KGRN Money Saver 2022

Holiday images of twinkling lights, tables laden with goodies, and packages wrapped in glossy paper can be heartwarming. We all want to enjoy a festive time, but often this means being haunted by the excess in January. Make this year different by changing your mindset. A thrifty Christmas does not mean a stingy one without any fun. Most holiday expenses can be broken down into three categories: decorations, gifts, and celebrations. Tackling each of these costs in creative ways will save you money, while still allowing for a delightful holiday season.

DECORATIONS

Often the mindset with decorations is: Out with the old, in with the new! This year, get out all those old decorations and give them new life. Changing out ribbon is an inexpensive way to give wreaths a new color palette. Same goes for ornaments that can be given a new look by adding that same ribbon for a cohesive color scheme. Want something new? See what Mother Nature has to offer- for free! Bringing in pine cones, branches and greenery is not only frugal, it adds texture

and a touch of natural charm. Adding lights can turn a bundle of sticks into a work of art you’ll be proud to display.

GIFTS

Gift-giving is an integral part of the holidays, however, it can be quite a financial drain. One way to save money is to rethink your approach to gift-giving. Try hosting a gift card exchange or gift swap party. Most of us have unwanted gift cards or presents around the house that would be used or enjoyed by someone else. Another idea is to stock up on hostess gifts and stocking stuffers all year long. This will mean shopping from your closet for free come holiday time. Last, but not least, when possible shop online. Avoiding the malls means avoiding extra temptations. Coffees and lunches on-the-go are also avoided by shopping from the comfort of your armchair.

Thrifty holiday

CELEBRATIONS

Consider the amount of money you spend on celebrations. Attending parties does not require a completely new outfit. New accessories can give a fresh look to a sweater or blouse already hanging in your closet. Want to host a party? A potluck theme will save you time and money, while allowing guests to show off their best dishes. Staying in for a game night or holiday movie marathon will provide bonding time without breaking the bank. A time-tested free activity is a stroll or ride around the neighborhood to take in the light displays.

Even if you’re feeling financially pinched, with a little creativity and planning you can still enjoy the magic of the season.

Oh, Christmas

Tree

This home-made Christmas Tree will brighten your holiday. Decorate it any way you want, with lights, ornaments, pictures; the possibilities are endless!

SUPPLIES

• 6 to 12 sticks in graduated sizes. The number of sticks you will need is determined by how large they are in width. If you cut each stick

shorter than the lower stick, you will have a graduated angle from bottom to top, with the shortest stick on the top.

• A star or ornament for the top of the tree

• Spray Paint

• Glitter

• A spool of gardening wire

• String lights–If you are making this as an outdoor decoration, use solar lights.

DIRECTIONS

 Cut your sticks. Each stick should be two to four inches smaller than the one below it.

 Line your sticks on the floor or a table before you begin, to see if you have the appropriate number of sticks.

 Starting from the bottom, use the gardening wire to wrap around the first stick (about six inches from the end), then wrap the wire around the stick above it, leaving about three inches separating the sticks. Wrap the wire around at least twice to hold it in place.

 Repeat this step until you have all of one side wrapped in wire with the sticks equally separated.

 Cross the wire over and around the top stick so you

each stick twice before moving to the one below it.

 Cut a 12” length of wire to attach to the top. Wrap one side around the top stick, then wrap the wire around your star, then back down to the other side of the top stick.

 Take your tree outside to spray paint desired color. While the paint is wet, sprinkle with glitter.

 If I’m using white paint, I like to sprinkle with white, gold or silver glitter. You can also skip this step and leave your tree naturally rustic.

 After the tree is dry, wrap the twinkle lights around the wire that is holding the tree branches together. You can also wrap lights around each branch, or decorate with ornaments, as shown.

RECYCLED ORNAMENTS

WITH THESE SIMPLE STEPS, KIDS CAN CREATE CUTE ORNAMENTS FROM RECYCLED BOXES AND OTHER SUPPLIES ALREADY ON HAND.

SUPPLIES:

• Thin cardboard such as old gift boxes or cereal boxes

• Shades of thin, green yarn-preferably something you have on hand

• Small plastic stars or other small, flat trinket

• Marker, scissors, ruler, hole punch and glue

DIRECTIONS

 Using a ruler, mark out a triangle of desired size for ornament.

 Punch a hole at the top of the triangle.

 Begin by adding a few dabs of glue along the base of the triangle. Lay yarn along the base and press to adhere to glue. Wind

yarn around the triangle in a criss-cross manner until the cardboard is nearly covered. Be careful not to wind too tightly, as cardboard may bend.

 Cut yarn and glue the end in place. Cut a small length of yarn then loop it through the hole at the top. Tie a knot to make a hanger.

 Attach the small trinket as the tree topper with glue. Let dry completely before hanging.

Get creative. Trace cookie cutters for other simple shapes. Change the yarn color and trinkets to match. Try hearts, stars and more!

Chocolate Christmas Tree Cake

Purchase a set of star cookie cutters in graduated sizes. You should be able to find these at any department store. If you can’t find them locally, you can order them online for $9.99.

You will need a large - tall dowel. This can be found at a department store or craft store. Make sure the dowel is thick enough to be sturdy, but not so thick that it splits the cake pieces.

You only need five different cut out sizes to make this tree work.

Bake a boxed cake in a parchment and non-stick spray lined half pan cookie sheetany flavor works, this one is devil’s food cake. You want

the cooked cake layers to be about an inch to an inch and a half thick.

Wait until the cake cools to cut with the cutters.

Cut two to three of the largest size and one to two of the smaller sizes, depending on how much cake you have and how tall you want the tree.

Once the cakes are cut, decorate the edges with icing. Any color you wish!

On a flat cake plate, starting with the largest, layer the star cakes, alternating the points to form a tree.

Spear the center of the stars with the dowel to hold the cake together.

Cut the dowel, leaving 1 inch to place the top. Cut an extra small star and stand it vertical on the top, spearing it through the dowel to hold it in place.

You can leave this cake simple and plain or decorate it with candy for ornaments. The kids will have a lot of fun making this tree and will ask to make it every year!

This is so easy, you will fall in love with it and serve it every Christmas!

GIFT IDEAS

For HIM

BUYING GIFTS ARE HARD, BUT BUYING GIFTS FOR MEN? THAT’S A JOB WITHIN ITSELF. THIS YEAR GIVE THEM THE BEST GIFTS THAT THEY CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT!

Whether he’s traveling for work or for family vacations, a carry-on CLOSET SUITCASE is a great way for him to get and stay organized!

For the mixologist, a gift basket full of items to create a grand OLD FASHIONED from your own home is sure to put a smile on his face! Make sure to include cherries, bitters and his favorite bourbon!

A Temperature Controlled SMART MUG is a great addition to his coffee or green tea addiction!

For the everyday forgetful man, a BLUETOOTH TRACKER for his items such as his wallet, keys, suitcase, etc., an Air Tag or Title Tracker are extreme lifesavers!

When it comes to cooking, the easier, the better. Also, who wants to spend hours cleaning the kitchen? Not me, not you and not her! That’s why an AIR FRYER is the go-to gift this year!

GIFT IDEAS For HER

Taking hours styling your hair is so out of season! Especially with the new 2-IN-1 BLOW DRYER STYLERS! Not only do these gadgets brush and dry your hair at the same time, they also give your hair that much needed volume!

Who wants a bunch of cords all over the place? What a mess! That’s why having a 2-IN-1 CHARGING STATION is ideal for your charging needs!

Thinking about what to gift the ladies in your life? Look no further! These gift ideas are sure to bring her joy!

Gifts Gifts FOR KIDS

Spread

with this year’s selection of gifts that the kids on your list are sure to love!

holiday cheer

Little creative minds express themselves through art. What’s a better gift to give than an art easel with all the necessary supplies? Totally awesome!

Curious, animal loving kid? Oh, how they would love to have their insect garden–whether it’s a butterfly habitat or ant farm. Great way to show responsibility!

Making memories one snapshot at a time! One of these awesome underwater cameras will certainly keep the kiddos busy for hours and capture all those fun moments!

There’s nothing better than the smell of chicken, rosemary and cranberries roasting in the oven. This simple, hearty and light at the same time holiday entrée will have your guests requesting it for next year too! Bypass the turkey, you had enough for Thanksgiving! Our thrifty Christmas this year is all about the chicken.

INGREDIENTS

• 8 skin-on chicken breasts or thighs or both

• 2 sprigs chopped fresh thyme

• 2 1/2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary

• 2 cloves garlic (minced or grated)

• Zest + juice of whole lemon

• 1 pound baby potatoes (halved)

• 6 carrots (chopped coarsely)

• 2 cups fresh cranberries

• 1 cup white wine

• 1 cup water with one tbsp Better Than Bouillon Roasted Chicken Flavor

• 1/4 cup olive oil (divided)

• 4 tbsp brown sugar

• Pink salt and black pepper

• 2 tbsp herbs de Provence seasoning

• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

INSTRUCTIONS

 Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

 Rub the chicken with 2 tablespoons olive oil, thyme, rosemary, herbs de Provence, garlic and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper.

 Heat a large oven safe skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil. When the oil shimmers, add the chicken, skin side down, and sear until golden, about 5 minutes. Flip and cook 5 minutes more. Remove the chicken from the skillet. Add 2 tablespoons butter, potatoes, carrots, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring often, until slightly softened, about 5 minutes. Pour in the wine, deglazing the pan and scraping up any browned bits off the bottom. Add the chicken broth. Simmer for 5 minutes or until reduced slightly. Remove from the heat and nestle the chicken into the potatoes. Add the lemon juice.

 In a small bowl, toss together the cranberries, brown sugar and balsamic vinegar. Sprinkle the cranberries over the chicken. Transfer to the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. Plate the chicken and potatoes and drizzle with the sauce left in the pan. EAT!

Makes 8 Servings

The Best

Christmas Shortbread Cookies

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup softened butter

• 1 tsp Madagascar vanilla

• 3/4 cup powdered sugar

• 1/2 cup cornstarch

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 2 cups flour

• 3-4 tbsp colored sprinkles

DIRECTIONS

 Cream together butter and vanilla until smooth.

 Add in all dry ingredients (sugar, cornstarch, salt, flour) and mix until evenly combined. The dough will be dry and crumbly while holding it's shape.

 Quickly mix in the sprinkles. Turn dough onto a large sheet of parchment on a cookie sheet. Evenly press dough flat, about 1/2 inch thick.

 Refrigerate for about 30 minutes.

 Remove from fridge and lift the dough out of the sheet using the parchment. Line the cookie sheet with fresh parchment.

 Using cookie cutters, cut trees and place on cookie sheet. Bake at 325 for about 10 minutes, until light golden brown on the bottom. Let cool completely.

ROYAL ICING

Here is a classic easy royal icing made with meringue powder. It’s easy to work with, sets quickly, and won’t break your teeth when it dries. It has the most delicious taste and texture and makes decorating sugar cookies fun and simple. Use this traditional royal icing recipe for both

flooding and outlining your Christmas Tree Cookies.

INGREDIENTS

• 4 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted

• 3 tbsp meringue powder (not plain egg white powder)

• 9-10 tbsp water at room temperature

• Gel food coloring

DIRECTIONS

 Pour confectioners’ sugar, meringue powder, and 9 tablespoons of water into a large bowl. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat icing ingredients together on high speed for 1.5-2 minutes. When lifting the whisk up off the icing, the icing should drizzle down and smooth out within 5-10 seconds. If it’s too thick, beat in more water 1 tablespoon at a time. I usually need 10 tablespoons but on particularly dry days, I use up to 12-14 tablespoons. Keep in mind that the longer you beat the royal icing, the thicker it becomes. If your royal icing is too thin, just keep beating it to introduce more air or you can add more confec-

tioners’ sugar. Divide and blend in gel food coloring for desired colors.

 When applied to cookies or confections in a thin layer, icing completely dries in about 2 hours at room temperature. If icing consistency is too thin and runny, it will take longer to dry. If the icing is applied very thick on cookies, it will also take longer to dry. If you’re layering royal icing onto cookies for specific designs and need it to set quickly, place cookies in the refrigerator to help speed it up.

 Some piping tips. Use Wilton piping tip #4 for outlining and flooding the cookie with icing. This is a wonderful basic piping tip to have in your collection. For any detail, use a thinner round tip like Wilton piping tip #1 (super thin) and Wilton piping tip #2 (thin). For larger round tips that are easier to work with, use Wilton piping tip #3, Wilton piping tip #4, or Wilton piping tip #5. The piping tip #s reflect their sizes–#1 being the thinnest and #5 being the largest of this particular bunch.

 Just starting out with piping details? Use #1 (small), #3 (medium), and #5 (large). You can create anything basic with these three.

HOLIDAY

HOLIDAYPot Luck Pot Luck

Everyone wants to visit with loved ones during the holidays, but hosting a gathering can be quite expensive. This year, try a frugal way to welcome friends and family into your home with a potluck party. The term dates back as far as the 16th century when it referred to feeding unexpected guests with what happened to be cooking when they arrived–the luck of the pot. In America, the potluck grew out of times of struggle, such as the Depression. Now it simply means a communal meal where guests bring food to share. Hosting this type of party requires a little extra effort in the planning stage. Follow this outline for a successful gathering and grateful guests.

Coordinate the Meal

As host, you may consider cooking the entree, while guests supply the sides and desserts, which can be easier to transport and are less likely to require heating. When inviting guests, include a way to sign-up or share what they are bringing. Some hosts like to add slots for specific dishes to ensure a well-rounded meal. You can use a shared document via email for small groups, or a free online service for larger ones. You may consider picking a theme to encourage a more cohesive menu. Don’t forget the drinks! You can supply the adult beverage while guests bring the mixers.

Arrange the Space

Next, consider how you will set up the serving space. Extra tables set along a wall help maximize guest access to food. Be sure to have outlets nearby and even bring in a power strip or two for slow cookers or other heated dishes. Designate areas such as a dessert table, drink table, and a place for plates and utensils. Consider the flow of the guests through the room as they serve themselves. Keep decorations simple, such as tealights and small bouquets of fresh flowers in holiday colors.

Consider the Details

As host, you may choose to supply the tableware or you may leave this as an option for guests who feel less confident in the kitchen. Familiarize yourself with the items guests are bringing in order to have what they need. Have extra serving utensils or special items, such as bowls, on hand. A coffee station is a nice addition to your guests’ desserts. At the end of the evening, your family and friends will welcome leftovers, so be sure to have disposable containers handy.

No luck is required with this potluck plan. Family and friends will be grateful for a chance to gather without breaking the bank or their backs!

Guest Etiquette

Have you been invited to a potluck party this holiday season? Be an ideal guest with these considerations.

Be careful to follow the plan laid out by the host.

Stay away from exotic or strong flavors which may clash with other contributions.

Be careful to follow food safety rules by keeping your dish at the best temperature before and during the party.

Bring along your specific serving needs to save the host any trouble.

Have the recipe ready to share when other guests enjoy your dish!

MAKE A GIFT THAT KEEPS ON SOOTHING

WHIPPED HONEY ROSE HAND CREAM YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY WILL LOVE THIS CREAMY, NATURAL HAND CREAM TO BATTLE

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup organic extra virgin coconut oil

• 1/2 cup unrefined organic shea butter

• 3 tbsp raw and unfiltered wildflower honey

• 2 tsp organic pure vanilla extract

• 8-10 drops rose geranium essential oil

DIRECTIONS

 Measure the ingredients and place all but the essential oil into a double boiler.

 Melt ingredients over medium heat, stirring to mix thoroughly.

 Cool completely (1 to 2 hours) in the refrigerator until the mixture becomes solid.

 Once solidified, whip essential oils into the solid mixture with a hand mixer.

 Transfer to your glass jar for storage.

Alone Alone

AT CHRISTMAS AT CHRISTMAS

AH, CHRISTMAS! MAKING MEMORIES WITH FAMILY, ATTENDING PARTIES WITH FRIENDS. MOST HOLIDAYS REVOLVE AROUND TOGETHERNESS AND GOOD CHEER. OCCASIONALLY, HOWEVER, THAT IS NOT THE CASE AND YOU FIND YOURSELF ALONE–OR FEELING LONELY–DURING THE HOLIDAYS.

Much of the research about loneliness revolves around the elderly, but you can feel lonely, especially during the holidays, at any age. Sometimes, one is alone due to circumstances, such as divorce or loss of a loved one. Others may experience a feeling of loneliness due to the extra stress and unrealistic expectations set this time of year. It can lead to a feeling of being isolated from those you love, who aren’t affected the same way. Holiday gatherings, movies and other traditions are geared to the idea that it just isn’t a celebration unless you are surrounded by others.

FOCUS ON THINGS YOU ENJOY

Often, making plans with others requires negotiation and even disappointment. Many put their choices on the back burner for the sake of harmony. Spending time alone

means you can focus on doing things you enjoy. Movies, activities, even the schedule are all in your control.

STAY OFF SOCIAL MEDIA

Although it is tempting, it is best to refrain from social media during the holidays. The images and experiences one shares on these sites is just a small snapshot (and usually the very best) of an event or special day. Going it alone can be tough when your day is compared to others. Better to unplug for a few days.

STAY ACTIVE

Take time for a long walk or other physical activity. Exercise improves mental health by reducing anxiety, depression and negative mood. It will give you

the boost you need to enjoy the time to yourself.

LOOK AHEAD

Another excellent way to spend time during the holidays is to look ahead. Settle down with a warm beverage and dream about the new year and all its possibilities. Set some goals and make a plan to see them through.

IT CAN BE A CHALLENGE, BUT REMEMBER IT IS OKAY TO SPEND THE HOLIDAY ALONE. YOU CAN COMBAT SOCIETAL PRESSURE BY ADJUSTING YOUR MINDSET AND EMPOWERING YOURSELF TO USE THE TIME WELL.

YOU MAY EVEN FIND YOURSELF ENTERING THE NEW YEAR ENERGIZED INSTEAD OF DEPLETED, EMOTIONALLY AND FINANCIALLY.

2022 Iowa Nouveau a light and fruity red wine; pairs well with vegetable and beef soups and stews as well as traditional holiday meals.

Iowa Lace an off-dry white with grapefruit and tropical fruit on the nose and palate; pairs well with chicken or fish.

Red, White, & Blue® cans is a traditional sweet, Concord based-blend with strong grape flavors reminiscent of grape jelly; An outstanding sipping wine.

BlackberryWIne

brimming with mellow berry flavors reminiscent of old fashion blackberry jam; pair with cheesecake or sweet, fruity desserts; consider serving it as dessert.

1681 220th St., Leighton, IA 50143 • between Pella and Oskaloosa on Hwy. 163 641.672.WINE (9463) • www.tasselridge.com

Tassel Ridge wines are sold at the Winery and over 400 retailers in Iowa. For a complete list of retailers, visit www.tasselridge.com/retail. Order wine by telephone at 641.672.WINE (9463). We offer shipping within Iowa and to select states. Adult signature required for receipt of wine.

WINE PAIRING WITH YOUR HOLIDAY DINNER

What kinds of wine complement a traditional holiday dinner with turkey and/or ham and all of the trimmings?

The traditional method of wine pairing is to focus on the “center-of-the-plate,” in this case turkey or ham, and select a wine that complements the meat. Iowa Candleglow® White with the turkey and the 2013 Iowa St. Croix Rosé from Tassel Ridge with the ham would be good choices if you are using this approach to wine pairing. But, a holiday dinner isn’t just meat. People have mashed potatoes, candied yams, stuffing, green bean casseroles, and cranberry salads so I advocate for wines with a little more body that won’t overwhelm the meat but will stand up to most of the other flavors in the meal.

The 2022 Iowa Nouveau from Tassel Ridge is a great alternative. It will complement the turkey and ham and the other dishes at the holiday table. Furthermore, both dry and sweet wine lovers will find it acceptable.

You may want to offer an aperitif as people arrive and get settled in. An outstanding selection is Oskyfizzante® Cranberry. This is a fizzy cranberry wine made entirely from cranberry juice and it offers great cranberry flavors. Some hosts/hostesses will select Oskyfizzante Cranberry and serve it for the entire meal.

Traditional wines are usually not sweet enough to serve with traditional pies so you might want to bring out the coffee at that time. Following coffee, the Robert Duncan® Ruby Reserve is an excellent sweet dessert wine that could be sipped by itself or served with roasted, salted cashews. And, the 2012 Iowa Finalé Tawny is an outstanding alternative that could also be served by itself or with cashews.

Oh, Christmas Tree

Deck the Hall