Given the busyness of this time of year, it is great to have a no-fuss, comforting recipe right at your fingertips. This recipe uses common ingredients that most of us already have at home. I particularly like to use chicken thighs because they are readily available and easy to prepare. They do not dry out as quickly as chicken breasts and are full of flavor. Marinate them in a fragrant garlic and Dijon sauce and your family will be unable to resist. Enjoy and happy holidays!

Garlic and Dijon Chicken Thighs
Serves 4

• 3 tbsp (45ml) olive oil
• 2 tbsp (30ml) lemon juice
• 1 tbsp (15ml) Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp (15ml) Dijon
• ½ onion, pureed or finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, pureed or finely chopped
• 1 tsp (5ml) brown sugar
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 4 chicken thighs, with or without bones and skin

Instructions

1. Combine olive oil, lemon juice, onion, garlic, Worcestershire, Dijon, sugar, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl and mix well. Place chicken in a baking dish and pour marinade over; coat both sides. Place in the refrigerator and marinate for 1 - 12 hours, turning the thighs over a few times throughout to coat on both sides.
2. When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 425 F (218 C); let chicken sit on the counter until it reaches room temperature, about 20 minutes.
3. Transfer chicken to a parchment lined baking tray and place in a preheated oven. Cook until chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C); about 20 - 25 minutes for boneless thighs or about 30 - 35 minutes for bone-in skin-in thighs. Baste chicken every 10 - 15 minutes with marinade as it is cooking. If top of chicken is becoming too brown before it is cooked through, lower the oven to 375 F (191 C) and loosely cover chicken with foil.

Premise Health operates the UBS onsite health center. In honor of national influenza vaccination week, which runs from December 2^nd – December 6^th, Premise Health will be hosting a tabling event on Wednesday, December 4^th in Hawk’s Nest B. Stop by between 11:30am – 1:30pm to receive information on how to get your free flu shot, and how to promote health and wellness as we enter the winter season. No pre-registration is required.

No one should be without a warm winter coat. Help us continue to give back to our communities by contributing to the holiday coat drive in partnership with the UBS Social Impact and Philanthropy Americas team! New or gently used, clean coats of all sizes will be gratefully accepted now through the end of December. They can be deposited in the bin located near the cafeteria entrance.

Ring in the season with us as we gather for a fun and festive holiday bingo session. Bonus points if you wear your ugliest holiday sweater to the event! Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to get to know your colleagues better and to revel in the holiday spirit. We will be meeting in Hawk’s Nest B on Tuesday, December 10th from 4:00pm – 5:00pm. Please register to secure your spot.
Registration: Sign Up Here

Join us for our December edition of “paint” and sip as we put our paint brushes down and instead create a cozy scarf for the winter. No experience is necessary - our talented instructors will guide you every step of the way. The event will take place in Hawk’s Nest A on Wednesday, December 11th from 4:00pm – 5:00pm. Our sip events always sell out quickly, so be sure to register now. We can’t wait to see you there! 

Registration: Sign Up Here

Take a break from your computer and join us for some holiday-themed board games and puzzles in Room 5 on the second floor of the 1000 Building. We will have an assortment of fun games available for your enjoyment on December 17^th from 3:00pm – 5:00pm. No prior registration is needed

All are welcome as we close out the year with a toy drive and gift-wrapping party. Help us make the holidays bright not only for ourselves, but for many children in need. To partake in our celebration, kindly bring a new, unwrapped toy to our toy drive. Toys for older children (ages 8 – 12) are especially needed. Gift-wrapping paper, bows, and tape will be provided. We will also have hot chocolate with assorted toppings available for participants. This special event will be held on Wednesday, December 18^th in Room 5 on the second floor of the 1000 Building from 3:00pm – 5:00pm. Be sure to register below so we know to expect you. 

Registration: Sign Up Here

The survey says…it’s time to play Family Feud! Back by popular demand, we will be hosting our next Family Feud tournament on Thursday, December 19th in Room 5 on the second floor of the 1000 Building. Whether you want to compete or just soak in the fun, all are welcome. Be sure to gather your team (4 to 5 members) and register using the link below. We can’t wait to see you there!
Registration: Sign Up Here

Our cafeteria continues to delight and surprise us all month long with several tasty offerings that will be available on the days listed below from 2:30pm – 4:30pm. Don’t miss out on these special events!

• December 4^th: Cinnamon Sugar Dusted Churros at Chef Table Pop-Up

• December 11th: Coffee Bar Pop-Up

• December 17th: Potato Pancakes at Chef Table Pop-up

Served with a choice of: sour cream, apple sauce, chives, caramelized onions, crumbled bacon

• December 6^th: Easy Puff Pastry Desserts with Apple or Pear
• December 13^th: Thai Lemongrass Pork Chop & Coconut Rice
• December 16^th: Cocktail Party Pigs in a Blanket
• December 23^rd: Filet Mignon Steak with Crispy Smashed Potato

1. Instead of traditional wrapping paper, which often can't be recycled, try reusable gift bags, fabric wraps, or even newspapers with a creative twist. Not only will your gifts look unique, but you’ll also be reducing paper waste.
2. For presents, consider supporting local artisans, opting for sustainable products, or giving experiences that create memories without the waste. Experiences often make for the most memorable presents!
3. When it comes to holiday decorations, switch to energy-efficient LED lights and remember to turn them off when you’re not around.
4. After festive meals, be mindful of food waste—plan portions carefully, compost scraps, or donate leftovers to a local shelter.

Healthy Eating Tips for the Holiday Season

The holidays bring joy, celebration, and often an abundance of delicious treats. It can be challenging to maintain healthy eating habits during this festive season, but with a few mindful choices, you can enjoy your favorite holiday dishes while keeping your health in check.

Balance Your Plate: Holiday meals are often carb-heavy, with rich casseroles, potatoes, and desserts. Try to include a variety of food groups by adding a serving of lean protein, like turkey or chicken, along with colorful veggies for balance. This approach will help you feel satisfied and nourish your body with essential nutrients.

Don’t Skip Meals: Many people “save up” their appetite for a big holiday dinner by skipping breakfast or lunch, which can lead to overeating later. Instead, eat balanced meals and snacks throughout the day to keep your energy steady and make mindful choices when the main meal comes around.

Stay Hydrated: It’s easy to overlook water when surrounded by seasonal drinks and cocktails, but staying hydrated is essential. Drink water throughout the day and consider alternating alcoholic drinks with water to help prevent dehydration.

Choose Sweets Wisely: Desserts are often a holiday highlight, but too much sugar can leave you feeling sluggish. Pick your favorite treat, savor it slowly, and stop when you’re satisfied.

Move a Little Every Day: Whether it’s a brisk walk after a meal or a morning workout, moving daily can help you stay energized and support digestion. Even gentle activity can make a difference during the busy holiday season.

With these simple tips, you can enjoy the celebrations while keeping your health and wellness on track. Happy holidays!