%20old%20CDs%20in%20your%20garden%20to%20create%20reflective%20surfaces%20that%20scare%20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimpm8wODlGqigAe9yES2SBxIKLwVPNZqNYJaG0lK20X1MxP3bdwsthAwtt56sTbYGhgY_FP2TXvwC0RCegBoAXs3KXO7LD2-yNh69agjXtVi7yqiwidAJHByLMKv778KxodEJjDkIQWyrjOcu_mywHcHjLiPFGKwsGYGVqMvxWWBIPO9cu4ZRJUoyhOSkA/s320/Firefly%20Reflective%20Bird%20Scare-%20Hang%20old%20CDs%20in%20your%20garden%20to%20create%20reflective%20surfaces%20that%20scare%20.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></li><li><b>Desk Ornaments:</b> Decorate your desk by using CDs as the base for small sculptures or decorative items</li><li><b>Spinners or Mobiles:</b> Create hanging decorations by stringing together CDs with fishing line. Hang them near windows for a sparkling effect.</li><li><b>Jewelry:</b> Cut CDs into small, interesting shapes and turn them into unique jewelry pieces like earrings or pendants.</li><li><b>Gift Tags: </b>Cut small shapes from old CDs to make shiny and reflective gift tags.</li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Christmas Ornaments:</b><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Cut CDs into festive shapes and hang them on your Christmas tree for added sparkle. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-I8e2wu3EfIWqVY5SkT9C_4mtLjLuhjJpM1UflQWTAcxDQvzrU0N9YSS0Liyxs0UKsry1IXdDoGiYBlZ6MP6J2qPU259KugXUnO9HtK7t1YO3lWgHxaD9LERcqjdCLGdGgEEP12aqWZpj_KayCxD51v0pGqvqYdRVihWuwh9bQkrPgx9xqy-6-c63uvXU/s2048/Firefly%20compact%20disc%20cut%20into%20tree%20shaped%20onaments%20for%20a%20Christmas%20tree%20decoration%2066290.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-I8e2wu3EfIWqVY5SkT9C_4mtLjLuhjJpM1UflQWTAcxDQvzrU0N9YSS0Liyxs0UKsry1IXdDoGiYBlZ6MP6J2qPU259KugXUnO9HtK7t1YO3lWgHxaD9LERcqjdCLGdGgEEP12aqWZpj_KayCxD51v0pGqvqYdRVihWuwh9bQkrPgx9xqy-6-c63uvXU/s320/Firefly%20compact%20disc%20cut%20into%20tree%20shaped%20onaments%20for%20a%20Christmas%20tree%20decoration%2066290.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Sun Catchers:</b><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Hang CDs in windows to create colorful sun catchers that reflect light around the room.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">DIY Clock:</b><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Use the CD as a base for a DIY clock. Add clock hands and numbers for a customized timepiece.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Lampshade Decor: </b><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Glue or hang pieces of CDs on a lampshade to create a reflective and eye-catching design.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Costume Accessories:</b><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Cut CDs into strips or shapes to create futuristic or shiny costume accessories.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Garden Art:</b><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> De</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">corate your garden by incorporating old CDs into garden stakes, wind chimes, or other outdoor ornaments.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMtDeb2lurregGLROSZPtbvB6UW6HXq2ewAXTqRjV9_gq-z5iG2iypNSAQaMuSQAjZSXltdtmsvFaL9tk21r4xo1EDRBFkxvAmdJoAoZaRZateKhKZ37E5Qw8oIFt9GvsNpFCIj9VqFXfLTAaBNPI5C4ePeMSaATwlXeUNB6MRO_JGZqxjKDc7wUH5joqj/s2048/Firefly%20Decorate%20your%20garden%20by%20incorporating%20old%20CDs%20into%20garden%20stakes,%20wind%20chimes,%20or%20other%20outd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMtDeb2lurregGLROSZPtbvB6UW6HXq2ewAXTqRjV9_gq-z5iG2iypNSAQaMuSQAjZSXltdtmsvFaL9tk21r4xo1EDRBFkxvAmdJoAoZaRZateKhKZ37E5Qw8oIFt9GvsNpFCIj9VqFXfLTAaBNPI5C4ePeMSaATwlXeUNB6MRO_JGZqxjKDc7wUH5joqj/s320/Firefly%20Decorate%20your%20garden%20by%20incorporating%20old%20CDs%20into%20garden%20stakes,%20wind%20chimes,%20or%20other%20outd.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></span></span></li><li><b style="color: #374151; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Photo Frame Decoration:</b><span style="color: #374151; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Attach pieces of CDs to photo frames to add a shiny and unique touch to your pictures.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">DIY Fidget Spinner:</b><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Create a homemade fidget spinner using the center part of a CD and a small bearing.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">DIY Wall Art:</b><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Use whole or cut CDs to make a mosaic wall art piece. Arrange them in patterns or designs.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvoqmf2dFOBUVVNc-HviG7c1-A_8xvmJ-QtGxQx0Qlcy-JmxHUyhl32TF5ps9KkFIQzsQrBcSFWduVL-_ezYlXxU7__CpQfd2JRjY7CfPoQJP3s2Nhp7jsWsEiMGUJnGbAeShDwrAaFovmPUU_Xgm-QmnT2nRV0Ue6BA9n3pAgfDMRW5J2Gb-sM6TxjENk/s2048/Firefly%20DIY%20Wall%20Art-%20Use%20whole%20or%20cut%20CDs%20to%20make%20a%20mosaic%20wall%20art%20piece.%20Arrange%20them%20in%20patterns%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvoqmf2dFOBUVVNc-HviG7c1-A_8xvmJ-QtGxQx0Qlcy-JmxHUyhl32TF5ps9KkFIQzsQrBcSFWduVL-_ezYlXxU7__CpQfd2JRjY7CfPoQJP3s2Nhp7jsWsEiMGUJnGbAeShDwrAaFovmPUU_Xgm-QmnT2nRV0Ue6BA9n3pAgfDMRW5J2Gb-sM6TxjENk/s320/Firefly%20DIY%20Wall%20Art-%20Use%20whole%20or%20cut%20CDs%20to%20make%20a%20mosaic%20wall%20art%20piece.%20Arrange%20them%20in%20patterns%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Bookmarks:</b><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Cut strips from CDs to make durable and reflective bookmarks.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">DIY Guitar Picks:</b><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Cut CDs into the shape of guitar picks for musicians. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmPvJ5UnNbLqGI0f5j2uKsSgpTx3lYTziIZC6kNlfusteuatHoWUvHTTyjuGOBzVbTaOSi1F3Dd9yRnL-P9MYqLYMQgUMjNHBpm2jApF5j3ZYDNKFVV36Ie7Rv_cCvPiSVAfkVbSqh-1ZANMZ1unzsIkA3fblN0JuS6FqFMKCugPh2odJtNnu4V8-abike/s2048/Firefly%20DIY%20Guitar%20Picks-%20Cut%20CDs%20into%20the%20shape%20of%20guitar%20picks%20for%20musicians.%2067950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmPvJ5UnNbLqGI0f5j2uKsSgpTx3lYTziIZC6kNlfusteuatHoWUvHTTyjuGOBzVbTaOSi1F3Dd9yRnL-P9MYqLYMQgUMjNHBpm2jApF5j3ZYDNKFVV36Ie7Rv_cCvPiSVAfkVbSqh-1ZANMZ1unzsIkA3fblN0JuS6FqFMKCugPh2odJtNnu4V8-abike/s320/Firefly%20DIY%20Guitar%20Picks-%20Cut%20CDs%20into%20the%20shape%20of%20guitar%20picks%20for%20musicians.%2067950.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Tech Organization:</b><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Glue CDs together to create a stand for your smartphone or tablet.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Educational Tools:</b><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Use CDs for educational purposes by creating flashcards or interactive learning tools.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">DIY Bag Tag:</b><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Cut out shapes from old CDs and attach them to your bags as unique and reflective tags.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">CD Spinners:</b><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Create spinning toys by attaching strings to CDs and spinning them around.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Bulletin Board Decor:</b><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Use cut CD pieces to decorate bulletin boards or as pushpin holders.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">DIY Wall Mirror:</b><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Cover a small mirror with CD pieces to create a reflective mosaic wall mirror.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKcPQ2n9V_bhXxZB1ZlEliHwy3vlX6Vmdpdgy7QyptKLlb01R5evlB4IztyXWgYYsbvxNJRZ0-Hpil2Og1LPFHxXHfWPJnA8a3oIXlG3TjEJHIeHvvMBPsPuEQgvHe2M2nlLJzVEONBOxxn7gfVHj6AZO9mJVB-dJbSQvNGBnxmJeCZ4atiolH_lw0Yvkx/s2048/Firefly%20DIY%20Wall%20Mirror-%20Cover%20a%20small%20mirror%20with%20CD%20pieces%20to%20create%20a%20reflective%20mosaic%20wall%20mirr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKcPQ2n9V_bhXxZB1ZlEliHwy3vlX6Vmdpdgy7QyptKLlb01R5evlB4IztyXWgYYsbvxNJRZ0-Hpil2Og1LPFHxXHfWPJnA8a3oIXlG3TjEJHIeHvvMBPsPuEQgvHe2M2nlLJzVEONBOxxn7gfVHj6AZO9mJVB-dJbSQvNGBnxmJeCZ4atiolH_lw0Yvkx/s320/Firefly%20DIY%20Wall%20Mirror-%20Cover%20a%20small%20mirror%20with%20CD%20pieces%20to%20create%20a%20reflective%20mosaic%20wall%20mirr.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></span></span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Artificial Fish Scales:</b><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Attach small pieces of CDs to craft projects to mimic the appearance of fish scales.</span></span></li></ol><span id="docs-internal-guid-089232b8-7fff-5676-d71f-1420702b2d30"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Remember to take appropriate safety precautions when cutting or handling CDs, as they can have sharp edges. Additionally, consider local recycling options if you decide not to repurpose the CDs.</span></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">**The above header image of a compact disc is from a Community Commons file CC BY-SA 4.0 </td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from liamz2r<span face="sans-serif" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #54595d; font-size: 13.6px; text-align: start;"> - </span><span class="mw-mmv-source" face="sans-serif" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; color: #54595d; font-size: 13.6px; text-align: start;"><a class="external free" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/196714724@N02/53341977971/" rel="nofollow" style="background: none; color: #3366cc; text-decoration-line: none;">https://www.flickr.com/photos/196714724@N02/53341977971/</a><br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table> Additional images generated by Adobe Firefly.</span><div><br /></div><div><h1 style="text-align: left;">Share pictures of your fine art pieces with us on Instagram at #organicgrannydotcom</h1><span><p><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="color: #374151; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">You might also like:</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="color: #374151; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.organicgranny.com/2023/11/shopping-for-gifts-at-thrift-shops.html">Shopping for Gifts At Thrift Shops</a></b></span></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 15pt;"><span style="color: #374151; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.organicgranny.com/2023/11/hobby-gift-guide.html">What Gifts to Buy For People With Hobbies</a></b></span></span></p><div><span face="Roboto, sans-serif" style="color: #374151; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span></div>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-71085872503933987652023-11-25T15:08:00.000-08:002023-11-25T18:15:40.625-08:00Wars Are Bad and Sad: Explaining Wars to Young Children<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjRHO2zUUpq2IqdOJQayl6nFaMxK1n21r7ObhKuJNgmRL8QPfiBvIsfETcHRM-P6iN-gfWHos3TYnfYOVysMWv4YOLjsQg3VhHOSYlXLXqJmrP__ICW_HMxui0zCewDcfunjJNULpcez2JeICf8d68doZr3Zu5V-raOjaaXxu4apOlnOONZuEoDBwaI8L3/s640/child-at-war.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="640" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjRHO2zUUpq2IqdOJQayl6nFaMxK1n21r7ObhKuJNgmRL8QPfiBvIsfETcHRM-P6iN-gfWHos3TYnfYOVysMWv4YOLjsQg3VhHOSYlXLXqJmrP__ICW_HMxui0zCewDcfunjJNULpcez2JeICf8d68doZr3Zu5V-raOjaaXxu4apOlnOONZuEoDBwaI8L3/w400-h283/child-at-war.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>Explaining war to children can be challenging, but it's important to approach the topic with sensitivity. Here's a simplified, point-form explanation suitable for young children:</p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">Wars are fights between countries or groups:</span></b></p><p>Sometimes, people in different places disagree or can't get along.</p><p>Instead of talking and finding a solution, they might use force, like fighting or using weapons.</p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">People have different opinions:</span></b></p><p>Just like friends or family may have different ideas, countries can too.</p><p>Instead of working together, they may choose to fight.</p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">Not all problems are solved peacefully:</span></b></p><p>Ideally, countries should talk and negotiate to solve their problems.</p><p>Unfortunately, sometimes they make bad choices and start fighting.</p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">War causes sadness and destruction:</span></b></p><p>When there is war, many people get hurt, and buildings and homes can be damaged.</p><p>It makes people sad and can take a long time for things to get better.</p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">Hope for peace:</span></b></p><p>People around the world work hard to stop wars and help countries get along.</p><p>We want a world where everyone can live peacefully and happily.</p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">Children can make a difference:</span></b></p><p>Even though you're young, you can help create a better world by being kind, understanding, and promoting peace.</p><p>Learning about different cultures and making friends from around the world helps build a more peaceful future.</p><p>Always adapt the explanation based on the child's age, level of understanding, and emotional readiness. Encourage questions and be prepared to offer reassurance. </p><p> <b><span style="font-size: x-large;">
What they hear:</span></b></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Children listen in and catch parts of what is being talked about between others and on the various media presentations. Here are some words and concepts that you might want to bone up on yourself and share the meanings you understand with your children.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">War:</span></b></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">- Describes the conflict between countries or groups.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">Conflict Resolution:</span></b></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>-</b>Highlights the findings of peaceful solutions to disagreements.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">Negotiation:</span></b></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>-</b>Emphasizes the need for talking and compromising instead of fighting.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">Peace:</span></b></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">- Represents the ideal state of harmony and lack of conflict.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">Diplomacy:</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">-</span></b><span style="font-size: large;">Involves discussions and negotiations between countries to avoid war.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">Understanding Differences:</span></b></p><p><span style="color: #0f0f0f; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">-Encourages the idea that people may have different opinions but can still get along.</span></span></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">Global Co-operation:</span></b></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">-Emphasizes the cooperation of countries working together for a better world.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">Empathy:</span></b></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>- </b>Involves understanding and sharing the feelings of others, promoting compassion.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">Humanitarian Efforts:</span></b></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">- Represents actions taken to alleviate suffering and promote human welfare during conflicts.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">Building a Better World:</span></b></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">- Encourages positive actions, kindness and efforts to create a more peaceful and harmonious world.</span></p><p><br /></p>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-32581386621063034582023-11-23T13:10:00.000-08:002023-11-23T16:24:36.796-08:00Shopping for Gifts at Thrift Shops<script type="text/javascript">
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<p><span color="var(--text-primary)" face="Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"" style="font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiGLaX7dgLFRwKcqPhBpEFwj15KNAgThC3e3mAm1_jXzQtHV0IVHCE3mjtpX9LLf20YBkDBWzWUPbIPxKpjeVRuzcAFdrL9EnW2RpFMhgU6zdcb0TsOuRNrmv2OsPulz0av7UoqXB2v6r9ZeCdP2jbYskpl0jejEY2ecMvHWjMns0TUt66rbrZMX_j2Di8m"><img alt="" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="533" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiGLaX7dgLFRwKcqPhBpEFwj15KNAgThC3e3mAm1_jXzQtHV0IVHCE3mjtpX9LLf20YBkDBWzWUPbIPxKpjeVRuzcAFdrL9EnW2RpFMhgU6zdcb0TsOuRNrmv2OsPulz0av7UoqXB2v6r9ZeCdP2jbYskpl0jejEY2ecMvHWjMns0TUt66rbrZMX_j2Di8m=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span color="var(--text-primary)" face="Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"" style="font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Gift shopping at thrift stores can be a unique and sustainable way to find thoughtful presents. Here are some ideas, presented in point form:</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span color="var(--text-primary)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">Second-hand Gifts:</span></p><ol style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); counter-reset: list-number 0; display: flex; flex-direction: column; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 1.25em 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">Vintage Clothing:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Unique clothing items from different eras.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Retro t-shirts, jackets, or dresses.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">Books:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Classic novels or special editions.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Coffee table books on specific interests.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">Home Decor:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Vintage or antique furniture pieces.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Decorative items like vases, frames, or candle holders.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">Collectibles:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Vinyl records or vintage toys.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Antique figurines or collectible items.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">Accessories:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Second-hand jewelry, including vintage pieces.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Handbags or wallets in good condition.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">Board Games/Puzzles:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Classic board games or unique puzzles.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Limited edition or vintage game sets.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">Artwork:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Framed vintage posters or paintings.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Handcrafted items from local artists.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">Kitchenware:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Vintage dishes, glassware, or cutlery.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Unique kitchen gadgets or serving pieces.</li></ul></li></ol><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span color="var(--text-primary)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">Up-cycling Potential:</span></p><ol style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); counter-reset: list-number 0; display: flex; flex-direction: column; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 1.25em 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">Furniture:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Old chairs or tables can be refurbished or painted.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Repurpose items into shelves or storage.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">Frames:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Old frames can be painted and used for new photos or artwork.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Create a collage with multiple frames.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">Fabric Items:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Old sweaters can be unraveled and turned into scarves.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Vintage fabric can be used for sewing projects.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">Containers:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Vintage tins or jars can become unique storage containers.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Wooden boxes can be repainted and repurposed.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">Jewelry:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Break down old jewelry to create new pieces.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Use vintage brooches to embellish accessories.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">Books:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Turn old books into unique book art or sculptures.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Create a personalized journal by up-cycling a vintage book cover.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">Glassware:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Turn old glass bottles into decorative vases.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Use vintage glassware as candle holders.</li></ul></li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); counter-increment: list-number 1; display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span color="var(--tw-prose-bold)" style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 600;">Textiles:</span></p><ul style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-direction: column; list-style: disc; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1rem; padding: 0px;"><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Old scarves or fabric remnants can be turned into pillows.</li><li style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; display: block; margin: 0px; min-height: 28px; padding-left: 0.375em;">Embroider or add patches to refresh old clothing items.</li></ul></li></ol><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">When gift-shopping at thrift stores, keeping an open mind and being creative with up-cycling ideas can lead to one-of-a-kind and environmentally friendly gifts.</p>
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<br />Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-20868140166634615242023-11-06T16:45:00.004-08:002023-11-23T16:27:57.069-08:00Hobby Gift Guide<script type="text/javascript">
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<p> I'm in my 70s and have a number of hobbies that I pursue at different times. These are the activities that spice my life up, and according to "the science," it is healthy for the brain to be involved socially and physically with others and the world outside our front door. </p><p>-I read books and write reviews on Good Reads and if I buy a book, I generally leave a review on the site where I purchase it-- Amazon or Thrift Books, usually.</p><p>-I love knitting but don't do it as much as I have in the past, partly because my old hands are not quite up to the repetitive strain. But a baby garment or something I can pick up and set down over a longer period of time-- that works fine to feed my knitty craves.</p><p>As you put together your list of those for whom you buy gifts this holiday, I recommend that you consider their hobbies-- the ones they actively pursue, the ones they seem to have 'dropped', and perhaps "potential" hobbies that they have mentioned to you, or that you, devoted mom or friend, vision as a possible enjoyable pasttime for them. </p><p>When my Grandfather was 50, my parents gifted him with golf clubs for his birthday. That man golfed with great passion for the rest of his life, and, in fact, he passed away in the Golf Clubhouse-- true story. I am pretty sure he would have agreed that that was his perfect dying scenario if someone had ever asked. I'm not suggesting you buy something that eventually leads to your loved one's demise, but you know, you just might contribute to an activity that they enjoy for the rest of their days.</p><p>Here are some possibilities:</p><p><b><span style="font-size: medium;">For the</span><span style="font-size: large;"> Painter:</span></b></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://tidd.ly/476TNJa" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="878" data-original-width="1080" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhccO4B8XsRkuMU62G_vAviODyPXMBJkHxGkHgCgq_37VW7nqYGMD86W5FNp1VgYvq8fSOfQSoESE_ON4Gdri_S28MktnkZQVt3CW5L9rRJAptxuelQH5PRng4hMXwwdos6Q7YcS3ixjyyBHnMjhVWPfrgkzptmjolR-wDOvW0avls9kZev62RwWvEhLHzT/s320/Screenshot_20231106-105640_Chrome.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large; text-align: left;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><b style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">For the Potter:</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://tidd.ly/40sVDkR" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="941" data-original-width="1054" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-TE4QGK0FkJNwgEdzDx2IGrC2WkcAJW9Ou6ur3hHaDEsvRRGBHEwl1J8JtL9BH5hsmjQDTosMQfjoD2xudrNide_gSwsHEy-ckbnlZx6dsRDW4JBsIceDFvS2cX7-npkfdmX6cziKBgfC3NUWVocDBq5n1ErOr-TPfinWMGmTUEplCY2uIlQkmnON-zrl/s320/Screenshot_20231106-112519_Chrome.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-weight: 400; text-align: left;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">For the Cake and Cookie Decorator: </span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=6939&awinaffid=1114282&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.etsy.com%2Fca%2Fsearch%3Fq%3DCake%2Bdecorating%2Bsupplies%26ref%3Dsearch_bar"><img border="0" data-original-height="1395" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWsHIL9UeBcJTg1nCksk4MPV-EOBbcZTk9riUGozcnsAe5WlXBp4HwNVxuQA5hU5XcX82nb4Iq2gdZYk6LuseOzETbRtQOM0Bg53Q9jreVYUz9jwO3jYN88tFjlkxlKh9FsSvFxLFtTM_Rb2vle-rYiJnmdjTh6-VnwvbB8q64dmQKMH5N3p1EKkUd6S3j/w496-h640/decorated-cake.jpeg" width="496" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=6939&awinaffid=1114282&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.etsy.com%2Fca%2Fsearch%3Fq%3DCake%2Bdecorating%2Bsupplies%26ref%3Dsearch_bar">Beautiful decorated cake from Preppy Kitchen. Click to go to Etsy for Tools.</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>For the Chef Entertainer:</span></b><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://tidd.ly/3FODCnE" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1219" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu4_OOltfrRAZZfCZZJCkUdjXVKrUAuhH6M7mqyG2nBHpRGDz65QIMzqa6Dysb5HdVOE9x01jcx8hLxDKHC3D5qSRuaH95NfTw8SqVge5K6qIxjj0G7mMEkNUj2bGzEIIQDPGN599y7vTzTp9jOYz8zv4bmFRQcSefm-62fMPCHlQvS9bSeIKDBBLilxt3/s320/Screenshot_20231106-122856_Chrome.jpg" width="284" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="font-size: large;">For the Knitter:</span></b></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://tidd.ly/3MsMJy7"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="615" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsD60Y8xi-K3fUrzz9r2zwS3jb_1n_PWcfnjbk_zJZkBKFftN8XEPeIpcEbRTUSFLVsqtHEGV5czDS7lHA6WFmewBJlcJLUMjY_6nBL9EXVcKiCbFglz9aKfrVNT32ryQyR2_8De9h67IVYyGj1uM2RN2z1yLDBaxojfO_1EoK3B5nnH4XbDEaOuFSVbFx/w274-h400/craftyGranny.jpeg" width="274" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: white; font-size: large;"><a href="https://tidd.ly/3MsMJy7" style="background-color: #fcff01;">Crafty Granny</a></span></td></tr></tbody></table> Organize your Crafty Life! <div> Knit some order into your Life!<div><br /></div></div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="font-size: large;">For the Quilter:</span></b></div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://tidd.ly/3FMCPn7"><img border="0" data-original-height="1392" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-arSXtfPNoX6s4d7zgdyKYf6_n5z2sqYEPWoPQuChVzgKpPOS6KDw8x_VyG1eZMIcNmodq6dcoRYjP32UQt0YOL_OZOHXs2OemGjiu_pOX4VIpXt5kKQY8yiqeCBZJuxVSDv43p8tBVxmxL_fKuvHXI60cSt053tUG1LoQZhi7OiGHScceBPAa69kaztW/s320/Screenshot_20231106-132143_Chrome.jpg" width="248" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: white; font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><a href="https://tidd.ly/3FMCPn7" style="background-color: #fcff01;">Personalized Metal Door Sign</a></span></b></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="font-size: large;">ETSY GIFT CARDS</span></b></div><div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://tidd.ly/3tXn226" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1168" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2_H0yNABK6slFhVGrriVu3bC5AuiHV_bef6sM50T37C_WYQDtH5Uo8yZ43UYcQbk5_ONF2Am5oRu4E4KCcNwXajXTEzhHeloHPPbibvtPLmmSkCQ2FYLj4nB1hZp-3YtAt7CG3pKf5ZHsOVO4eUdY17VfGNDg7WH94PRFJYRyd4k7YNQ-n9w6GxCGjb4o/s320/Screenshot_20231106-161703_Chrome.jpg" width="296" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div><span><i><b>*</b>I am an affiliate for Etsy shops. If you make a purchase at one of the shops above by clicking on the 'gift' idea images, I will receive a small commission. You will also be supporting an entrepreneur with your purchase. Thank you for your support!</i></span></div><div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span style="background-color: #fcff01; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.organicgranny.com/2023/11/shopping-for-gifts-at-thrift-shops.html">FINDING THE PERFECT UNIQUE GIFTS IN THRIFT STORES</a></span></b></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-71952214536682063502023-09-28T21:54:00.004-07:002023-11-22T09:59:44.547-08:00Vegan Grape Galette with Almond-Cashew Custard<script type="text/javascript">
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<br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzOxGEudq6tzqcAqafttESFBFYpUxiZrKq9-T0fNfLdCbjOCLwIuIX9n0mSe3D9sqxq9Hw-RgXMZfF2chEyc83w3d5WYaJlnhucTYMJF7_SCucP5OWk84G-1fAC6U4ln_86JDlYjJkqzy4yt3Tp6-jbCFOFEdsKwfFJ7TtOG4hZqhrrWYYTM4rcHY8MjL1/s1299/grape-galette.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1299" height="333" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzOxGEudq6tzqcAqafttESFBFYpUxiZrKq9-T0fNfLdCbjOCLwIuIX9n0mSe3D9sqxq9Hw-RgXMZfF2chEyc83w3d5WYaJlnhucTYMJF7_SCucP5OWk84G-1fAC6U4ln_86JDlYjJkqzy4yt3Tp6-jbCFOFEdsKwfFJ7TtOG4hZqhrrWYYTM4rcHY8MjL1/w400-h333/grape-galette.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">This faceless grape pie is a big hit in our house. Everyone has seemingly waited for me to start making pies, and now, with my discovery the galette-- so easy and so satisfying-- we have been eating pies like I imagine <i>normal pie-making people</i> always have. Not every day, of course, but not depriving ourselves of the experience when the desire for pie hits. </span><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">We had a lot of grapes this year. And the birds didn't seem particularly interested. So, there was a harvest.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">I spent several days detaching grapes from their vines and freezing them in bags. We are set for smoothies and <b><a href="https://delishably.com/fruits/Frozen-Grapes-for-Delicious-Vegan-Recipes">other frozen grape recipes</a></b>. So, today I made the galette. Here is the recipe:</span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span style="font-size: medium;">THE PASTRY Ingredients:</span></b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: medium;">1 1/2 cups organic all purpose flour</span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">3 -5 tablespoons sugar</span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">6-7 tablespoons solid coconut oil or vegan butter (salt-free)</span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">1/4 cup ice water</span></li></ul><div><b><span style="font-size: medium;">THE FILLING Ingredients:</span></b></div></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: medium;">1/4 cup sugar (plus 2 tablespoons)</span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">1/2 cup cashew pieces or raw almonds (I used cashews as I had them on hand)</span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">1 1/2 teaspoons almond extract or vanilla (I used almond extract)</span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed well in 3 tablespoons water (do this last)</span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest (don't grate the white part-- it is bitter</span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">1 pound of seedless grapes, washed and dried</span></li></ul><div><b><span style="font-size: medium;">INSTRUCTIONS:</span></b></div></div><div><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span style="font-size: medium;">THE PASTRY:</span></b></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">This can certainly be made in the traditional way by cutting the fat into the flour with a fork and knife or a pastry cutter, however, I use a <b><a href="https://amzn.to/3LI7DJ0">Cuisanart 4-cup food processor</a></b> * and it works like a dream to very quickly and successfully turn out the pastry.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: medium;">Put the flour, sugar and salt in the processor and pulse to combine. Add in half the coconut oil and pulse again until the flour looks mealy. Add the rest of the coconut oil and pulse until the flour looks like tiny peas. Add in the ice water and pulse until <i>dough starts to come together. </i></span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">Take all dough out and wrap in plastic or put in a plastic baggy and zip. Shape into a disc. Put into the fridge for an hour (or more) to rest and cool.</span></li><li><span style="font-size: medium;">I have included a recipe for a gluten-free oat-millet galette crust <b><a href="https://delishably.com/desserts/2-easy-yummy-berry-recipes-to-serve-for-tea-time-or-brunch">in this article</a></b> that might be of interest to people lowering or eliminating wheat in their diets.</span></li></ol><div><b><span style="font-size: medium;">THE FILLING:</span></b></div><div><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">Clean out the blender cup and put in all the ingredients EXCEPT FOR the extra 2 tablespoons of sugar and the grapes-- do not put the grapes in the food processor! Pulse until an almond-scented paste results. Pulse until it is smooth. Put in a small dish and cover. You can put it in the fridge if you are waiting for the pastry for longer than an hour.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span style="font-size: medium;">THE PASTRY:</span></b></div><div><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">Preheat oven to 400 F. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">Roll the pastry into about a 12" circle and spread the almond cream from the center outward, stopping to leave about a 2 1/2 inch border. Place in the grapes. Fold up the dough around the circle, pleating as needed. Sprinkle on the 2 tablespoons of sugar. The non-vegan recipe for the pastry includes an egg wash. You might want to do a light wash with non-dairy milk. </span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUvuf79D1VLOZ7CMGWQwWLqa1tbbz4L2_0jRcLLUv-tZiWfkLA8TCokeIdaaqsQi-EZ_t3dsCwjry6YpZkvMTBaH84VXfDY3JqqIZqhPkydAmqHxi5q8ejZkmI1JZ-t0JjKB81UDYHISkiFKPIIhe6VBVp3mZ22mjj-4w7khunD0leyUAgMoeLlWgDPklV/s1144/grape-galette-raw.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1144" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUvuf79D1VLOZ7CMGWQwWLqa1tbbz4L2_0jRcLLUv-tZiWfkLA8TCokeIdaaqsQi-EZ_t3dsCwjry6YpZkvMTBaH84VXfDY3JqqIZqhPkydAmqHxi5q8ejZkmI1JZ-t0JjKB81UDYHISkiFKPIIhe6VBVp3mZ22mjj-4w7khunD0leyUAgMoeLlWgDPklV/w400-h378/grape-galette-raw.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">I had a small portion of dough left over and laid it on the top of the galette so it looks more like a standard pie in the photos. Galettes are generally called "rustic" which in my mind means simple without a lot of fuss, but go ahead and cut out fancy dough shapes like grape leaves (?) etc., if you like. The grapes in this galette were enrobed by the cream as it baked so you cannot really tell that it is a grape pie. But that made no difference to the scrumptiousness of the pie itself.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">Bake for 45 minutes. I found that my back oven bakes faster so from now on I will rotate my dishes about midway through the baking cycle to prevent scorching on one side.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">Cool, and slice. And eat!</span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiObiZqiXndcTsSOKiYblbqH-3j1LxZwHhKlPyY-Q2Dk9cXB9TGK2r6-SBTaF1OpLFR5PD7JjNryEg3VgCnjKfIiYVWxNsLM0RfGvy0c8iTu-bq5ehshBFZrPSdkzi74THMOAfIg_5SNwMCaOTaXWHkXbQOAwRj5XwtiL7ZUwZtZhVcK0V8BquloZEpRuna/s1080/grape-galette-sliced-.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="608" data-original-width="1080" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiObiZqiXndcTsSOKiYblbqH-3j1LxZwHhKlPyY-Q2Dk9cXB9TGK2r6-SBTaF1OpLFR5PD7JjNryEg3VgCnjKfIiYVWxNsLM0RfGvy0c8iTu-bq5ehshBFZrPSdkzi74THMOAfIg_5SNwMCaOTaXWHkXbQOAwRj5XwtiL7ZUwZtZhVcK0V8BquloZEpRuna/w400-h225/grape-galette-sliced-.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">This recipe-- especially the almond cream filling-- was a big rave with my family. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">I would love to hear your comments, any adjustments you made to the recipe, and if you have questions you would like to ask! Thanks! Happy pie-making!</span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">*I am an Amazon affiliate.</span></div><div><br /></div></div><div><br /></div>
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<br />Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-538847276597545631.post-37228562000770853482023-08-31T22:23:00.006-07:002023-11-22T10:02:57.853-08:00Growing Yellow Doll Watermelons<script type="text/javascript">
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<p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxUk0DKLImJDuZJkCoBVTZoqMEhNzJfshNgJEDzIL-UpCFswQyJq4b5wa5Zx_cidBaugFMZ-HfpoVh8D5hWk2WbV3XgIyHJ0785KobYfMIfZ6pZsIjm7bYk2qQgM5DipZIoDUAbZInhTrMi7UMhkz-CN380_7SZlqQJpBN-NmyRHYZmO69WRwNW7wqdaLl/s1440/YDMelon-inHammock.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxUk0DKLImJDuZJkCoBVTZoqMEhNzJfshNgJEDzIL-UpCFswQyJq4b5wa5Zx_cidBaugFMZ-HfpoVh8D5hWk2WbV3XgIyHJ0785KobYfMIfZ6pZsIjm7bYk2qQgM5DipZIoDUAbZInhTrMi7UMhkz-CN380_7SZlqQJpBN-NmyRHYZmO69WRwNW7wqdaLl/w300-h400/YDMelon-inHammock.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yellow Doll Melon in its Hammock</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p>When I was a child in the 1950s in the Canadian Prairies, I dreamed of growing exotic things in our mundane garden: maybe giant pumpkins or watermelons! We did manage to grow a pretty decent crop of sugar pumpkins one year (we kids hawked them on the highway for 10 cents a pumpkin-- a bargain even in that day). But the watermelons never flourished. Perhaps for others, but not on our little grain farm. </p><p>Fast forward to the 1970s when our kids were of that magical Jack-in-the-Beanstock gardening stage. We grew magnificent zucchinis-- they were so thrilled to have a monster zucchini almost as big and as heavy as they were (not knowing that those monsters are close to inedible, that you have to hack through the rock-hard skin with a pneumatic drill and the seeds would be the size of tums). But no watermelons grew.</p><p>Fast forward to the current age-- old retired folks living on Vancouver Island with cedar planters high enough that we don't have to bend over. Our younger son (50 this year) is spending some time with us between projects. He is a fabulous gardener. He knows what the soil needs just by looking at the plants that grow there. But before he arrives for his visit, we go through a couple of weeks of COVID-19 and then a longer convalescent period. This eats into our garden planting schedule. We finally get the boxes full of our pathetic little starter plants-- including Yellow Doll Watermelons, 3 skimpy vines with some uncertain leaves, in late June. We have another drought summer. It is very hot almost every day, and we water every morning and sometimes at night. The watermelons are slow to grow their vines, let alone their fruit. I see a friend's lovely canteloupe fruit on Instagram and 'share' that our watermelons are just little blips on a couple of vines. It looks hopeless.</p><p>But it seems that watermelons like scorching daily sun, and are not daunted by smoky skies (the signal of multiple wildfires in our province). Before long we have 2 softball size melons growing of each of the two plants I have in pots in one of the cedar boxes (I saw a guy plant them in 2-gallon bins on Youtube). And pretty soon I needed to crochet a kookie hammock for each of them so they didn't break off their hanging vine and smash before we got to sample them.</p><p>I was sooo thrilled! I saw lots of blossoms and envisioned lots of melons to come. I was p--d off when our son announced that he had pinched off those little teenie melons-- that the energy of the plant was curtailed by their attempts to grow when it was very unlikely they would become even baseball size. There just wasn't enough summer sunshine time left. I knew he was right but my Inner Child Garden-Dreamer was still not really convinced that he had aborted them unnecessarily.</p><p>Well, on my rounds of the plant boxes today I found that the largest melon had slipped out of its hammock and when I held it I thought it weighed at least 5 of the 5-7 pounds these Yellow Dolls average. I also noticed that there was a dried brown tendril near the top of the fruit-- one of the signs of maturity. So I made an executive decision and snapped it off the vine and took it in to show to the men in the house. They both had a thump on it and pronounced that it was indeed 'sounding' ready. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCrGU12UgfwrEfulMU9S6UGxUoI0QFhlye5O6BPhdTwp3t6QWaV9Mz-VuoSMoaAQvkhCmmscVGxwpKbf-xfg_HVYVIUMaoKuzkpZE6nA_YryBrJFq4l97Zkgj3L5tKDUW-JG1tzlvEezNlJjIiJey4XZozuTZtS-29g00ZpBlUbaxsQdY0lwTDAB3rTDs2/s1184/YellowDollMelon.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1184" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCrGU12UgfwrEfulMU9S6UGxUoI0QFhlye5O6BPhdTwp3t6QWaV9Mz-VuoSMoaAQvkhCmmscVGxwpKbf-xfg_HVYVIUMaoKuzkpZE6nA_YryBrJFq4l97Zkgj3L5tKDUW-JG1tzlvEezNlJjIiJey4XZozuTZtS-29g00ZpBlUbaxsQdY0lwTDAB3rTDs2/s320/YellowDollMelon.jpg" width="292" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This guy weighed 6.13 pounds. Average is 5-7 pounds.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>You can see how beautifully symmetrical and flawless it is. I have never been more thrilled (well, except when our children were born) (and our grandkids' births). </p><p>It sliced so easily with my ancient serrated bread knife. The creamy yellow color was a little less yellow than I expected, but then I think the daffodil yellow melon flesh on the Internet was likely photoshopped. (I'm still pretty naive that way). </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm39bKK3qexrHd8ab8v9Fk8I-c7oWIJK4DmL8fAonYnwf-VtsEYUHe_oQyDX_R8Kle1o41-f1cVPGFkGONAI_74ZdDHz8pwfkvC0k0ZcMSdh-icyX6QgkhMQPqT5P6i3SFUDsZtUe7cergfhWyhb6etq6aUD4UeJivvhmazD_MmOoaRmAwMbR_mDAVdBmf/s1920/YelloDollMelon-Flesh.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm39bKK3qexrHd8ab8v9Fk8I-c7oWIJK4DmL8fAonYnwf-VtsEYUHe_oQyDX_R8Kle1o41-f1cVPGFkGONAI_74ZdDHz8pwfkvC0k0ZcMSdh-icyX6QgkhMQPqT5P6i3SFUDsZtUe7cergfhWyhb6etq6aUD4UeJivvhmazD_MmOoaRmAwMbR_mDAVdBmf/w360-h640/YelloDollMelon-Flesh.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delicate flavor, silky cream-yellow flesh and that unmistakable<br />watermelon sweetness and thirst-quench juiciness.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>We were all over the moon with the refreshing sweet flavor and the juiciness! I made sure every seed-- so far we have about 50 of them drying on a piece of parchment paper-- was saved so that next year we can plant 20 or 50 plants-- on the May 24th weekend. And there are still a couple (maybe 4) melons out on the vine. What bliss!</p><p><span style="background-color: #fcff01;">You want to try growing this delicious melon in your garden next summer? Order the seeds from <b><a href="https://www.westcoastseeds.com/?rfsn=7132697.7b6713">West Coast Seeds</a></b>-- you don't need to live on the West Coast to grow this... just somewhere with a sunny summer-- even Saskatchewan!</span></p><p>The second melon we harvested about a week later weighed in at 9 pounds 4 ounces ( 9 1/2 #) and was sweeter and brighter yellow flesh:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwr6XK44mIWzImaEU5k1Crr1SCFytCAHa7mUrhwQfzMdTedJryNQgJZrY2_wKeSJMBM9i5KhwsIfau6IBbOEx3bqCSH_xR08jhC26qs9UWw61KI8pZat78v3_EKzs8TeBnVImjJPkjT3koQMyuPtPrY4mj8fLybdpD5l3GOQ5YI9Q6cHE1vRjbYd8yaXh_/s1080/watermelon2andTerry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="773" data-original-width="1080" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwr6XK44mIWzImaEU5k1Crr1SCFytCAHa7mUrhwQfzMdTedJryNQgJZrY2_wKeSJMBM9i5KhwsIfau6IBbOEx3bqCSH_xR08jhC26qs9UWw61KI8pZat78v3_EKzs8TeBnVImjJPkjT3koQMyuPtPrY4mj8fLybdpD5l3GOQ5YI9Q6cHE1vRjbYd8yaXh_/s320/watermelon2andTerry.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgdK20ANX6zM0PoWH-8_yPYHx4LEeUB1zXYbp80Dbk-NR8j0l75KkyqDPedu7P3-NHpp-_oxRrNL8NGGeKxaZNLUEqYzxxutATAdcySfwjC_rUqh1Q_c9-qtgokEu36l8cCkICKEcbcw3ax7CJXkXGAXLRMVTaE_5_H29XZeLlNxb0XRTpUNrvFU-EpNy3/s1080/watermelon2--slice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgdK20ANX6zM0PoWH-8_yPYHx4LEeUB1zXYbp80Dbk-NR8j0l75KkyqDPedu7P3-NHpp-_oxRrNL8NGGeKxaZNLUEqYzxxutATAdcySfwjC_rUqh1Q_c9-qtgokEu36l8cCkICKEcbcw3ax7CJXkXGAXLRMVTaE_5_H29XZeLlNxb0XRTpUNrvFU-EpNy3/s320/watermelon2--slice.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Cynthia Zirkwitzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339157596130801211noreply@blogger.com0