Check out the latest edition of our newsletter!
THE
7525 STATE RD., STE. A, CINCINNATI, OH 45255 | 513-231-7755 | ATOWNDENTAL.COM | DECEMBER 2025 BRUSH - UP ANDERSON DENTAL CARE Nathan Brooks, DDS, Inc. OUR FAMILY’S HUMBLE HOLIDAY GLOW Our Simple Christmas Lights That Spark Big Family Magic December 1 was National Christmas Lights Day, and it got me thinking about how our family celebrates the season. I have to admit … we don’t go all out with Christmas lights. We’re more the “low-to-the-ground” type. My wife catching the glow and crunching underfoot, it doesn’t matter if it’s Christmas Eve or a random December morning; we just stand there and soak it in. Cincinnati rarely gives us white
We also love driving around to gaze at Christmas light shows around town or even just admire decorations in our neighborhood to see what other people do. Houses decked out with synchronized lights, massive inflatable decorations, and roofs covered in glimmer are inspiring. We cheer for our neighbors’ creativity and let our kids enjoy the spectacle without pressure to compete. It’s funny to think about tradition, too. My mom keeps the same display every year, perfectly arranged, precisely stored. It’s a marvel of consistency. Meanwhile, my wife’s parents would go all out every year, the bigger the better. Our style? A little more whimsical, a little more “Let’s see how we feel this year.” Maybe one day, in a bigger house with more space, we’ll try something fancier, but for now, we focus on what really matters: spending time together, laughing, and enjoying those quiet, magical moments when snow meets soft light. Even the dental office gets a sprinkle of holiday cheer. Lights on the tree and garlands on the counter; it’s all about spreading joy wherever we can. In the end, Christmas isn’t about perfection, elaborate displays, or climbing ladders. It’s about moments that warm your heart, laughter that fills the room, and the glow of lights (a little or a lot) that remind us how special this season can be. That’s our family’s Christmas magic, and honestly? It’s perfect just the way it is.
Christmases, so when we do get a dusting, it’s a treat worth savoring. It doesn’t have to be a full-blown production to be beautiful. Inside, however, is an entirely different story. We go all out. We have two Christmas trees, lights on the stair banisters, garlands on the mantel, and even the kids string lights in their bedroom windows. That’s where we spend our time, after all. That’s where the energy is, the laughter happens, and the season comes alive. Our children may sometimes wonder why we don’t have inflatable snowmen or projectors lighting up the house, but eventually, they realize the inside is where we make more memories.
and I have zero expertise in stringing lights together so they actually work. I’ll be honest: I’ve never wanted to climb a ladder. That’s not bravery; that’s common sense. We’ve got six kids, a household to run, and bills to pay, so no one’s getting hurt on my watch. We do put up a few lights, though. A wreath on the door, little candy canes along the path, and some bushes decked out with strings here and there. Simple, safe, and festive. And you know what? Even the simple can be magical. When it snows while our lights are twinkling, it’s like the world pauses for a moment. Snowflakes
513-231-7755 • 1
Sugar, Spice, and a Pain-Free Bite KEEP YOUR SMILE HEALTHY AMID STRESSFUL HOLIDAYS
The holidays have a way of sneaking up on us. Suddenly, the calendar is full, stores are packed, and wallets feel too light. But here’s the truth: The most memorable moments don’t come from expensive gifts or elaborate trips. We spark them from laughter, creativity, and time spent together. Traditions That Won’t Cost a Fortune FESTIVE FUN MADE EASY
The holidays are magical, but let’s be honest, they can also be a little … chaotic. Between shopping, cooking, decorating, and late nights with family, it’s easy for stress to sneak in. And stress isn’t just tough on your patience; it can take a toll on your teeth, too. Cracked teeth, jaw pain, and even unexpected dental emergencies seem to spike this time of year. Suddenly, your carefree summer smiles are replaced with broken molars and chipped incisors, and all you wanted was to enjoy a peppermint mocha. If you notice any dental pain or even minor discomfort, don’t wait until Christmas Eve to call us. Our schedule fills up fast during the holidays, and many offices adjust their hours, closing around the big days. Dealing with a chipped tooth or an emergency crown is stressful enough without the added holiday rush. Planning ahead can save you discomfort, stress, and yes, money.
Whether you’re looking for cozy nights in or adventures out in the crisp winter air, here are fun, low-cost holiday activities for the whole family.
FESTIVE FUN AT HOME Let’s turn home into holiday central! You can wrap your front door like a giant present, or craft homemade ornaments from everyday supplies. Popcorn and cranberry garlands, paper chains with gratitude notes, and handmade snowflakes instantly transform your space into a festive wonderland. For extra coziness, plan a movie night complete with blankets, popcorn, and your family’s favorite holiday classics. CREATIVE CRAFTS AND TASTY TREATS You don’t need to buy pricey kits when you can create your own fun. Build a gingerbread house from scratch, or whip up batches of cookies and let everyone go wild with frosting and sprinkles. If you’re looking for something outdoorsy, make birdseed ornaments from pinecones and peanut butter, then watch the backyard come alive with feathered guests.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES Bundle up and take a nighttime drive (or stroll) to admire the best light displays in your town. It’s a free way to soak up the magic of the season together. If you’re lucky enough to get snow, the options are endless: snowmen, forts, snow angels, or even a friendly snowball fight. And when it’s too chilly to stay outside, warm up with hot cocoa by the fire.
CHERISH TREATS WITHOUT OVERDOING IT Cookies, candy canes, and fudge are part of the holiday fun, but overindulging can swiftly lead to cavities and other painful dental problems. Enjoy your favorites, but try to pace yourself. Reach for healthier alternatives like berries or fruit when possible, and rinse your mouth with water after sweets. These simple habits keep sugar from lingering on your teeth and causing damage. STICK TO YOUR ORAL HYGIENE ROUTINE Even with a jam-packed schedule, brush and floss regularly. Brush for two minutes twice a day, floss daily, and use an alcohol-free mouthwash to protect your smile against plaque and bacteria. Staying consistent is key to avoiding extra dental headaches over the holidays. MANAGE STRESS TO PROTECT YOUR SMILE The best way to keep your teeth happy is to manage your stress. Get plenty of sleep, eat a balanced diet, and move your body with yoga, jogging, or even a short walk. Consider treating yourself to a massage or trying out physical therapy to relieve tension in your jaw and shoulders. Lastly, be diligent in carving out quiet time to relax or meditate. Make your well-being a priority this season. The result? You can reduce overall stress and prevent teeth grinding, jaw pain, and other oral issues. Healthy habits, mindful stress relief, and a little preparation will let you smile through the holidays with confidence and ease.
SHARE THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT The season feels even brighter when you spread joy
beyond your own home. Go caroling in your neighborhood or at a local nursing home, attend a school holiday concert, or deliver handmade cards to friends and neighbors. These simple gestures leave lasting impressions and remind everyone what the holidays are truly about. COZY TRADITIONS THAT LAST For a touch of nostalgia, start a new tradition like sleeping under the Christmas tree one night, creating a DIY advent calendar, or hosting a family game night with holiday music playing in the background. These small rituals are the ones kids and adults both look forward to each year.
2 • ATOWNDENTAL.COM
FROM SKY TO SAVANNAH THE WORLD’S MOST REMARKABLE ANIMAL MIGRATIONS
THE GREAT WILDEBEEST MIGRATION On the savannahs of East Africa, over a million wildebeest,
Across the globe, animals of all shapes and sizes embark on extraordinary journeys that defy the imagination. Whether by flying, swimming, or running, these migrations are nature’s way of balancing survival with the ever-changing world. Some of these trips cover thousands of miles, while others involve climbing mountains or crossing rivers, but each demonstrates resilience, instinct, and the interconnectedness of life on Earth. A RECORD-BREAKING TRAVELER One of the most remarkable travelers is the Arctic tern, a small seabird from the icy North Pole that flies to the far reaches of Antarctica and back, logging up to 25,000 miles! That’s the longest migration of any animal on the planet. For a bird weighing less than a smartphone, it’s an incredible feat. JOURNEY ACROSS GENERATIONS The monarch butterfly tells a different kind of migration story: one of teamwork across generations. Starting in Canada and the northern U.S., monarchs head south toward central Mexico. Along the way, they breed and die, passing the torch to their offspring. By the time the journey is complete, 4–5 generations have passed over the span of the trip. YOUR MONTHLY NEED-TO-KNOWS WHAT ARE ANDERSON DENTAL’S HOLIDAY HOURS? For Christmas and New Year’s Day, we’ll be closed from Dec. 23 to 25 and Dec. 31 to Jan. 1. Regular hours will resume on Jan. 5, since Fridays and Saturdays we are typically closed! HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE SENT TO THE ER BECAUSE OF HOLIDAY DECORATING MISHAPS? According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly 15,000 overenthusiastic decorators are sent to the emergency room across the country throughout November and December. These holiday-related decorating accidents result in nearly 240 injuries per day. WHERE DID CANDY CANES ORIGINATE FROM? It all started in 1670 in Germany, when a choirmaster gave candy canes to kids to keep them quiet during church services. However, it wasn’t until 1847 when a German-Swedish immigrant decorated his tree with candy canes that it became popular! WAS THE NEW YORK CITY ROCKEFELLER CHRISTMAS TREE ALWAYS HUGE? Nope! In fact, the first tree placed by construction workers during the Great Depression was as skimpy and bare as Charlie Brown’s little tree! Every year, a bigger and brighter tree was put in its place, and now we have the massive Christmas tree we all know and love that boasts over 25,000 sparkling lights!
accompanied by zebras and gazelles, follow the rains in what’s known as the Great Migration. Their route forms a massive loop across the Serengeti and Maasai Mara, filled with dangers, from predators like lions to perilous river crossings guarded by crocodiles. Despite the risks, this spectacle continues each year. ALTITUDINAL MIGRATION While some species traverse continents, others take shorter but equally vital journeys. Many animals, like red pandas, spotted owls, and snow leopards, practice altitudinal migration and climb to higher elevations in summer when food is abundant. Then they descend in winter for shelter and warmth. Though smaller in scale, these seasonal shifts are just as critical for survival. Migration is a survival strategy shaped by millions of years of evolution. Nature’s great migrations are living reminders of resilience and interconnectedness. Every journey, whether by bird, butterfly, or wildebeest, shows how far life will go to endure.
BAKED FETA, TOMATO, AND WHITE BEAN SKILLET
INGREDIENTS • 2 pints cherry tomatoes • 2 (15-oz) cans no-salt-added cannellini beans, rinsed • 4 medium cloves garlic, finely chopped • 2 tsp Italian seasoning • 1/4 tsp salt • 6 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 6 oz feta cheese, packed in brine, cut into 4 pieces • 1 tbsp hot honey • Basil leaves, for garnish • 4 slices toasted whole-wheat country bread, optional, for serving
DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 450 F. 2. In a large, oven-safe skillet, combine tomatoes, beans, garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt. 3. Drizzle with 5 tbsp of olive oil and stir gently. 4. Add feta pieces 2 inches apart in the mixture and drizzle with remaining olive oil. 5. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the tomatoes have burst. 6. Remove from oven and drizzle with hot honey. Garnish with basil leaves, and serve with toast if desired.
Inspired by EatingWell.com
513-231-7755 • 3
ANDERSON DENTAL CARE Nathan Brooks, DDS, Inc.
513-231-7755 ATOWNDENTAL.COM
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
7525 STATE RD., STE. A CINCINNATI, OH 45255
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1
The Cozy Christmas Magic That Doesn’t Need a Ladder
2
Create Holiday Magic Without Spending Big
Don’t Let Holiday Chaos Crack Your Smile
3
The Great Travelers of the Animal Kingdom
Your Monthly Need-to-Knows
Baked Feta, Tomato, and White Bean Skillet
4
Cincinnati Sparkles This December: Festive Events You Can’t Miss
CINCINNATI’S HOLIDAY MAGIC MEANS LIGHTS, MUSIC, AND FURRY FRIENDS Holiday Fun Around Every Corner
Cincinnati knows how to do the holidays right, with sparkle, spirit, and a dash of Christmas magic. This December, the Queen City and its nearby towns are packed with festive fun for everyone. Whether you’re sipping cocoa, snapping photos with Santa, or singing along to holiday tunes, these local events promise to make your season merry, bright, and uniquely Cincinnati. YULETIDE VILLAGE: SEASON OF LIGHTS Nov. 28, 2025 – Dec. 20, 2025 YuletideVillage.com Step into a storybook holiday at Yuletide Village: Season of Lights in Waynesville, Ohio! Every Friday and Saturday night from Nov. 28 to Dec. 20, Renaissance Park glows with twinkling lights, festive music, and cozy holiday magic. Wander through the Yuletide Market, sip hot cocoa, and meet Woodland Santa! Feeling brave? On Dec. 7
and 14, Brimstone Haunt transforms the park into A Scary Little Christmas, where Santa Claws and Krampus bring fright to the festivities. Whether you come for the sparkle or the shivers, this one-of-a- kind holiday experience will light up your season!
for Animal Welfare, helping dogs find loving homes this season.
‘A MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL’ FILM SCREENING WITH LIVE MUSICAL PERFORMANCE Dec. 13, 2025, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. MemorialHallOTR.com/cincinnati-shows
REINDOG PARADE Dec. 13, 2025 MtAdamsReindogParade.com
Grab your leash, your holiday spirit, and your pup’s cutest costume; it’s time for the 36th Annual Mt. Adams Reindog Parade! On Saturday, Dec. 13, at 2 p.m., Santa, this year’s Grand Marshal, and a parade of festive pups will fill the historic streets of Mt. Adams with cheer. Arrive early for registration at 12:30 p.m. and enjoy food, vendors, raffle prizes, and the beloved dog costume contest! Whether your dog is tiny, towering, or twinning with you, there’s a category for every festive furry friend. Proceeds benefit The League
Get ready for a holiday treat that’s part movie magic, part live show, and all heartwarming fun! Join River City Puppets and Memorial Hall for a special screening of “A Muppet Christmas Carol,” brought to life with live musical performances by a cast of puppets and humans, accompanied by piano. As your favorite songs fill the theater, from “One More Sleep Til Christmas” to “Marley & Marley,” the stage bursts with festive cheer. Perfect for families, this event captures the Muppets’ humor, heart, and the true spirit of the season!
4 • ATOWNDENTAL.COM
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator