Holiday Fireplace Safety

• Before lighting any fire, remove all greens, boughs, papers, and other decorations from fireplace area. Check to see that the flue is open.
• Use care with “fire salts,” which produce colored flames when thrown on wood fires. They contain heavy metals that can cause intense gastrointestinal irritation and vomiting if eaten.
• Do not burn wrapping papers in the fireplace. A flash fire may result as wrappings ignite suddenly and burn intensely.

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A Strong Start to the New Year

Here are three simple ways to start the new year on the right track.

Set goals. Take time to focus on what you most desire to accomplish, then write down your top objectives. Keep your list visible to help you stay on track. Don’t be afraid to adjust your goals as needed when circumstances change throughout the year.

Clear clutter. Begin with a clean slate by purging your closets and donate unused items. Spend some time organizing bills and paperwork that have accumulated on your desk. File or scan what’s necessary for your records and shred the rest.

Fill in your calendar. Record important events like birthdays, anniversaries and family gatherings. Highlight any major work deadlines, and call to schedule any personal or medical appointments that are due. Plan ahead and request time off work now to make sure you stay refreshed throughout the year.

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10 Hobbies To Try in 2021

After a tumultuous 2020, no one quite knows what to expect in the new year. However, make it a point to spend more time engaging in activities that refresh and energize you, regardless of what lies ahead. Here are 10 hobbies that might pique your interest.

1. Study photo editing – Whether you take pictures with a digital camera or your smartphone, learn how to use a photo editing program to enhance your digital memories.
2. Foster an animal – Many animal shelters will often utilize temporary foster homes when they reach max capacity. Ask your local shelter about fostering or other ways to volunteer.
3. Discover painting – Sign up for an online class or follow along with classic Bob Ross painting episodes on YouTube.
4. Tackle a new language – Apps like Duolingo allow you to learn a variety of languages at your own pace.
5. Try new workout methods – If you usually prefer CrossFit or HIIT workouts, switch it up with an online yoga class. If you gravitate toward barre or Pilates, kickboxing or strength training might be good alternatives.
6. Expand your culinary skills – If you’re a rookie in the kitchen, start with easy-to-follow recipes. If you’re already an experienced cook, experiment with making complex dishes or creating recipes of your own.
7. Explore the outdoors – Check out local nature centers or travel to state parks to hike, birdwatch, bike, or simply enjoy the scenery. Look for new areas around you to explore as well.
8. Play a musical instrument – Sign up for lessons with an instructor or follow online tutorials to start playing the piano, guitar, ukulele, or any other instrument that inspires you.
9. Take up woodworking – Decide what type of project you want to build, then research the necessary tools to get started. Connect with experienced woodworkers in your area or follow online tutorials to start creating.
10. Join a book club – Everyone can benefit from spending more time reading, so give yourself the extra push by joining a book club in a genre that interests you.

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Maple Roasted Vegetables

Ingredients
1 medium butternut squash
1½ lbs. Brussels sprouts
5 Tbsp. avocado oil, divided
1 tsp. Kosher salt
½ tsp. pepper
5 Tbsp. maple syrup, divided
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup pumpkin seeds

Directions
Preheat oven to 450^° F. Coat 2 baking sheets with cooking spray. Peel squash and cut into ½-inch cubes. Trim and halve Brussels sprouts. In a large bowl, toss prepared vegetables with 4 Tbsp. oil, salt and pepper. Spread evenly on baking sheets.

Roast 15-20 minutes. Remove from oven and drizzle 2 Tbsp. maple syrup over each pan of vegetables, and stir to coat. Return to oven and roast an additional 8-10 minutes or until tender.

In a large serving bowl, toss roasted vegetables with cranberries and pumpkin seeds. Drizzle with remaining oil and maple syrup if desired.

Serves 4

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