Welcome to Self-Care Season

As the holidays ramp up, so do our to-do lists — shopping, cooking, planning, wrapping. But amid the noise and the hustle, this is also the perfect time to slow down and take care of yourself. Think of it as giving yourself the same care and attention you offer everyone else this time of year.

1. Pause on Purpose

Schedule a little stillness. Whether it’s a walk around the block, ten minutes of quiet before bed, or coffee without your phone, small pauses make a big difference in how we handle the rush of the season.

2. Simplify Where You Can

It doesn’t all have to be handmade or picture-perfect. Streamline meals, gift lists, or commitments to protect your energy — and your sanity. Less pressure often means more joy.

3. Nourish Your Body

Cooler weather calls for warm, comforting foods and plenty of hydration. A good night’s sleep and steady meals will help you stay grounded when life gets hectic.

4. Say Yes to Rest

When your body asks for a break, listen. A cozy blanket, good book, or early bedtime can do wonders for your mood and immunity alike.

5. Refill Your Joy Tank

Do one thing each week that’s just for you — something small but intentional. Light a candle. Play music you love. Visit a favorite local shop.

This time of year, the best gift you can give is a calm, cared-for version of yourself.

🕯️ Brought to you by The Current — reminding you to slow down, breathe deep, and enjoy the season you’ve worked so hard to create.

5 Reasons to Shop Small This Season

As the holidays approach, it’s easy to click “add to cart” — but the real magic happens right here at home. Shopping small keeps our local businesses thriving and our downtowns full of life. Before you reach for your phone, consider these five reasons to shop small this season.

1. Your Dollars Stay Local

When you buy from a neighborhood shop, café, or service provider, more of your money stays in the community — supporting local jobs, schools, and events that make Geneseo special.

2. You Get Personal Service

Local shop owners remember your name, your style, and even your favorite coffee order. They’re the ones who’ll go the extra mile to help you find the perfect gift or special order exactly what you need.

3. Unique Gifts You Won’t Find Online

From handmade goods to locally sourced foods, small businesses offer items with character and story — the kind of gifts that make people say, “Where did you find this?”

4. You Strengthen Community Connections

Every small purchase helps keep storefronts full and sidewalks bustling. Shopping small isn’t just about spending — it’s about preserving the heartbeat of our local economy.

5. You Make a Real Difference

To a local business owner, every sale matters. Each purchase helps pay staff, stock shelves, and plan for another year of growth. That’s impact you can see and feel.

This holiday season, your shopping list has the power to shape our community. Choose local. Support your neighbors. And make your holiday dollars count right here at home.

🎁 Brought to you by The Geneseo Chamber of Commerce— celebrating the local businesses that make Geneseo bright all year long.

Your Pre-Holiday Pantry Check

Before the baking sheets come out and the guests start rolling in, it’s worth taking a few minutes to make sure your pantry is ready for the season ahead. A quick cleanup now can save you time, stress, and multiple last-minute grocery runs later.

Check the Basics

Start with your everyday staples — flour, sugar, salt, oil, spices, and baking powder. Make sure nothing is expired, clumped, or running low. If you bake only once or twice a year, replace old leavening agents (they lose power over time).

Restock Essentials

Keep extras of what you know you’ll use often: canned broth, evaporated milk, pumpkin purée, pie crust mix, and your favorite spices. Having these on hand means fewer emergency store trips during the busy weeks ahead.

Organize for Easy Access

Group items by use — baking supplies, canned goods, snacks, holiday-specific ingredients. Use baskets or clear bins to keep smaller items visible and prevent duplicates from hiding in the back.

Toss & Donate

Check expiration dates and remove anything past its prime. Nonperishable items you won’t use but are still good can be donated to local food pantries, which see increased demand this time of year.

Prep for Entertaining

Stock up on beverages, crackers, nuts, and quick appetizers. These simple add-ons make it easy to host drop-in guests without extra effort.

A tidy, well-stocked pantry is the secret weapon of a smooth holiday season — one less thing to think about when the kitchen gets busy.

🕯️ Brought to you by The Current — helping local households stay organized, prepared, and ready to celebrate.

Family Sick Day Prep: What to Have Ready Before Illness Strikes

When a cold or flu hits, being prepared can make the difference between chaos and calm. Here’s what to have on hand:

1. Medicine & Health Supplies

• Thermometer with working batteries

• Children’s and adult fever reducers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen)

• Cough syrup, lozenges, and tissues

• Disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer, and paper towels

• Ice packs and a heating pad

2. Comfort & Cleanliness

• Extra blankets, pillowcases, and washable towels

• A “sick bin” with a trash bag, wipes, and tissues

• A humidifier and bottled water

• Spare toothbrushes- replace them after recovery

3. Food & Fluids

• Shelf-stable soups, crackers, applesauce, juice, and tea

• Popsicles or electrolyte drinks for hydration

4. Household Planning

• Backup childcare or school pickup plan

• Updated employer contact info and work-from-home setup

• Emergency contact list and pharmacy number saved in your phone

Taking an hour to prep now saves stress later — and helps you focus on comfort, rest, and recovery when someone’s down for the count.

Keeping Your Pets Safe This Halloween

Halloween might be full of treats for us — but for pets, it can bring a few unexpected tricks. Between doorbells ringing, candy bowls overflowing, and costumed visitors coming and going, even the calmest cats and dogs can feel unsettled. Here are a few easy ways to keep them safe, calm, and comfortable this spooky season.

Watch the Treats

Chocolate, xylitol (found in sugar-free candy), and raisins are toxic to pets. Keep all candy bowls and trick-or-treat bags well out of reach — and remind kids not to share their sweets.

Costumes: Cute but Cautious

Not all pets enjoy dressing up. If you do use a costume, make sure it doesn’t restrict movement, breathing, or vision, and always supervise them while it’s on.

Keep Them Calm

Frequent doorbell rings and strange visitors can stress out even social pets. Set up a quiet, secure space with their favorite bed or toy to retreat to while the festivities are happening.

Mind the Decorations

Candles, jack-o’-lanterns, and electrical cords are all potential hazards for curious paws and tails. Opt for battery-powered candles and keep cords tucked safely away.

Update ID Tags

With doors opening and closing throughout the evening, accidental escapes can happen. Make sure your pet’s collar and microchip information are up to date — just in case.

This Halloween, a little preparation goes a long way. With these simple steps, you can enjoy the fun knowing your furry friends are safe and happy.

🐾 Brought to you by The Current — connecting community and keeping our favorite companions protected all year long.