Xmas 2025

FROM THE EDITOR

For most of us who gather around the Christmas tree and indulge ourselves in the tradition of exchanging presents, those feel-good vibes you get from seeing folks gush in gratitude over gifts you gave them is irresistible. Such feelings are called the “warm fuzzies,” the “warm glow” or sentiments that—as poets like to say—come straight from the heart.

Except, as our feature explains, the heart has nothing to do with it. According to psychologists, the brain triggers reactions to those aw-shucks moments via a part called the hypothalamus, which injects a blithe hormone into our bloodstream the moment those gifts change hands. Still, such a clinical analysis certainly won’t be enough to downplay the generous spirit within us. After all, regardless of the source, warm fuzzies are really awesome.

And how can you get that feeling? Start with our holiday gift guide, then put together a casual spread of drinks and dips for your guests, courtesy of recipes. For those preferring to nosh away from home during the festive season, we offer some dining alternatives.

Rounding out this issue’s editorial lineup, we profile the St. Albert Singers Community Choir, look at a few NHL players with roots in this fair burgh, and explore a little-known therapeutic activity called soundwalking .

Finally, we hope you enjoy this edition of T8N, the result of efforts that came straight from the heart. Or was it the hypothalamus?