St. Louis Home and Happenings Winter 2014

This special publication brought to you by Susan Brewer Service First Real Estate

WINTER 2014

HappyHolidays!

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EDITOR IN CHIEFWade Brewer

DESIGNJosh West

FEATURES EDITORAndrew Brewer

Self published by Susan Brewer Service First Real Estate. All material herein is copyrighted and all rights are reserved.

Winter is here and with comes the hustle and bustle of the Holiday season. In this issue we offer some last minute ideas for gift giving ideas for everyone on your list. With just a few shopping days left until Christmas we thought that may come in handy!

As always, we have have some delicious recipes to help to make your holiday entertaining a breeze as well as a guide to preparing the perfect turkey.

As the snow and sleet of winter are just around the corner we also included a guide to help you with maintaining your vehicle during this time of year. And of course a guide to making a healthy start to 2015.

All of use at St. Louis Home and Happenings wish you a Merry Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year!

A note from the editor...

Wade BrewerEditor-in-chief

H& Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com 3

10Brighten Up Your Holiday Entertaining

CONTENTS4

6

8

12

14

16

18

Perfect Holiday Turkey

Classic Holiday Desserts

Resolve to Get Healthier

Young at Heart

Perfect Last MInute Gifts

8 Ways to Protect the Value of Your Car

Happenings


Perfect Holiday Turkey


How Big?Turkeys come in many different sizes so choose the correct size for your party. A good rule of thumb is one and a half pounds per person if you want to have leftovers.

DefrostingTurkeys take a long time to defrost so plan ahead. Take your bird out of the freezer and put it in the fridge on a rimmed baking sheet. Plan on 24 hours per 4 pounds of turkey. This means 5-7 days prior to cooking or brining depending on the size of the turkey.

So, you waited until the last minute? You can buy a fresh bird and prepare it immediately. Wait, you bought the turkey 2 months ago when it was on sale but you just took it out of the freezer yesterday?! Don’t worry, here is what you should do:

Do not remove the wrapper. Place the unopened turkey breast side down in enough cold water to com-pletely cover the turkey. You could use your kitchen sink if it’s deep enough or a large cooler would also work. Change the water every 30 minutes to keep the turkey chilled. Plan on a thawing time of a minimum of 30 minutes per pound.

BriningNothing ruins your perfect holiday dinner like a dry, tasteless turkey, except maybe your Uncle Al, but that’s a different article. If you want to have a deliciously moist and flavorful turkey then you should consider dry brining. Dry brining will give you the same juiciness and, some argue, bet-ter flavor than wet brining. Plus, you avoid the weird sponginess that you can sometimes get with liquid brined birds. Bonus: it also takes less room in your refrigerator. All you need is kosher salt and, if you choose, some dried herbs to mix with the salt. Plan on one tablespoon of salt mixture per 5 pounds of bird. If you choose to use herbs, such as garlic, rosemary or thyme, make sure they are finely ground and free of salt.

This technique does require ad-vanced planning, so procrastinators need not apply. You will need a fully thawed turkey at least one full day (preferably two) before you plan to cook it. DO NOT use a kosher or enhanced turkey for brining.

Remove your turkey from the pack-aging, remove the neck and giblet bag and rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water. Pat dry. Sprinkle inside of turkey with salt mixture. Rub

remaining salt all over the outside of the bird and even under the skin if you can. Place in a large bag, such as an oven bag, and squeeze most of the air out. Place on a rimmed baking sheet in your refrigerator for 24-48 hours.

When the big day arrives, remove your turkey from the bag and give it a good rinse inside and out then pat dry. Rub the turkey outside and under the skin with softened butter. Let the turkey stand for 30 minutes to 1 hour before roasting.If you decide that brining your turkey is too much work, you should still remove your turkey from the packag-ing, rinse and dry the bird the day before you roast it. Place it in your refrigerator, uncovered overnight and remove the turkey 30 minutes to 1 hour prior to roasting. You should, however, still rub it with butter. There is no excuse to not use butter.

RoastingThe time has arrived to get the bird in the oven. You preheated the oven didn’t you? Place the turkey on a rack in a shallow roasting pan and pop it in the oven. Cooking time is roughly 15 minutes per pound at 350 degrees but the only way to know if it’s done is to take its temperature. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh while avoid-ing the bone. If your thermometer reads 165 degrees, your turkey is done. Well, almost. Move your turkey to a carving board and loosely tent with aluminum foil for 30 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Now carve that beautiful bird and lis-ten to your family rave about the best turkey they’ve ever tasted!

When it comes to holiday dinners, the turkey is usually the star of the show, but many home cooks dread preparing this glorious fowl for their families. Who hasn’t eaten a bone-dry bird or witnessed the infamous forgotten bag being pulled from a cooked turkey?

While preparing a turkey for you holiday feast is a big deal, it doesn’t have to end in disaster. Use our expert tips and secrets for handling and cooking your holiday turkey to wow your family and friends this year.


The holidays are a special time of year to celebrate and connect with family and friends. From a cook-ie swap at work to a formal holiday dinner at home, with the right kind of recipes and a little planning, any holiday gathering can be a sweet success. But, before you tie your apron strings and grab your rolling pin, avoid the last minute trips to the store by stocking up on baking staples like flour, butter, sugar and especially eggs.

As a versatile and affordable ingredient, eggs can be used in everything and offer limitless baking possibilities — from pies to cookies to eggnog. Plus, at 15 cents apiece, they can be an affordable way to feed a crowd for the holidays.

For holiday recipes, baking hacks and more, visit IncredibleEgg.org and Incredible Eggs on Face-book, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

Sugar Cookie Cut-OutsPrep time: 15 minutesChill time: 2 hours or up to 2 daysCook time: 8–10 minutes per batchYield: 4 dozen cookies

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature 1 cup granulated sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla 1 egg, room temperature 2 egg yolks, room temperature 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon saltIcing: 2 2/3 cups powdered sugar, sifted 2 tablespoons meringue powder 4 tablespoons water

Combine butter, granulated sugar and vanilla in mixer bowl. Beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add egg and egg yolks; beat on low speed until blended. Gradually add flour and salt, beating just until blended.Refrigerate dough, wrapped in plastic wrap, at least 2 hours or up

Classic Holiday DessertsEggs and Essentials for Sweet Eats


to 2 days. Heat oven to 350°F. Work with 1/2 of dough at a time, keeping remaining dough refrig erated. Roll out dough on lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out cookies using cookie cutters; place 1 inch apart on parchment paper-lined or ungreased baking sheets.Bake in oven until edges are lightly browned, 8–10 minutes. Cool on baking sheets 1 minute. Remove to wire racks; cool completely.For icing, combine powdered sugar, meringue powder and water in mixer bowl. Beat on high speed until light and fluffy, 6–8 minutes. If icing is too thick, thin with small amount of water.

Mini Pumpkin PiesPrep time: 35 minutes Chill time: Several hours or overnightCook time: 35–37 minutesYield: 6 mini piesCrust: 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup vegetable shortening, cold 2 egg yolks 6–8 tablespoons ice water, divided 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juiceFilling: 3 eggs, slightly beaten 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1 cup half and half

To make unbaked crusts, mix flour and salt in large bowl. Cut in shortening with pastry blender until pieces are size of small peas. Mix egg yolks, 6 tablespoons ice water and lemon juice in small bowl. Add to flour mixture, 1 table spoon at a time, stirring lightly and tossing with fork until moistened and dough just holds together. Add remaining ice water, if needed. Gather dough and shape into six 1-inch-thick disks. Refrigerate, wrapped in plastic wrap, 1 hour or overnight.Roll out each dough disk on lightly floured surface, rolling from center to edge, to form 6-inch circle. Fold into quarters; ease and unfold into 4-inch pie plate. Press pastry gently against bottom and sides of pie plate, easing out any air. Trim edge leaving 1/2-inch overhang. Fold overhang under; flute edge. Refrigerate, covered, at least 30 minutes.Heat oven to 400°F. Whisk eggs, pumpkin, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, ginger and cloves in medium bowl. Beat in half and half. Pour approximately 2/3 cup into

each mini piecrust.Carefully place pies on rack in oven. Bake 15 min utes. Reduce oven to 350°F; continue baking 20–22 minutes or until knife inserted midway between center and edge of pie comes out clean. Cool completely on wire rack. Refrigerate, loosely covered, until firm, several hours or overnight. Garnish with toasted pecans and whipped cream.

Chocolate Peppermint CrinklesPrep time: 30 minutesChill time: 1 hour or overnightCook time: 8–10 minutes per batchYield: 6 dozen cookies 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 cups granulated sugar 1 package (12 ounces) or 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips, melted, cooled 3 eggs, room temperature 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1 teaspoon peppermint extract or vanilla 1/3 cup powdered sugar, sifted 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes 1/3 cup granulated sugar, for rolling

Mix flour, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt in large bowl.Combine sugar, cooled chocolate, eggs, oil and pepper mint extract in mixer bowl. Beat on medium speed until blended. Gradually add flour mixture, beating on low speed until blended.Refrigerate, covered, until firm enough to shape, about 1 hour or overnight.Heat oven to 350°F. Mix powdered sugar and crushed candy in small bowl. Work with 1/3 of dough at a time, keeping remaining dough refrigerated. Shape dough into 1-inch balls; roll in granulated sugar first and then in crushed candy mixture. Place 2 inches apart on parchment paper-lined or ungreased baking sheets.Bake in oven until lightly browned, 8–10 minutes. Cool on baking sheets 1–2 minutes. Remove to wire racks; cool completely.


Resolve to Get Healthier

Diets don’t work. According to the Journal of Clinical

Psychology, 45 percent of Americans make New Year’s resolutions each year, and weight-related resolutions top the list. Unfortunately, only about 8 percent achieve any type of resolution, weight-related or not.

If you’ve made (and then broken) the same old weight- or health-oriented resolutions each January, you’re not alone. It might be time to focus on research-proven approaches to get healthier that actually work — without gimmicks, diets that eliminate foods, or buying strange foods and equipment.

Start Well: Eat BreakfastStart the day right, and it really can make things go better all day. Research has repeatedly shown that people who eat breakfast tend to take in more nutrients (calcium, iron, protein and fiber), are more alert and can concentrate better, and may even have better success with weight management.

To get yourself off to a strong start, think about combining protein, carbo hydrates and low-fat dairy. Some possibilities: whole grain cereal and a high protein yogurt, an English muffin with peanut butter, or an egg sandwich with fruit and yogurt.

Eat Rough(age): Make Fiber a PriorityFiber, found in whole grain wheat, barley, corn and oats, as well as in fruits, vegetables and beans, helps keep things moving easily through the digestive tract. Remember that grain fiber has different nutritional benefits than fruits and vegetables, so you need both.

Fiber is also filling, providing volume with few calories because our bodies don’t have the enzymes to break it down. But fiber can be digested and used for fuel by the 10 trillion bacteria that live in the colon and prevent numerous health conditions.

Get Your Facts Straight: If It Sounds Too Good to be True... Losing 10 pounds in two weeks only to regain it in eight makes no sense. Whether you’ve tried to go gluten-free, low carb or avoid all white foods, chances are quite high that your efforts didn’t result in long lasting effects. What does work? A balanced eating pattern and an active lifestyle.

There is no one perfect diet, and anyone who says otherwise is typically selling a book or products promising weight loss. Registered dietitian nutritionists can be trusted to provide credible, evidence-based informa tion that can be tailored to your lifestyle and taste preferences. In addition, eating patterns such as those recommended by the Mediter ranean Diet, the DASH Diet (Dietary Approaches to

Stop Hypertension) and MyPlate can provide guidance on the types of foods to include in your meals.

Move It: Walk, Dance or Ride Your Way to HealthUnless you use it often (2–3 times per week or more), skip the gym membership. Walk outside, walk the dog, dance in your kitchen, work in the garden or ride your bike to run errands. And, if possible, do it every day with friends for fun, and make it part of your regular lifestyle.

Make It Stick: Schedule and Track Your ProgressMake a schedule of your health goals, and keep track of progress by writing in a food and activity journal or calendar. Write things down; it makes them more likely to happen. Note things like how you feel before and after meals and exercise. You may be surprised by what you learn.

How to Spot a Fad DietFad diets come and go and return again. Here are some obvious clues that a diet is a fad rather than a realistic approach for becoming healthy. 1. Sounds too good or easy to be true 2. Promises rapid weight loss (5–10

pounds a week) or “miracle cures” 3. Allows only certain foods or food

groups (cutting out others) 4. Promotes a product, special herb,

vitamin or other compound 5. Can only be “followed” temporarily

but is not supervised by a doctor 6. Hard to imagine or difficult to follow

the diet forever 7. Doesn’t recommend a form of

exercise or says that it’s unnecessary 8. Warns that one food or food group

will make you seriously ill or worse 9. Makes recommendations based

on pseudo-science not endorsed by credible organizations or peer reviewed by other scientists

10. Cites research that is preliminary, based on animals, has very few subjects, or uses poor methodology

The bottom line: Eat when you are hungry, strive for moderation and move more to feel good.


To view all of our current listings or to try our Lifestyle Search, please visitwww.Service1stHomes.com


Brighten Up Your Holiday Entertaining

The holiday season is upon us, so celebrate by serving unique dishes and drinks bursting with flavor.The holiday hostess has a lot on her plate. But preparing for the big event doesn’t have to be a challenge — this holiday, focus on special dishes and refreshing cocktails guests will remember for years to come. Use these tips to make your holiday events shine:

1. Shake It Up. From cool drinks, like the Pineapple Upside Down Mocktail, to delicious tropical twists on classic martinis, punches and warm ciders, canned Dole Pineapple Juice has recipes to shake things up this season. Made from 100 percent juice, free of GMO’s (genetically modified or engineered ingredients) and containing no added sugar, it’s also a good source of vitamins A, C and E.

2. Captivating Courses. To celebrate the season, serve up recipes for delicious entrees, small plates and desserts that bring a taste of the tropics to any occasion. Start guests off with a Holiday Kale Salad and then serve them juicy Jamaican Chicken & Couscous, followed by divine Pineapple Pumpkin Pie.

3. Party Planner Extraordinaire. Looking for bright ideas on how to turn your next party into paradise? Visit dole.com/sunshine/holidayrecipes to find refreshing new ways to make your party the event of the season, from eye-catching invitations to delightful decor tips.

Jamaican Chicken & CouscousServings: 4 2 tablespoons dry Jamaican seasoning 1 tablespoon curry powder 4 boneless, skinless

chicken breast halves 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided 1 cup canned Dole Pineapple Juice 1/4 cup water 1 package (5.6 ounces) toasted pine nut couscous mix 1 1/2 cups Dole Frozen Mango Chunks, thawed 1/3 cup green onion, sliced 1 tablespoon lime juice 2 teaspoons black sesame seeds

Combine Jamaican seasoning and curry powder in small bowl.Place each chicken breast between 2 sheets of plastic wrap and pound (with meat mallet) to 1/4-inch thick ness. Remove wrap. Brush both sides of chicken pieces with 1 table-spoon oil and sprinkle both sides with curry mixture.Cook chicken in oil over medium-high heat, 3 to 4 minutes per side or until brown and no longer pink in center. Meanwhile, stir together juice, water and pine nut seasoning mixture from package in medium saucepan; bring to boil. Stir in couscous; remove from heat. Let stand, covered, 5 min utes or until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with fork. Stir in mango


chunks, green onions and lime juice.Cut chicken in 1/2-inch slices and serve over couscous mixture. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.

3 ounces cake-flavored vodka or vanilla vodka, 1 ounce Frangelico or amaretto liqueur, and 6 ounces canned Dole Pineapple Juice in shaker over ice. Shake vigorously; strain into martini glasses. Slowly pour in grenadine; garnish with cherry, if desired.

Holiday Kale SaladServings: 4 1 package (4.5 ounces) Dole Baby Kale and Greens 2 ripe firm pears, halved, cored and sliced 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced 1/4 cup dried cranberries 1/4 cup pistachios, chopped 1/4 cup olive oil 1/4 cup canned Dole Pineapple Juice 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger Salt and ground black pepper, to tasteCombine salad blend, pears, red onion, cranberries and pistachios in large bowl.Whisk together olive oil, pineapple juice, garlic and ginger in small bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste. Pour over salad mixture; toss to evenly coat.

Pineapple Pumpkin PieServings: 6 1 can (8 ounces) Dole Crushed Pineapple 1 1/2 cups canned Dole Pineapple Juice 1 envelope unflavored gelatin 1 1/2 teaspoons granulated Sucralose sweetener or sugar 1 cup canned pumpkin pie mix 1 cup thawed whipped topping 1 (9-inch) low-fat graham cracker pie crust Ground cinnamon, optionalDrain pineapple well; reserve juice.Combine reserved juice with pineapple juice in measuring cup. Add water to make 2 cups.Combine juice mixture and gelatin in sauce-pan. Let stand 1 minute. Stir over low heat until completely dissolved. Stir in sweetener.Pour into bowl. Chill just until starts to set, about 1 hour.Fold in pineapple, pumpkin and whipped topping. Pour into graham cracker crust. Chill 5 hours or overnight.Serve with whipped topping and ground cinnamon, if desired.

Pineapple Upside Down MocktailServings: 2 (3/4-cup) 1 cup canned Dole Pineapple Juice, chilled 1 tablespoon caramel sauce Ginger ale, chilled 2 teaspoons grenadine syrup Brown or turbinado sugar and maraschino cherries, optional garnishWet just the rim of a martini glass with a little water; dip rim in brown sugar or turbinado sugar for added garnish.Combine pineapple juice and caramel sauce in shaker over ice. Shake vigorously; strain into martini glasses or other favorite glasses. Top off with ginger ale. Slowly pour in grenadine. Garnish with cherry, if desired.Note: For alcoholic variation, combine


For seniors, keeping in touch with friends, family and caregivers is important to maintain an active social life

and remain independent. The number of seniors — and the need to find creative ways to be mindful of their care — is on the rise. With nearly seven million Americans providing support as long-distance caregivers, according to the National Institute on Aging, staying in touch is especially important.

Nurture relationshipsEmail, cell phones and texting are some of the ways tech nology is helping people stay connected today. These tools can be espe-cially useful for seniors living away from friends and family or for those who aren’t able to travel as much as they used to. One affordable option is a com plete phone system, such as VTech CareLine, which has no monthly fee. Offering a wearable pendant, one-button or voice-activated dialing, big buttons and volume booster, CareLine has features designed with seniors in mind. For more informa tion about keeping seniors safely connected via a phone system, visit www.vtechphones.com/careline.

Going placesSeniors today are staying active, spending time with friends and family outside of their home, rekindling old passions and explor ing new activities that keep them on the move. Even for seniors who aren’t able to be as active, changes in scenery, like a neighborhood walk or visit to the park, are great ways to get fresh air, uplift spirits and live a healthier life.Since transportation can some times be a challenge, especially for seniors who rely on caregivers who work full-time, there are numerous organizations that provide transpor tation resources for seniors to assist in getting them safely to doctor’s appointments, organized activities at local community centers, shopping excursions and more.Your local Area Agency on Aging is a good resource to begin researching options in your area. Find your local agency at www.n4a.org.

Help Create ConnectionsHelping an elderly person who lives alone stay connected with others can play a major role in that senior’s quality of life. As a caregiver, you can help foster those connections by:

Selecting a Senior PhoneA phone system can provide valuable security and peace of mind for seniors living alone and the loved ones who are responsible for their care. To get the maximum benefit of a phone system designed for seniors, experts recom mend shopping for the following features:Voice amplificationConversations are easier to hear and understand when you can adjust the volume of incoming sound. Look for units that can be adjusted by up to 40 decibels.Caller ID announceHearing who is calling announced through the speakerphone prevents the risk of falls or other injuries associated with running to catch a ringing phone. Photo dialAs memory and or vision fails, it can be difficult to associate names and numbers. A phone that allows you to associate photos with speed dial numbers will help your loved one keep important numbers straight, which is especially important in an emergency or time of need.

n Coordinating a rotating visitor schedule with friends and family.

n Asking others to make regular calls to check in and chat.

n Researching local senior programs, such as classes, shop ping excursions or fitness programs.

n Identifying resources such as transportation services that are avail able to help seniors get out and about.

Young At HeartHow Seniors are Staying Connected

Through Their Golden Years


PerfectLastMinuteGifts

When it comes to finding the perfect gifts for ev-eryone on your list, don’t be left out in the cold this holiday season. Ideas abound for warming the hearts and feeding the passions of anyone from friends and relatives to party hosts. Here are some last minute ideas to make everyone think you’ve been reading their minds.

1. Hot-beverage bottles for people on the goAs temperatures drop, make sure your loved ones stay warm wherever they are. A Vacuum Insulated Travel Tumbler from Genuine Thermos Brand will keep their beverages hot for up to five hours. Whether they’re out and about running errands or taking the sledding hill by storm, the easy-to-use, one-handed DrinkLock sliding lid is ideal for use on the go. Celebrate the season with the vintage style of Genuine Thermos Brand by gifting the Heritage Plaid Compact Bottle. Your fashion forward friends and family will be pleased with this nostalgic blast from the past. Plus, their beverages will be kept hot for up to 12 hours, making it easy and convenient to transport their favorite peppermint mocha everywhere they go.

2. Tacklebox gear for the outdoor enthusiastAnyone who’s passionate about fishing will love to receive a stocking stuffed with Rapala Scatter Rap Series lures. Intro-duced in 2013, the one-of-a-kind Scatter Lip gives the baits their celebrated evasive, side-to-side, erratic swimming action. The lures reeled in an IGFA World Record fish right off the bat and, during the five-day Scatter Rap Challenge, caught more than 1,000 fish.Now, Rapala has expanded the Scatter Rap family with the Scatter Rap Jointed, the Scatter Rap Crank Deep and Crank Shallow and a new smaller-sized Scatter Rap Shad (No. 5), ideal for a finesse presentation. Cast or trolled, the series comes ready to fish right out of the box with an aggressive


swimming action that perfectly mimics a spooked baitfish fleeing attack - a presentation trophy fish won’t ignore. Scatter Rap lures are available in five popular Rapala body profiles and 18 attractive colors.To ensure every advantage for your angler, add a pack of Sufix 832 Advanced Superline. It’s the strongest most durable small-diameter brand on the market, providing superior strength, roundness and line consistency.

3. Food lover’s gift basket During holiday party season, it’s a great personal touch to bring a thoughtful gift for the host. The perfect host gift doesn’t need to be expensive. Below are some tips to build a host gift that will appeal to a variety of tastes.Skip the predictable bottle of wine and give a gift the host can enjoy later,” says Kelsey Banfield, The Naptime Chef. “My tip in building the perfect host gift is to start with an item you know your host will love and build the rest of the items around it.”“I like to center my gift baskets with a cheese assortment - my favorites to include are Havarti and Gouda. I then like to add mixed nuts, fruit or rich chocolate to pair with it. I love giving Arla Dofino cheeses because they’re naturally good, family-friendly cheeses that are free of added hormones, preserva-tives and additives.”Another host gift idea Kelsey has is to prepare a delicious home cooked meal that is ready to be frozen or reheated, such as a family-favorite like macaroni and cheese with Havarti and Gouda. Bring it in a new serving dish that the host can keep and use for future parties. For this recipe and more, visit ArlaUSA.com.

4. Moisturizing gel to help anyone look their best Cold, unforgiving winter weather, harsh winter sun, and the starchy, sugary food we enjoy during the holidays can leave you looking less than your best. Why? The reason is advanced

glycation end-products (AGEs) that cause people to age both on the inside and out. Morinda, the leader in anti-aging bever-ages, supplements and skin care products, is addressing this issue with its latest innovation - TruAge Skin AGE Therapy Gel - a great gift option for friends and family that want to look their best year-round.The product creates a barrier to AGEs, which are caused by excess sugars combining with proteins in our body, making our skin age quicker than wanted. AGE Therapy Gel helps to reverse the external effects of damage caused by glycation and improves the skin’s appearance while boosting its protec-tive layer. This light, moisturizing gel works by disrupting AGE formation, while soothing and repairing stressed or damaged skin.It can be used on the face, neck and hands to not only mois-turize, but to help block out the aging consequences of dry weather and the holiday diet.

With these thoughtful gift ideas, your friends and family mem-bers are sure to get swept up in the holiday spirit this year.


8Ways to Protect the Value

of Your Car This WinterYour car is one of your most prized possessions. It’s your road-trip partner, your chauffer each morn-ing and your home away from home when you’re on the go. Because you depend on your car for so much, you want to protect and keep it running as long as possible.

As the seasons change and winter approaches, protecting your vehicle becomes even more im-portant. Before cold weather strikes, make sure to follow these tips to keep your vehicle running in perfect condition. The better the condition of your vehicle, the longer it will last and the higher the resale or trade-in value.

A clean car is your first line of defense against winter. While the winter season typically takes a toll on your car, proper maintenance can go a long way

to preserving your investment. For example, ac-cording to the International Carwash Association, getting a new wash and a fresh coat of wax before the temperature starts to fluctuate can be your first line of defense against winter elements like ice, salt, sand and slush. Vehicular corrosion also occurs most quickly when temperatures rise and then fall below freezing. That’s why most auto manufac-turers recommend getting your car washed and waxed at a professional car wash twice a month, especially during the winter.

Using a WaterSavers car wash can is a strong first step to ensuring that your car will be ready to withstand the winter elements - inside and out. It’s also a great way to protect the environment. For example, these car washes typically use only 40 gallons (151.5 liters) or less of fresh water per car


wash. Learn more and find a WaterSavers wash at Washwithwatersavers.com.

Rotate your tires. Most people know they should get their oil changed every 3,000 miles, but many forget their tires need maintenance as well. Tires should be rotated before winter and then again every 6,000 miles.

Add some winter weight to your oil. Changing your oil and filter is especially important during the winter. Drivers who live in a colder climate should consider changing to heavier, winter-weight oil dur-ing the winter months.

Take care of your wiper blades. Your windshield wiper blades are your first line of defense when the snow starts to fly. Make sure your wiper blades are in good, working order and replace them if you have doubts. It’s better to make this change now instead of finding out your blades aren’t working when you really need them.

Take your car in for a tune-up. Any noises, pings or sluggish starts you currently notice will only inten-sify as the temperature drops. It’s best to get your vehicle in for a tune-up as soon as possible to get any issues addressed.

Give your steering some power. Check your pow-ering steering fluid each month, and make sure the car is warmed up before you do so. If you find the level is low, look for leaks in the hoses or pump. Low power steering fluid will make your car more difficult to steer, which is something you’ll want to avoid as the roads get slick.

Protect yourself from carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide leaks are dangerous at any time, but they are especially deadly during the winter when you will be driving your vehicle with the windows closed. Have your exhaust system checked to make sure no leak exists.

Apply the brakes. Besides the seatbelt, your car’s brakes are its most important safety feature. This is especially true in the winter when slippery condi-tions can make stopping difficult. Before the first snow fall, bring your car to an experienced me-chanic to verify that your brakes are ready for the season.

Cold winter temperatures mean vehicle mainte-nance is even more important. By following these simple tips listed above, you’ll be able to ward off winter’s harshest advances, protect your invest-ment and what rides inside of it. To learn more about protecting the value of your vehicle, visit Washwithwatersavers.com.


HAPPENINGSSAINT LOUIS

WINTER 2014/2015

Santa’s Magical KingdomThrough Sunday, January 4Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Parkwww.santasmagicalkingdom.comExperience this holiday light display featuring millions of shimmering lights, animated scenes and dazzling special effects.

St. Peters New Year’s Eve Lock-inWednesday, December 31St. Peters Rec-Plexwww.stpetersmo.netWho says New Year’s Eve celebrations are only for adults? Under adult supervision, children ages 8-13 can have the time of their lives swimming, ice skating, and participating in other specially planned activities at the St. Peters Rec-Plex.

Anheuser-Busch Brewery Christmas Lights ExperienceThrough Sunday, January 4Anheuser-Busch Consumer Hospitality Centerwww.budweisertours.comThe towering, Germanic-style red-brick buildings adorned with thousands of lights can be enjoyed up-close through a self-guided walking tour every Thurs-day, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Guests aged 21 and older can sample compli-mentary beers along the walking tour route, get com-fy and cozy around warm fire pits to roast s’mores and pose for a souvenir photo in a themed snow globe or with a Budweiser Clydesdale and take home a print plus a commemorative sampling glass for $10. Ad-ditional holiday offerings include a Biergarten Buf-fet, Fire Pit Fun, The Biergarten Package, and the VIP Clydesdale Photo Opportunity. Drive-through tours are welcome on Monday and Wednesday evenings from November 24-December 31 from dusk until midnight.

St. Charles Christmas TraditionsThrough December 24Main Street, St. Charleswww.stcharleschristmas.comExperience the magic of Christmas Traditions. This annual month long festival celebrates the holiday season. Close your eyes and listen to the sounds of holiday music from the Victorian Carolers and the fife and drum corps. Experience shopping and dining op-portunities found along the festively decorated brick lined streets. Take in the scent of roasting chestnuts.

Noontime New Year’s EveWednesday, December 31The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museumwww.magichouse.orgNew Year’s revelers of all ages (even those with a bedtime) are invited to ring in the new year a little bit early with a special Noontime New Year’s Eve cel-ebration at The Magic House. Visitors will participate in a variety of traditional New Year’s Eve festivities in-cluding a countdown to noon with the dropping of a sparkly New Year’s Eve ball. Visitors will also be invit-ed to make wish wands and noise makers. And, any New Year’s Eve party wouldn’t be complete without a dance floor and dancing tunes. Kids will dance the day away in between posing in a photo booth filled with fun props, accessories and 2015 themed attire. 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.


NYE Live! St. LouisWednesday, December 31Ballpark Village Saint Louiswww.stlballparkvillage.comThe theme of this New Year’s Eve party is Glitter & Glow, a night in Hollywood, so come dressed to im-press! Ring in 2015 with access to the many bars and restaurants in Ballpark Village, and live music and DJs. 9:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m.

Birds of WinterJanuary 3-Feb 8Audubon Center at Riverlands, West Alton, MOriverlands.audubon.orgLearn about eagles, trumpeter swans, ducks and more! Learn how to spot them, where to look and what brings the birds here each winter. See a raptor up close!

10th Annual Loop Ice CarnivalJanuary 16-17The Loop Neighborhoodwww.visittheloop.comCelebrate winter in the Loop starting with the Snow Ball Friday at the Moonrise Hotel. Saturday festivities are free and include live ice carving demonstrations with a chainsaw, ice slides for children, human dog sled races, 5k & 10k frozen buns runs, putt-putt pub crawl, and so much more.

Eagle Days at the Old Chain of Rocks BridgeJanuary 17-18Old Chain of Rocks Bridgemdc.mo.gov/events/eagledaysWatch eagles fishing, riding ice floes, soaring over-head and roosting in nearby tree while having access to an educational program featuring a live eagle and warming tent activities. Lewis and Clark history dem-onstrations will also be held on both Bridge entranc-es. 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Mardi Gras STL (Dates Vary)Starting January 6Historic Soulard Neighborhoodwww.stlmardigras.orgThe Gateway City celebrates its French heritage with fun filled activities throughout the historic Soulard neighborhood. Events include a Wine, Beer & Whis-key Taste (30), Cajun Cook-Off (31), Taste of Soulard (7-8), Beggin’ Pet Parade and PetSmart Wiener Dog Derby (8), Bud Light Grand Parade (14), and the Fat Tuesday Parade (17).

Gateway Arch Riverboat New Year’s Eve CruiseWednesday, December 31St. Louis Riverfrontwww.gatewayarch.com

Ring in the New Year on a 19th century replica steam-boat, cruising down the Mississippi. Enjoy a 3 1/2 hous cruise featuring beef medallions, shrimp, pota-toes, vegetable medley, salad and the chef’s special dessert. The cruise also includes an open house bar, DJ, party favors and a champagne toast at midnight.

Susan Brewer314.540.0734

[email protected]

Diane Huesgen636.936.8600

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Wade Brewer636.936.8600

[email protected]

Lori Pisani636.578.7781

[email protected]

Stacy Iffrig636.734.1364

[email protected]

Ashley Bahr636.373.0194

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Tammie Meyer636.578.4399

[email protected]

Andrew Brewer636.288.4604

[email protected]

Lisa Samuels636.484.0633

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Andi Stopke636.284.1019

[email protected]

Wendy Halamicek636.634.1152

[email protected]

Mike Lampe636.751.4442

[email protected]

Julie Alsup314.378.5146

[email protected]

Tom Budde636.734.4414

[email protected]

Steve Savory314.604.3999

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Brittany Hale636.399.6419

[email protected]

Russ Schmidt636.634.6558

[email protected]

Fred Figura314.277.1925

[email protected]

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St. Louis Home and Happenings Winter 2014

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