EDITOR’S LETTER

Soundless snowfalls blanket streets aglow with twinkle lights, while house windows, like muted television screens, frame happy memories in the making inside. Heartwarming scenes like these help define Christmas in Canada, when the nation strives to put the stress, chaos and monotony of everyday life on pause. We stop and smell the proverbial poinsettias and focus our attentions and affections on those we love.

To honour this season of generosity, our annual gift guide (“32 Best Holiday Gifts!,” page 24) is full of our favourite finds, and it promises to help you please everyone on your list. Foodies will want to turn to “Tastes Like Home” (page 102) for our Test Kitchen’s most-covetable culinary items from across the country, including salt, spirits and sweets.

Spoil loved ones further with festive get-togethers. Plan your menu with our Tested-till-perfect recipes— the Swedish Meatballs With Gravy (page 120) and Quick Fruitcake Loaf (page 130) are must-tries—and, as you do, consider including the maximum amount of the merrymaking ingredients described in “Food for Thought” (page 84). Deck the halls with ease by following Home & Style director Ann Marie Favot’s holiday decorating advice (“Set the Mood,” page 92), and check out the chic on-trend makeup tricks in “Sparks Fly” (page 40) that will have you partyready in moments. Should you be far away from your loved ones, read “6 Ways to Feel Happy When the Holidays Leave You Lonely” (page 62) for strategies to create meaningful connections in the absence of proximity.

Think of this December issue as your little helper for making the most of this joyous season. Happy holidays from all of us at Canadian Living!