2008

HDoliday
&E
ecorating ntertaining

An Advertising Supplement of
2 • Holiday Decorating & Entertaining • The Chronicle, Centralia/ Chehalis, Wash. Friday, November 14, 2008
Presented by: Visiting Nurses Foundation
Sponsored by:
McMenamins
Olympic Club Hotel,
Theater & Pub

Holiday Home Tour

n
Saturday, December 13, 1-8 pm g to
as hin
sto ric Centralia, W
Hi
* Tour seven lovely homes c. 1900 to 1920

In
* Enjoy antiques & decorating ideas
* Be inspired by stunning & sophisticated
renovations.
* Experience the magic of Christmas past
sparkling among the décor and decorations of
these gracious homes.
* Tour the homes by vintage trolley or use your
own vehicle.
* Delight in a tour of The Fox Theater and
a showing of “Memories of The Fox”
Discover why Centralia was named one Grygorcewicz Home • 725 F Street Engler and Ropka Home • 728 F Street
of the best places to own an old home by
“This Old House” magazine
$12 Pre-sale & $15 Day of the Tour
Stop in for a treat or to rest your feet anytime
from 1 to 8 pm at our Holiday Headquarters -
Centralia’s 1912 Train Depot
Partake of refreshments to сll the tummy.

Listen to live Christmas music to delight the heart.

Smith Home • 718 G Street Masters Home • 322 N. Rock Street
Tickets available at:
Visiting Nurses Thrift Shop in Centralia,
Security State Banks, Lewis Co. Historic
Museum, Inspire Clothing, Bath Depot,
FrufÁes, Heyman Winery, Hub Bub, and
Santa Lucia Coffee
The day of the event, tickets are available
at Centralia Train Depot and any home on
the tour from 1 to 8 pm.
Ray Home • 417 N. Rock Street Johnson Home • 115 N. Oak Street CH404174ho.sl

Call 360-623-1560 for Information or Tickets Proceeds pay for care, equipment and programs for home health
visit www.VisitingNursesFoundation.org and hospice patients.
 Holiday Decorating & Entertaining • The Chronicle, Centralia/ Chehalis, Wash. Friday, November 14, 2008 • 3

Table of Contents Page 4

Page 7
Oh, Oranges!
A Tasty Tradition
Fa la la la la!
What Would Christmas Be Without Some Holiday Hits
Page 8 Hosting a Party?
The Do’’s And Dont’s For Entertaining
Page 10 Ho Ho Whoa!
Deck The Halls With Ease
Page 12 The Perfect Christmas Tree
Extend The Life of Your Tree
Page 14 Holiday Travel
Tips To Keep You Safe
Page 16 Bad Guests
How To Survive The Calamity
Page 19 Christmas Trivia
7 Things You May Not Know

Fruffels
www.powersportsnorthwest.com

TURKEYFEST 2008 2 Days

Only
November 28 & 29
Join Us for
360-736-0166

Special store hours on November 28 & 29

800-962-6826

ings
Prize Draw
R ef re sh m ents
&
Friday 8am - 8pm • Saturday 8am - 5pm
Why not give them what they really want for Christmas... $50 will Layaway
your
Dirt Bike or ATV
until Christmas!!
Distinctive Home
‘07 TTR50 Decor Gift &
‘07 TTR125LW Design Services
Now
$
899 Now
Save
$
1,999
$
250 Save
$
600

CH404172hlo.ke
300 S. Tower, Centralia • 736-0166 • 1-800-962-6826
www.powersportsnorthwest.com
Professional riders depicted on a closed course. Dress properly for your ride with a helmet, eye protection, gloves and boots. Do not drink and ride. It is illegal and dangerous. Yamaha and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation encourage
you to ride safely and respect the environment. For further information regarding the MSF course, please call 21-800-446-9227. *ATVs with engine sizes of 90cc or greater are recommended for use only by riders age 16 years and older.
CH404171ho.sl

Yamaha recommends that all ATV riders take an approved training course. For safety and training information, see your dealer or call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-887-2887. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety:
Always avoid paved surfaces. Never ride on public roads. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing; never carry passengers; never engage in stunt riding’ riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix; avoid excessive speed;
and be particularly careful on difÀcult terrain. On the Yamaha Rhino, always wear your seat belt, helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Some models shown with optional accessories. ©2008 Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A.
Cyrpress, CA 90630. Offer good only in the United States, excluding the state of Hawaii. fruffels@comcast.net
www.powersportsnorthwest.com
4 • Holiday Decorating & Entertaining • The Chronicle, Centralia/ Chehalis, Wash. Friday, November 14, 2008

Oh, Oranges!
Though stockings today are filled with everything from Gummi
Bears to iPods, tucked in the bottom of some is still an age-old
delicacy: a fresh, shiny orange. Toys and gadgets come and go, but
oranges endure. Here’s why we cherish this tasty tradition.
 Holiday Decorating & Entertaining • The Chronicle, Centralia/ Chehalis, Wash. Friday, November 14, 2008 • 5

to the wealthy and powerful until the
Industrial Revolution, so they were long
considered special gifts.
The St. Nicholas Center, Holland,
Mich., credits European immigrants
for bringing the tradition of putting
oranges in Christmas stockings to
America. The story goes that Nicholas,
the third century saint, threw gold to a
poor family in need of dowry money.
Artists came to depict the saint hold-
ing gold balls to symbolize the golden
offering, and sometimes used oranges or
apples to symbolize the dowry. Oranges
came to be a traditional gift, often
tucked in the toes of stockings to recall
St. Nicholas’ gifts and generosity.
orange, lemon and citron seeds to
America on his second voyage. Span-
iards then began planting the first citrus
seeds in 1769, followed by the first big
California citrus orchard at Mission San
Gabriel in 1804.
Oranges became a hot ticket after
three navel orange trees arrived in 1870
from Brazil to be planted at the home
of Eliza and Luther Tibbets. After five
years, bud stock for the trees sold for
five dollars a bud. Two years later, the
transcontinental railroad was com-
pleted and the first load of oranges
was shipped to St. Louis, beginning
the wholesale marketing of California
citrus.
gence. Most importantly, oranges were
one of the few fresh fruits available
during the winter before global trade,
making them a sweet treat during the
holiday season, cheering up the chilly
winter with a little sunshine in the
stocking. The children’s book An Or-
ange for Frankie tells the story of the
author’s Depression-era family and
its Christmas tradition of providing
a single orange for each of the nine
children.

Orange You Glad I Didn’t Depression Delight

Good Old St. Nick
According to “Citrus: A History”
by Pierre Laszlo (University of Chicago
Press, 2007), the orange-giving tradi-
tion began in Europe, where orange
trees became part of celebrations of
renewal because they came to fruition
in the winter. The practice began in
pagan times and persisted in Christmas
festivities. Oranges were only available
Say Banana?
Just like their timeless knock-knock
joke counterpart, the origin of oranges
can’t be pinpointed. According to Sunk-
ist Growers, Inc., this sweet, juicy fruit
can be traced to Southeast Asia all the
way back in 4,000 B.C. During the
Middle Ages, citrus spread throughout
southern Europe. Later, Christopher
Columbus is said to have brought
The rise of modern transportation
systems played a role in furthering the
fruit’s holiday fame. Until the trans-
continental railroad changed the face
of America, shipping oranges from
California and Arizona was difficult
and expensive. While some areas
received many oranges, other regions
had few, making an orange in the
stocking a special Christmas indul- Continued on page 6
6 • Holiday Decorating & Entertaining • The Chronicle, Centralia/ Chehalis, Wash. Friday, November 14, 2008
Continued from page 5
The Orange Ritual
Though nowhere mandated, author
Jayne Cohen, “Jewish Holiday Cook-
ing” (Wiley, 2008), says oranges have
a place at Jewish holidays for many
reasons. During the Middle Ages, some
Jews began growing citrus to provide
Jewish communities with citron for
Sukkot, their fall harvest holiday. Jews
in Spain, Portugal and other Sephardi
communities in the Diaspora became
fond of the fruit and orange juice,
which was particularly popular at Pass-
over. Cohen says it was used to flavor
flourless nut tortes and sponge cakes
and was a perfect substitute for milk.
Oranges are also popular during Tu
B’Shevat, the New Year for Trees, when
it’s customary to plant trees and eat
fruits found in Israel.
Golden Wealth
In their Asian homeland, oranges
still make a splash in holiday celebra-
tions and culture. From family reunions
to the Chinese New Year, the fresh fruit
makes an appearance.
According to Ina Asim, associ-
ate professor in Asian studies at the Citrus Slices » Cut orange fruit crosswise into 1/8-inch thick
University of Oregon, the golden slices. Leave any seeds in place and discard ends. Place slices
color stands for wealth and prosperity, on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Dry in 170 degree F oven
making an orange a popular gift-giv- for four hours. Remove and leave slices on a rack to air dry.
ing item. The round shape stands for Include in potpourri or use for holiday decorations. Use various
unity, which is particularly important citrus fruits to incorporate different colors and scents.
to remember during holidays and Citrus Shells » Cut oranges in half crosswise. Carefully ream
other family gatherings, she says. out juice and scrape shells clean with a spoon. Place a small tea
The sound of the word for orange is light or votive candle in each shell. Fill a decorate bowl with wa-
very similar to the Chinese word for ter, and carefully set each orange into the bowl. Light the candles
wealth. and enjoy!
-Courtesy of Sunkist Citrus Guide, Sunkist Growers, Inc.
Creative Possibilities
Oranges’ rich color and scent en-
hance any celebration. Consider using
a basket of oranges as a decoration or
centerpiece to offer luck to your family
and guests as they enter your home.
Navel oranges return into season in
November, with Cara Cara and Moro
oranges plentiful in December. Dry
orange slices and use them to embellish
platters, wreaths and other decorations.
Carve out oranges to make fresh tea
lights for the table and create a color-
ful centerpiece with traditional orange
pomanders.
— CTW Features

SANTA TRAIN RIDES

Sat. & Sun.
December 6, 7, 13 & 14 at
11:00, 12:30 & 2:00 each day

Candy canes, cider and

cocoa will be served to
those waiting for
Santa Claus & the train

$8.00 per person 1 year and over.

To reserve your tickets now
call 360-748-0831.
Chehalis-Centralia Railroad & Museum
1101 SW Sylvenus St., Chehalis, WA 98532
Located halfway between Portland & Seattle at I-5 Exit 77
www.steamtrainride.com
 Holiday Decorating & Entertaining • The Chronicle, Centralia/ Chehalis, Wash. Friday, November 14, 2008 • 7

;
Hometown books
Set the Mood With for the Holidays
Holiday Music
What would the Christmas season be without old Our Hometowns
standards and new holiday hits? For some people, it
isn’t Christmas without carols playing while decorating I, II, III
the tree or familiar songs accompanying the shopping
rush at area stores. Holiday priced at
$
While everyone has their favorite Christmas album
— perhaps one enjoyed and passed down through the
generations — there’s always room for more holiday
3499 each

hits. That’s why each year often brings some new A savings of $9
holiday album releases in time for the season. This year each book!
is no exception. Here are some artists who are expected
to put their spin on Christmas tunes.
❅ Martina McBride, Carrie Underwood, Wynona,
and other country stars will join together through the
magic of technology to duet with the legendary Elvis
Presley on “Elvis Presley Christmas Duets.” Many of
the songs on “Elvis’ Christmas Album,” released in
1957, will be revisited and retooled for this release.
; ;
❅ Aretha Franklin will be putting her soulful
spin on holiday hits as well. “This Christmas Aretha”
will certainly become a must-have addition to most ; Flood book also
available at the Lewis
;
people’s Christmas music collections.
❅ George Strait is adding another Christmas al- Flood book & DVD County Historical
Museum
bum to his anthology. He’s hand-picked 10 traditional
holiday songs to be included on “Classic Christmas.” Holiday priced at
$
❅ Broadway and “Pushing Daises” fans will want
to grab a copy of Kristin Chenoweth’s Christmas al-
bum, “A Lovely Way to Spend Christmas.” Chenoweth
A savings of $5! 2498
Book & DVD
says she grew up listening to Barbara Streisand’s Christ-
mas album and has always dreamed of recording her
$
own. 1999 $ 99
9
❅ Rocker Melissa Etheridge is set to release her Book Only DVD Only
Christmas album, “A New Thought For Christmas.”
Etheridge’s take offers holiday tunes that appeal to
those who celebrate in traditional or non-traditional
ways. Original and classic tunes are melded on the The Chronicle book series make
release. ❉
great gifts this holiday season!
Send out music requests with your holiday
Great Holiday Pricing • Limited Quantities Available
party invitations. When people RSVP they can
include some of their favorite tunes so that Purchase yours today at:
everyone will be dancing to the music!
;

;
CH404741cf.sl
 Want to Host
8 • Holiday Decorating & Entertaining • The Chronicle, Centralia/ Chehalis, Wash. Friday, November 14, 2008

a Super Party?
Consider These Do’s and Don’ts

W
hat host or hostess wants company
leaving their home with a laundry
list of complaints about the party
or get-together they just attended? While not every-
thing about the event is bound to go picture-perfect,
there are some things individuals should keep in mind
when inviting others into their home.
BARNETT IMPLEMENT

John Deere
Gift Ideas

Wine & Beer Related Gifts

Wine for the holidays NOTHING RUNS
Gift certificates for under the tree LIKE A DEERETM
www.johndeere.com
Wine

Don’t Forget Your

Tasting
Visit BARNETT IMPLEMENT in Chehalis and
Bob & Flossie Heymann check out our John Deere Gift Ideas!
Cranberry Wine Such as Apparel, Bedding, Clocks, Books and Toys for all ages. Stop by
“We can help you whine”
For The Holidays! BARNETT IMPLEMENT, your local John Deere dealer off exit 72 south of
Chehalis, and make this Christmas a “GREEN” Christmas.
CH404737bw.ke
108 N. TOWER AVE.
CENTRALIA, WA BARNETT IMPLEMENT
CH404728hlo.db

127 N. Hamilton Road 412 Lily Road S.E. 5015 Olympic Highway
3606231106 Chehalis, WA 98532 Olympia, WA 98501 Aberdeen, WA 98520
360-748-9944 / 800-497-0108 360-491-2503 / 800-325-4421 360-533-6393 / 800-325-4116

DO have plenty of food and bever-
ages on hand. Skimping on refreshments
is not the way to win rave reviews. If
you’re having 25 people over, be sure to
have enough food for them all.
DON’T expect guests to bring
food or wine with them unless you
specify that this is a pot-luck type of
party. Even in terms of bring-your-
own type parties, many invitees feel
resentment at having to come to a
party with something in hand.
DO take the time to mingle and
converse with every guest you have in-
vited. This makes everyone feel special
and comforted in that you invited them
because you truly enjoy their presence.
DON’T spend time at the party
cleaning up or washing dishes. Guests
may get the impression you’re disin-
terested or are simply trying to usher
them out of the door earlier. Save the
dishwashing and clutter control for the
end of the event.
DO get on the same page with
your spouse or other housemates about
the start time of the party. Arguments
Holiday Decorating & Entertaining • The Chronicle, Centralia/ Chehalis, Wash. Friday, November 14, 2008 • 9
can ensue when guests arrive ahead of
time and the space is not yet prepared
for the party.
DON’T assume that everyone will
abide by the invitation for arrival time.
Expect that there will be some people
who will arrive early (there are those
friends and family who love to be the
first on the scene). Similarly, there will
be those who enjoy being fashionably
late. A good host or hostess will be
able to accommodate and hide his or
her annoyance.
DO keep arguments or critique of
a spouse or other family members out
of the party. Guests will feel uncom-
fortable if there are fights or squabbles
in front of them. Plus, it’s simply not
classy to do so.
DON’T forget to check the pow-
der room frequently to ensure that the
hand towels are adequate or that the
waste basket is cleaned out.
DO know that you can’t control
the weather. So do your best to work
with what Mother Nature dishes out
the day of your party.
DON’T assume everyone likes
to eat what you do. Put out a variety
of foods that will meet with others’
dietary restrictions or preferences.
Always include a vegetarian and even
vegan option that will be filling.
DO specify the type of party you
will be having on the invitation. You
do not want guests arriving thinking
you’re serving dinner when cocktails
and appetizers are the only fare.
DON’T embarrass guests or make
them feel uncomfortable in any way. If
there is a breakage or spill, handle it with
tact. Also, if you’re hosting one of those
parties where someone is selling anything
from candles to jewelry, don’t single out
anyone for failing to make a purchase.
DO keep any pets contained. You
may love wet kisses or fur on your
clothing, but others may not be so
enthralled with the pet experience.
DON’T forget to send out
invitations a few weeks to a month in
advance of an event. Today’s invita-
tions can be customized and there are
so many design possibilities available. ❉

.................
......... .....
.. . . . . ..
.... ....
.. .. . . ....
Bring In
. ..

...
....

..
....
.....

This Coupon For

.....
.......................... ..

......
You can have the body you want, 20% OFF
.. .. . .
..................
We can help. Any Gift CertiÀcate In
... .

• All new SmartLipo™ Laser Body Sculpting November and ...

.....

.....
...

....

“Take off what dieting won’t” December

....

.
..

...

... .. ....
...
....
• Laser Services . .. .. . . .
...... .
..........................
• Botox and Juvederm Injections
r f r e e c o n s u l t atio n .
• Body by Thermage
• And Much More
Call today for you
(360) 748-0102 • FAX (360) 748-3921 • 122 SOUTH MARKET BLVD CHEHALIS, WA. 98532• WWW.SKINTOPIAMEDSPA.COM
10 • Holiday Decorating & Entertaining • The Chronicle, Centralia/ Chehalis, Wash. Friday, November 14, 2008

If your holiday

HO
decorating tends to get
a little out of control,
try some of these
expert tips for decking
the halls with ease

HO I
t starts out as a routine event: Every year
you dig out those holiday decorations, with
the intent to systematically turn your home
into a tasteful winter wonderland. But things
spiral downward quickly, and before you know
it you’re crying in the middle of an evergreen
war zone, where your children are assaulting

Whoa!
each other with Grandma’s antique ornaments
and the cat is adorned with more tangled lights
than the tree.
“It’s amazing how many people make
(holiday decorating) complicated,” says
Standolyn Robertson, president of the Na-
tional Association of Professional Organiz-
ers. “If we can get people to think ‘simple
and sophisticated’ rather than ‘over the top,’
they can set themselves up for a stress-free
holiday.”

Top Clean
“A clean home is really important, so that
you start with a blank palette,” says Patricia
Gaylor, an interior designer in Little Falls, N.J.
According to Julie Edelman, author of “The
Ultimate Accidental Housewife: Your Guide to
a Clean Enough House” (Hyperion, 2008), fo-
cus on cleaning high traffic and visibility areas,
as well as the kitchen and one designated bath-
room for guests. “If your house is organized
enough, it looks cleaner, so shift and straighten
as much as possible,” she says.

Use Common Scents

“At the holidays you need to take a breath,
sit back and enjoy,” Edelman says, and what’s
better than breathing in delicious holiday
scents? She creates a “scent decoy” by bak-
ing frozen cookie dough before guests arrive.
“People think you’ve been baking for hours,”
she says. Fresh pine is a great seasonal scent,
says Gaylor, who suggests arranging boughs in
a stone pitcher.

Organize Ornaments
For Gaylor, the tree is a very sentimental
addition to the holidays. “I can still remember

“Enjoy your family and
friends and enjoy the holidays,
because that’s really what
they’re all about.”
every single ornament I’ve gotten in the
past 35 years,” she says. “I like to mix
them up and make the tree very per-
sonal, and the skirt is an antique quilt
that I own.” But if you’ve amassed quite
a collection, Robertson says it may be
time to let go. “If you’ve been collect-
ing ornaments over the years, you may
want to think about passing them on
to the kids and downsizing,” she says,
noting that no matter how many you
have, it’s important to “organize your
ornaments so that they’re stored prop-
erly and you’re only using things that
you love.”
Go Lean on the Lights
“I think people sometimes get too
into outside lights, because they always
did them and they think they have
to continue to do them,” Robertson
says. “Then it becomes a burden. A
simple lighted bow is elegant and just
enough.”
And what about indoor lights? “You
don’t have to have lights on trees,” Edel-
man says. “Going without them cuts
down on energy use, and you can use
shiny garland instead.”
Play Footsie
Edelman avoids the awkward messy-
shoe conversation at get-togethers with
a unique and fun twist. “When people
walk in, have a basket filled with holiday
socks your guests can put on,” she sug-
gests. “It makes a nice little gift.”
Center Your Efforts
“Centerpieces are great, and it
doesn’t mean you have to go out and
spend tons on fresh flowers,” Edelman
says. “Fill glass bowls with anything
from marshmallows to red and green
nacho chips to candy canes.” Gaylor
likes to fill simple bowls with pinecones
Holiday Decorating & Entertaining • The Chronicle, Centralia/ Chehalis, Wash. Friday, November 14, 2008 • 11
or silver balls, and says that silver orna-
ments flanked by silver candlesticks and
candles can be “elegant and easy.”
Dine & Shop Downtown Friday Nights
Fan the Flames
“You can never have enough
candles,” Gaylor says. “Even if it’s those
fake ones that look so real — those
on a mantle with some greenery laced
between them are gorgeous.” Gaylor says
you can add quick elegance for parties
by using tea lights grouped around the
room, and Edelman notes that candle-
light can save energy as well.
Liven Up
“I like to take my cues from nature
and use elements in the home that are
natural and relate to the season, like
spruce and greenery,” Gaylor says.
“I’ll use anything I can fill with
pine cones or crab apples or lady apples
— they’re bright red with some yel-
low — and you can put little pieces of
pine boughs between the apples and it
looks very beautiful.” Live boughs on
the mantle or table are inexpensive, and
Robertson says they add “a simple and
sophisticated festive touch.”
Make It A Family Affair
Don’t take all of the holiday
decorating upon yourself. Robertson
says it should always be a family event.
“Involve hot chocolate or wassail and
make it a day of decorating and fun,”
she suggests.
Edelman hosts BYOB (Bring Your
Own Bulb) parties, inviting neighbors
and friends for a tree-decorating party.
“Give yourself a break,” she says. “Enjoy
your family and friends and enjoy the
holidays, because that’s really what
they’re all about.”
— CTW Features
Presents
Late to Eight
Fridays, November 28
through December 19
Take advantage of in-store specials
while enjoying holiday cheer with
participating businesses. Shop
local, shop downtown,
Girls
shop Friday nights! Night Out
Saturday, December 6, 3:00 to 8:00
p.m. + extended movie times!!!
It’s the last Girl’s Night Out for 2008! Save the date to shop, dine,
and play in Downtown Centralia. Ladies take advantage of in-store
specials and receive complimentary gifts for shopping downtown
when they register. You’ll be amazed at the event specials including:
FREE Movie tickets, chance to win over a $1,000 in downtown gift
certificates, in-store specials, dining events, complimentary gifts for
every participant and MORE! Tickets on sale at 2:00 p.m. at Santa Lucia
202 S. Tower Ave. Tickets $5 with 20% of proceeds benefit United Way of
Lewis County. Event runs 3-8 p.m. with new release movie special at 9
p.m. First 187 ladies to register will receive a FREE movie & concession
ticket to the 9:00 p.m. private Girls Night Out new release movie
hosted by the co-sponsor at Mid-Way cinema’s (valued at $16.50
per person)! Good for event night only and while tickets last.
Additional details posted as date gets closer including
store specials, dining specials and new release
movie title. Check www.centraliadowntown.
Name that
com as the event date gets closer for full
details!!!
Holiday Tune
December 6 through 24
It’s the third annual holiday window displays
contest in downtown Centralia! Bring the friends,
family, and guests from out of town to join in the
festive game. Bundle up for a stroll downtown
or jump in the car. Pick-up an entry form from
any participating downtown business
and guess the songs in each window
in this fun, public participation
contest. Win over $500 in
prizes! Wish List
Shopping Day
Saturday, December 20,
10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Shop downtown and fill those last minute items on your
wish list. Event specials • One day only holiday sales •
Complimentary gift wrap at participating businesses. Shop
early 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. for even more specials. Save
your receipts from downtown merchants and stop by the
Live 95 booth (1pm-3pm) to receive a complimentary
gift certificate to the new Mid-Way Cinema’s ($7.50
each) For EVERY receipt you produce you’ll receive a
gift certificate (no limits) while supplies last! They
make great stocking stuffers, gifts, or keep
and enjoy yourself! Enter to win a trip for
four to Disneyland during Live 95’s
live remote!
CH404776ho.sl
12 • Holiday Decorating & Entertaining • The Chronicle, Centralia/ Chehalis, Wash. Friday, November 14, 2008

Long Live the

Christmas Tree! Picking the Perfect Christmas Tree
hristmas trees strung with col- your tree farm or just up the corner at

C ored lights and covered in or-

naments and other trinkets are
staples of the holiday season. Finding the
perfect tree and decorating it is as much
a Christmas tradition as egg nog and bad
gifts from distant aunts and uncles.
There is much debate over what
tree is better — artificial or real — but
the fact of the matter remains that an
artificial tree will not provide the aroma
or experience a real tree can offer.
Before you go out shopping at
the Christmas tree lot, first measure
the openings of your home and the
space where you will set up your tree.
A tree out in the open, or beneath the
12-foot ceilings of a warehouse store
will look small. But when that same
tree is brought into your home, it can
be immense. A measuring tape can
help remove any doubt about the tree’s
dimensions.
When selecting a tree, you want
one that has been recently cut or is the

Poinsettia Extravaganza!
Begins Sat. 11/22
CRAFTS • CRAFTS • CRAFTS
• Pattern Books - Lots to choose from!
• 25% off Bulbs — End of Season Sale • Wood Craft Items - Hearts, chairs, spindles, biscuits, trees,
• Bareroot Perennials trunks, pegs, candle holders, gingerbread boys, jars, buckets,
• Bulb Value Packs knobs, scoops, pitchers, eggs, stars, wheels, blocks, dowels,
• Holiday Decorations and Gifts snowmen, napkin rings, santas, apple boxes, milk cans, hats, log
cabins and a whole more!
$1.00 OFF Come Enjoy GIFT SHOP • Lumber - Walnut, poplar, basswood, teak, aromatic cedar, maple,
the Holiday WITH pine, alder, oak, zebrawood, cherry and more!
ANY Happenings!
POINSETTIA! GREAT HOLIDAY • Plywood - Baltic birch 1/8”, 1/4”, 1/2” and cabinet and
WHILE SUPPLIES LAST ITEMS! construction plywoods.
• Hardwood - Brainerd brass, specialty hinges, knobs, pulls
and more!
COUPON • COUPON • COUPON • COUPON

20% OFF
ALL CRAFT DEPARTMENT ITEMS INCLUDING PATTERN BOOKS.
20% OFF WITH THIS COUPON
(Except Lumber and Plywood) • Coupons Expires 11/29/08

Blakely & Hout Home Center

(360) 983-9000 • I-5 Exit 68, “Your Building Supply Friends”
CH404739bw.ke

east on Hwy. 12 in Mossyrock

“Experienced gardeners are available to help you.”
CH404738bw.sl
1685 N. National Ave., Chehalis • 748-3377

freshest. If you’re cutting the tree down
yourself at a farm, it’s easy to determine
the tree’s vitality. However, it may not
be so apparent at a tree lot where trees
may have been sitting around since
right after Thanksgiving. Consider these
pointers when choosing a tree:
❧ Fir trees tend to hold to their
needles even when they start to dry out,
making them ideal Christmas trees.
❧ Examine the tree you like carefully.
A good one will look healthy, be vibrant
green and have a strong pine aroma.
❧ If the tree has dry, brittle twigs,
a musty smell or any sign of dryness or
browning, you probably want to choose
another as this one is past its prime.
❧ Look for a tree with strong
branches to hold ornaments.
❧ The needles should be soft and flex-
ible. They should not fall off easily if you
run your hand over boughs of the tree.
Remember, a healthy tree can last sev-
eral weeks if it is brought indoors freshly
cut and maintained with regular watering.
Be sure to shake the tree out before
you transport it home. This will loosen
any dead branches and needles, which
will make a mess of your car and home.
Shop Local
Lower Local Tax Rate Guarantees Local Savings.
Holiday Decorating & Entertaining • The Chronicle, Centralia/ Chehalis, Wash. Friday, November 14, 2008 • 13
Take a Few Precautions to Ensure Your Tree
and Its Ornaments Last Through the Season
Keep away from heat: Make sure the tree is kept away from
sources of heat, such as heating vents, fireplaces (keep a reason-
able distance away from flames), and even sources of direct sun-
light so the tree can remain healthy.
Ward off all pets: Cats, in particular, have exhibited a puzzling
desire to jump into Christmas trees. If you can’t keep pets out of the
room entirely, use a ceiling hook to keep the tree from falling over
should a pet bump into it.
Turn lights off when leaving the house or going to bed: Trees
are a fire hazard even when the lights aren’t on, and that risk only
gets greater if lights are left on when you’re not home.
Place heavier ornaments near the top: Keep heavier and
fragile ornaments higher up on the tree to lessen the risk of them
breaking at the hands of curious kids.
Most tree lots and farms will wrap the When the tree is home, carefully as 1 gallon of water 24 hours after it is
tree in netting so that it stays condensed bring it indoors (those door measure- cut. After that the general rule is that a
and portable for the trip home. Tie it ments will come in handy now). Make tree needs approximately one quart of
securely so you don’t end up with an sure that your tree stand will fit the water per inch of trunk diameter. Add-
airborne tree on the roads home, which circumference of the tree’s trunk. Do ing special mixes to the water will not
has happened to many people. Also, be not shave the sides of the trunk to get help it last any longer.
sure to cut off an inch to two inches of it to fit or you risk compromising how By following these tips you can en-
the trunk off to promote good water long the tree will last. sure you have a beautiful and healthy tree
absorption later on. A cut tree first can absorb as much to enjoy for the duration of the season. ❉
TTreat
HIS HOLIDAY SEASON!
yourself to a relaxing & rewarding
shopping experience in Centralia & Chehalis
•Historic Downtowns
Choose the •Updated Factory Outlets
perfect gift... •Variety of Surrounding Shops
CH404740cz.db
•Local Shopping Centers
EAT . . . SHOP . . . SAVE!
Make a day of it!
14 • Holiday Decorating & Entertaining • The Chronicle, Centralia/ Chehalis, Wash. Friday, November 14, 2008

Travel To and From

Your Holiday Parties Safely
“Your Holiday
Decorating Headquarters”
• Santa Paws Ornaments • LED Light Set
• John Deere Tree/Ornaments • Icicle Lights
• Tool Ornaments • Net Lights
• Porcelain Buildings & Acces. • Rope Lights
• Lighted Window Decorations • Pathway Markers
• Lighted Igloo • Wreaths & Garland
• Holographic Yard Art • Extension Cords
• Shimmering Snowflakes • Timers
• Spiral Trees • Wireless Remote Controls
• Porch Trees HUGE SELECTION OF
• Pre-Lit Artificial Trees HOUSE DECOR & MORE
• Gift Wrapping
• Mini Light Sets
Hours: Chehalis
M-F 8am-8pm 771 S. Market Blvd.
Sat. 8am-7pm 345-1290
Sun. 9am-5pm

Stay Safe and Alert on
the Roadways This Season
F
estive is the typical mood of
the holidays. While the season
certainly has its stressful mo-
ments as well, many realize that such
moments are fleeting and approach the
season in good spirits.
As many people know, however,
some are inclined to spend the holi-
days celebrating a little too much. It’s
no secret, for example, that America’s
highways are never as dangerous and
people more accident prone than during
the holiday season. Many find the most
heartbreaking part of many alcohol-re-
lated crashes are the innocent victims.
Oftentimes, drunk or impaired drivers
crash into law-abiding motorists.
The heightened number of drug- or
alcohol-related accidents during the holi-
days only underscore the importance for
motorists to be more aware during this
festive season. With the roadways often
busy with shoppers and revelers alike,
adhering to the following tips can be the
safest way for motorists to keep them-
selves and their families safe this season.
Don’t Drink and Drive
If you have consumed any alcohol,
call a cab. Even if you’ve had just one
drink and feel perfectly capable of driv-
ing, that one drink might have impaired
your driving at least somewhat. Play it
safe and take a taxi whenever you’ve had
any alcohol, even if you only had one
drink. Fully aware that drunk driving
accidents increase during the holidays,
police forces across the country set up
checkpoints to ensure all drivers are
sober. Avoid any potential problems by
simply calling a ride whenever you’ve
had any alcohol.
Be Alert
Pay close attention and know where
you’re going. Even if a light is green,
pay close attention to the intersection as
you approach. Just because you’re aware
Holiday Decorating & Entertaining • The Chronicle, Centralia/ Chehalis, Wash. Friday, November 14, 2008 • 15
$
14+99tax
Available November 28
at Select Locations
the light is green, that doesn’t mean a
potentially impaired driver or pedestrian
crossing your lane knows that. Be sure
to closely examine an intersection as you
approach to safeguard you and those
you’re traveling with from anyone who
might be running a red light, particu-
larly if you’re driving later at night.
It’s also important to travel with direc-
tions on hand. The more you drive during
the holiday season, the more susceptible
you become to an accident. In addition, if
you don’t know where you’re going, you’re
more inclined to drive aimlessly and not
be as attentive as you could be.
Buckle Up
A brand new book from
Make sure everyone is buckled up.
Simply put, there is never a good excuse
“peasant naturalist”
to travel in a car without wearing a seat Russ Mohney is perfect
belt. In a study titled Association of
Driver Air Bags with Driver Fatality, seat for gift-giving or your
belts were found to be more effective at
reducing the risk of death than air bags. personal library.
Seat belts were shown to reduce the risk
of death by 65 percent, while air bags
reduce the risk by 8 percent. Much of You will marvel at his
the risk that comes with driving involves
relying on how well the strangers sharing tales of four backwoods
the road with you drive. By wearing
a seat belt at all times, you’re greatly
generations and their tie
reducing the chance other drivers can
fatally harm you.
to the land they love.
Obey the Speed Limit
The holidays are a busy time of year,
Available November 28th at:
and nearly everyone on the road is in
a hurry to get somewhere. However,
speeding is not only against the law,
but potentially very dangerous as well.
Obey the speed limit at all times. When
speeding, it’s easy to lose control of your
vehicle should a fellow motorist begin
swerving or driving erratically. Defensive
driving should be practiced at all times, Lewis County
but even more so during the holiday Historical Museum
season, when motorists cannot predict
with whom they’re sharing the road. ❉ CH404742cf.sl
16 • Holiday Decorating & Entertaining • The Chronicle, Centralia/ Chehalis, Wash. Friday, November 14, 2008

When Good Guests

Go Bad What can go wrong... will. You may not
avert disaster at your holiday party this
year, but you will survive. These hosts did.
Phyl’s Furniture

Decorating Homes Since 1973

Save on Holiday Decorating

Essentials at Lincoln Creek Lumber!

Christmas Ornament
Variety of Lights
Extension Cords
Yard Decorations
Porcelain Buildings Top Quality Name Brand Bedroom Sets!
Trees & Tree Stands Choose from three great styles at one set price.

1999 95
Special Purchase - Limited Stock! $
Stocking Staffers Set Includes: Queen Headboard/
Footboard/Rails, Dresser & Mirror, 2 Nightstands
Gift Cards and Much More! Accent Curios
Proud to be one
of the

Tables Starting At...

largest

249
furniture
stores
$
$ 95
95
Hot Prices!
in the
area specializing
in Made in the
Centralia U.S.A Products Styles vary per Styles vary per
location location
1621 Harrison Ave.

Phyl’s FURNITURE
736-8261

www.phylsfurniture.net
Chehalis • 748-3000 • 563 N. Market Blvd.

P
lanning a party is always a
combination of anticipation and
anxiety. No matter how fun and
celebratory the occasion, there is always
the possibility of something not going
quite right. Murphy’s Law goes into
overtime during the holidays, when
what can go wrong at a party gener-
ally does, accelerated by fatigue, family
feuds and high-octane holiday cheer.
You might be able to control (and
thus prevent) some of the common
gaffes, such as falling soufflés and
running out of white wine. But you
can’t predict or control your guests’
bad behavior. You can, however - and,
of course, should - mitigate damages
by your reactions. Below are some
real-world party mishaps followed by
wise advice from seasoned hosts and
party-planning experts on what to do
when your good guests go bad. Being
prepared for the misbehavior of others,
be it unintentional or otherwise, can
help turn a potential party disaster into
future funny cocktail party banter.
So, from the so-bad-it’s-true files
(names have been withheld to protect
the guilty):
Mon., Nov 17th - Anniversary Party
FREE Coffee, Soft Drinks & Cake
Special
Margaritas
$ 50
4 $
Happy Hour: 4-7pm
Free Appetizers
Chehalis
(360) 748-4298
Holiday Decorating & Entertaining • The Chronicle, Centralia/ Chehalis, Wash. Friday, November 14, 2008 • 17
restrictions. This will allow you to ac-
The Savvy Hostess’s Must-Do List commodate serious requests in advance
and discourage last-minute pickiness.
Don’t Plan Any Party Without Taking These 3 Steps
The Crasher
Have a backup plan Guests may bring uninvited chil-
Planning on Uncle Albert making a special toast when you are
dren, other guests and even pets to your
together for the holidays, but worried that he might have one hot
party, despite invites (or what you’ve
toddy too many? Select a back-up person for the toast, so it’ll
done with your own pets and kids).
look seamless even if you have to switch gears.
Hostess with the Most-ess: You have
to roll with it, once the added members
Enlist help of the party are at your party. This is a
Even if you can’t hire a caterer or party-planner, don’t try to do great argument to always overstock and
it all yourself. Find friends or family who can pitch in. That way, if
overcook; you can always have leftovers,
you have to go put out a fire (literal or figurative) there’s someone
says Donatella Arpaia, the New York en-
else to keep a watch on the stove.
tertaining and food guru. Having a teen
who is willing to volunteer for babysit-
Have fun ting duty can help if those with kids
No matter what happens, it’s just a party. Even the worst party
bring their offspring to an adults-only
disaster isn’t a matter of life and death. Learn to laugh with it. function. When it comes to those who
cannot travel without Fido, directions
to the nearest kennel may be your only
The Picky Eater chaos. The hostess says she would have option.
been more than happy to accommodate
One Colorado woman remembers
their diets in advance, but was sad and
guests who called the day before Christ- The Entrepreneur
angry to see her plans (and meal) go to
mas to say they’d be bringing their own One California host remembers the
waste.
food to her dinner, because they didn’t Hostess with the Most-ess: Take the guest who brought green tea that he was
eat certain foods. The news threw the initiative. When you issue invites, ask if selling (a multi-level, marketing-type
hostess’ lovingly planned menu into anyone has any allergies or other dietary Continued on page 18
All Day Long! AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE
1 00 Off House Specials
(Nov. Only)
$
1 95
Child’s Plate $6 95
Combinacion #10, 11, 12
Specials good through Jan 31, 2009
Open 7 Days - Orders to Go
Napavine Morton Tumwater
(360) 262-0243 (360) 496-6660 (360) 709-0287 CH404172bw.ke
18 • Holiday Decorating & Entertaining • The Chronicle, Centralia/ Chehalis, Wash. Friday, November 14, 2008

Continued from page 17 EMRG Media and Mantra, a New York

product), and started pouring it for
other guests. The host had provided
plenty of other beverages, carefully
selecting them to work with the food
being served. The wayward guest even
tried to sell his tea to the other guests.
A North Carolina woman has an ac-
120 N.W. PaciÄc Ave., Chehalis quaintance who is a bra fitter. She car-
(360) 740-6303 ries samples in different sizes with her
and takes every opportunity - including
“Voted #1 Spa in Lewis County” parties - to check with women to see
if their bras are fitting correctly. If not,
she tries to sell them bras.
Hostess with the Most-ess: Being
blunt is OK in this situation; you need
to protect your other guests from the
unwanted sales pitch.
The Drunkard
Uncle Ed sometimes tries to go
one-for-one with the college kids
who are playing billiards and drink-
ing beer in the basement but can’t
Our team includes: Deb, Lorna, Kim, Annette, hold his liquor like he used to. Sound
Donna, Mags, Michelle, Deb, Anne familiar?
Hostess with the Most-ess: Erica
Holiday Gift Certificates Maurer, a partner and co-owner of
event-planning firm and restaurant,
has run into this problem when a CEO
tries to keep up with younger employ-
ees at the office party. She’s learned
to gingerly ask to talk to the CEO in
another room, ostensibly about some
kind of business, and then, once in
private, offer coffee, water, whatever is
needed, so that he isn’t embarrassed in
front of the crowd. Try this tactic rather
than calling your uncle to task in front
of everyone.
The Night Owl
Everyone has had the guests who
just won’t go home. Subtle hints like
turning off the music, doing the dishes,
putting the kids to bed and even chang-
ing into pajamas aren’t clear enough
signals for some people.
Hostess with the Most-ess: Some
savvy hostess have had success mak-
ing “jokes” about having to kick their
friends out. A coy, “Honey, we’ve kept
these folks up long enough. It’s time to
let them get to bed,” might also work.
— CTW Features

Come in for our great holiday gifts and don’t

Available Now! forget something to pamper yourself!
Experienced in:
Design, Hair Cutting, Custom Foiling, • Lotions, Soaps and other Indulgences
Waxing, Perms & Up-dos • Aroma Beads, Reed diffusers & Candles
We Do It All! • Egyptian Cotton Robes & Towels

We have over 30 Lines Of Bath & Body Essentials,

Spa Services include:
European Facials, Body Waxing, Make-Up,
Home Fragrance, And Décor.
Hot Stone Massage, Therapeutic Massage,
Body Wraps, Spa Pedicures & Manicures

Specialty Services include:

Permanent Make-Up, Electrolysis,
Lash Extensions, Tanning, Light Therapy,

The Bath Depot, Inc.

Same room Facial & Massage,
Skin Treatments

NEW Services include: 108 W. Pine,

Foot & Hand ReÅexology
CH404401le.ra

Centralia, WA 98531
360-623-1016 CH404828ho.sl
 Holiday Decorating & Entertaining • The Chronicle, Centralia/ Chehalis, Wash. Friday, November 14, 2008 • 19

7T
Things You May
Have Not Known
About Christmas
he Christmas season is full of traditions, folklore and rich history. However, amid all of
the traditions we’ve come to know, there are many bits of trivia of which you may not be
familiar. Here are a few little-known facts about Christmas.

1. The first manufactured Christmas tree or-

naments were sold in 1880 by the former
Woolworth department store.
actually derived from Christ’s name and has
been popular in Europe since the 1500s. It is
believed to be derived from the Greek word

2. Christmas trees originally featured actual

lighted candles, which were naturally a
fire hazard. So containers filled with water had
“Xristos,” which means Christ.

5. The National Confectioners Association

reports that for 200 years candy canes
to be kept near the tree. were solid white. In the 1950s an automated

3. Construction workers first erected an

undecorated tree at Rockefeller Center in
machine was invented that could put on the
red stripes.
New York City in the early 1930s. They have
been credited with starting the annual tradi- 6. The idea of Christmas greeting cards
started in Britain in the 1830s.
tion.

4. Although sometimes construed as sac-

riligious, the shortened form “Xmas” is
7. Christmas celebrations were banned in
Boston between 1659 and 1681. Those
caught celebrating would be fined. ❉

We have a Sewing Machine Holiday

for all you sewing needs — Books
From Basic Sewing,
Are
Now In
All Machines
are on Sale!
Emerald 116

To
Quilting, Sapphire 830

To Embroidery Fun! Topaz 30

FREE Lessons with the Purchase of Machine

CH404864bw.sl
CH404744bw.sl

510 N Market Blvd., Downtown Chehalis

360-748-3295
Hours: M-F 10-5:30, Sat. 10-3
20 • Holiday Decorating & Entertaining • The Chronicle, Centralia/ Chehalis, Wash. Friday, November 14, 2008
s $AVIDS (OME &URNISHINGS s $AVIDS (OME &URNISHINGS s
$AVIDS (OME &URNISHINGS $AVIDS (OME &URNISHINGS s $AVIDS (OME &URNISHINGS s $AVIDS (OME &URNISHINGS

$AVIDS (OME &URNISHINGS $AVIDS (OME &URNISHINGS s $AVIDS (OME &URNISHINGS s $AVIDS (OME &URNISHINGS
LOWEST
PRICES!
Over 200
Recliners In Stock!
THIS WEEK! Wall-Saver Recliner In Cocoa Brown or
Sage Green (shown).
$198

Rocker Recliner
$298
In Dark Brown or
Light Brown (shown).

YOUR CHOICE!
Your choice of Sofa & Loveseat or
2 colors! Sofa & Chair Wall-Saver Recliner
Ottoman not available.
$599 $248
In Navy, Brown or Burgundy
32” LCD HDTV (shown).
Lowest Prices
$598 on HDTVs!
30” Coil-Top Range
Lift Chairs
$349
Z32LC6D Model for model David’s
will not be undersold! RF111PXSQ
From $ 649
Over 8 Lift Chair Styles

Lowest Prices on
EXTRA FIRM EURO TOP PILLOW TOP
TWIN MATTRESS EACH PIECE

$99
QUEEN SET QUEEN SET QUEEN SET
$ 349
Reg. $399 99
99 $ 449
Reg. $49999
99
$ 64999
SALE Reg. $69999 SALE
SALE
Reg. PRICE Reg. PRICE Reg. PRICE QUEEN MATTRESS SET
TWIN SET....... $54999........$499 99

$299
TWIN SET....... $26999........$249 99 TWIN SET....... $34999........$329 99
FULL SET....... $34999........$329 99 FULL SET....... $42999........$399 99 FULL SET....... $64999........$599 99
KING SET ....... $64999........$549 99 KING SET ....... $69999........$649 99 KING SET ....... $99999........$899 99

PAY
CEDAR CHESTS NOTHING
for
3'OLD3Ts#ENTRALIA7!
*

from
1 YEAR! (360) 736-1353
*With approved credit, furniture, mattress and appliance purchases receive 1 year free financing with no interest,
no down payment, minimum payments required. With approved credit. See store for details. Free local delivery
after mail-in rebate. Terms only apply to approved credit. Finance Charges will accrue on the purchase from the
NO Interest beginning of the credit promotional period, and minimum payments will be due each billing cycle. However,
if you pay the purchase price in full by the expiration date of the credit promotional period, all of the accrued
Finance Charges will be waived and no Finance Charges will be assessed on the purchase. Otherwise, all of the
NO Down Payment accrued Finance Charges will be assessed. Credit promotional period may be terminated if you default under your
account agreement. Standard APR 24.99%, Default APR 29.99%, minimum monthly finance charge $2.00. $499
minimum purchase required.Excludes Value Rite, Tempur-Pedic and clearanced items.

So Much More Than A Furniture Store www.davidsusa.com