At Home on the North Shore - Winter 2022-23

ON THE COVER:

Rob Christie and Irene Szabla have wrapped up a year-long renovation and are ready to celebrate.

athomeonthenorthshore.ca

PUBLISHER: Fred Fiander

EDITOR: Crystal Murray

ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Lori McKay

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Janet Whitman

VP SALES AND MARKETING: Linda Gourlay

SENIOR DIRECTOR CREATIVE DESIGN AND PRODUCTION: Shawn Dalton

ART DIRECTOR: Mike Cugno

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Barbara Raymont

PHOTO EDITOR: Steve Smith

FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Stephanie Balcom, Marketing Advisor office: 902 420-9943 • cell: 902 292-9584 sbalcom@metroguide.ca

Connie Cogan, Marketing Advisor office: 902 420-9943 • cell: 902 499-7467 ccogan@metroguide.ca

Nicole Fawcett, Advertising Advisor, Strait Area 902 625-3300, ext. 1509 nicolefawcett@porthawkesburyreporter.com

Pam Hancock, Marketing Advisor 902 464-7258 • cell: 902 229-5144 pamhancock@unravelhalifax.ca

Michele White, Marketing Advisor, Tatamagouche/Colchester County 902 818-2904 mwhite@metroguide.ca

FOR EDITORIAL INQUIRES CONTACT:

Crystal Murray 902 485-1990

crystalmurray@advocateprinting.com

At Home on the North Shore

Published four times per year by: Advocate Media Inc., 2882 Gottingen St., Halifax, N.S. B3K 3E2

Subscriptions: 1-877-885-6344

Subscriptions are non-refundable. If a subscription needs to be cancelled, where applicable, credits can be applied to other Metro Guide Publishing titles (East Coast Living, Unravel Halifax or Saltscapes). Please note that each circumstance is unique and election to make an offer in one instance does not create obligation to do so in another.

Printed by: Advocate Printing & Publishing, 181 Browns Point Rd., Pictou, N.S. B0K 1H0 902 485-1990

Canada Post Publications Mail Agreement No. 40064799

PHOTO BY STEVE SMITH, VISIONFIRE STUDIOS

Healthy At Home

With

the Wall Pictou gallery owner Vivianne LaRiviere followed her artist calling

Library Sarah Butland reviews Whit Fraser’s Cold Edge of Heaven

SWAP A SWEET FAMILY FAVOURITE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

BY CRYSTAL MURRAY PHOTOS BY STEVE SMITH, VISIONFIRE STUDIOS

It’s that time of year to swap treats with family and friends. Ever wondered how to improve on a brownie? Well, with layers of course. This two-layered brownie was always a treat at my gramma’s house. In fact, it was the first recipe that my mum learned to make when she was a little girl. Making these brownies brought me right back to my gramma’s kitchen and her pantry where she always had tins of treats. This holiday season, why not bring out an old family favourite and share your own sweet story.

GRAMMA’S TWO-LAYERED BROWNIES

INGREDIENTS

½ cup of shortening or margarine (I use butter)

1 cup white sugar

2 eggs

½ cup of milk with 1 tbsp of white vinegar

1 cup of white flour (if you use GF flour, make sure it contains xantham gum)

1 tsp baking powder

½ tsp salt

1 tsp vanilla extract

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Beat butter and sugar, add eggs and mix well. Add dry ingredients and milk. Mix well.

2. Divide mixture in half. In one half stir in 3 tbsp of cocoa powder. Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts if desired.

3. Pour chocolate batter into a prepared 8x8 pan. Top with white batter.

4. Bake for 30 minutes at 350 °F

5. Let cool and ice with your favourite frosting.

editor’s LETTER

Seven years ago, when we launched At Home on the North Shore, I had no idea this little publication would become such an important part of my life. Every issue opened a new window of wonder in my community and in many ways has helped define who I am today. I have learned more about this place I call home than any other time in my life. I have had the privilege of meeting amazing individuals and families, many of them starting as strangers who I would now consider friends. I’ve had the opportunity to work with talented writers, photographers and designers who have inspired my own creative passions and have influenced my work with other publications in our media group.

It has been a lot of work to grow At Home into the publication it is today, and I know it has been a labour of love for everyone on our team. That’s why it is so hard to say goodbye.

They say that everything has a season. In the last few months, I have started to consider the next chapter of my own story. I have reached an age and stage where one does stop to contemplate such things.

The last few years have been a challenging time for many sectors and the publishing world has not escaped the impacts of our changing economy. It costs more to do just about everything these days, including the production and printing of this magazine. We are all evaluating how we do things and it’s rare to come out on the other side of the exercise with an answer being anything but change.

The editorial mission of At Home has always been clear. We celebrate what makes us unique on the north shore of Nova Scotia. I’ve been told this publication has been a tool for recruitment to our region and plays a small part in the health of this community. This is something that gives me great pride and has always fuelled our purpose. While the print version of At Home will take a pause so our team can explore other ways of sharing the stories that have made At Home so special we will continue to find other platforms to continue the celebration. It seems fitting to announce the retirement of the print edition as we head into the holidays. At Home has been a gift in my life and I hope it has also been a gift to you.

I want to thank our loyal readers, subscribers and advertising partners who have supported this project over the last seven years. We are endlessly grateful to the people who have opened their homes, shared their dreams and vision.

There is a lot of unfinished business with this departure. We live in an incredible part of the world with rich histories and traditions, but more important are the stories yet to be told, led by a new generation of leaders who see our world through a different lens.

We leave you with a lovely collection of stories that captures the beauty of another season and will continue to remind us that everyone is welcome and feels At Home on the North Shore.

Until we meet again.

PHOTO BY NORTHOVER PHOTOGRAPHY

LORI McKAY, associate editor, has been working as a magazine and newspaper editor/writer for more than 20 years. She has an MFA in creative nonfiction and a journalism degree from the University of King’s College. She lives in Dartmouth but spends much of her summer at her family’s cottage in Pictou County. In this issue, Lori chats with Nicole Church, owner of Oliver Meadows in Tatamagouche, about how to decorate your home with natural greenery.

STEVE SMITH

Welcome winter 2022, and with it the latest At Home on the North Shore Inside we are featuring some truly spectacular home renovations, the charismatic woman behind Jost Vineyard, and an exciting artist newly settled in Pictou. And those are just some highlights. Lastly, a postFiona pro tip: magazines still work when the power is out! Keep a fresh stack around. Enjoy!

SARAH BUTLAND

TRACY STUART trained as a whole foods chef and also holds a Master of Science, Bachelor of Physical Education; she is a two-time World Champion and Olympic Bronze Medallist in rowing. In this issue, Tracy makes a “healthier version” of sticky toffee pudding.

Surviving Hurricane Fiona was an adventure and reading Cold Edge of Heaven with its Arctic storms, mental anguish and dashes of romance helped Sarah Butland endure. Winter is coming and Whit Fraser’s newest novel helps us realize storms are all about perspective.

TRISH JOUDREY, an ardent world adventurer and hiker, has uncovered some of her top hiking trails right here on Nova Scotia’s North Shore. In this article, Trish explores the immense task confronting us to restore our trails to where they were pre-Fiona. When her hiking boots are away, she writes, plays the piano, or plans for her next adventure from her home in Halifax. trishjoudreytravels.com

SHELLEY CAMERON-McCARRON is a long-time freelance writer who grew up on Cape Breton Island’s western coast, where she fondly remembers the days of Christmas past, baking, decorating, sledding and fighting her brothers for time to pour over the pages of the “Wish Book.” In this issue, she visits the owners of a Christmas tree farm to learn about their farmhouse kitchen renovation and their love of Christmas. She also sits down with members of the Tuesdays at Two book club to soak in the magic of friendship and love of literature.

COLLEEN THOMPSON is an award-winning writer and photographer based in Halifax. With more than 1,000 bylines, her work has been published across the U.S. and Canada. She favours writing about food and drink and the storytelling behind it. In this issue, she interviews Donna Sparkes, co-owner of Jost Vineyards. Instagram @monkeyweddings

COLIN COOK is a local Canadian contemporary artist and entrepreneur and is one of Nova Scotia’s most exciting and innovative artists. He is dedicated to creating striking pieces of art, full of passion, beauty, and excellence. Art that speaks to your soul. Colin is exclusively represented by The Hidden Gallery of Westville Nova Scotia. colincook.ca

NICOLE LEBLANC

is a communications professional, a passionate community volunteer, and current town councillor who loves DIY. She lives in Trenton with her husband and beloved dog. When she’s not getting crafty, she can be found exploring Nova Scotia, meeting new people, and being involved in projects that make our communities better.

MELANIE MOSHER

The change of seasons and the Winter Solstice have Melanie looking back on the past year and envisioning the future as the new one approaches. Like Bob Bancroft and Alice Reed, she strives to keep the beauty of nature, and its vulnerability, in mind as she contemplates. Mosher’s work has also appeared in East Coast Living and Saltscapes melaniemosher.com

DENISE FLINT has been a freelance journalist for more than 20 years. She has lived in many different places and last year left her cedar shack overlooking the ocean in Newfoundland for an ancient farmhouse on a river in Nova Scotia. She loves old buildings (obviously) and has really enjoyed following the transformation of the foundry into a home.

BRIANA CORR SCOTT is an illustrator and author who lives in an old house in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. She makes art celebrating the beauty of the natural world by creating gouache illustrations, paper doll kits and picture books. brianacorrscott.com

BRUCE MURRAY has been creating food and lifestyle photography for more than 20 years in the Maritimes and in his original studio in Vancouver. visionfire.ca @VisionFire

PHOTO: STEVE SMITH, VISIONFIRE STUDIOS

TUESDAYS AT TWO

BY SHELLEY CAMERON-MCCARRON PHOTOS BY STEVE SMITH, VISIONFIRE STUDIOS

For 15 years, 14 women from Pictou County have had a standing date with intrigue, drama, suspense and surprise on the last Tuesday of every month. While together, they open their lives to scores of good books and each other.

It’s been wonderful, say members of “Tuesdays at Two,” or T@T book club, whose name derives from their meeting time.

“I love this book club,” says Corinne Cameron, who echoes fellow members’ sentiments of how inspired they are by the quality of books, the love of reading, thoughtful discussion and friendships that have followed suit.

“It is a real book club. By that I mean everyone reads the book and contributes to the discussion,” says Corinne. “Unlike some book clubs that are known to use the club as a guise for a ‘social’ gathering, we meet to share meaningful, thoughtful responses to whatever book has been selected. And the books selected cover a wide variety of genres.

“Although we may not all have the same reaction to a book, I admire the respect we have for each opinion and each other. We are good listeners as well as good talkers. We are friends.”

They didn’t even let COVID-19 lockdowns disturb their meetings. During that time, they turned to Zoom.

“We’re pretty serious about this,” jokes Shirley MacIntosh. “We’re not going to let a pandemic stop us from reading.”

THICK AND THIN

“It’s been a pleasure through thick and thin, COVID and Zoom,” says Heather Coll. “I think that our greatest assets have been our sense of humour and genuine support and care for one another.”

Tuesdays at Two has been a most varied, interesting time through the years, she says. The choices of books, venues, special events, and planning have been accomplished with thought, discussion and in an agreeable manner.

The club currently has 14 members: Olive Corning, Catherine Freeborn, Joan Wallace, Jane Williams, Claire Osgood, Lily DeYoung, Pat Lord, Lynne Sheridan, Shirley MacIntosh, Corinne Cameron, Vivian Farrell, Heather Coll, Jill Skinner and Celine Papillon.

Members range in age from 65 to 85 and the group typically take turns hosting.

They host several annual special events, such as inviting an author for an afternoon get-together, a Christmas party, and a full-day adventure at a member’s place on Pictou Island. October is usually a book-movie combo, where they read the book and then watch the movie (always in that order).

From the opening pages of An Audience of Chairs by Joan Clark in June 2007 (their first book) to the last chapter of Dead Wake, The Last Crossing of the Lusitania by Erik Larsen (their latest read at interview time), the books have provided stimulating discussion.

BRING YOURSELF TO THE CONVERSATION

“Over time, I think we developed real trust with each,” says Lynne Sheridan, who notes how members have tackled serious and touchy themes in a variety of books over the years. Indeed, a member could pick a subject without knowing someone else may be sensitive about the issue.

“You bring yourself to the conversation, you have to have that trust to talk of some of life’s challenges,” she says. “As a group of women of similar age and

From author events, plot twists, support and shared camaraderie, the T@T book club has been inspiring and connecting members for 15 years

often similar life experience, we’ve been around the block… We’ve brushed up against life’s challenges over the years. We bring that to the table, and we like that about ourselves.”

While they didn’t all know each other when the club started, a real camaraderie exists today.

“Friendship is big for me,” says Pat Lord, who notes the group’s strong bond.

and Bangkok, first broached the idea after she moved to Pictou County and became friends with Claire Osgood. Claire knew a lot of people and thought it could work.

Around the same time, Pat spoke with Lynne about starting a book club, and when she learned of their thoughts, she was on board too.

The group started with 12 members and took a few months to get its mojo, they

to see Linden MacIntyre at an event, and have attended events like Read by the Sea, where they saw Vincent Lam.

Pat says one reason they host an author event is it’s a great chance to learn the author’s point of view. “We’ve talked about their book, and we’re curious… What was their perspective?”

“We’re not afraid to be bold in asking people to come,” says Lynne.

About 90 percent of what they read is fiction.

The Rose Code was a huge success. As was Three Cups of Tea, A Gentleman in Moscow, Being Mortal, and Bridge of Clay “That was a challenging book,” says Olive. The author said you’d feel like you’d be run over by a truck at the end, and that’s how we felt, she says. “It prompted a lot of discussion.”

Some read hard copies of the books, some listen to audio, and some do both.

“I say all the time we have the best book club in the world,” says Lynne.

“Self-esteem is not an issue,” jokes Lily.

AUTHOR WISH LIST

What author would they like most to meet?

“Amor Towles,” the group says, almost in unison, on the creative force behind A Gentleman in Moscow and The Lincoln Highway.

“And Isabel Allende. She’s of our generation,” someone says. “And somewhat outrageous,” adds another. “And irreverent. She’d stay all night.”

Also appealing? The really good books they read says Olive Corning. “It’s stimulating and we like that challenge.”

Lily DeYoung notes there’s rigour to the club you can’t fake it. Members need to be committed and this keeps people cohesive.

Their collective love of books is an appealing feature, plus having a hard deadline to finish a book provides motivation.

GETTING STARTED

Lynne, who’d been in a book club in London, On. and started ones in Halifax

say. Today, membership is split almost evenly between original members and those who’ve joined over the years.

AUTHOR PERSPECTIVE

Every year, Tuesdays at Two invite authors for an afternoon event. This past July, they enjoyed “a wonderful afternoon” with cookbook author and Cape Breton native Mary Janet MacDonald, who made chocolate sundae pudding and bread pudding with a butterscotch sauce.

Over the years, they’ve welcomed the likes of George Elliott Clarke, Sheree Fitch, Sheldon Currie and Linda Little. They went

Club members have had varied careers, from education to health care to real estate. “We have a lot of different qualities,” says Jane Williams.

“Everyone is so respectful,” adds Joan Wallace.

Claire says one thing she likes about the book club is that members read books they might never have picked on their own. Plus, the discussion always brings a new way to look at the book.

“You don’t have to like every book,” says Olive.

“We didn’t like every book,” adds Pat. “But I never regret that I read them.”

Author Pauline Dakin and the Tuesdays at Two book club.

’Tis

season for green

BY LORI MCKAY

For Nicole Church, owner of Oliver Meadows, a seasonal fresh-cut flower business in Tatamagouche, this is the time of year she changes her focus from flower arrangements to creating all-natural winter décor.

Church started Oliver Meadows in the spring of 2020 when everything was shut down due to COVID. She often found herself walking around her yard cutting flowers and putting them in little jars for her house.

“One day I was looking at my flowers and thinking about the joy they brought to me during the difficult time of isolation,” says Church. “I wanted to spread this joy to others, so I decided to sell jars of flowers as part of the online Tatamagouche

Farmers’ Market, as it was closed for inperson shopping.”

Eventually, she started selling outside the market too. In summer, she sells wildflowers mixed with flowers she has around her property, including those grown in her newly built 20-by-40-foot greenhouse.

In September, she makes wreaths from the flowers she grew, foraged and dried during the summer. When October rolls around, she still has enough fresh flowers to make pumpkin arrangements for Thanksgiving tables. Then, in November, she begins making evergreen containers and dried flower ornaments for the holidays.

“I shift what I’m making with what the season has to offer,” says Church. “I love

feeling so in harmony with nature.”

Nothing says the holidays like the smell of fresh pine. From door wreaths and fresh trees to table arrangements, boughs and ornaments, this is the season to bring outdoor greenery into the home.

the

When it comes to making arrangements with evergreens, she says the possibilities are endless.

“You can use something as small as a vintage teapot or as large as an outdoor urn or planter, or anything in between,” she adds.

Church prefers to use containers that offer a sentimental attachment and loves to spruce up things like decorative lanterns the ones with glass windows and a door with a few pieces of pine or cedar.

“It isn’t hard to find fresh greenery for making arrangements,” says Church, noting that most people have some fir and pine growing around their yards. “We have a

large piece of property on the mountain so that is where we go to cut fir and pine. I also love using cedar. It’s not native to Nova Scotia so you won’t find it in the wild, but it’s common as a decorative bush in many yards.”

She suggests using a mix of different evergreens to create more texture and intrigue but warns against using red spruce for indoor arrangements, as it can have an unpleasant smell when cut and brought inside.

“It’s also important to be sustainable by not cutting entire limbs or more than you need at a time. Remember to always use sharp

and clean pruners (a quick spray of rubbing alcohol will do the trick) to keep the tree healthy and avoid potential spreading of disease.”

Other natural elements that can help take your festive arrangement to the next level include pinecones, red dogwood, birch branches, holly and Ilex berries.

“You can get creative and use anything you see in nature,” says Church, who sometimes uses dried flowers to add some texture and interest. She suggests golden rod, grasses, cat tails and Queen Anne’s lace pods. “I’ve even used branches of pussy willows that I’d gathered during the previous spring.”

Making your own evergreen container is simple!

1. Find a vessel you love. For a larger container or urn, you will need larger boughs and small boughs for smaller containers. You might find it helpful to use floral foam to hold the boughs in place (and hydrate) for smaller arrangements. Or, as a more sustainable alternative, you can use a small square of chicken wire balled up inside the container. This will help your boughs stay in place as you add them. Just make sure to add water if using this method.

2. Keep adding boughs until you fill your container. A balanced arrangement has some height in the middle and then smaller pieces around the outside. Take a step back when you think you are almost done and check for empty holes and to assess the overall shape. Don’t over think it. Beautiful arrangements don’t need to be symmetrical or perfectly balanced.

3. Next, find some natural elements to add and give it some interest. It’s nice to cluster things like pinecones in threes. Keep stepping back and assessing what else it might need until you’re happy with the final look.

4. Finally, if it is an outside container, you can add some warm white lights to bring it to life. If using it inside, battery string lights are great. Just tuck them in evenly throughout. It helps to add the lights at night so you can make sure they are evenly distributed.

With over 50 shops and services, Truro Mall is the one-stop-shop for all your gift giving needs!

Visit our website for holiday hours, promotions and event listings.

SUPPLIED BY NICOLE CHURCH

Create a winter wonderland

Growing up, Nicole Church’s mother always made evergreen arrangements for both sides of their front doorway and decorated the deck posts with fresh wreaths and white lights.

“It felt like a big warm hug around our home and when it snowed those big, fat flakes, they would gently land on the boughs and light up beautifully,” says Church. “It was magical.”

She says her mother’s number one trick when arranging lights is to squint your eyes when assessing your lights. “Try it… it works!”

Tips for making evergreens last

• Cut fresh boughs (rather than ones that may have been on the ground for a long time)

• When left outside, there’s no need to keep boughs or arrangements in water. The cold and snow are enough to make them last for weeks, even months

• Keep indoor arrangements and wreaths hydrated by watering and/or misting the boughs. Floral foam can be used

• The colder the boughs stay, the longer they last. Keep arrangements away from a heat source like a wood stove or heat pump. You can also move them to a cold area like a porch, basement, garage or even outside at night, and bring them back in during the day

McCulloch House Escape Room

An historically themed adventure game requiring you to uncover hidden clues, crack codes and solve puzzles to unravel the mystery, but hurry, the clock is ticking!

Choose from multiple storylines such as:

A POISONOUS EDUCATION

$20 per person, 60-minute game | 2 person minimum, age 13+

HAUNTING OF SHERBROOKE COTTAGE

$20 per person, 60-minute game | 2 person minimum, age 13+

SEEK TO FIND AND STOP THE TIME

Youth game for 12 and under | $10 per person, 60-minute game 2 person minimum, must include 1 chaperone

Games are run year round, weather permitting! Check our website for details and other storylines.

https://mccullochcentre.ca/escape-room

Call 902 485 4563 to book your game

ASK ABOUT OUR NEW HISTORY, MYSTERY AND LOCAL FLAVOURS PROMOTION

100 Haliburton Road, Pictou, NS

BY

OFF the WALL

New town, new life, old dreams

Pictou gallery owner followed her artist calling

Vivianne LaRiviere describes herself as “a wild, Bohemian person” and she has certainly been a lot of things in her life. Waitress, grief councillor, retail worker, chaplain, musician and grad student (she has two master’s degrees and a doctorate!), and probably many other things besides.

But through it all, jobs she hated and jobs she loved, she’s been an artist.

Now, LaRiviere’s put that passion on the front burner by opening a gallery in Pictou to showcase her work. How she got to that point seems to be, like a lot of her life, both convoluted and simple. If that’s a contradiction, it’s probably a mantle she’s comfortable wearing.

Originally from Quebec, LaRiviere felt she had come to a turning point in her life as she was finishing up her studies to become a Doctor of Ministry, which she had begun at the age of 50. She was living in a small town just outside Montreal and realized she wasn’t cut out for general ministry, even as she wished to continue a life of service. What did she want to do next?

It was then that she thought of Nova Scotia. She had visited the province 20 years before and thought to herself, “I’m going to live here someday.” What better time to explore that possibility? It seemed serendipitous when she learned about NSCAD while googling art schools, and she had an application submitted within a couple of days. When she was admitted, her course seemed set. She would move to Halifax and pursue her lifelong love of art.

Then COVID hit. The college was happy to defer her entrance, but even then, she was beginning to have doubts about her plans. For one thing, renting a place in Halifax was going to be a lot more expensive than she’d anticipated. Was this truly what she wanted?

She was still committed to moving to Nova Scotia, but she started looking elsewhere in the province. Nothing seemed right until she saw a little bungalow in Pictou. She now believes it was meant to be.

“When I put the deal in, a calm came over me. I felt the spirit; I watched the sun go down and thought ‘what’s going on?’” she says.

LaRiviere did end up taking a couple of art courses online, but she soon realized her focus was elsewhere. She decided to combine her love of art and her retail experience, and several months after moving to Pictou, she opened The River Gallery on Water Street. The space is dominated by her own work. Her oil paintings are semi-abstract, with colour rampant and, often, faces emerging from the centre she calls her works “moods personified.” That may seem a little unusual in a town where retailers rely heavily on tourism dollars, but as a tour guide once said to her, just because this is the Maritimes, doesn’t mean there isn’t room for more than just seascapes and other water-focused work on our walls.

“There’s a lot of beautiful art in the country. I’m not going to paint a ship on the sea,” she says, adding that variety leads to a flourishing scene.

The gallery also features the work of some outstanding artisans, including probably the most comfortable rocking chair in

DENISE FLINT

PHOTOS BY STEVE SMITH, VISIONFIRE STUDIOS

existence completely hand-crafted and put together without a single nail which sits in a welcoming position by the door.

Another chair is draped with Turkish cotton bath towels, soft and light as air. There is wooden tableware, smooth as glass and naturally patterned, and intricately painted wooden furniture.

The shop also carries books, vinyl records and a line of natural care products like soap and deodorant that LaRiviere designed. Toward the rear of the store sits a fish tank to help keep everything serene. And with a studio for working on her paintings in the back, LaRiviere has everything she needs for the necessary creation of both art and an income stream.

She says things have exceeded her expectations, as her gallery, her wares and her client list grow organically.

With no partner, children or other family, LaRiviere is free to do as she wishes. It’s how she was able to move to Nova Scotia

on what might be considered a whim. But that doesn’t mean she doesn’t have a feeling of responsibility.

LaRiviere has thrown herself into the community. For example, when Fiona hit, as soon as she realized she was personally OK and her house was still standing, she presented herself at the warming centre to volunteer. She guesses she contributed to preparing 1,000 meals over the next week. She also raised $2,700 through a GoFundMe campaign to buy gas and gift cards for seniors affected by the storm.

In fact, all her art is informed by her commitment to community. She sees it as a way of making connections, something she values immensely. And she seems to be thriving.

“How do we define success?” LaRiviere asks. “Sell one painting or sell 100? Doing what I want is success. This is one last kick at the can to be my own artist.”

Artist Vivianne LaRiviere at her studio in Pictou.

BY COLLEEN THOMPSON

PHOTOS BY STEVE SMITH, VISIONFIRE STUDIOS

Within the first 10 minutes of meeting Donna Sparkes, co-owner of Jost Vineyards,

I knew this would be about as much fun as one could have on a Tuesday morning. Her Newfoundland roots, combined with an infectious ease, made me feel like we’d been friends for years.

We sat slurping chowder and sipping an aromatic Mercator Tidal Bay in the Seagrape Café at the vineyard. I hear stories about her remarkable life, relayed in an easy cadence, and how she and her husband, Carl Sparkes, have amassed a portfolio of world-class wines from their corner of the world on the shores of the Northumberland Strait.

I remark that, as far as I can tell, I’ve never seen an interview or profile piece written exclusively about her before. This surprised me, given that Donna and Carl Sparkes are the owners of not only Jost, but also Gaspereau and Mercator vineyards in the Annapolis Valley, as well as The Mercantile Social restaurant in downtown Halifax.

There have been, in fact, other articles.

“A newspaper in Newfoundland did a feature on me in 2014, and the last question they asked me was, ‘Who would you most like to have lunch with?’ and I said John Cleese,” laughs Donna. “So, last year, when he came to Halifax to perform at the Rebecca Cohn, I got a copy of the article, circled my answer, and sent it to his people along with a note, asking if he would like to meet me for lunch. And he said yes! So, we met at The Mercantile on Hollis Street. What I thought would be an hour’s lunch ended up being the entire afternoon. He was such a riot and just as funny in real life as he is in Fawlty Towers and Monty Python.”

But being in the media is not particularly Donna’s style. Instead, she prefers the sanctity of her vineyards in Malagash and the Annapolis Valley. She’s more interested in engaging one-on-one, paying meticulous detail to all aspects of the enormous wine and hospitality business she’s helped build, and giving props to her team at every opportunity.

She introduces me to winemaker Gina Haverstock.

“She’s the real star of the show and the person you need to write a story about,” says Donna. “Gina is our head winemaker, and she is just incredible. I think she’s done much to put Nova Scotia wines on the map. She’s like a little Energizer battery bunny.”

It’s harvest time and the winery’s busiest time of the year. Still, in muddy rain boots, her sleeves stained with grape juice, Gina is beaming. Despite the devastation from Hurricane Fiona, where 50 tons of grapes were lost, it has been an excellent harvest, and they will emerge victorious from this very challenging year.

The production from all three vineyards is now mainly concentrated at Jost Vineyards, where the umbrella company, Devonian Coast Wineries, produces 90 different wines from 150 acres of vineyards. This is an astounding achievement, given that the Sparkes have only been in the wine business since 2011.

“When I married Carl 36 years ago, he told me it would never be boring. And my God, he was right,” says Donna.

Born and raised in Newfoundland, each of them from families of six children, the couple met in Halifax in 1984. Carl was a geologist studying for his MBA, and Donna, with a background in writing and TV, had just been made the creative director of C100/CJCH. As they built their lives and careers, the Sparkes moved across Canada, including a stint in Toronto for 12 years as Carl took on executive positions at Canada Bread, Oliveri Pasta, and later Bento Sushi. But at their core, they remained rooted to the Maritimes.

“Wine has always been our passion,” says Donna. “When we travelled, it would be to explore wine regions worldwide.” And at last count, they have visited more than 400 wineries. “In 1989, we met wine merchant Marc Chapoutier at a wine dinner in Moncton, N.B. He sat at our table, and we spent the night talking about wine. He said, ‘If you’re ever in France, stop by the winery.’ And we did exactly that,” laughs Donna.

“He was very gracious and showed us all aspects of the Chapoutier Winery in the Tain-l’Hermitage region in the Rhône Valley. He introduced us to his brother Michel, who was the winemaker. It was just gorgeous and historical, and the wines

were fantastic. Chapoutier also connected us with a few other wineries to visit on that trip, including Georges Deboeuf. The whole experience affirmed our passion for wine. After the visit to Deboeuf, Carl said, ‘We’re going to own a winery one day. Twenty-three years later, here we are at Jost about to celebrate the winery’s 40th anniversary next year.”

In 2011, when Jost came onto the market, it was the perfect fit for the Sparkes, so they purchased the winery, along with Gaspereau Vineyards, and moved back to Nova Scotia to start life in the wine business.

“Jost was exactly what we were looking for,” says Donna. “We knew we could take this beautiful, family-run boutique winery that Hans Christian Jost had built and elevate and expand it into a world-class winery. But it was a massive undertaking, and we hit the ground running from day one. The wine business is difficult, and there are many moving parts. Ultimately, we’re in the agricultural business and always at the mercy of the elements,” she says.

Donna juggles hundreds of tasks daily and wears many different hats. But, she will tell you, without skipping a beat, that what she loves the most is meeting people.

“There is this vast chain of people in this business. From customers visiting the winery and eating in the restaurant to our team, our suppliers, and marketers. I love the interaction,” she says.

When lunch is over, I’ve lost count of how many Jost staff members Donna has enthusiastically introduced me to. It feels natural and authentic. Carl also stops by the table, and Donna introduces us, telling him I am from South Africa.

“I first told Colleen we had never travelled to South Africa. But then, a few minutes later, I remembered we had. What is wrong with me!? We loved South Africa,” she says, scrolling through her phone and holding up photographs of Stellenbosch vineyards, penguins in Simonstown, and a safari at Sabi Sabi.

“How can you forget that? It was one of our favourite trips,” laughs Carl.

“I know, I know. I feel like my brain is firing at a hundred miles an hour, and I am going off on a tangent,” she laughs.

Many countries and countless stories. It’s been a busy life.

Donna Sparkes and winemaker Gina Haverstock.

Donna takes me on a winery tour, pointing out the extensive renovations, craftsmanship and dedication to detail. Wood from 100-year-old barrels was rescued, restored, and incorporated throughout, including the solid wood tasting table she asked me to try and lift. The cellars below are a bustle of activity: pressing, barrelling. The air is waft of musty-woodyFinally, the new harvest is a brand new vintage of wines is being produced.

We head outside to stroll amongst

Within the first 10 minutes of meeting Donna Sparkes, co-owner of Jost Vineyards, I knew this would be about as much fun as one could have on a Tuesday morning.

the bucolic vineyards, and Donna tells me to brace myself. “It’s like walking onto the set of The Hunger Games,” she says. And within seconds, I understand what she means. Loudspeakers strategically placed on poles all over the vineyards are belting out wolf calls that echo across the landscape.

The birds can decimate an entire vineyard, so this is a deterrent to some extent. As we stroll down the paths that cut through the vineyards, we pick the sweet violet grapes hanging from clusters left on the vines to concentrate their sugars. Rows and rows of vines, Donna points to the names of each, Marechal Foch, Leon Millot, Seyval Blanc.

“This is my vine,” she says, pointing to a gnarled old growth that has twisted around an electrical pole, dripping in purple-black grapes. “This is the one they leave for me to pick every year. It’s a race against the critters, but it’s incredibly gratifying when I get to pick.”

We continue walking past the original old farmhouse on the property. A beautiful black-and-white structure oozes character and charm, and I suggest turning it into an inn. “I’m trying to simplify my life, not add more,” says Donna. “It would make a great museum, though. We have so many beautiful old pieces from the winery that should be displayed.”

It’s settled, then an inn and a museum.

Support Aberdeen Health Foundation in your Will

YOU’VE ALWAYS FOUND WAYS TO SUPPORT HEALTH CARE

A REVIEW BY SARAH BUTLAND

A STORY OF LOVE AND MURDER IN CANADA’S ARCTIC, BY WHIT FRASER

This is a beautiful tale that started slowly but evolved into a page-turner as author Whit Fraser turns up the drama surrounding the fictional story of Will Grant and his fellow RCMP comrades. Fraser, a native of Pictou County, was inspired to write the story after a visit to the abandoned RCMP station on Devon Island in the Northwest Territories.

Set in the desolate Arctic in 1924, Will and his fellow officers were tasked with making Canada’s mark of sovereignty over the far north. Readers gain insight into the drastic conditions and challenges of life in Canada’s frozen landscape, and the inevitable clash of cultures between the RCMP and the Inuit in this epically Canadian tale.

His writing style reminded me of the great Farley Mowat. Fraser was able to weave thrills, romance and historical moments throughout this book in a wonderful way that kept me entertained.

With members of the Inuit community hired as guides, Will was eager to adapt, connect and explore. His fellow officers weren’t as excited to embrace the traditional ways of living and quickly showed signs of trouble, distress and aggression.

While Will was the main character, my heart was with Pudlu, one of the guides, and then equally matched with Naudla. Pudlu and Will connected quickly over a game of chess and gained a level of mutual respect. The

spark was ignited immediately for Will when he first saw Naudla, though he refrained from acting on it, and tried his best to hide his feelings as Naudla was married with two children. Her entire family husband, young children and brother, Pudlu were guides and hunters. Pudlu was the only one who spoke English and acted as translator.

With aspects of religion, touches of humour and some unusual murders to solve, Fraser was able to combine everything into a unique story of adventure and beautiful, while heartbreaking, history. This story includes misadventures too, with avalanches, frostbite and the death of two officers. While the tale is set nearly a century ago, the storms that rage throughout are still relevant today. We can certainly learn a lot of history through fiction and storytelling and Fraser has great skill in writing this style of story.

Fraser has travelled to every corner and most communities from Labrador to Alaska, experiencing the unforgiving but beautiful Canadian north firsthand, including Devon Island. But he always comes back to his home in Pictou. He has an impressive resumé as a journalist, award-winning author and vice-regal consort of Canadian Governor General Mary Simon. Cozy up by the fire this winter and feel the chill of this noteworthy piece of historical fiction.

PORK SHOP

HolidaY

finds for the North Shore

PETITE PATRIE CHOCOLATE

EWE YARNS

NIMBUS PUBLISHING

NORTHERN WATTERS

ROUSSEAU CHOCOLATIER

Enjoy skillfully handcrafted chocolates made with the finest sustainable chocolate and many of Nova Scotia’s natural resources! Handmade from wholesome ingredients, real fruits and free of any artificial preservatives. 5151 South Street, Halifax, NS rousseauchocolatier.ca

LakeCity Works is a non-profit organization in Dartmouth, NS which was founded forty years ago to support individuals living with mental illness. Visit LakeCity Works at 386 Windmill Rd, Dartmouth shop.lakecityworks.ca

EARTHLINE JEWELRY

NOËL & CO.

three candles

With 28 scents to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect candle for everyone on your list! Fashioned from clean burning coconut soy wax and natural wooden wicks, every Noël & Co. candle is carefully hand poured and crafted in Nova Scotia. noelandco.ca

MINERS APPAREL FOR MEN

Gift giving made easy this year. From lounge wear to dress shirts, shaving kits to underwear, and all your accessories.

Shop Miners Apparel For Men.

PUBLISHING LOW ROAD FOREVER

TARA THORNE

CHARTON HOBBS

GLENMORANGIE ORIGINAL $69.12

First released more than 175 years ago by our founders, Glenmorangie Original is known for its mellow tones and delicacy of flavour. Available at NSLC

CHARM DIAMOND CENTRES

DAZZLING PENDANT

Specially priced at $1499 (until December 24, 2022)

Glacier Fire Canadian Diamond Pendant .40 carat glistening Canadian diamond pendant set in white gold. charmdiamonds.com

ACORN PRESS

P.O. Box 22024, Charlottetown, PE | p: 902 221-1061 email: info@acornpresscanada.com | www.acornpresscanada.com Facebook: @acornpresscanada | Instagram: @acornpress Twitter: @AcornPress

ANNE OF GREEN GABLES CHOCOLATES

15 Milky Way, Charlottetown, PEI | p: 902 370-2697 www.annechocolates.com | Facebook: @AnneofGreenGablesChocolates

ANTHER & APIARY

8 Dominion St., Truro, NS B2N3N8 | p: 902 895-2790 email: info@antherapiary.com | www.antherapiary.com Instagram: @anther.apiary | Facebook: @antherapiaries

APPLETON CHOCOLATES CO.

261 Main St, Tatamagouche, NS | p: 902 657-2233 www.appletonchocolates.ca | Facebook: @appletonchocolates

ATLANTIC NEWS

5560 Morris St, Halifax, NS | p: 902 429-5468 www.atlanticnews.ns.ca | Facebook: @AtlanticNewsstand Instagram: @atlanticnews | Twitter: @magsstore

BEARLOOM TEDDIES

Dartmouth, Nova Scotia | p: 902 221-6716 email: bearloomteddies@hotmail.com | www.bearloomteddies.com

CELTIC SISTERS GIFTS

13138 104 Trans Canada Highway, Aulds Cove, NS | p: 902 747-2244 www.celticsistersgifts.ca | Facebook: @celticsistersgifts

CHARM DIAMOND CENTRES

www.charmdiamondcentres.com | Facebook: @CharmDiamonds Instagram: @charmdiamonds

CHARTON HOBBS

106 Chain Lake Dr #2C, Halifax, NS | p: 902 422-8258 www.chartonhobbs.com

EARTHLINE JEWELRY

Sunnyside Mall, 1595 Bedford Hwy, Bedford, NS | p: 902 830-6782 www.earthlinejewelry.com | Facebook: @EarthlineJewelry

Vendor directorY

GOOSE LANE EDITIONS

500 Beaverbrook Ct., Fredericton, NB | p: 506 450-4251 www.gooselane.com | Facebook: @GooseLaneEditions

IVAN’S CAMERAS & AV

181 St. George St, Moncton, NB | p: 506 857-4018 www.ivanscamera.com | Facebook: @Ivans181

LAKECITY WORKS

386 Windmill Rd., Dartmouth, NS | p: 902 465-5000 www.shop.lakecityworks.ca | Facebook: @LakeCityWorks

LIGHT N LUSCIOUS BODY TREATS 2793 Nova Scotia Trunk 2, Shubenacadie, NS | p: 902 430-9967 Facebook: @lightnlusciousbodytreats

MINERS APPAREL FOR MEN

145 Provost St., New Glasgow, NS | p: 902 800-5019 www.minersclothing.ca | Facebook: @minersapparel

NATURAL EWE YARNS

173 Faulkland Street, Pictou NS p: 902 485-4863 | www.naturalewe.ca Facebook: @NaturalEwe | Instagram: @naturalewe

NIMBUS PUBLISHING

3660 Strawberry Hill St., Halifax, NS | p: 902 455-4286 www.nimbus.ca | Facebook: @nimbuspub Twitter: @NimbusPub | Instagram: @nimbuspub

NOËL & CO.

42 Southview Ave, Kentville, NS | p: 902 698-9005 www.noelandco.ca | Facebook: @NoelandCoStudio

NORTHERN WATTERS KNITWEAR & TARTAN SHOP

1869 Upper Water Street, Halifax, NS | p: 902-405-0488 150 Richmond St, Charlottetown, PEI | p: 800-565-9665 Pier 20, 1209 Marginal Rd Suite 115, Halifax, NS | p: 902-406-2050 www.nwknitwear.com

PETITE PATRIE CHOCOLATE

2 Webster St, Kentville, NS | p: 902 365-4004 www.petitepatriechocolate.com | Facebook: @patriechoco

PLEASURES N’ TREASURES

Halifax, Dartmouth, Lower Sackville, Truro, and Sydney

ROUSSEAU CHOCOLATIER

5151 South St., Halifax, NS | p: 902 802-6463 www.rousseauchocolatier.ca | Facebook: @RousseauChoco

TAKE IT OUTSIDE

65 Inglis Place, Truro, NS | 196 Hector Gate, Dartmouth Crossing, NS 1980 Vernon St, Halifax, NS | 50 Granite Dr, Moncton, NB www.takeitoutside.ca | Facebook: @TakeItOutsideInc

THE LITTLE SHOP BOX email: info@thelittleshopbox.com | www.thelittleshopbox.com Facebook: @thelittleshopbox | Instagram: @thelittleshopbox

THE PORK SHOP – Specialty Market & Deli 2578 Westville Rd., New Glasgow, NS p: 902 755-3260 | www.theporkshop.ca Facebook: @theporkshop

THE QUARTERDECK RESORT 7499 Lighthouse Rte #3, Port Mouton, NS | p: 1-800-565-1119 www.quarterdeck.ca | Facebook: @TheQuarterdeckResort

UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO PRESS www.utorontopress.com | Facebook: @utpress Twitter: @utpress | Instagram: @utpress Business the NHL Way | Book Trailer: youtu.be/TWkW-eRSVjw

WHITE POINT BEACH RESORT

75 White Point Beach Resort Rd., Hunts Point, NS | p: 902 354-2711 www.whitepoint.com | Facebook: @whitepointbeachresort

WinteRSolstice

BY MELANIE MOSHER | ILLUSTRATION BY BRIANA CORR SCOTT

The days begin to dim and the cold beckons us inside. Wrapping ourselves in a fuzzy blanket, we snuggle in, seeking warmth. The change of seasons is delightful to witness and the winter solstice, the marking of the sun wrapping up its own cycle, is worthy of celebration.

The December solstice is the shortest day and longest night of the year in the northern hemisphere. Earth has reached its maximum distance from the sun, receiving the least amount of sunlight. Applauded as the giver of light and life, the sun has completed a full solar year (the time it takes the sun to reappear in the same spot as seen from Earth). Darkness begins to give way to light, and this is reason to mark the occasion.

Nova Poirier, co-owner of Re-Earth lodge in Pictou County and leader of Re-Earth Spiritual Healing, honours the seasonal change each year with a special ceremony. She invites participants to join her.

“Winter solstice is one of the most important ritual times; the dying of the old solar year and the birthing of a new one,” Poirier explains. “At winter solstice we seek to renew life by feeding the darker aspects of our being into the gap that occurs between the worlds at the solar crossing. Solstice eve rituals engage us in the labours required to rebirth/renew ourselves and the world we live in.”

The practices vary from year to year but are mindful of all living beings.

“Trying to remember ourselves as part of the great cycle of things,” says Poirier. This practice of remembering is why she has named her facility the Re-Earth Lodge. She also considers the current happenings of the world around her. “The ritual is medicine work; trying to alleviate the suffering of the world.”

Happenings sometimes include offerings to a fire, with effigies of things that need to be released in order to move forward.

“We all have missteps, failings, and misgivings. This is a chance to acknowledge them and offer them up and reach deeper into

our humanity to do better,” she explains, describing it as a time to release burdens and seek resolution.

Marking the cycle of the sun has happened since the beginning of time.

“Our ancient ancestors all tracked these things,” says Poirier. Monuments such as Stonehenge (England), Chichen Itza (Mexico), and the Goseck circle (Germany) provide evidence of this.

Festivals and events throughout many cultures, and around the world, happen this time of year, including Yuletide and Christmas, marking the birth of the sun/son. Some celebrate with less formal ceremonies but still honour the solar event.

For Mary Beth Carty, a vocalist and musician in Antigonish, it also involves contemplation.

“Solstice is the most important calendar day for me,” says Carty. “It’s a great moment to reflect, put things in perspective, spend time in nature and reset for the next quarter! No matter what our religion or belief system, we can all celebrate the solstice.”

Music is a part of the festivities. For the past two years, she has been invited by the Canadian Parents for French Nova Scotia organization to host an online sing-along concert for families.

“The idea is that people can join in from the comfort of their own homes and practice singing. It’s so fun!”

Carty goes on to explain the value of music. “Sometimes we need to get out of our heads and away from chit-chat and just dance. Music has the power to take us to other dimensions, and it can change the mood from rumination to celebration. Get a beat going, whether you want to rile people up or calm their heart rates down. It’s all about the rhythm of the tunes. A bit of melody can’t hurt either.”

On a personal level, she uses the end of the sun’s arc over our sky to evaluate the year gone by and consider the new one approaching.

“I like to mark the day with a mountain hike and journalling, using the following prompts: ‘What do I want more of?’ and ‘What can

Time to celebrate another year around the sun

I leave behind?’” she explains. “In the evening, my friends and I often gather in the hills at a farm near Ohio, Antigonish County, and have an outdoor bonfire. There is something about bundling up and gazing at the stars and the flames that is so good for the soul.”

Regardless of whether your experience of the winter solstice is light and joyful or contemplative and full of thought, it is a time to honour our connection to the natural world and take notice of its beauty.

Ways to pay tribute to the winter solstice

Have a bonfire

Decorate a Yule tree

Drink a beverage such as mulled cider filled with warming spices like cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg

Wake early on the solstice to see the sunrise and feel the sensation of the sun’s warmth on your face

Journal your thoughts. What can you leave behind from the past year? What do you seek for the new cycle of the sun? Set your intentions for the new year

Create a meal of warming foods to eat on the evening of the solstice 9. Have a bath adding citrus essential oils to symbolize the energy of the sun 10. Craft something to honour the natural world such a wreath or swag. Use items around your yard or neighbourhood

Paint or draw the sun

Write a poem or song

Spend time outdoors to appreciate the beauty of nature

Notice the sky, the trees, the natural world around you

Meditate

Practice yoga

Gather with family and friends

Grilled BBQ Lobster Tails in Garlic Butter

Thaw the tails in the refrigerator overnight. Using scissors, cut a V-notch on the top of the lobster tail then insert your finger underneath the meat to lift the tail in the V. Place 1 tsp (5 ml) garlic butter in the cavity between the spine and the tail meat, and place a bit of garlic butter on the top of the tail.

Grill on the top rack of your barbecue and keep basting (indirect heat assuming 450 °F (230 °C) for 5 to 6 minutes). Flip it meat-side down for a few minutes to get grill marks, and finish it flipped back.

Oven-Baked Lobster Tails in

Garlic Butter

Thaw the tails in the refrigerator overnight. Using scissors, cut a V-notch on the top of the lobster tail then insert your finger underneath the meat to lift the tail in the V. Place 1 tsp (5 ml) garlic butter in the cavity between the spine and the tail meat, and place a bit of garlic butter on the top of the tail.

Bake in a 450 °F (230 °C) oven for approximately 5-6 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

BY SHELLEY CAMERON-MCCARRON

PHOTOS BY STEVE SMITH, VISIONFIRE STUDIOS

One can be forgiven for thinking they’ve stepped into a heartwarming Christmas movie set when entering Tracey and Scott MacKinnon’s 1860s farmhouse kitchen in Marydale, Antigonish County. After all, a glimpse out the back window reveals a barn where staff are busy making Christmas wreaths. A few steps beyond that is a balsam fir Christmas tree operation, where MacKinnon’s guests can wander into countryside scenery, perhaps with a family dog tagging along.

At the heart of the story is the hub of the home, the kitchen a character-rich, old English-style kitchen that the family recently renovated, finishing in June.

“This is really the centre of the home,” says Tracey, owner of the interior design firm TML Design Studio, and an avid Christmas decorator. (She’s been known to put up as many as seven trees around the rustic two-storey farmhouse!)

Scott runs the family business, Elite Balsam Products, which exports Balsam Fir Christmas trees, wreaths, brush and garland.

English-style kitchen reno adds charm to character-rich, century-old farmhouse

“Christmas dinner, Easter dinner, we host it here. We’d all be jammed in,” she says of the couple’s two teenagers and their extended family who gather often in the home where Scott and his three brothers grew up.

“It was treacherous,” she jokes. “Now we have so much more room.”

The kitchen hadn’t been renovated since 1985. It was brown, small and dark, Tracey says.

It was also a big job as it required structural change. So, while the home had updates over the years, it was waiting for its moment. A wall separated the original summer kitchen from a 1970s porch add-on; the ceiling was low, at just over 7.5 feet; and it needed insulation. It had zero.

“What it lacks in insulation, it makes up in character,” Tracey jokes.

Working with contractor Steve Doyle Construction who she says was fantastic they finished the reno in eight weeks. They raised the ceiling, removed the wall, put in a support beam, removed the dark pine cabinets, and added spray foam insulation under the floor, in the wall and the ceiling. “It will make a huge difference for us.”

A backstep in time for the holidays

Tracey MacKinnon in her newly renovated 1860s farmhouse kitchen in Marydale, Antigonish County.

Her design inspiration?

It started with an unlacquered brass English faucet she sourced from Perrin and Roe, which now holds pride of place over a wide sink below a kitchen window.

“That old English relaxed look appealed to me,” says Tracey. “As the brass ages, it gets this nice patina.”

A kitchen highlight is the large, custom-built unlacquered brass countertop that sits over the island at the room’s centre, surrounded by comfy bar stools. There’s a smaller sink also with an unlacquered brass faucet in the island. The custom fabrication arrived in three pieces and was quite shiny. Tracey aged it, using Himalayan sea salt, hydrogen peroxide and vinegar.

“It’s called a living finish. It gives it this nice old look, and I don’t have to be precious about the counter. I can change it whenever I want,” she says, explaining how adding salt or hydrogen peroxide melts marks in favour of new ones.

They also lowered a window to the countertop level and added a faux wall behind the cupboards to gain a deep countertop. “I wanted that extra space for appliances,” Tracey says, noting the space behind the sink is ideal for flowers, tomatoes and seasonal herbs.

It also gives a nice, clean feel, adding to the airy concept, to the farmhouse chic.

An apron front sink was on her wish list, while Scott wanted only three things: insulation, a drinks fridge, and a microwave drawer (the appliance is incorporated into the island and off the counter).

Their dishes are displayed on open shelving. The couple added a vent hood (something they never had before) and an outdoor garden spigot over the stove to provide the convenience of water there.

Copper pots from France trail from brass hanging racks. Sourced second hand, the pots are more than 50 years old. They are functional, but also add aesthetic appeal, she says.

Serving ware and china are displayed on a white wall with wide, original planks. Kids’ height measurements are etched into a door frame.

Tracey says she was drawn to old-style kitchens that function. The comfortable, relaxed vibe appealed for a home where “it’s shoes-on.”

They incorporated blue IKEA kitchen cupboards, island bottom and pantry, personalizing the hardware. This enabled them to spend on faucets, the island countertop, push-button unlacquered brass lights fixtures, and needed structural updates.

“It allowed us to do things like putting in the structural beam. That gets costly,” Tracey says. “The floor was old and uneven. We had to put in supports and a subfloor under the wood laminate. A lot of money went into things no one sees.”

Long before they started the project, Tracey spent two years planning and sourcing materials as she came upon them. As such, the only COVID-related supply challenge centred around appliances. They kept their original fridge, stove, and dishwasher, although they plan to add an induction range.

Scott and Tracey, who met in Halifax, hadn’t planned to live in Antigonish. When Scott’s dad, Lloyd, passed away in 2000, Scott took over the family business. In 2002, the couple moved to the family home, which Scott’s parents had purchased in 1972.

Life at a Christmas tree farm is particularly hectic starting in October. But it’s also festive.

“I love it. I get the urge to decorate for Christmas,” says Tracey, who keeps the décor classic with white lights, red bows, and greenery. Much greenery.

With an almost unlimited supply of balsam fir (“it smells like Christmas”), she goes big, adding wreaths, garland and trees in the living room, the front garden and the upstairs landing. Once she even decorated an upside-down tree hanging from the ceiling.

The kitchen dishes are now displayed on open shelves and copper pots trail from brass hanging racks. Bought secondhand, the pots are more than 50 years old and are both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

Lights and candles are also everywhere.

“I got a real thing for Charles Dickens’ Christmas. I’m a sucker for that,” she says, showing off a Dickens’ Village collection, which lingers (“unlit, so I’m not crazy”) year-round.

“Around here, it’s festive, it’s exciting. I look forward to decorating and cooking and everyone coming home.”

The farmhouse, with many small rooms, is particularly fun to decorate as she can individualize décor for each, in a house often central for extended family Christmas gatherings. They always managed to make do, hosting everyone in the kitchen, but now, she looks forward to doing it more comfortably.

“I’m really glad we have a durable kitchen that can take it.”

Interior design firm owner Tracey MacKinnon shares tips for a “green” holiday

First and foremost, if you can manage to avoid an artificial tree, do so, she says. Nothing compares to the look and scent of a real Christmas tree, and a freshcut, properly watered tree should last you throughout the holiday season.

“I often wind a cedar and fir garland down the stair railing, with plenty of pine interspersed for fullness. For drama, a thick rope of garland hung over a doorway and draped on either side, accented with mini-lights and a large statement bow, elevates an entrance.”

Use the greenery as a base for unexpected colour combinations, too. A centrepiece of fir boughs and orange and red roses and mini carnations is both cheerful and warm, and a break from the usual red, white and green.

Stretching your festive décor into winter

If one wants to extend the holiday decorating beyond the New Year, Tracey suggests eliminating anything that’s specifically themed, such as décor featuring reindeer, Santas and snowmen, but keeping the botanical elements. “Put away those glass balls and candy canes, but keep the seasonally appropriate décor such as greenery, birch logs and white berry branches,” she says. “If it looks like it came from outside, display it until the weather changes!” A wreath made of balsam fir, pine boughs and pinecones can last on your front door for months. Simply swap out the red ribbon for a classic white or rustic burlap bow.

Additionally, a mantle decorated with cedar branches still looks lush even after you’ve removed the twinkling lights and snow globes. Add some eucalyptus sprigs and one or two ivory candles (safely ensconced in glass, hurricane lamptype holders) and you have a subtle decorative accent that goes beyond Dec. 25. “Scale back the quantity if you’re prone to a maximalist style, like me,” she says. “Take down the arched swags from the doorways and trailing garland draped on the stair railing but keep some small green or white touches on windowsills or tabletops.”

She also suggests a downsized green wreath inside or one made of multihued pheasant feathers, pinecones or magnolia leaves, which offers an organic touch that still feels decorated but not overdone.

“Finally, keep in mind it’s a cold season here in the Maritimes, so decorate for cosy! Faux-fur throws and cushions, warm blankets draped across a sofa-back and a wicker basket with fire logs at the ready make for a warm and inviting space.”

BOB BANCROFT AND ALICE REED

Nestled in a hillside, on a 56-acre property in Pomquet, N.S. you can find Bob Bancroft and Alice Reed tucked in for the winter. Or any season. Their home is bermed in a slope of land, caressed by the earth, keeping it safe and energy conscious.

Bancroft wanted to be mindful of his home’s impact on the environment, keep it as energy neutral as possible, and allow the surrounding nature to continue to thrive despite his presence. Thoughtfully designed some 47 years ago, the house accomplishes this feat.

“The house faces south, supported by post and beam, with three sides of 15-foot-high concrete,” says Bancroft. “In cross-section, the concrete is sandwiched (inside and outside) by insulation. This makes those walls 18 to 21 inches thick. The power bill in 2016 was $2/day, using electricity produced by burning fossil fuels and forests. Now all the electrical and heating power needed is produced by solar panels to the west of the house. Wood heat is a backup.”

Surrounded by woods, with a stream running through to a nearby harbour, there is room for humans and non-humans alike. They dug a pond in 2003 and Bancroft continues to plant trees and other vegetation native to the region to secure the berm and attract wildlife. “For example, I planted apple trees many, many years ago throughout the woods, as well as in the orchard,” says Bancroft.

“Bears love apples,” adds Reed.

And sure enough, they were rewarded by seeing a bear and her cub had taken up residence.

“We have enough habitat around, and I’ve helped create that habitat, so everybody can find what they need in the woods,” says Bancroft.

BY MELANIE MOSHER CARICATURE BY COLIN COOK

Over the years, he has created a world where the animals feel safe to go about their business despite the human presence. He admits this is something that is getting harder to find these days, due to forest depletion and development.

“It’s a real honour to be ignored,” quips Bancroft, referring to the animals that thrive on his land. “We don’t have a dog or a cat. Nothing is pouncing on the wildlife… and they eventually learn there is no threat and go about their routines.”

It has taken many years to achieve this harmony and there is more to it than the absence of pets. There is awareness and appreciation for wildlife. Bancroft is a wildlife biologist and advocate for species at risk throughout the region, a regular guest on CBC’s Maritime Noon, and has been a regular contributor to Saltscapes since the magazine’s

During the holiday season, and throughout the year, the couple celebrates the wonders of wildlife and the natural world around them

beginning in 2000. Reed is an accomplished visual artist who spent her career painting landscapes that show her love of nature and encourages others to appreciate the world around them.

Wood, warmth & wildlife

Inside the couple’s home, the walls are adorned with carvings, paintings and taxidermy all illustrating their connection with the natural world. Modest holiday decorations also speak to this affection.

The warmth of natural wood is everywhere. Sunlight shines through the front window filling the living room with light, allowing many house plants to flourish. The Christmas cactus is

blooming right on schedule.

There are a few fresh-cut flowers from the greenhouse, which also provides food year-round.

“We don’t have a lot of Christmas traditions, actually,” says Reed. “No hard and fast rules of what happens each year. We usually have a tree from our own property… It’s not lush and trimmed like on a Christmas tree lot, but we enjoy it, and you can see the ornaments.”

A balsam fir cut from a section of their woods that needed thinning shows off decorations of owls, rabbits, fox and skunks. They are from sets the couple has collected over the years.

“Some belonged to my great grandparents,” says Bancroft.

“Yes, some are very old,” adds Reed. “About a hundred years old. They’re pretty amazing.”

SANDI TAYLOR MANAGER

AT HOME WITH

Reed admits holiday activities can vary, depending on the year and what’s going on, but they do make a point of catching up with people they haven’t spoken to in a while.

“Lots of long phone calls with friends and family,” she says. “One of the things I’ve done over the years is I’ve been saving cards that are my favourites, and they tend to be a wildlife theme. A bird full of trees, for example.”

She puts them out each season ahead of the new arrivals for the year, allowing time to enjoy the old images and to revisit, in thought, the people they’re from.

“It’s a small thing that doesn’t involve consuming,” says Reed.

Strings of these cards hang above the doorways, adding visual appeal and nostalgia during the winter.

They also like to put a few artificial candles in the windows during the holidays.

“It makes a nice glowy light for the season,” says Reed.

And even though their house is set back from the road and not completely visual by passersby, it adds to a sense of community spirit. Their neighbours put up lights and they want to take part, too.

Views from inside and out

Safely tucked inside, they have seen countless creatures roam their land.

“Because the house is bermed in the side of a hill with big windows facing south it’s like you are in an observation blind,” says Bancroft.

A bear has sauntered by as if saying hello, and a bobcat has come to check out the feeder. A few nights in a row one spring they watched as a barred owl came and sat in a tree Bancroft had planted. It was watching the pond, probably to nab a fish, frog or even a muskrat.

The also enjoy walking and snowshoeing when there’s enough snow to see the shift in activities for the colder season.

And while wintertime may slow the movement of some animals, it provides the opportunity for “snow stories.” These are indications of wildlife activity marked by the new fallen flakes.

“You can see where owls, for example, have caught mice that were under the snow,” says Bancroft. Their wingspan and talons leave impressions in the snow as they swoop down to grab a rodent. They also see signs of snowshoe hares, porcupines, skunks and coyotes.

Some winters the couple will host forest walks with neighbours or various groups. Both Reed and Bancroft are keen trackers and enjoy sharing the beauty of their wooded land.

“I’ve always been interested in tracks, even when I was a kid,” says Reed. “I was the one with her nose to the ground to see what was ahead and peering around. Tracking is one of the most enjoyable parts of walking in the woods for Bob and I during the winter. It’s fun to share that with people.”

“A lot of [our neighbours] don’t have much land and they come over here to go for a walk with their kids,” says Bancroft.

Keeping track

Bancroft keeps a nature chronology. It’s a perpetual calendar where he notes such things as animal sightings, when the pond ices over, and when the first hummingbird arrives in the spring.

“I’ve been doing that for 40-some years,” says Bancroft, who notices variations in behaviours. In early 2022, for example, he realized the chipmunks were still coming to the feeder and hadn’t decided to hibernate yet. He notes the many species and their habits.

Over the years, he’s observed things like skunks stretching after a winter’s nap and doing push-up like motions to increase circulation, and otters creating slides down embankments, tobogganing down the incline.

For decades, Bancroft and Reed have willingly shared their land with the animals. It has been a life-long appreciation for all living things and an opportunity to show others how to live amongst the animals, honouring their habitats, not destroying them. During the holiday season, and throughout the year, they celebrate the wonders of wildlife and the natural world around them.

Great walks of the

North Shore

THE EPIC HIKE

BY TRISH JOUDREY

From daunting to optimistic … the trails are beckoning

Our long awaited, three-day 60-kilometre epic weekend hike through some of the most beautiful trails on the North Shore was only two days away. Each of our 12-member group had trained, hiked many kilometres with weighted backpacks, bought supplies, and were psyched to start walking.

The day we were due to depart, hurricane Fiona hit, unleashing her gale-force winds and causing epic destruction. In her wake, most of our North Shore forest trails were devastated. Almost unrecognisable. Walkers were left wondering when they would be able to get out on the trails again, and hiking organizations were faced with the enormous task of rebuilding.

“I have one word for what I see now daunting!” says Alasdair Veitch, retired wildlife biologist, Cape to Cape committee member, Yon the Move hike leader and 2019 Trail Booster award recipient. “It is totally overwhelming.”

I decided to join Alasdair to see just how extensive and daunting the damage was.

We met at the entrance to Salt Springs Provincial Park and passed the park’s entrance sign, which beckoned us in as though it is any ordinary day. However, only 50 feet into the trail, we found a pick-up-stick-like mess of old trees some three feet in diameter strewn across the path and preventing us from going any further. Looking around, I saw a mixture of trees leaning precariously, a few trunks split violently in two, and many huge limbs torn indiscriminately from tree trunks.

“It’s not over yet,” says Alasdair. “These trees that are still standing are weakened now, and what hasn’t come down in this storm, may come down in the next with any little bit of wind.”

Alasdair tells me that the municipal and provincial parks like this one at Salt Springs have access to funding, while the many kilometres of volunteer-maintained trails like many of those in the Cape to Cape trail system and Gully Lake Wilderness area have none.

“It’s going to be a huge challenge,” says Alasdair. “We don’t have the ability nor the capability to cut through these massive logs and remove them from the trails. It’s one thing to be clearing trees on your own property, but (here) we are facing about 50 km of backcountry trails to clear.”

It’s the same story for most of the other hiking associations of the North Shore. Sheila Wilson, chairperson for Cobequid Eco-Trails Society, echoed Alasdair’s concerns. “We need help,” says Sheila. “If we don’t, our trails will not open before 2023.”

Opening the trails is now the priority of each trail association on the North Shore. Some were hit harder than others and require more assistance. But what is clear, is that they all need more assistance than their local volunteers can provide.

“Our goal is to open all trails, including our multi-use trails before the snow flies,” says Gregory Nix, president of the Cumberland County Trails Association. “However, our volunteers are limited in their skill and time. Our work parties, thus far, have progressed less than 500 metres per four hours of hard (backbreaking) labour.”

Alasdair Veitch sizing up a fallen tree on the Salt Springs Trail

PHOTO BY TRISH JOUDREY

Mike Verbern (left) and Francis Verstraten trail-clearing the Trans Canada Trail from Oxford to Slade Road.

PHOTO BY GREGORY NIX

Sponsored by

Gregory tells me that individuals and groups from clubs have been working tirelessly, sometimes with the assistance of a volunteer’s tractor or small excavator.

“The job is immense,” he says. “At this time, most of Cumberland County trails are passable with extreme caution, but overhanging trees place a safety concern on the trails. The famous Bunny Trail in Oxford is open and also a short bit of the Peace Trail in Pugwash.”

It was not long ago I had hiked the Peace Trail and appreciated its serenity along the shoreline, which was protected under the cool canopy of conifers. I took a moment to reflect on the immense impact resulting from hurricane Fiona.

“We have over 1,000 trees down in just the one-kilometre section of the Jitney Trail around Meadowbrook,” says Clifford MacDonald, chair of the Pictou County Trails Association. “We have a processor working there now. It’s going to take time.”

Velma MacEachern, past supervisor of the Cape George Hiking Trails, also gives me the same report. She explains that it’s difficult to even assess the damage on the trails because, “they are cut off by fallen trees.” She adds, “We are a mess around here and at this point not sure where to turn to for help.”

Leaving Salt Springs Trail, I was saddened to think that access to these soothing wooded paths is now limited. “This has been my church,” says Alasdair, motioning with reverence as we leave the forest.

The benefits of spending time in nature and walking forest trails had been keenly appreciated by many during the pandemic lockdowns. People began to walk and explore new trails in their area. Since that time, getting out in nature has become an integral part of many people’s lives, providing both physical and emotional outlets, reducing stress and boosting positivity. Now, post-Fiona, the impact of not being able to crunch leaves under our feet in the fall, listening to the sound of brooks flowing along a wooded path, or snowshoeing through the quiet forests in winter, may be more than we realize.

“People just want to get back out (hiking) and walk their dog where there are no sidewalks,” says Alasdair. “Somewhere where they can see the water or smell the trees.”

Later, Alasdair takes me to six other popular hiking trails in the area to assess the damage: Six Mile Brook Trail, Trenton Park, Green Hill Provincial Park, Melmerby Beach Provincial Park and Roy Island Trail, and Powel’s Point Provincial Park. With the exception of Green Hill Provincial Park and the Melmerby Beach area, it’s impossible to go more than 100 feet into the trail due to a tangle of fallen trees over the paths.

“The storm has certainly changed our perspective,” says Gordon Young, chairperson for the Cape to Cape Trails Association. “Before (Fiona) we were planning hikes and spending our time doing trail development, Adirondack placement etc. Now, we have to be focused on just getting our trails open again. They are now all officially closed.”

Three days later, I joined Gordon and his group from the Cape to Cape Trails Association to assess the Six Mile Brook Trail, one of my favourite hiking trails on the North Shore. I was hoping the MacLachlan Bothy the only free overnight drop-in wooden shelter on a trail in Nova Scotia was still standing.

I met Gordon Young, Pat MacDonnell, Alasdair Veitch and Theresa Dickson at the trailhead to the Six-Mile-Brook Trail. The first half kilometre of trail was completely blocked with downed maples, poplars and elms, so we skirted past the initial entrance and accessed the trail through a small path off an adjacent quarry road. On sections of the path, I heard, “I don’t recognize this at all,” and “We will have to forge a new path around these fallen timbers.”

However, the majority of the trail was surprisingly untouched, the memorial benches were intact and most of the trail markers were visible. Most of all, we were all grateful that we were able to walk on a forest trail.

“I’m optimistic,” says Alasdair with enthusiasm. “I think, with a crew of people and chainsaws, we can get this trail back in shape for hiking by November.”

A Window in Time. Six Mile Brook Trail

PHOTO BY TRISH JOUDREY

Volunteers remaking a bridge at Meguma Falls.

PHOTO BY SHEILA WILSON

More sand deposited at Melmerby Beach

PHOTO BY TRISH JOUDREY

“We haven’t made it to the Bothy yet,” says Pat, looking down from the south path to the brook below. We noticed that the water has wildly diverged from its once, wellworn channel, and was now flowing in new directions around piles of debris and timber that were washed downstream during the rain and wind of the hurricane.

“Must have been a raging river during Fiona. Look at that water mark. Must have overflowed its bank at least 20 feet,” says Pat.

As the path started to descend, we followed the trail ribbons to the Bothy’s outdoor privy.

“She’s intact!” I shouted, pointing to the Bothy.

“Not a scratch,” says Alasdair. Gordon and Theresa, who were investigating the trail on the north side of the brook, have now joined us in celebration.

“We made it through!” exclaimed Gordon and Theresa in unison. “Parts were rough, but we can get this six-kilometre loop to the Bothy back in shape,” announces Gordon. “It’s going to take lots of hard work and help, but we can do it.”

I marvelled at the amount of commitment and dedication. All the trail associations on

the North Shore are undertaking a task of epic proportions getting our trails reopened for our physical and mental wellbeing.

“We are very thankful to our local business and contractors who have donated their gear and all the individual and club efforts we have been seeing,” says Gregory Nix.

With more professional help, more volunteers and added financial support, the daunting restoration will be an optimistic one. Our trails need us now, as much as we need them.

Like to Help with Trail Restoration?

Please contact:

Cobequid Eco-Trails Society Sheila Wilson wilson_5589@outlook.com

Pictou County Trails Assoc. Clifford MacDonald 902.759.1191

Cape to Cape Trails Assoc. Gordon Young 902.396.6116

Antigonish North Shore Development Assoc. Karen Mcgronicle smkdm@gmail.com

Tatamagouche Trails Assoc. Chris Lavers info@tatamagouchetrails.ca or cmlavers@hotmail.com

Cumberland County Trails Assoc. Gregory Nix nixgregalvina@gmail.com

BY DENISE FLINT

PHOTOS BY STEVE SMITH, VISIONFIRE STUDIOS

enovating isn’t for sissies. Rob Christie and Irene Szabla started renovating the foundry in Pictou about a year ago. The retired couple wanted the old building to be their forever home and they set out to do whatever it took to make that happen. As it turns out, “whatever it takes” is a lot.

The couple completely lost their privacy, as workmen in numbers past counting took over the space. Almost every deadline came and went, unacknowledged and unmet. Unexpected problems reared their heads. And the price skyrocketed. When asked if they’ve blown the budget, they just roll their eyes and grimace, nodding ruefully. Yet somehow, it’s all worked out. Now on the cusp of having all the work complete, they’re still sane and happy with what they’ve accomplished: a one-of-a-kind home that meets their needs exactly.

Downstairs, a large open space holds the kitchen, dining room and living area, with the couple’s bedroom and bathroom off the main area. Upstairs, there are two guest bedrooms, a bathroom and a large library/minstrels’ gallery overlooking the main space.

to forever home

The

final chapter?

The house has so many interesting features it feels almost impossible to try to list them all. There’s the niche built into the shower wall to hold the shampoo bottle (right below the line of tile featuring more bling than a Beyoncé concert); the overhead lighting that can be changed from warm yellow to bright white and high intensity to low at the flick of a switch; the sleek tap over the gas stove that lets pots be filled in place rather than carried, heavy and full, from the sink.

On top of that, the space manages to marry authentically antique industrial chic with modern design and convenience. Looking up (wayyyyy up), one sees the newly stripped beams that have been holding the roof in place for more than 150 years. Once painted a depressing shade of green, they’re now showing off their natural grain.

Rob Christie and Irene Szabla.

COVER STORY

The high white walls form a pristine background for the building’s architectural features, and are ideal to house the couple’s extensive art collection.

In order to bring the beams back to their original state, they were glass bead sanded. This is a process using minuscule glass beads to blast the paint off. It’s more precise than using sand, which can pit the wood because of its lack of uniform size, as well as being more environmentally friendly. But the process left a residue of glass dust on everything in the house. Christie and Szabla had to hose everything, including the walls, down and then shovel up the tiny particles while they were still wet to stop them pothering back into the air.

“That was a slog!” says Szabla.

Down at eye level, sleek blond wood cupboards and walls and granite counters can only be a product of the 21st century. Tying the two layers together are wide pale wooden stairs with a black metal railing as well as large black hanging lamps and wall sconces. Rather than looking sterile, the high white walls form a pristine background for the building’s architectural features, and will house the couple’s extensive art collection.

What are they looking forward to when the last pieces fall into place and they can start on their post-reno life? They’re still discussing their plans. For starters, they’re hoping to do some travelling again, which has been restricted as much by COVID-19 as by the renovations. Christie is also looking forward to focusing on the outside once the inside is truly finished. He has plans for gardens and decks that will fit snugly into the narrow spaces available.

The libray loft (left) and guest bathroom on the second storey.

One thing Szabla is really anticipating about having the job done, however, is regaining their privacy.

“I’m going to be so happy not to have workmen in the house at 8 a.m. before I’ve had my coffee.”

As the reno wraps up, it’s clear Christie and Szabla are comfortable in their new home. There have been a few setbacks and surprises. The realization that the big picture window they installed in their bedroom so they can watch the world outside also means the world outside can watch them in their bedroom. The way the polished cement floor discolours when it gets wet is rather a problem in a kitchen. The miscommunication about where gas pipes should run left them with a useless barbecue. But Christie insists he has absolutely no regrets about the stressful times that are, hopefully, now in the past. He looks around the transformed space with satisfaction and contentment in his eyes.

“This is a calming place.” He points to the large windows high up the walls. “The best feature is the light. It just pours in. I feel relaxed and part of the outside world.” That’s especially true compared to their old stone home with its small, mullioned windows. It’s a very stark contrast.

That feeling of being part of the outside world extends past the front door. Christie and Szabla are both sociable and are delighted to have a small deck adjacent to the sidewalk where they can sit and interact with the people walking by. One day they ended up sharing a glass of wine with a couple from Calgary who were passing by.

Another day Christie spent half an hour helping a little boy untangle his fishing line while Szabla and the boy’s grandmother chatted.

The home is completely accessible. The couple felt it was important to build in such a way so they could stay in their own home even if their physical condition deteriorates as they age. And that decision has some immediate benefits.

“We had friends visit on the weekend,” Christie says, “and she’s in a wheelchair. It’s the first time in 11 years she’s been able to visit us in our home.”

Recently, the couple welcomed their children and grandchildren for a visit. It’s the first time they’ve all been together since the couple’s wedding 11 years ago. Szabla’s daughter lives in Hong Kong and she hasn’t seen her it two and a half years. The other kids are also living elsewhere.

“We had 12 people here and it was great. This place absorbs that experience,” Christie says.

Szabla agrees, adding that there was private space for their guest upstairs if they needed it, but downstairs people flowed from one part of the large open area to another without friction.

Privacy, plenty of space for entertaining, interaction with the world on their doorstep and a place to grow old. It’s clear that Christie and Szabla have created their forever home.

Sandy’s Fashions for Men

MORE THAN 25 YEARS IN BUSINESSS

Sandy’s Fashions for Men is the premier destination for quality men’s clothing in Central Nova Scotia at 25 Inglis Place in downtown Truro. We carry a wide selection and styles to meet your needs including business attire, casual wear, and footwear. Christmas or New Years party? We’ve got you covered. Come check us out!

HOURS: Mon-Thurs: 10am - 5pm | Friday: 10am - 6pm

25 Inglis Pl, Truro, NS B2N 4B5 Phone: (902) 895-8447

Sticky

TOFFEE PUDDING GETS A HEALTHY HOLIDAY MAKEOVER

BY TRACY STUART

Ihonestly don’t know what has come over me. Since the temperature dropped, I have become obsessed with sticky toffee pudding. No joke, I have made it at least five times in the past three weeks. I think the trigger was around Thanksgiving. I was shopping at a local grocer, collecting ingredients for the big family feast when I came across a prepared toffee pudding. I picked up the package, looked at the list of ingredients and immediately put it back down. There were far too many unpronounceable ingredients for my liking.

After returning home and unloading all my goods, I couldn’t shake the thought of indulging in a big ol’ mouth-watering bite of sticky toffee pudding. Yum. The seed had been planted.

During my time at cooking school at the Natural Gourmet Institute, we spent a significant amount of time on recipe conversions. This meant taking a traditional recipe and turning it into something more health supportive. This conversion stuck with me over the years; it’s almost like a little game. In my mind, I wonder, “how can I take this decadent dessert that tastes so good, but may not be the healthiest and turn it into something that contains health promoting ingredients?”

To convert a recipe, there are several things to consider. What type of flour is being used? What type of milk? If it calls for sugar, can another more natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup be used? If I change these ingredients, what will happen to the flavour, texture, etc.?

If you decide to embark on this recipe conversion journey, be warned there is a lot of trial and error involved and sometimes you must be willing to throw out an entire batch in the name of discovery.

Luckily, there are many health supportive pioneers out there that are willing to share their experiences and their recipes. In this case, I decided to opt for the quick fix, since my craving for sticky toffee was on overdrive, which is when I discovered Arman Liew’s recipe. I followed his suggestions to a tee, and I am absolutely thrilled with the outcome. I promise you it will be delightfully warming on a cold winter’s day.

MEDALLING WITH MY FOOD

Tracy is an Olympic medallist and has a Chef’s diploma from the Natural Gourmet Institute for Health and Culinary Arts.

Sticky toffee pudding

(vegan, gluten free)

Recipe adapted from The Big Man’s World

INGREDIENTS

1 cup dates pitted

by Arman Liew

1 cup milk of choice (I used unsweetened almond milk)

1/3 cup + 1 tbsp water

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 cup vegan butter (or regular butter if preferred)

1/2 cup brown sugar

1 1/4 cups self-rising flour gluten free, if needed *See notes

For the toffee sauce

1/4 cup + 1 tbsp golden syrup **See notes

1 1/4 cups brown sugar

2/3 cups vegan butter (or regular butter, if preferred)

This sticky toffee pudding is truly the best ‘healthier version’ of the traditional sticky toffee pudding recipe that I have ever tried. It has simple ingredients and is sure to impress.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 375 °F. Grease six, 4-inch ramekins and set aside.

2. Add the dates, milk and water into a saucepan and simmer until the dates are softened. Remove from heat and add the baking soda. Mix into the mixture and let cool.

3. If you are making your own self-rising flour, prepare it now. (*See notes)

4. In a mixing bowl, beat the sugar and butter until smooth and creamy. Slowly add the date mixture and mix well. Gently add the flour until fully combined. Transfer the pudding mixture amongst the greased ramekins.

5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until just cooked and a skewer comes out clean.

6. Prepare the sauce by first making the golden syrup recipe. (**See notes)

7. Combine the golden syrup, sugar and butter in a saucepan; heat and let simmer for about five minutes.

8. Poke holes over the tops of the puddings and pour half the sauce over each one (I use a syringe for this step) to soak the puddings. Flip the puddings on plates or leave it in the ramekin (your choice), pour extra sauce over each one. Serve with ice cream if desired. I choose to keep it festive and used fresh holly to garnish.

(Note: Holly itself is toxic if ingested; beautiful garnish but don’t eat it!)

NOTES

* To make your own self-rising flour you’ll need 2 cups all-purpose flour, 4 tsp baking powder and 1/8 tsp salt. Gluten free (GF) self-rising flour is possible if the GF flour contains Xanthium gum. Set aside until needed in recipe. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to six months.

** To make golden syrup, you’ll need 2 cups white sugar, 1 ¼ cups water, 1 tbsp lemon juice. In a saucepan, bring the water and sugar to a boil, stirring regularly to ensure it doesn’t burn. Once

boiling, add the lemon juice and reduce heat to very low. Do not stir the mixture anymore; let it simmer for around 50 minutes until it is a golden amber colour. The syrup should be thick. If too thin, continue to simmer for another 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from the heat and let sit for 10 minutes before transferring to a jar or bowl.

TO STORE: Leftover pudding cups can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to one week. Keep the remaining toffee sauce in a separate container.

TO FREEZE: Place each pudding in a Ziploc® bag and the toffee sauce in a freezer-friendly container. Store in the freezer for up to six months.

TO REHEAT: You can reheat the puddings in a preheated oven and the sauce in a saucepan over the stove. (Note: I have not tried reheating using a microwave, but according to the recipe you can reheat the puddings in the microwave for 30 seconds, add the sauce and then microwave for a further 30 seconds.)

PHOTOS BY BRUCE MURRAY, VISIONFIRE STUDIOS

BY NICOLE LEBLANC PHOTOS BY STEVE SMITH, VISIONFIRE STUDIOS

a little

with a lid love

Did you already dig into those fall preserves and have a few empty mason jars on your pantry shelf?

Well, it’s time to fill them back up again… with a little holiday magic. Who doesn’t love a beverage, dessert or even a salad layered up in a mason jar? Why not fill your empties with a few special ingredients for a custom homemade gift that can work for just about anyone on your list this holiday season?

Shake up the happiness!

Milkshakes are having a moment and gourmet milkshakes are easier to make than you think. For my gift jar, I made milkshakes for two. Add a cute paper straw, sprinkles, mini candy bars, a skewer of gummy bears and suckers. You can add your items in one jar, and in another blend up your favourite ice cream and some milk.

TIP: Add caramel or chocolate drizzle on the inside of a jar before adding your blended milkshake

Other items you can add: Powdered peanut butter, mini candy bars, cookie or brownie pieces

You make me melt

Hot chocolate is the perfect cozy treat for the neighbour that shovels your walk or someone who just brightens your day. This mix uses milk and white chocolate (it changes to pink once you add water), peppermint knobs, marshmallows and is topped with chicken bones.

Other inspiration

Favourite cookie recipe: Add the dry ingredients for your recipe and include a tag with instructions and what they’ll need for wet ingredients and baking instructions

Simmer pot: Create sensational seasonal scents. Fill a jar with a mix of cloves, orange slices, cinnamon sticks and pieces of cedar. They can add the mix to a pot of hot water on their stove top and fill the house with the yummy smells of the season

Movie night: Add a pouch of popcorn seasoning, kernels and mini bars for a movie night treat, the old fashion way.

How to turn an empty mason jar into a gourmet treat (and a great gift!)

It’s important to Fred El Haddad, as a business owner, that people know Blinkhorn Real Estate will continue to focus on providing excellent client service and be a supportive community-minded business. Fred says “Supporting local is important to us all as a team and we hope that consumers consider that when they are choosing a realtor. Choosing the right REALTOR® does make a difference. Team work makes the dream work!