*===+++===*  Headline News  *===+++===*

Not all news is good news and such was the voiding of the treaty with the lands of Salaria. Without getting into particulars and keeping the matter discreet, it was stated that a clause of the agreement was violated rendering the treaty null. The Monarchy made the announcement just before the Thanksgiving holidays. Communications are left open between the two lands but at a distance. Nothing more was offered at this point in time.

Preparations continue for the upcoming winter months. Huskies and sleds being made available either from the McDonough Ranch in Heathfield or from the McAndrews Kennels in Ballicastle. Cabins are located on topo maps of the kingdoms in case ones get stranded during a snow squall, shelter can be found. They are stocked with food staples along with extra clothing and blankets.

A Tea Party for Queens

The next tea party for the Queens will be held in Devonshires. It is reported that Queen Victoria is going the extra mile in hospitality to assure the heads of the other kingdoms invited will have a memorable time.

The Orphanage in Heathfield.  Some might look upon such an institution with sad eyes and heavy hearts.  But, with my recent visit to the walls of this place, I learned that pity is the last thing that is on these brave soul's minds.

The head of the Orphanage is none other than Henna Barrett Suex.  Beyond title, she is a woman with a vision for the foundation.  "No child should be subjected to a life alone.  No matter the circumstances."  Henna offered while we sat in the reading room while Miss Stankins related a story to the gathered children.

Each room is suited for all of the children.  From the dining room that was set to seat each and everyone, as well as any visitors that might come by to adopt or simply enjoy the young ones company.  The bedrooms are coordinated for four children a piece.  Girls on one side of the hall and boys on the other.  "We plan to let them decorate the hallways with murals, painted by their own hands.  Another way to let them learn and make this place a comfortable home."

The layout also has plans to be expanded come spring time.  Adding a music room and game room for them to enjoy play time while the days are gloomy and unsuited for outside time.  "The attic also has plans to be cleaned out and turned into more rooms for the children.  A way to expand so that there is never any cramping.  We also have gained word of an Instructor that will be joining our lands come the end of next month.  So during the days, they will be going to school with all other children in the lands.  It will help with their social skills beyond these walls."

It seems that Henna has her plans set and worked out for the better.  Those that work with her include a few women who were raised in the orphanage, giving back to the cause they were under.

So during these holidays, remember the children of the Orphanage.  They would never go without, but the extra love is always appreciated.  Any donations that can be given should be presented to Henna or her staff.  And keep an eye out for the pack of children roaming come Yule; caroling for all to hear.

Merry Christmas and Happy Yuletide for all, on Behalf of the Orphanage and the Heathfield Gazette.

Life Around Here

The Thanksgiving holiday went well for one and all. Turkey's and baskets of food were provided for those who have little. The kitchens of the castle were opened up to those who had no families nor the means to cook to enjoy a thankful banquet with others. The Yuletide holiday will off the same on the Blessed Morning. Many of the teens throughout the lands with time on their hands seemed to be getting out and having some fun. Businesses, ranches, shops and the like continue to prosper. All are preparing to settle in for the winter and for some, instead of a dreaded time, it will be a time to relax and see to some hobbies time had not allowed for during the warmer months.

Those wishing to help with the holidays, including decorating the taverns run by the monarchies, caroling, filling and distributing baskets of good will, toys for the orphans, winter and holiday related events, and so forth, please contact Henna Suex, Lah Suex, or Sarah McDonough. If none of the three are available contact the crown directly. Strong men and lads will be needed for bringing in the Yuletide trees to be set up in the Thistle, Balli Hi and in the commons of all three kingdoms.

Births: None this past month. Marriages: None this past month. Engagements: Lord Neale Frasier and Kathleen Cleary.

Thought for the Day

A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it annoy enough people to make it worth the effort.  - Herm Albright --submitted by Sara Devonshire

??? Question Corner ???

If you were to die this evening with no opportunity to communicate with anyone, what would you most regret not having told someone? Why haven't you told them yet?

If you would like your reply published in next month's issue, please submit the question with your answer to Lahoneee.

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Falkirk Downs Racetracks - The racetracks have officially closed down until spring. Those of the Frasier family wish everyone a safe winter and happy holidays.

Assortment of Christmas Candles are now available at the Crystal and Candle Shop. Ask for Kathleen or Sassy.

Fresh Baked Pies for the holiday season and delivered to your door!!  Apple, pumpkin, mincemeat, cheery, pecan, as well as coconut and banana cream pies!  For more information, please contact Meaghan O'Leary.

Benzaiten Imports has a new selection of toys and other gift items for Yule. Wooden and tin soldiers and horses.  Porcelain dolls. Mechanical toys that have gears and work by a child turning a handle.  Stuff animals from all over the world. Perfume decanters, jewelry and items of clothing.  Carved jewelry boxes and statues. Hours are from 9:00 am to dusk. We are located in the warehouse district. Owners:  Alexander McDonough and Garath MacShire

Dockside Tavern and Inn:  Holiday Special, December and January -- Rooms: Mon-Thur Single private rooms: 6 gold a night, Double private rooms: 8 gold a night to include 2 meals and 4 drinks free from 2 pm - 4 pm, Fri-Sun  Single private rooms: 8 gold a night, Double private rooms: 10 gold a night to include 2 meals and 6 drinks free from 1pm - 4 pm, Rooms by the hour, with companion - 2 gold, to include hot bath, meal, and 4 drinks. In the underground room, poker, craps, darts, and pool tables are now provided. Door charge of 5 silver a head, this will include one drink. Happy Hour extended from 11am - 4 pm; Shots of white liquor - 2 silver; Shots of gold liquor - 1 silver; Ales - 5 copper From Dec 23rd to Jan 13th, For 25 gold, a carriage ride along the waterfront with a bottle of wine, 2 meals to include 4 drinks, a single private room with appetizers delivered and a bottle of champagne to share before the fire. Live music to be performed nightly by traveling bards and minstrels. Dance floor now available to trip your fancy delight. Entertainment to begin nightly at 9 pm - 4 am.

The Needle and Spool Clothier is offering 30% off all alterations for the month of December.  Any gowns or suits that need to be taken in or out for those upcoming parties can be done.  Also, a sale on all coats and furs just in time for last minute gift ideas.  Happy Yule from the Sterling and Aptkins family of the Needle and Spool.

The BookStop is now open and currently stocked in new titles as well as a handful of rare books.  If there is a book worm in the family or a friend that enjoys those words, stop by for a great gift idea.  If there are any requests for certain titles, it is recommended that they are placed before the second week of December to ensure timely Yuletide delivery.  Merry Holidays from the McCormick's and the BookStop.

Heathfield Orphanage will be accepting special donations for the impending holidays.  Gifts, food, and monetary offerings are greatly appreciated.  Coats and other winter wear are also needed for the colder months.  Inquire with Henna Barrett Suex about any questions.

Anyone wishing to run an ad please contact Lahoneee.

Lost And Found
~ Of all the things I've lost in life .... I miss my mind the most ~

Lost -  A list of eligible Heathfield, Ballicastle, Tyremoor and Innis Daingneach bachelors. If found, do not copy and return to either Dacey Monahan, Emmy Jo Johnson or Desh J'Atar.

Found - Bag of marbles. Anyone missing their marbles please contact Matthew Myers, Thistle Tavern.

Many thanks to those who contributed to this newspaper. 

December: Inner harmony and a sense of flowing along comfortably with events and people are accented now. You're likely to take the path of least resistance and to stay with whatever has proven trustworthy and safe, rather than making significant changes. Relationships with females are helpful now. This is a time for you to shine! You have an extra measure of energy and confidence now and will make a strong impression on those in your environment. This is a very good time to go for a job interview, meet the public, or simply go out and be seen. You will be noticed more than usual. This is also a good time to begin something new, to initiate a relationship or project you may have been considering. Agreements, contracts, and joining your efforts with others will work out very much to your advantage now. A friend or person in authority may offer help or present an opportunity which will benefit you now or in the future. Also, you will reap rewards later for the generosity and aid you extend to others at this time.

You are optimistic, hopeful, and forward-looking at this time. You can see connections and possibilities you may have overlooked before. Now is a time for communicating your enthusiasm, sharing your plans and dreams, and also being more receptive to others' thoughts and points of view. Contracts, negotiations, and business dealings of all kinds are favored now. Sales, teaching, public speaking, negotiating, or any endeavor that involves giving information to others is favored now. You are clear, articulate, and communicative at this time. What you feel like doing and your duties versus what you "should" be doing are likely to clash right now. Emotional impulses are very strong, and you are likely to behave in a childlike manner at this time. A need for support, sympathetic understanding, a sense of security and continuity with the past, and sharing on an intimate, personal level is accented now. You respond to others much more emotionally than you usually would. This is a time for you to speak out about your thoughts or concerns regarding your work or professional matters. Communication with your superiors or with people in authority who are in a position to consider and act on your ideas comes to the fore now.

ASTROLOGICA

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I feel like I am caught in the middle.  I'm almost an adult, and still considered a child.  My parents still tell me what to do and when to do it like I am ten years old still.  Its driving me crazy!  I feel like I should be able to go out and do more of the things that the adults do, but at the same time, the friends that I have made are all younger than I am for the most part.  Its like being caught between two worlds.   What should I do?

Trapped Between

I can understand your pain and suffering, as all do who are trapped in that zone between being a child and becoming an adult. Many times, we think ourselves ready to face the world, that age should be the determinant spot by which this should be gauged. In fact, there are many who are young, but hold the maturity of an adult. There are many who are adults, who hold the maturity of a child. There's also the social acceptance of certain ages involvements in many things.  One thing you must always remember, our parents do this not as a punishment, or to try and keep us from achieving our independence, they do it out of love, and a hard love it is. Their want to protect their children from all the pain that adulthood brings with it, is why they ask us to be patient in wanting to live life as an adult. They know you're no longer ten years of age. If you act maturely, then they will treat you as such, if you act as if you're still an adolescent, then this will be the way they'll view you. You want to be viewed as an adult, then start acting like one at home. Take on responsibilities without being asked to do so. Show that you're capable of making good decisions, by those you chose to make at home. Give them a reason to offer you this so called freedom you seek, then once it's given, do not make them regret it. Taking on the burden of an adult is not easy, nor is it fun. Be careful what you wish for, once it's granted, there's no turning back. 

Tae

Dear Tae...

What should one do when they are drawn to a person in particular, but a good friend was with them previously and others seem to show interest in the one as well?  Should I risk it and not hold back any longer or refrain and avoid it all together?

Walking on Egg Shells

Dear Walking on Egg Shells,

There are many times in life that we will be drawn to one who is admired by many. This does not necessarily mean that the individual feels the same way towards others. Many times, it's the one who many least expect, that the individual will chose to be with. My suggestion, is do not hide in the shadows, but step out into the light and let it shine upon you. Do not hound, for many times, this will cause the individual to draw away and avoid. Just be visible, be cordial, be yourself most of all. If it's meant to be, then it will happen. Although, you must always remember, you may not be the one to draw the individual's attention. Do not consider this a failure on your part, just that it wasn't meant to be, and your special someone is out there, you've just yet to meet them. Never let hope die!

Tae

What Christmas Means to Me

Christmas is all about family and friends.  Getting together and decorating each other's houses, eggnog and popcorn balls, making candy in the snow, and helping out those who can't do for themselves.   We used to have a tradition where I lived before with my friends and I, that we would go and decorate an orphanage for the Christmas season.  We'd bring in garland and a tree, and the kids would help string the decorations.  It was all about the smiles on their faces, making it better for them.  Christmas is that time of year when everyone seems to get along, if even just for the one season, and it makes the world a better place to be.

By Kelsi Drummond

Recipes of the Month

IRISH STEW

  3 pounds boneless lamb from the neck or shoulder, trimmed and cut into 1.5 inch pieces * 3 potatoes, peeled and cut into .5 slices * 3 onions sliced * 3 carrots peeled and quartered * Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste * 2 tbs minced fresh parsley * 2 cups water, lamb stock or beef broth

Sprinkle the lamb with salt and pepper. In a large, heavy pot or Dutch oven, layer half of the potatoes, and all the lamb, onions and carrots, sprinkling each layer with salt, pepper and parsley. Top with a layer of the remaining potatoes. Pour the water, lamb stock or beef broth over. Cover the pot with aluminum foil and then a lid. Place the pot over high heat and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 2 hours or until tender. Alternatively, the stew may be baked in a preheated 325 degree F over for 2 hours once it has come to a boil. Makes 4-6 servings. --Submitted by Teri MacKenzie Douglas

GINGERBREAD DOUGH - COOKIES/HOUSES

  8 cups unsifted flour * 2 tsp ground cinnamon * 2 tsp ground ginger * 1/2 tsp salt * 1 3/4 cups dark corn syrup * 1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar * 3/4 cup butter

In a large bowl combine flour, cinnamon, ginger and salt. In 2 qt saucepan combine corn syrup, brown sugar, margarine over medium heat stirring occasionally until ingredients are well blended. Stir corn syrup mixture into flour mixture until well blended. Knead dough with your hands until it is smooth and even in color. Divide dough into 4 equal parts and wrap each in plastic wrap until ready to roll out. - Submitted by Teri MacKenzie Douglas

QUICK CANDIED SWEET POTATOES

In a large skillet, simmer together for 5 min 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed, 1/2 cup water, 1/2 tsp salt, 2 tbs butter, dash cinnamon. Add 1-1/2, 2oz can sweet potatoes. Turn heat low; cook uncovered, turning occasionally, 15-20 min or until potatoes are well glazed. Or place potatoes in greased shallow baking pan; add syrup. Bake, uncovered turning now and then at 400F, 20 -25 min. Makes 5-6 servings. If recipe is doubled it will take longer. --Submitted by Teri MacKenzie Douglas

SCOTCH EGGS

This is a simple recipe for making a traditional Scottish dish which is often used for a light snack at picnics or "buffet lunches". It can be served hot or cold.

  1lb sausage meat (try to get as best quality that you can afford)
1 large raw egg * 3oz approx of dry breadcrumbs
5 hard boiled eggs, with shells removed
Pinch of mace (the outer casing of the nutmeg-this is not an essential) * Some salt, freshly ground pepper
Small quantity of flour * 1 tablespoon water

Dust the hard boiled eggs in a little flour then place aside. Mix the mace (if available) with a pinch of salt and pepper into the sausage meat and divide into five equal portions. Place this mixture on a floured surface. Wrap/mould the sausage meat round the egg, making sure there are no gaps. If you can, try to roll into a ball shape-this will take a LOT of practice as you will probably squash/mash the eggs before getting it just right. This isn't essential. Beat the egg and water together and coat the meat covered egg with this and then breadcrumbs (you may have to press the crumbs onto the meat). Deep fry in hot oil (360F/185C) taking care as you put the eggs into the oil as the oil may spurt. Cook for about 5/6 minutes until golden brown. Drain and serve hot or allow to cool and keep in a refrigerator for a cold snack later. --Submitted by Meaghan O'Leary

FIGGY PUDDING

4 oz plain flour * A pinch of salt * 4 oz breadcrumbs
4 oz shredded suet *1 tsp. mixed spice
1 tsp. baking powder *3 oz dark soft brown sugar
8 oz chopped dried figs * Finely grated rind and juice of one lemon *2 tbs milk *2 beaten eggs

Sift the salt and flour together, then mix with all the remaining dry ingredients. Add the figs, lemon rind and juice, milk and beaten eggs, and beat them well. The mixture should have a soft, dropping consistency. Put into a greased 2 pint pudding basin, cover securely and steam for 3 hours. It's probably best served with a heated golden syrup topping and a generous pouring of custard.  - Submitted by Acacia Sterling

Fortune Telling with Cats

There are many superstitions surrounding the behavior of cats, including omens and portents. Since folk belief has it that cats' behavior can give clues to what luck is in store, cats can participate in fortune telling practices on Halloween, May Eve, New Year's Eve, or any of the other times when peeking into the future is traditional.

To find out what future portents your own cat has to reveal, simply allow Kitty into the room when your family or friends are assembled and just observe how it reacts to the various guests.

*If the cat sits down quietly next to a person, peace and prosperity is foretold. *If the cat rubs itself against a person, that person is in for a run of good luck. *An extremely good run of luck is portended if the cat jumps into a person's lap. *If the cat yawns while sitting near a person, an opportunity is about to arise which that person must be careful not to miss. *If the cat runs away from a person, he or she is hiding a secret which will, however, come to light in the near future.

When you try this method, be sure to be very quiet and don't coax or cajole the cat. Otherwise, ironically, the recipients of the best predictions of luck are likely to be the cat haters! Why? Cat experts have determined that the reason cats always go to people who hate them or are allergic to them is because those are the persons least likely to intrude on the cat's personal space.

-- submitted by Kathleen Cleary (Taken from the Magickal Almanac)

Gossip from the Wharf
"If you believe these - I have lands in Rhydin to sell you"
by The Wharf Crones - Matty and Pearl

All gossip that comes in through the port, and places least expected,  you can be sure that Matty and Pearl know every little tidbit and then some added. Embellishing is a way of life to make the tale far more colorful. If something is not certain nor clear, it is easy to fill in those gaps; there is nothing like assuming. They will make sure all gossip gets around come rain or shine and the sharing of a tea biscuit.

**Rumors abound on the next Queens' tea party since the collection of McAndrews and McDonough brothers were a package deal in marrying the queen there. Will she sport her harem in some rendition of Arabian Knights for the entertainment of her guests or has the engagements been put off? Has she new entrees?

**It seems that the teens from all over the lands are collecting again and starting their havoc. Teen magnetism.  Muskrat love becoming the theme and kissing between a few has been spotted. Bribery in the process.

**It seems a newcomer to the lands, a dashing Captain from the warm Caribbean, has cast an eye on a lass already taken.  Will he continue to try to win her favor, or will he give in to the fact that she is wearing a ring on her left finger?  Will he become Caribbean mincemeat?

**Has a certain undercover, high standing, lord tie a noose around his own neck in keeping a certain sister busy by making up a list of eligible women for both he and his brother? Will he solve the case he is on without falling into his own trap laid to keep his sister out of harm's way? Will his brother retaliate for being added? We wait with fish baited breath.

**Which King's man received a visit from a certain young warrior and does it have anything to do with the fact he's seeing the man's sister? Is there another engagement in the air? Has Cupid come early to the lands? Or a permanent all season kind of guy?

**The waddling of one very pregnant Lady Frasier has all the crones making bets that due date was to cover up a faux pas and the little bundle will indeed come a month or so early. New record for a preemie at seven pounds, will the truth be figured out? Nature doesn't lie.

**Has the McAndrews shipwright gone into hiding? It has been far too quiet where the Duo owners are concerned. The Douglas lord was observed whisking off his own personal Italian Cuisine and hasn't been seen from since. Rumor has it that the Rom is back and the stars in a certain lass' eyes are questionable on which man brings it there. Prince, Pauper or love triangle?

**Speaking of the one Douglas Lord will his older brother's predictions of who would fall to matrimony within the year come true or will it be appeased to be correct two out of three? It is said it is is hard to predict on oneself so it may well be excused but an A for effort. No more footsie on the foothills. He's been added to that missing list of eligible bachelors. There is still hope!

**Has the Forest King been domesticated in finely cut tailored suits of the latest fashion or does the wild beast beneath just have a new packaging of more than a loin cloth? Where's the loin cloth? We want the souvenir!

**The children's story of Goldilocks has come to life through none other than a certain brusque, stoic, king's horseman in ... whose been sitting in my chair and where or where has my little chair gone? Will it be found by whose has the tightest cheeks or cushion made to fit? Will there be musical chairs in the making or pinch the steel buns? We crones want to be there for the finale of the missing chair caper.

**Finally! At last! The handsome Prince twins can be distinguished. One has a beard while the other goes without, only question left is which one has the beard and which one does not! We should figure it out by next issue!

**A certain kings man's sister has been sneaking out attired as a lad and caught by a certain handsome roaming knight. Speculations are being made on what is up with the spinster lass if she is looking for a husband or emotionally lost? Is she connected somehow with the kings horseman's missing chair?

**Another rumor coming down the line is on the High Priest of Sobek wishing to find a woman to carry his son. Not having been able to find a wife, he wishes at least an heir. Such has us crones really wondering how that is possible!, the man is that handsome. Maybe we should somehow manage to have him meet the kings man's sister! Maybe he needs a list also? We'll check it twice! Make sure our names are added. What if he sires a daughter, will he keep on trying? Many questions left unanswered here that is just so non-kosher!

**There have always been stories about babies being found in the cabbage patch, what happens when one has been noticed popping up in wheat and corn fields full grown? An unfamiliar face looking for a home or some kind of spy that will warrant the attention of the PIs, will they be opening up X files?

**Which brings us to the PIs as their office has been opened. Got a lost watch or have you found a skeleton in your closet? Even in their own building it seemed it had been broken into as one handsome PI caught himself a pretty burglar, only to meet his partner in crime. Will romance evolve in the shadows of places even unknown to us? We want to know, more, we want to go!

WANTED

Captain "Blood Bath" Black ... Dead or alive.

Crimes: High treason against England and Spain, Murder, Plundering and pillaging innocents, Thievery, Arson, Kidnapping, and Rape.  50,000 Gold for any who brings this scoundrel to justice.