East Northport December 2022
Dix Hills December 2022
Commack December 2022
HOLIDAY 2022 ~ Gift Guide
FOR HER
Custom Birth Flower Month Candles 10oz & 18oz ($24.99-$29.99). Who doesn’t love receiving candles as a gift? You can never have too many. This year make it more personal with the custom birth flower, scent and color. PersonalizationMall.com
Initial Pendant Necklace ($39.50). Available in 18k gold or silver. A classy and elegant look, this necklace will be perfect for everyday wear. Add a sentimental touch with the initial of a loved one or the recipients own initial. etsy.com/shop/caitlynminimalist
Bare Minerals – FACE THE DAY, BEAUTIFULLY RADIANT COMPLEXION DUO ($42). The Complexion Rescue Radiant Skin Tint and the Gen Nude Blonzer will leave your skin glowing through these dark winter days. seengroup.com
Ugg Tasman Slippers ($100). Hop on the trend and get a pair of these Ugg slippers. Good for both indoors and outdoors, wearing them will provide the perfect amount of support and comfort. ugg.com
GreenPan Reserve Ceramic Nonstick Fry Pans, Set of 2 ($119.95). For the one who loves to cook. These luxurious, non-stick, ceramic pans will be a great gift. Available at Kohls, Williams Sonoma, Bed, Bath & Beyond
13’’ Lighted Gold Swirling Angel ($62). This angel will for sure light up a room with the swirling glitter. These are a top seller at Red Barn Boutique, you definitely want to get your hands on them asap. Available in store or online at redbarnboutiqueny.com.
Bondi Sands Dark Foam Bundle ($48). In the middle of winter you may be missing your tan from the warmer summer days. Get your tan back on with Bondi Sands Foaming Tanner, it will leave you glowing with a fresh coconut scent all winter long. bondisands.com
D & G Light Blue Eau de Toilette Set ($114). A refreshing yet lively scent worth all the hype that it gets. This set includes the Light Blue Eau de Toilette (3.3oz), Light Blue Refreshing Body Cream (1.6oz) and the Light Blue Eau de Toilette Rollerball (0.33oz). seengroup.com
FOR HIM
D & D The One For Men Eau de Parfum Set ($152). Whether the man in your life needs a new fragrance or not, this one is worth splurging on. A sophisticated yet vibrant scent based with tobacco, amber and cedarwood. seengroup.com
Hickory Grilling Crate ($79.99). For the grill master in your life. The set includes the cast iron smoker, wood chips, marinades, rubs and BBQ sauce, they will for sure grill up the most delicous smoked steak. mancrates.com
Men’s Wicked Good Slippers, Venetian ($89.00). One of the most popular slippers, selling a pair every 7 seconds in December (L.L. Bean). Perfect for indoor and outdoor wear, keeping your feet warm and supported. LLbean.com
Leather Dopp Kit Crate ($99.99). Men need personal hygiene products too! This personalized leather dopp bag is filled with all he’ll need: shampoo, a body bar, body lotion and a sheet mask. Mancrates.com
Men’s Katahdin Iron Works® Half-Zip Sweatshirt, Hooded, Flannel-Lined ($99). Keep the cold away with this heavyweight flannel-lined sweatshirt. Perfect for someone who works outside or just needs a thicker everyday sweatshirt this winter. LLbean.com
Carbon Fiber 3K Ridge Wallet ($140.00). The ridge wallet is perfect for the minimalist while allowing you to carry all that you need. Ridge.com
Collapsible Foam Roller ($70). For the athletic loved one in your life, this will keep their muscles in tact and ready for their next hike, sports game, or lift. The best part? It is portable so you can take it on the go with you. www.uncommongoods.com
This Luigi Bormioli® Lavish Last Name Engraved Old Fashioned Whiskey Glass ($19.99). Gives off a classy look. Get your loved one their own personal whiskey glass. Pair it with a bottle of whiskey and there you have it, the perfect gift. PersonalizationMall.com
FOR US
A Personalized Bamboo Cookbook & Tablet Stand ($36.99) would be perfect to display a traditional family recipe while also being used for a tablet stand. PersonalizationMall.com
Cabernet Sauvignon Wine Making Kit ($65.00). What is better than receiving wine as a gift? Being able to make it yourself! This unique gift will be a hit for sure. www.uncommongoods.com
Margarita Pitcher Set ($52). Calling all margarita lovers! Not only does it look great on display but it will be a big hit when you are hosting holidays and celebrations. redbarnboutiqueny.com.
Wordle The Party Game ($19.99). If you haven’t heard of Wordle by now, where have you been? It is a word guessing game that was initially just online. Now you can play in person with family and friends. This will be a fun, competitive game to bring to the holidays or a night in with family and friends. Available at Walmart, Target, and Amazon
Personalized Classic Monogram Woven Blanket ($199.99). Available in many different colors. A gift that will be cherished for years, this personalized blanket adds a warm and comforting touch to any room! PersonalizationMall.com
Skip the gifts and plan a vacation instead! Whether big or small, it is always nice to get away for a little bit and see the world.
STOCKING STUFFERS
A. Hidden Pocket Scrunchies – Set of two ($20). Perfect for a night out on the town when you don’t want to carry a bag around all night. Keep everything in a scrunchie and you’re good to go. www.uncommongoods.com
B. Fix-It Kit ($30). A staple gift that everyone should always have handy. www.uncommongoods.com
C. O’Keeffe’s Working Hands Hand Cream ($8.99). For those hard at work outdoors, this will make all the difference for their dry, cracking hands. www.amazon.com
D. Womens Fuzzy Socks ($13.99). Who doesn’t love a pair of fuzzy socks? The more the better. www.amazon.com
E. Hair Wax Stick ($12.99). If you haven’t heard, waxing back your hair is the big trend right now and this is the go-to product. A classy and elegant look, in place all day thanks to this hair wax stick. www.amazon.com
F. Aztec Secret Bentonite Clay Face Mask Set ($19.99). A personal favorite, this face mask will leave your skin feeling deeply cleaned. It absorbs all excess oil, shrinks pores and reduces redness. www.amazon.com
Long Island Holiday Festivities
BAYVILLE WINTER WONDERLAND
8 Bayville Avenue (open until January 1st)
During the holiday season, Bayville Adventure Park turns into the Winter Wonderland. With many attractions from ice skating, Santa axe throwing, and a Christmas tree forest to meeting Santa and three Christmas haunted attractions, Bayville has it all and more to fill your weekend plans. Keep in mind admission tickets are reservation timed entries. Ticket prices start at $25.75 for adults and $21.75 for children (plus add-ons). bayvillewinterwonderland.com for tickets and information.
26th ANNUAL DICKENS FESTIVAL at Village of Port Jefferson
101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson ~ December 3-4 | 10am-5pm
In preparation for winter and the holiday season, the town of Port Jefferson offers a unique festival in honor of Charles Dickens and the Victorian Era. Actors will roam the streets in Victorian costumes, performances and concerts will be held at the Village Center. Visit Portjeff.com to see the full event schedule.
BRUNCH WITH SANTA at Long Island Aquarium
431 East Main Street, Riverhead ~ Sunday, December 4th; Seating times: 10am, 12pm & 2pm
Brunch with Santa is a must on your to-do list to get in the holiday spirit and celebrate. Come enjoy a delicious brunch in the waterfront Sea Star Ballroom. After, you can walk next door and visit the aquarium! Make this a day the kids will never forget.
Pricing for the event – Adults : $64.95 (members $58.45), Children 3-12 : $34.95 (members $31.45), Children 2 & under : $10. Visit longislandaquarium.com for more information and reservations.
DRIVE – THRU CHRISTMAS LIGHT SHOWS
RIVERHEAD HOLIDAY LIGHT SHOW ~ 2549 Splish Splash Drive, Calverton
Friday, November 18 – Friday, December 31st; Weekdays & Sunday: 5pm-9pm; Fridays & Saturdays: 5pm-11pm ~ Price : $25 Carload
Go to holidaylightshow.com for a list of other locations and tickets.
JONES BEACH MAGIC OF LIGHTS ~ 1000 Ocean Parkway, Wantagh
Friday November 18th- Friday, December 30th ~ Price : $25 – $35/Carload
For tickets, go to magicoflights.com/events/jonesbeach/
GIRL SCOUTS OF SUFFOLK LIGHT SHOW ~ William Floyd Pkwy, Shirley
Saturday, November 26th – Friday, December 30th; Monday – Thursday open until 9pm, Friday & Saturday Open until 10pm. Price : $22-25/Car; $42-45/Mini bus or RV; $72-75/School Bus, Coach Bus or Trolley
To purchase, go to gssc.us/en/event (Save $ and use Coupon Code : HOLIDAY22 or FESTIVE22)
CELEBRATE CHANUKAH AT THE CHAI CENTER ~ 501 Vanderbilt Parkway, Dix Hills
December 5th 9:30am-11:30am ~ Price : $12pp
For all ages! Celebrate Chanukah at The Chai Center with arts & crafts, games and activities! Decorate donuts, Sand art, Finding Judah the Maccabee, and making special Chanukah candles!
Double Chocolate Sugar Cookies with a Peppermint Finish
HERE IS WHAT YOU NEED :
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 sticks salted or unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 3/4 cup chocolate chips – ½ cup for cookie dough and ¼ cup to melt for a garnish
- 2 large candy canes or 6 mini candy canes crushed
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
HERE IS HOW YOU DO IT :
- Preheat oven to 375°.
- Combine, flour, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt, set aside.
- Cream together, butter, sugar, eggs and vanilla. Slowly add flour mixture. Add in ½ cup chocolate chips and stir.
- Dough may be a little sticky, wet hands before rolling or chill for 1 hour before rolling.
- Scoop into 2-inch balls, flatten into a disk, place on a baking sheet 2 inches apart. Bake for 10 – 12 minutes.
- Cool cookies completely. In a freezer grade plastic bag, crush candy canes, by rolling them over with a rolling pin. Add in sugar to the crushed peppermint and shake to combine, set aside. Melt remaining ¼ cup chocolate in the microwave for 30 seconds, stir, cook for an additional 15 seconds if needed. Stir until melted. Drizzle over cooled cookies with a fork and immediately sprinkle on peppermint sugar.
Holiday Fashion 2022 : All that Glitters
The temperatures are dropping, and holiday shopping is well underway. This holiday season feels a little more familiar. People are out and about once again. From shopping to dinners out to enjoying movies and concerts, people are out in public again. So, when thinking about holiday gatherings, parties, and events, people are once again considering what to wear while making merry.
For two holiday seasons we were tucked away at home or with very small groups. Comfort was key, with style a distant second in the race. This year, we will welcome back splashy holiday occasions and outfits that will draw a second look. Let’s take a look at the top trends for the holiday season.
Fringe and feathers are making their presence known. While giving a nod to Gatsby-esque flair, these two trends soften some of this season’s fabrics. They add extra drama, too, by appearing in bold colors – a new twist that has them jitterbugging all the way to this decade.
Sequins and embellishments are the order of the day…or season. From household names to the newest talent in the industry, all are taking the opportunity to make sure we all shine our brightest. Whether you prefer dresses, slacks, or skirts, you’ll find plenty of holiday options with sequins abound. Try a slip dress, mini dress, halter jumpsuit, wide-legged pants or a full suit in crystal mesh, sequin embroidery, paillettes, or other shiny options. If you get flashbacks to Studio 54, you’re in the right outfit.
If that sounds a bit too sparkly for your taste, consider a rose embellished item instead. Equally fabulous on dresses, blouses, or jackets, this added detail is popular among designers and retailers at all price points. It may be just the added ‘zing’ you’re looking for.
Fabrics for the season are lush and lavish. Think of silks that flow gracefully as you walk in the room. If bright colors are not your particular cup of tea, black and white and champagne are top looks for your most important holiday evening out. Add a small crystal or rhinestone embellishment and you’ll wow them all.
What else might you consider? For this time of year, you can never go wrong with red. While black and white is a big trend as I’ve noted, white is quite popular this year all on its own. Try either in a lush silk or with rosettes and you’re spot on for holiday ’22.
The holiday season this year will unquestionably come with more invitations to parties and events than we’ve seen in a while. But, quiet evenings with those closest to you are always in style. You can still dress up if it will add that special quality to the evening, but you can also choose a plush, comfortable sweater paired with leggings, perhaps in a shiny fabric. You’ll get to look special and feel cozy all at once.
While dressed in holiday sparkle, take a peek in the nearest mirror and admire how special you look. Enjoy the occasion, the company, and the return to getting dressed up to go out once again.
Got the Winter Blues?
The days are getting shorter and the nights are getting longer until the Winter Solstice. The Solstice is approximately Dec 21st; it’s the shortest day of the year and the onset of winter. Then it’s cold and dark for quite some time. Even though the days start getting longer after the Solstice, sometimes it’s easy to get the winter blues. Here are some of my favorite tips to stay warm and positive throughout the winter.
Make sure you get lots of exercise, taking a walk in the middle of the day gets a bonus of vitamin D. Exercise and vitamin D will boost your immune system. Vitamin D is a terrific antioxidant as well.Talk to your doctor for the right dosage because in the northern hemisphere, you can’t get enough from the sun alone in the winter.
Maintain social relationships. Churches, synagogues and libraries are great resources. Find a gym buddy for a little extra incentive. Take a cooking class and experiment in your kitchen. Cozy up with a book in front of the fireplace. Expand your knowledge base and take an online class.
Find some fun activities to do at night. Check out programs at your library, head to the gym or get together with friends and family, break out the board games or call a friend.
Find something new to do every week. Try a new restaurant, coffee shop, massage, hit the movies or go bowling. Like reading? Join a book group. Plan a weekend getaway, even if you only go once this winter, you’ll have something to look forward to for an entire month and planning it is just as much fun. I even have friends that take the kids to a local hotel for the night, just make sure there’s a pool.
Be creative. Try crafting, painting, ceramics, woodworking, wine making or beer making…or just skip the process and hit a local vineyard for a tasting. There’s lots of local craft shops that offer classes, it’s fun and social. Experiment with something new, you might make a long time friend in the process.
Clean, organize or declutter a new place in your home each week. Plan a weekly goal and block off the time to do it. Write it on your calendar for good measure. Stay focused and remain on task, even if its only a different drawer each week. In a few weeks you’ll have a new home and will feel refreshed and energized with each new space you tackle.
Create a window garden with an indoor kit or just sprout alfalfa or bean sprouts. When you grow it at home, you know it’s pesticide free and you can’t get anything fresher than your own window sill. Start planting tomatoes for your garden indoors come March. Having fresh greens in the house feels rejuvenating and reminds us that spring will be here soon.
Tackle a home improvement project,even if it’s just painting a new room, hanging a few pictures or changing a light fixture. Feeling Feisty? Hire an interior designer for a home face-lift. It’s a fun and social way to make some changes.
Okay, so you’ve tried some of these tips and you still can’t seem to shake the blues. Then it might be time to talk to your doctor. According to Psychology Today, seasonal affective disorder is a real phenomenon affecting 10 million Americans. It can begin in the fall and last all winter, so be sure to consult your doctor if the winter blues keep you from feeling your best.
Hosting the Holidays
There is nothing I enjoy more than hosting a holiday at my house. I love preparing seasonal boards, cooking a handful of main dishes and sides, and decorating the space with cozy touches. One of my favorite holidays to host is Christmas. It’s casual, lively, and encourages a table filled with seafood (feast of the seven fishes) and modern, luxurious touches like caviar. Plus, it’s the perfect way to kick off the season with family and friends.
During the holidays, I usually prepare a long table (buffet-style) and present an assortment of starters: a solid caprese salad, shrimp cocktail, roasted nuts, arugula and fig salad, warm brie dip – the list goes on. As a rule of thumb, I’ll have some gluten-free, dairy-free, and keto options for those leaning into their new year resolutions a bit early. Look at your guest list, ask for allergies & preferences, and go from there.
Let’s be real, no party would be complete without a charcuterie board, and a cheese & fruit board. I have invested in an assortment of beautiful olive wood boards, some engraved, all perfect for hosting at the house. Generally, I’ll look to experienced food stylists and Pinterest boards for inspiration. Get creative! I usually add dried fruits, fresh fruits, olives, sweet and spicy peppers, fresh honeycomb – the list goes on and on. Also, incorporate your holiday into the board. Lastly, I’ll always include caviar on one (or all) of the boards – it screams holiday season.
Main dishes can be easy if you opt to use your favorite cooking vessels such as the crockpot, Instant Pot, and/or broiler. For me personally, I use 2-3 crockpots and prepare a roast chicken, or a less traditional meat sauce. Easy cleanup, fun delivery, and buffet style. Once again, get creative – and work with your guests’ preferences.
This is the perfect time of year to gather with family and friends and spend time together. Get creative with the menu, décor, and presentation. Remember to ask your guests if they have any allergies or preferences in advance and look to experienced food stylists and bloggers for inspiration. Most important – have fun!
Start a Holiday Tradition with Tender Steaks
Creating traditions is a festive focal point for many families throughout the holiday season, and a timeless way to bring your nearest and dearest back year after year is with an exquisite meal. With a combination of savory, salty and sweet bites, Sumac-Crusted Filet Mignon with Honey-Lemon Glazed Carrots and Garlic Mashed Potatoes provides a little something for everyone. At the center of this seasonal feast is tender, flavorful cuts of filet mignon, hand-cut by master butchers at Omaha Steaks to make your family’s holiday truly special. To find more holiday recipe inspiration, visit www.omahasteaks.com/blog
Sumac-Crusted Filet Mignon with Honey-Lemon Glazed Carrots and Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Recipe by Omaha Steaks Executive Chef David Rose
Prep time: 15 minutes~Cook time: about 20 minutes~Servings: 4
GARLIC MASHED POTATOES :
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, medium diced, skin on cold water
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus 1 pinch, plus additional, to taste, divided
- 1/2 pound unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided
HONEY-LEMON GLAZED CARROTS :
- 2/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon sumac
- 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 pinches kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided
- 1 pinch ground black pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided water
- 1 pound baby rainbow carrots
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
SUMAC-CRUSTED FILET MIGNON :
- 4 Omaha Steaks Private Reserve Filet Mignons (7 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon sumac
- 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 1/3 cup grapeseed oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
TO MAKE GARLIC MASHED POTATOES : Add potatoes to stockpot. Cover with cold water by about 1 inch and add 1 pinch salt. Turn on high heat and bring to boil 12-15 minutes, or until fork tender. Drain and place potatoes in large mixing bowl.
In saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and simmer 5 minutes. Add heavy cream, 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon white pepper; bring to boil. When mixture boils, reduce to simmer 3 minutes then remove from heat.
Mash hot potatoes until most lumps are gone. Using hand mixer on low speed, slowly add butter and cream mixture until desired smoothness and taste. Season with salt and white pepper, to taste.
TO MAKE HONEY-LEMON GLAZED CARROTS : In small bowl, whisk honey, lemon juice, sumac, lemon zest, 1 pinch salt and 1 pinch pepper.
Preheat oven to 425° F. Fill stockpot 2/3 full with water. Bring to boil and add 1 pinch salt. Blanch carrots in boiling water 5 minutes. Drain and shock with cold water. When cool enough to handle, halve carrots lengthwise. In large saute pan over medium-high heat, add oil and butter. Add carrots to pan, flat sides down, and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Sear until browned, about 2 minutes.
Flip carrots and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Add half of glaze to pan and glaze generously. Bake 3 minutes. Add remaining glaze to carrots and bake 2 minutes. Remove glazed carrots from oven.
TO MAKE SUMAC-CRUSTED FILET MIGNON : Thaw filet mignons in refrigerator overnight, pat dry with paper towels then bring to room temperature 30 minutes.
In small bowl, whisk kosher salt, sumac, black pepper and dried thyme. Season steaks on all sides. In cast-iron pan over high heat, add grapeseed oil.
Place filets in pan and cook 4 minutes until browned and seared. Add 1 tablespoon butter to pan. Flip filets and butter baste about 20 seconds. Cook filets 3 minutes for medium-rare.
Remove filets from pan and top each with 1/2 tablespoon butter. Rest steaks 7-8 minutes.
Place garlic mashed potatoes on plate and top with sumac-crusted filet mignon. Place honey-lemon glazed carrots next to filet mignon and mashed potatoes.
(Family Features) #16383 Source: Omaha Steaks
20 lucky winners will win $500 each in prizes totaling $10,000.