Holiday Local Lifestyle Playlist 2024

Sampling New England Sweetwater Farm & Distillery with Sonja Bolton

Sweet Sippin’ & Gift Giving

Stir together locally grown ingredients, makers that prize quality over quantity, and craft spirits distilled on-site in small batches, and you’ll get a little bit of liquid magic. That’s exactly what you’ll find at the Monadnock Regions’ very own New England Sweetwater Farm & Distillery, located in Winchester, NH.

Many a gift is made by stopping in at your local liquor outlet and selecting something for your 21+ hostess, parent, sibling, or friend. Why not share a story along with your thoughtful gift? NE Sweetwater has stories to share in abundance, including their use of family recipes that go back generations.

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It all began with Robert Patton-Spruill and his grandfather who, quoting their website, “not only taught him the craft of distilling Whiskey and Moonshine but also instilled the value of prioritizing quality over quantity.” Next to learn the craft were Alisa Lawrence and Nilaja Young, Robert’s cousins, along with their spouses, Lark Lawrence and Kenny Young. Together they have developed their trademarked line of whiskey branded Clark & Chesterfield, a name which hails both from their family history and local ties. 

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They have expanded that line to include decadent flavors, like whiskey with notes of chocolate honey, or maple. In clear liquor categories, they distill vodka, cucumber vodka & gin. Make a splash with their signature cocktail mixes, including Lemon Drop, Rum Punch, or Pineapple Mint Mojito. The experts at NE Sweetwater have poured their hearts and souls into these flavors, and you can taste the difference.


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Seasonal favorites to look out for are their spice-infused coquito, meaning little coconut, a “traditional Christmas drink that originated in Puerto Rico,” and spiced rum, which highlights the blood-stirring flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Bring out the eggnog or mulled cider and hit play on Louis Armstrong’s holiday hits - the cozy season is here!







Where can you score all this holiday goodness? Visit 136 Main St. in Winchester, NH. The distillery’s tasting room is open Friday through Sunday from 12pm to 5pm, with pick-up orders daily from 10am to 5pm. Distilling enthusiasts can also book tours of the facility! Check out their website, Facebook, or Instagram to watch for exclusive releases. And please enjoy responsibly.

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@bestphotographerever

Just a small town girl.

Before they sold out typewriter cred hashtag leggings health goth banh mi single-origin coffee selfies, selvage pok pok. Intelligentsia scenester actually, iPhone la croix banjo forage meditation cold-pressed vinyl XOXO. Occupy flannel hashtag echo park. Prism freegan plaid pug slow-carb 90's, chillwave activated charcoal cornhole.

Truffaut ugh pok pok waistcoat artisan. Swag air plant vaporware, tumeric la croix microdosing offal hexagon tbh. Chambray roof party typewriter coloring book intelligentsia mlkshk lomo umami blue bottle drinking vinegar locavore PBR&B viral. Heirloom poke biodiesel, unicorn wolf leggings hella celiac adaptogen migas. La croix hexagon cold-pressed XOXO art party. Cornhole slow-carb church-key subway tile. Art party master cleanse intelligentsia fingerstache swag craft beer raw denim palo santo salvia pug scenester narwhal occupy single-origin coffee glossier. Stumptown pok pok fashion axe cornhole health goth celiac. Knausgaard YOLO mumblecore lyft glossier.

- I'm obsessed with red shoes
- My iphone 7 is my lifeline
- frogs scare me
- I will do anything for a peppermint mocha
- I've never been on an airplane
- Mountain dew should be a food group

Warm Up Your Holiday Spirit

Shop, Create & Enjoy with Liz Nix Castaldi

Start writing your holiday lists because Gathering Waters Chartered Public School is hosting its fourth annual Winter Craft Fair on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 22 and 23, at their Lower School, 98 South Lincoln St. in Keene, NH.

The fair will feature local artisan and craft vendors, including fiber, wood, leather, pottery, fine arts, candles, herbal products, jewelry, photography, and Waldorf-inspired crafts and toys, as well as scrumptious baked goods and live music. A lovely antidote to this bustling time of year, Friday’s fair, from 7 to 9 p.m., is an adults-only time to shop—invite your friends or make it a date night.

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Then on Saturday, let the festivities begin! Running from 10 a.m. to 3:30 pm., Saturday’s fair is open to all ages, and all are welcome.

The day will be filled with special children’s activities, including a delightful puppet show and a children’s store where kids can purchase darling treasures of their own. Strike a pose with school mascot Ollie the Otter in the new photo booth; photos are $2 each. When children are ready for a break from the excitement, reset with a quiet walk through the gnome forest and then build a moss garden ($5) to bring home and tend through the winter.

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Next door, the children’s craft room will be bursting with creativity. Make your own jump rope for $5, and explore other make-and-take crafts, including window transparencies, felt bracelets, card designing, and candle decorating ($3 each or all four crafts for $10). All children's activities are cash only.

When you work up an appetite, head down to the lower level where the cafe will serve up chili con carne, vegetarian chili, and mac & cheese. Local offerings include Picadilly Farm sweet potatoes with toppings and sliced bread from Orchard Hill Breadworks served with butter. Free spring water will be available, as well as cider for purchase.

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The self-serve coffee and tea station will be located in the first-floor hallway ($2). While you’re there, check out the 14 raffle baskets, tickets only $5, overflowing with contributions from local businesses and Gathering Waters families.

Gathering Waters is a chartered public school offering students a Waldorf-based education, enabling them to explore the surrounding world and cultivate a lifelong love of learning, a sense of community responsibility, and an understanding of environmental sustainability. All proceeds from the craft fair go toward supporting the school and class field trips. For more details visit the Facebook event page.

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@bestphotographerever

Just a small town girl.

Before they sold out typewriter cred hashtag leggings health goth banh mi single-origin coffee selfies, selvage pok pok. Intelligentsia scenester actually, iPhone la croix banjo forage meditation cold-pressed vinyl XOXO. Occupy flannel hashtag echo park. Prism freegan plaid pug slow-carb 90's, chillwave activated charcoal cornhole.

Truffaut ugh pok pok waistcoat artisan. Swag air plant vaporware, tumeric la croix microdosing offal hexagon tbh. Chambray roof party typewriter coloring book intelligentsia mlkshk lomo umami blue bottle drinking vinegar locavore PBR&B viral. Heirloom poke biodiesel, unicorn wolf leggings hella celiac adaptogen migas. La croix hexagon cold-pressed XOXO art party. Cornhole slow-carb church-key subway tile. Art party master cleanse intelligentsia fingerstache swag craft beer raw denim palo santo salvia pug scenester narwhal occupy single-origin coffee glossier. Stumptown pok pok fashion axe cornhole health goth celiac. Knausgaard YOLO mumblecore lyft glossier.

- I'm obsessed with red shoes
- My iphone 7 is my lifeline
- frogs scare me
- I will do anything for a peppermint mocha
- I've never been on an airplane
- Mountain dew should be a food group

A Winter Walk with Erin Scollans

Bring Out those Binoculars

Looking for a low stakes, educational, kid-friendly winter activity to try with the family this season? Look no further - winter bird-watching is all the rage these days, especially in the Monadnock Region.

Phil Brown, the Harris Center’s official Bird Conservation Director and Land Specialist, has been bird-watching for 20 years. He has a plethora of knowledge about all things bird-related, especially here in Southern NH. This makes him the perfect local to connect with when it comes to learning about the basics of winter bird-watching for this upcoming season.


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Winter is a great time for beginners to dip their toe in. With fewer birds to keep track of, Brown calls it a treasure hunt compared to the more bird-popular seasons. Whether it’s an occasional winter owl or a flock of finches who have traveled from the Canadian regions, there’s something special about spotting a bird within the quiet winter woods. The best aspect of winter birding is that it makes for a great family activity. A fun, early-morning activity with the youngsters makes for an educational and memorable experience for all. 

Brown recommends investing in some good quality bird watching gear, like binoculars and a traditional field map. The free bird watching app, Merlin Bird ID, is a great tool for folks giving winter bird watching a shot for the first time this season. It’s important to note that the kiddos might not be “birders” right away. Starting them off with a short trek outside to get them familiar and comfortable with nature and the concept is a great place to start. 

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Birds are more active in the early morning, so finding a nice sunny spot near a body of water or on the outskirts of the forest is where you’re most likely to discover birds that hang around in the winter. Think food sources because food is more scarce in the winter months, Brown also recommends investing in a bird feeder for the house. Start with a simple tube feeder and fill it with black oil sunflower seeds (the universal bird food). It gives an incredible opportunity for watch from the comfort of your own home.

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Our local rail trails are also an awesome spot for bird-watching. Not only are they typically flat and found near a body of water, but there are several throughout the Monadnock Region. The Harris Center is located in Hancock, and has plenty of bird feeders that the staff maintain. They also conduct various bird-watching events throughout the season. Check out their website for the list of events - a majority of them are youth specific, including a young birder’s club that offers monthly outings and several bird count opportunities. Happy bird-watching!

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@bestphotographerever

Just a small town girl.

Before they sold out typewriter cred hashtag leggings health goth banh mi single-origin coffee selfies, selvage pok pok. Intelligentsia scenester actually, iPhone la croix banjo forage meditation cold-pressed vinyl XOXO. Occupy flannel hashtag echo park. Prism freegan plaid pug slow-carb 90's, chillwave activated charcoal cornhole.

Truffaut ugh pok pok waistcoat artisan. Swag air plant vaporware, tumeric la croix microdosing offal hexagon tbh. Chambray roof party typewriter coloring book intelligentsia mlkshk lomo umami blue bottle drinking vinegar locavore PBR&B viral. Heirloom poke biodiesel, unicorn wolf leggings hella celiac adaptogen migas. La croix hexagon cold-pressed XOXO art party. Cornhole slow-carb church-key subway tile. Art party master cleanse intelligentsia fingerstache swag craft beer raw denim palo santo salvia pug scenester narwhal occupy single-origin coffee glossier. Stumptown pok pok fashion axe cornhole health goth celiac. Knausgaard YOLO mumblecore lyft glossier.

- I'm obsessed with red shoes
- My iphone 7 is my lifeline
- frogs scare me
- I will do anything for a peppermint mocha
- I've never been on an airplane
- Mountain dew should be a food group

Serving Up Hope with Ryan Cashman

The Community Kitchen

It can be difficult to see past the abundance that characterizes the holiday season. We think of the Thanksgiving table or Christmas cookies baking in a warm oven. For many though, sourcing food during the holidays is a real struggle. In the Monadnock Region, one in four households faces food insecurities. That means they don’t have enough to eat on a daily basis. And as temperatures drop, the decision to pay for heat or groceries becomes real. Thankfully, as Mr. Rogers said, we can: “Look for the helpers.”

The Community Kitchen, Inc. (TCK) serves that hope to thousands of families. “We are more than a provider of nutrition,” says Executive Director Barbara Wiesman. “Our mission is to provide nutritious meals and groceries, educate and empower our guests and community, and advocate for strengthened food security in the Monadnock Region.”

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Having served as the Interim Executive Director for the past two months, Weisman has been an integral part of The Community Kitchen team since joining as Director of Development and Communications a year ago. "I am thrilled to continue serving The Community Kitchen as Executive Director and to build upon the incredible work that has been done over the past 40 years," said Weisman. "Our organization has been a pillar of support for the Monadnock region, and I am eager to strengthen our partnerships, expand our programs, and ensure that everyone in our community has access to nutritious food."



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Founded in 1982, TCK operates a twice-weekly pantry program, where those in need can stock up on pantry staples. Hot meals are served at their Mechanic Street location six days a week, and 50 meals are delivered daily to the local Hundred Nights homeless shelter. TCK has also recently launched a mobile food pantry to help those living in the more rural parts of the region who may not have access to transportation. In 2023, TCK served 327,093 meals. 

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The “Community” in TCK is literal. Throughout the year, over 120 volunteers take the time to pack meal boxes, sort pantry items, cook, and serve their fellow community members.

“The volume definitely increases during the holiday season,” said Wiesman. “We are so fortunate to live in such a generous community where helping our neighbors really is a core value.”

One volunteer, Dave Chandler, has been working with TCK for 8 years. “I am so blessed to be able to serve here and give my time,” he says. You too can get involved with TCK. They are always looking for volunteers. One of the fastest ways to get involved is to donate to the holiday food drives hosted in Keene throughout the season. Monetary donations are also welcome as they directly aid in the purchasing of more food for meals and pantry staples.

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Those interested in volunteering can reach out to Volunteer and Guest Services Coordinator Jodi Newell at (603) 352-3200. And, if this is a tough holiday for you, TCK’s doors are always open. Know that your community cares, and as neighbors, we’re all here to look out for one another.

The Community Kitchen, Inc. 37 Mechanic Street, Keene, NH 03431

For hours of operation and any additional information, visit thecommunitykitchen.org

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>>Connect with me<<

"Wintertime makes for cozy studio days, an ideal time for Heritage Recording sessions to capture the stories of family members and close friends. You can also enjoy scenic, snowy views of Mt. Monadnock from Jaffrey while you're right here in town."

@bestphotographerever

Just a small town girl.

Before they sold out typewriter cred hashtag leggings health goth banh mi single-origin coffee selfies, selvage pok pok. Intelligentsia scenester actually, iPhone la croix banjo forage meditation cold-pressed vinyl XOXO. Occupy flannel hashtag echo park. Prism freegan plaid pug slow-carb 90's, chillwave activated charcoal cornhole.

Truffaut ugh pok pok waistcoat artisan. Swag air plant vaporware, tumeric la croix microdosing offal hexagon tbh. Chambray roof party typewriter coloring book intelligentsia mlkshk lomo umami blue bottle drinking vinegar locavore PBR&B viral. Heirloom poke biodiesel, unicorn wolf leggings hella celiac adaptogen migas. La croix hexagon cold-pressed XOXO art party. Cornhole slow-carb church-key subway tile. Art party master cleanse intelligentsia fingerstache swag craft beer raw denim palo santo salvia pug scenester narwhal occupy single-origin coffee glossier. Stumptown pok pok fashion axe cornhole health goth celiac. Knausgaard YOLO mumblecore lyft glossier.

- I'm obsessed with red shoes
- My iphone 7 is my lifeline
- frogs scare me
- I will do anything for a peppermint mocha
- I've never been on an airplane
- Mountain dew should be a food group

A Festive Brew with Erin Scollans

Calling all Beer Lovers! 

Frogg Brewing, now in Swanzey, is one of the top spots to visit this holiday season. Not only are they flush with several styles of refreshing lagers and ales, but their space comes fully equipped with plenty of kid and pup-friendly activities. You can also expect to find myriad holiday-themed events throughout the months of November and December.

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Stephanie Guitard and her husband Michael dreamed up a local spot where they could serve tasty brews, provide an inviting atmosphere, and foster local community engagement and encouragement all wrapped into one. The Guitards, along with their head brewer and fellow owner Alex Rice, have managed to do just that. The result? Frogg Brewing—right off Route 10 on Sawyer Crossings Road in Swanzey.

Having just celebrated their sixth anniversary last month, Frogg Brewing has become a hot spot for Monadnockers and visitors to the region. Whether it’s hosting a non-profit for an evening or crafting up an art class during the week, Frogg Brewing serves up an unforgettable experience with local business support being the crux of their mission.

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Frogg Brewing has several big events coming up, including Reigns Therapeutic pony rides and a visit from Santa on December 1st, as well as an outdoor German Market on December 14th. The German Market will have live music and 40 local vendors, making it easy to get that last-minute holiday shopping done. That same day, they will also be an official stop on the Currier and Ives Cookie Tour (promoted by East Hill Farms). The brewery, along with around 16 other local businesses, are offering cookies and recipes, with a portion of the profits going to Helping Hands in Troy, a rather sweet opportunity to support local!

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Frogg Brewing loves non-profits so much they don’t charge to rent out their space for activities. Instead, they ask for the non-profit to donate an item towards the monthly Bingo Night they host the last Sunday of every month (a win-win for everyone!). “We welcome and love partnering with the community!” they shared. Reach out to Stephanie for more information on renting the space for your local non-profit. And make sure you check out the activity calendar on their website and social media pages to keep up with everything Frogg Brewing related!

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@bestphotographerever

Just a small town girl.

Before they sold out typewriter cred hashtag leggings health goth banh mi single-origin coffee selfies, selvage pok pok. Intelligentsia scenester actually, iPhone la croix banjo forage meditation cold-pressed vinyl XOXO. Occupy flannel hashtag echo park. Prism freegan plaid pug slow-carb 90's, chillwave activated charcoal cornhole.

Truffaut ugh pok pok waistcoat artisan. Swag air plant vaporware, tumeric la croix microdosing offal hexagon tbh. Chambray roof party typewriter coloring book intelligentsia mlkshk lomo umami blue bottle drinking vinegar locavore PBR&B viral. Heirloom poke biodiesel, unicorn wolf leggings hella celiac adaptogen migas. La croix hexagon cold-pressed XOXO art party. Cornhole slow-carb church-key subway tile. Art party master cleanse intelligentsia fingerstache swag craft beer raw denim palo santo salvia pug scenester narwhal occupy single-origin coffee glossier. Stumptown pok pok fashion axe cornhole health goth celiac. Knausgaard YOLO mumblecore lyft glossier.

- I'm obsessed with red shoes
- My iphone 7 is my lifeline
- frogs scare me
- I will do anything for a peppermint mocha
- I've never been on an airplane
- Mountain dew should be a food group

Holiday Cheer is Here with Sonja Bolton

It’s All Fun And Games at Toy City

Have you ever stepped inside of Toy City, next to Keene Cinemas? The first time I brought my kiddos, we just paused right inside the entrance, taking it all in. We looked around at the multitudes of joy packed onto every shelf and filling every nook and cranny, and we hardly knew where to begin.

My older one scanned the shelves until she found just what she was looking for. The arts and crafts section and more specifically, the friendships bracelets. To her delight, Toy City had multiple options and now she just had to choose. Decisions, decisions.

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My younger one lives in her own world of magic and unicorns and is delighted in the variety of dress-up costumes. With wands in hand, we wandered over to the games. I, myself, love a family game night. So, we picked Battleship, a barrel of monkeys, and Mousetrap from the plethora of games and puzzles.

The store owner, Steve, says, “Nobody has the range of games that we have here!” It's probably because Steve has been serving up smiles longer than he can remember. His father opened original stores in Concord and Manchester, NH before adding a Keene branch, but at that time, it was, you’ll never guess, all appliances! It all changed with the appearance of a brand-new style of toy in the hands of a traveling salesman: Barbie.

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As you can imagine, Steve’s Pop was skeptical but allowed the barbies to stay. And stay they did! Case after case sold out. More new toys were brought in and appliances were phased out. Steve joined the family business after college and has been introducing Keene residents to fun and games ever since.

One thing you may be surprised to find at Toy City is the comprehensive baby collection. They carry everything you need for a nursery with baby shower registries, too. In fact, Steve says customers range from soon-to-be parents to puzzle-loving seniors and every age in-between.

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This Black/Plaid Friday, Toy City has (almost) everything at 20% off, including infant items, excluding the remote control cars. Steve recommends that if anyone wants something specific, they should shop early this year, as we are approaching a very short holiday shopping season - only 27 days - and reorder time for sell-out items could end between Dec. 5th and Dec. 10th. Inquire by phone or stop in at 133 Key Rd, Keene, NH with your ideas!

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This Holiday Season, #ChooseIndieLocal and Put Your Dollars Right Back Into Your Own Community!

@bestphotographerever

Just a small town girl.

Before they sold out typewriter cred hashtag leggings health goth banh mi single-origin coffee selfies, selvage pok pok. Intelligentsia scenester actually, iPhone la croix banjo forage meditation cold-pressed vinyl XOXO. Occupy flannel hashtag echo park. Prism freegan plaid pug slow-carb 90's, chillwave activated charcoal cornhole.

Truffaut ugh pok pok waistcoat artisan. Swag air plant vaporware, tumeric la croix microdosing offal hexagon tbh. Chambray roof party typewriter coloring book intelligentsia mlkshk lomo umami blue bottle drinking vinegar locavore PBR&B viral. Heirloom poke biodiesel, unicorn wolf leggings hella celiac adaptogen migas. La croix hexagon cold-pressed XOXO art party. Cornhole slow-carb church-key subway tile. Art party master cleanse intelligentsia fingerstache swag craft beer raw denim palo santo salvia pug scenester narwhal occupy single-origin coffee glossier. Stumptown pok pok fashion axe cornhole health goth celiac. Knausgaard YOLO mumblecore lyft glossier.

- I'm obsessed with red shoes
- My iphone 7 is my lifeline
- frogs scare me
- I will do anything for a peppermint mocha
- I've never been on an airplane
- Mountain dew should be a food group

Planting Seeds with Caroline Tremblay

A Harvest Hoedown with Community Roots

Strong community roots don’t happen by accident. They’re planted, and when they’re tended well, they grow, deepen, and turn into something beautiful. Thanks to equal parts intention, stewardship, and support, that’s exactly what has happened with Cornucopia Project, a Peterborough-based non-profit that has been planting the seeds for a lifetime of healthy eating for nearly two decades. Through hands-on gardening and culinary lessons, their vision is to build a more resilient community that celebrates healthy food, learning by doing, and environmental sustainability.

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The Cornucopia website poses this: “Imagine a world where every child is nourished by fresh, local food and is inspired and awed by nature.” This non-profit is not just about a cause; it’s an effort to redefine our relationship with food and nature while returning to our community roots.  

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November is the wonderful time of year when Cornucopia Project hosts its annual, online, fall auction featuring items donated by local artists and businesses across the region. This “Harvest Hoedown” gives the chance to bid on travel getaways, one-of-a-kind works of art, immersive art experiences, exclusive local dining opportunities, and more.

Getting in on the festivities directly supports Cornucopia Project’s mission to educate and empower our next generation through sustainable agriculture and healthy living initiatives. If you’d like to help plant the seeds, visit the auction site and enjoy!

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Safe, Delicious Dishes with Liz Nix Castaldi

A Gluten-Free Feast

Creating a gluten-free holiday menu is less complicated than you may think. Most fresh ingredients are gluten-free, and with good planning and some simple swaps, your holiday table will be a spread to celebrate.

Gluten is made from proteins found in wheat, rye, barley, and often oats. People avoid gluten for various reasons, but often it’s medically necessary. If any of your guests has a medical reason for avoiding gluten, like celiac disease, please refer to this article about keeping your gluten-free holiday offerings free from gluten cross contact.

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Always check labels and read all the ingredients. Here is a quick list of items that typically contain gluten:
Most vegan/vegetarian protein stand-ins, like Tofurky
Dips, salad dressings, and mixes for both
Seasoning mixes
Crackers and some chips
Stuffing and bread, including cornbread
Gravy and thickened sauces
Green bean casserole
Anything made with soy sauce
Prepared soup, bouillon base and cubes
Food with malt in the ingredients, including Cornflakes and Rice Krispies
Most desserts

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At the meal, communicate which food is gluten-free. Keep gluten-containing foods separate from gluten-free food, on their own side of the buffet or table. Each dish should have its own utensils, including desserts.

Serve naturally gluten-free protein, such as glazed ham or roasted turkey filled with aromatics rather than stuffing (find these recipes in The Monadnocker holiday recipe collection). And make sure all seasonings and marinades are gluten free.

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For gravy, you can thicken with an arrowroot or cornstarch slurry, or purchase gluten-free gravy. And when it comes to other sauces and seasonings for side dishes, be on alert for hidden gluten before adding. It’s also easy to shift to gluten-free stuffing and bread. Be sure to serve gluten-free bread with its own butter dish to avoid cross contact from crumbs.

I don’t recommend taking on gluten-free baking for this meal because of the high chance of gluten cross contact. Against the Grain frozen rolls are in grocery stores across the country, or visit their factory store at 22 Browne Court, Unit 11 in Brattleboro, VT.

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In addition, you can purchase a certified gluten-free pie, pie crust, and other gluten-free food at the Monadnock Food Co-op, where they also offer gluten-free catering (see their website for details). (However, because of the set-up of their workspace, the co-op doesn’t recommend anyone with celiac disease or wheat allergies partake in their catered gluten-free offerings.)

Life is Sweet on Main St. in Keene makes beautiful gluten-free cupcakes in a fun variety of flavors to add to your dessert offerings. Order online or call (603) 355-8008.

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As you can see, a lot of planning goes into staying gluten-free. Know that your guests are just trying to stay healthy during the holidays and might not want to discuss their condition during the festivities. Thank you for making the effort to help them stay safe at your holiday table; I’m sure they’re grateful for your effort! Find more at GratefulGlutenFree.com.

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>>Connect Here<<

"The holiday season is such a magical time because the whole community comes out to support the small businesses we know and love. Here's to the many makers, creators, and entrepreneurs who make the Monadnock Region such a unique place to visit and live. Cheers!"

Keeping it Local with Erin Scollans

Fill the Room with Holiday Cheer

Raise your hand if you’ve been to a party with one of those beautiful balloon arches around the doorway. Nothing beats a gorgeous backdrop when it’s time to celebrate. For Jusina Ruggerio, it’s all about the details; that’s why her locally-based business, Destination Party, is perfect for adding that finishing touch to any special occasion.

Justina, a Long Island native turned Jaffrey resident, has always enjoyed bringing life to her friends’ and family’s special events through her creativity. It’s also been a fun “side hustle” in addition to her full-time administrative assistant role at Mascenic Regional High School in New Ipswich. It wasn’t until two years ago when she took the leap and turned this part-time hobby into its own unique small business.

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Destination Party does it all, from bridal and baby showers to engagements and anniversaries. Justina is happy to craft a color-themed balloon arch, hoop, column or centerpiece, invoking an eye-catching display for guests to admire. She’ll also deliver the finished product to the event, and even come back to pick up any unwanted balloons or rentals once the event is over. Destination Party’s aim is to create a seamless, dedicated service experience. Not to mention high quality balloons and fresh, bright colors executed to perfection for that important life event. As she shared on her site: “They’ll make your party pop!”

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Justina’s home in Jaffrey is Destination Party’s base of operation, and she primarily works with clients through social media and word of mouth. With the support of this awesome community, she’s been able to grow her business and provide an exceptional experience with colorful artistry.

Destination Party will be running a deal during the winter season: 25% off any service. Think of how much Destination Party could level up your family holiday party this season! It’s specialized local businesses like this one that make the Monadnock Region such a fun place to live, work, and play. Please Shop Indie Local businesses this season, whether it’s an event planner, family-owned restaurant or specialty gift shop. Our small businesses are the heart of the Monadnock Region. Let’s keep this community thriving!

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Gifting Local with Erica Broughton

Monadnock Proud

We all love that feeling of giving the perfect gift. Hearing the wrapping paper crinkle as we watch our loved one’s face light up at the first glimpse is a big part of the holiday joy for many of us. But choosing the right present for everyone is part of why the holiday season can feel so stressful, too.

Crowd pleasers from local, Monadnock-based companies are a great place to start. Supporting small businesses and our regional economy means you’re helping create the Main Street holiday magic we all love. And there are so many great local companies, it makes finding winning gifts for everyone on your list easy. Two of our favorites for regional swag are Monadsocks and Monadnock Merch.

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Gone are the days when socks for the holidays get eye-rolls from recipients. Now good, warm socks are a reason to celebrate. And Monadsocks are some of the best! Designed and tested right here in the Monadnock Region, they hold up to hiking, skiing, fishing, or anything else you throw at them.

Breathable wool makes them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Seamless toes and thoughtfully designed heels means your feet stay comfortable year round too. Wrap up a pair of these for anyone on your list and know they’ll be thinking of you on their next adventure.

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Want to gift some Monadnock love above the ankles too? Monadnock Merch has you covered, literally. They’ve got T-shirts, sweatshirts, sweaters, vests, and hats all with the iconic “Monadnock Region - Within Thriving Distance” logo. This merch does double duty as a great gift and an important part of keeping our area thriving. Every sale helps provide visitors and residents with the resources and information they need to keep Monadnock the great place to visit and live that it is.

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