Top 10 Holiday Classics

1. White Christmas 

Four impressive entertainers will lift your spirit, in their expression of sincere gratitude to an old army general. Bing Crosby's incredible voice, the awe inspiring musical numbers, and the comedic chemistry between Danny Kaye and Crosby, combine to create a must see christmas classic. 

2. Love Actually

Multiple story lines are linked seamlessly in Love Actually, a film that depicts a series of events prior to christmas. No matter what, it is clear that  all you need is love and it exists all around us. 

3. How the grinch stole christmas

Whether you choose the original cartoon, or Jim Carrey's modern depiction, this story's message remains the same. The true meaning of christmas is being thankful for the love and joy from family and friends. 

4. Home Alone

The ultimate childhood dream comes true for Kevin (Macaulay Culkin), an eight year old boy who is left behind by his family on their trip to France over Christmas. Culkin's intelligence, creativity and wit is responsible for outsmarting the burglars, and continuing to entertain and charm audiences alike. 

5. The Santa Clause

Tim Allen's transformation into Santa Clause wouldn't be possible without the power of belief from his son, who never doubts him. This film shows that "seeing isn't believing, believing is seeing". 

6. The Family Stone

The Family Stone entertains from beginning to end, with a story that follows an unapologetic, outspoken family over christmas. The uncomfortable, unexpected and touching events that occur make this hilarious film one to watch. 

7. Miracle on 34th Street 

The spirit of christmas cannot be denied in Miracle on 34th Street, where even the biggest non-believers believe in the spirit of santa clause. 

8. Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer

An "ugly duckling" film about embracing each and every person's unique qualities. This touching story continues to warm hearts. 

9. A Christmas Carol 

This film holds fond memories as an annual production by each grade 6 class at my elementary school, and a film that has been reproduced multiple times. This christmas classic never tires. 

10. New Years Eve

A new holiday film, filled with tangled story lines. This one is on my list to see. Does it measure up?    

What are your holiday classics? 

Top 10 Going Out Essentials

1. Do your research

Look into where you are going ahead of time! Knowing the location, dress code, and cover will help determine how you will get there, what to wear, and how much you should budget. 

2. Bring your cash

Head to the bank before a night out! Budget the amount you plan to spend, based on cover, number of drinks, and transportation. 

3. Make small change

Ensure you have small change if you plan to split a cab with friends. This helps to ensure everything is divided evenly. 

4. Set a spending limit 

Once you have an idea of the venue, your mode of transportation and cover, decide how much additional money you want to spend. Carry this amount (and a bit extra, just in case) to keep in your budget. 

5. Call ahead

Call the venue to inquire about the guest list, or the time you should be at the bar. This will help you estimate what time to arrive at the bar, and shortens the wait time. Also, in some cases, it eliminates cover. 

6. Walk/ride transit 

Before you go out, map out your route to your destination, using mapquest or public transit trip planner (such as the ttc). Help to minimize the costs associated with a night out. 

*Trip planner often provides a route that minimizes walking. Get creative and design a route that combines both, which may be more convenient! 

7. Across the shoulder purse

A practical and stylish investment, so you're free to dance, drink and never worry about your purse. 

Coach

8. Be comfortable and appropriate

Decide on an outfit, once you know where you are going. A comfortable outfit (and shoes) are an essential part of the night, so you won't be distracted or constantly readjusting. 

9. Charge your phone

It is important to remain in contact with friends you go out with, hence why it is also important to charge your phone. Ensure you call or text a friend (if you go home separately) to let them know you have arrived home safely. 

10. Read reviews

Unsure of where to go, or the reputation of a certain spot? Check out Yelp for information on the venue, and reviews from bar goers, so you know you're picking the right place. 

What are your going out essentials?

Top 10 Homemade Gifts

1. Photo calendar

Create a calendar full of his or her favourite memories! Choose the right format and size from Blacks! This gift is meaningful and practical. 

2. Baked goods  

No one can resist homemade baked goods over the holidays! From pies and shortbread, to rice crispy squares or chocolate bark, the possibilities are endless. Try adding some red and green chocolate, candy or sprinkles to make it festive!

3. Personalized pillow 

Turn any image or letter, into a pillow! 

Here's how: 

• Scan or upload image onto computer. 
• Visit Spoonflower and select "create custom fabric". Include a half-inch border around the image for seam allowance. 
• Order fabric (a linen cotton canvas "fat quarter") and cut a same size piece of baking fabric (i.e. linen or broad cloth).  
• Pin the fabrics together, right sides facing. Stitch around the pillow along the seam allowance, leaving a four inch wide opening along one side.
• Use small scissors to clip the corners. Turn pillow right side out. 
• Push out corners, iron out wrinkles, and stuff with loose fibrefill stuffing before blind-stitching the opening closed.

4. Painted pottery 

Create a piece of dish ware, or a christmas ornament. The Clay Room, Crockadoodle, and Colour Me Mine are some locations to get you started. Try using Google to find other convenient locations near you. 

Ladybug bowl set

5. Coffee table book 

Make a personalized coffee table book, with Blurb. Choose a theme that is meaningful to the recipient, and consider adding a mix of images and words! 

5. Baking ingredients 

The perfect gift for the avid baker. Add all dry ingredients of your favourite holiday recipe to a mason jar. Attach a note detailing instructions and quantities for wet ingredients. Add a piece of fabric, bow or ribbon to make the jar more festive. 

7. Crochet 

Learn how with your friends, relatives or even youtube! Make someone a scarf, headband, blanket, or any other item you can think of!


8. Homemade tea


Create your own loose leaf tea! 
  

Chai loose leaf tea recipe (no caffeine) 

• Cinnamon sticks
• Dehydrated ginger (found at any loose leaf tea store)
• Whole cloves
• Cardamom seeds 

Decide the quantities of each of the above, based on desired flavour, amount and cost. Combine in a grinder and blend. Put the blended mixture into a small jar, and add festive decor, if desired. 

*This gift pairs nicely with a mug, tea infuser, or Ontario honey.

9. Recipe book

A list of recipes may be helpful for a passionate cook, or even a beginner looking for quick recipe ideas! Use your own recipes or ask a friend! Add colour and creativity to make the book special and unique. 

10. Magnets 

Turn your favourite small item, into a magnet! For example, a watch face, or anything that is easily mounted on the refrigerator. 

Here's how: 

• Place the item face down.
• Apply hot glue to the black magnet rims, which can be purchased at Walmart. 
• Press the magnets against the item of your choice. Let dry for five minutes. 

What are your homemade gift ideas?

Top 10 Holiday "To Dos"

1. Attend One of a Kind Christmas Show & Sale 

This event includes a diverse group of artists and craftspeople selling handcrafted food, clothing, jewellery, accessories, home and outdoor decor, and much more. Great for personal shopping or gift giving!  

  

2. Make something sweet 

The holidays would be incomplete without them! Holiday treats can always be stored around the house (or in the freezer), offered at holiday gatherings, or given away as gifts. Here are two of my favourite recipes: 

Double Chocolate Treasures

2 cups chocolate chips

1 cup butter

3/4 cup sugar

2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla

2 cups quick oats 

1 1/2 cups flour

2 tsp baking powder 

1/2 cup icing sugar

1 package holiday m&ms or your favourite holiday candy

Preheat oven at 350 degrees. Melt 1 cup chocolate chips, stirring until smooth. Beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Blend in eggs, vanilla and melted chocolate. Combine dry ingredients, except for the icing sugar. Add the dry ingredient mixture to the blended mixture. Stir in remaining 1 cup of chocolate chips. Shape dough into 1 inch balls. Roll in powdered sugar, coating heavily. Place 1 m&m on the top of each ball. Place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Let cool and enjoy!

*Store in an air tight container and consume within 4 days. Freeze to sustain freshness, if desired, and take out in small batches. 

Chocolate Chip Shortbread 

1 cup butter 

1 cup white sugar

1/2 tsp vanilla

1 egg

2 1/2 cups cake and pastry flour

1/2 tsp baking powder

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips 

Preheat oven at 350 degrees F. Cream butter and sugar together. Add vanilla and egg; mix well. Add flour and baking powder; mix again. Stir in chocolate chips. Spread in 1 or 2 pans to desired thickness. Bake for 30 minutes. 

*Store in an air tight container and eat within 4 days. Freeze to sustain freshness, if desired, and take out in small batches. 

3. Make something salty 

Baby ritz bits turn into a festive, holiday snack, with this easy-to-make "Cocktail Snack". A delicious hors d'oeuvre, snack food, or gift!

Mix the following: 

3/4 cup oil (i.e. olive oil, safflower oil) 

1 tbsp dill weed

1/2 tbsp garlic powder

1 package hidden valley french onion dressing 

Pour over 1 package of bite size ritz bits. Leave overnight. Serve and enjoy! 

4. Visit Snakes and Lattes 

Mix up your coffee routine! Snakes and Lattes offers food and beverages, with an endless number of games to play, so you're never bored! Call ahead to book a reservation. 

5. Skate at Nathan Phillips Square

Going skating at Nathan Phillips Square is a must! Bring your skates or rent! It's a fun way to spend your day (or evening) with friends and be in the outdoors. 

6. Warm up with a hot drink  

Keep warm with a tea, or locally made hot apple cider. Or create your own hot cocoa, minimizing preservatives and artificial chemicals.  

2 heaping tbsp cocoa powder

1 mugs of hot liquid (water, milk, soy or almond milk etc.) 

1 tbsp honey 

Sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg

Add cocoa powder to a mug. Add 1/2 a mugs worth of hot liquid. Stir until cocoa has dissolved. Fill mug with remainder of hot liquid. Add honey and stir. Sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg, if desired! 

7. Watch a holiday classic 

Miracle on 34th Street, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, A Christmas Carol, White Christmas, Home Alone, the list goes on! Spend an evening watching your favourite holiday film!  

8. Attend an event in the city

Toronto's city website lists a series of events happening year round, with a special section on celebrations/holidays. Here are the ones that caught my attention:  

• Window Wonderland 
• Cavalcade of Lights Tree Lighting Celebration in Berczy Park
• Lowe's Toronto Christmas Market 
• Photorama 2011
• Holiday Art Market 

9. Ski or snowboard  

Hills in Ontario are worth the visit! With multiple ski clubs around Ontario, there is a convenient spot for you! Carpool with a group of friends, or use the Grey Hound, travelling from Toronto to Blue Mountain and Horse Shoe Valley Ski Resort. 

*Access to the ski club may vary based on starting location. 

10. Treat yourself at Winterlicious

Although a bit premature, Winterlicious offers price fixed menus at a variety of restaurants. Find an appealing cuisine and treat yourself! 

How will you spend your holiday? 

Top 10 Interview Essentials

1. Choose the right outfit 

Choose an outfit that you feel your best in. The statement you want to make in your interview should match your appearance. If you look polished and put together, you will project professionalism and confidence at first glance. 

2. Purchase a blazer 

A well fitted blazer exudes professionalism, commands respect and can be paired with multiple garments in your wardrobe. Consider how you plan to wear it (i.e. open, closed or both), prior to picking your size. 

*Start with a black blazer. Then consider expanding your wardrobe with grey, brown, charcoal or something more colourful. 

Blazer, Talula

3. Be appropriate

There are numerous dos and dont's of what is considered interview appropriate. 

Here are my lists:   

Dos 

Blazer

Button down shirt, Artisan (Australia) 

Dress pans, Club Monaco           

Pencil skirt, Club Monaco

Button down shirt

Dress pants 

Knee length pencil skirt

Dress, Lush

Belt, Artisan (Australia)

Knee length dress

Belt

Scarf

Flats

Understated heels 

Colourful handbag

Don'ts 

Leggings 

Jeans

T shirt 

Sneakers 

Rain boots 

For additional items, use your best judgement!  

4. Incorporate colour

Add a pop of colour into an element (or two) of your outfit. Make a statement with your hand bag, button down shirt, belt, scarf, or nail polish. 

Flats, Bloch 

Scarf, Michael Kors

Nail polish, OPI Big Apple Red

Bag, Jinjer (Blue Mountain Village)

Belt, Artisan (Australia) 

5. Create a clean look 

Have your hair off of your face, and minimize frizziness. Simple eyeliner, with some mascara and blush is appropriate, and creates a fresh faced, natural look.   

6. Do your research 

Know the name and mission of the organization, the title of the position you are applying for, the name of the hiring manager, and what the job involves. Pay attention to key details found within the job description and qualifications, and shape your answers accordingly. 

7. Prepare their questions, and your answers 

Brainstorm questions that you could be asked, and how you will answer them, to provide well thought out responses at the time of your interview. 

Consider the following questions: 

What strengths do you possess that would contribute to this position? 

Why are you interested in this position? 

What experiences have prepared you to be successful in this role? 

What is something that makes you uncomfortable? 

What is a quality you wish you had? 

What is a weakness you possess? 

*Employers appreciate honesty, but always end the statement with something optimistic and positive i.e. I may come across more reserved at times, but when I am passionate about the subject I am discussing, I find it easier to overcome this tendency. 

Consider the following scenario questions:  

If a volunteer does not show up for his or her shift, what do you do? 

If you have been given multiple deadlines, how do you prioritize?  

If a volunteer is nervous about an upcoming event, how will you proceed? 

8. Prepare your questions 

By asking one or two questions at the end of your interview, you demonstrate that you have a vested interest in the organization or company, and in the position. Write down three or four questions, in case it is covered during your interview. 

Sample questions 

Who will I be reporting to? 

What is a typical day in this role? 

What are the career progression possibilities for this position? 

9. Bring your cover letter, resume and references 

Demonstrate to the hiring manager that you are well prepared and organized! Have your cover letter, resume and references each printed on a separate sheet of paper, and provide accordingly. 

*Include your reference's name, the organization or company they are associated with (consistent with what is outlined on your resume), business telephone number, and email. Ensure you have their permission to do so. 

10. Follow up

Call the hiring manager a few days after your interview to see where they are at in the process. Ask them for feedback on how your interview went. This provides an opportunity to improve how you conduct yourself in future interviews, and again, shows the hiring manager that you have a vested interest in the organization or company, and in the position. 

What are your interview essentials? 

Top 10 Ways To Budget

1. Record expenses

Keep track of what you spend! Know where your money is going. Make note of which expenses can be cut. 

  

2. Categorize

Separate your expenses into the categories that pertain to you on a monthly basis. I divide mine into cash (debit and cash expenses), entertainment ("wants"), transportation, and visa.  

Examples

• Cash: hair cut, birthday present

• Entertainment: movie, meal out

• Transportation: subway fare, gas money

• Visa: clothing, shoes

Other categories to consider: cell phone bill, gym membership 

3. Decide your essentials

Separate what you need to spend (i.e. living expenses) from what you want to spend (i.e. entertainment, clothing etc.). This is especially helpful to see which expenses need to be cut. 

4. Research before purchase

Consider all options when it comes to technological purchases, clothing, memberships etc. Check online or in store to ensure you are making a cost effective choice. 

5. Save receipts

Do this in order to record expenses, and in the case you decide to return or exchange your purchase. 

6. Cross reference

File your receipts and cross reference your expenses with your visa statement. Pay attention to possible errors.  

7. Consider cost effective forms of transportation

Walking, biking, and public transit offer cost effective ways to get around. Use mapquest or trip planner on the public transit website in your designated city, like the TTC, to get to your destination. 

*Load a PRESTO card to use multiple forms of public transit so you never have to worry about finding exact change! 

8. Save for choice purchases

If you are looking to purchase something substantial, set aside a set amount each month in order to save. Make the purchase without making a dent in your bank account. 

9. Create a savings account  

Set aside a certain amount of money every paycheque to keep in a savings account. Also consider investing your money to expand your bank account. 

10. Be creative

Add to your account! Use social media, craigslist, or kijiji to sell unwanted items. Or save your money! Barter, by exchanging services (i.e. cover reception in exchange for yoga classes). The possibilities are endless!  

How do you budget?