Senior Living Magazine Island Edition December 2010 by INSPIRED 55+ Lifestyle Magazine

DECEMBER 2010 TM

Vancouver Island’s 50+ Active Lifestyle Magazine

Uncovering Family History

Genealogical Researcher Nancy Hughes

Naden Band

of Maritime Forces Paciﬁc

36 Hours in the Nation’s Capital

Holiday Gift Guide

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hen I was growing up, a trip to town to do Christmas shopping demanded careful preparation. It took hours going store to store, selecting the items for which we had come. What we didn’t buy in the stores, we bought by mail order. My sister and I spent weeks pouring over the Eaton’s and Sear’s catalogues deciding what we wanted for ourselves and what to buy the other members of our family. After finally placing the order, we waited in anticipation, a week or more, for the items to arrive at the local depot. Today, a single store often carries everything – from electronics to clothing, home furnishings to gardening – making a store-to-store trek unnecessary. Striking off every item on my list in one fell swoop leaves me feeling efficient, but gone are the feelings of anticipation, longing and wondering. It’s the same with Christmas cards. I recall, as a kid, when the fireplace mantle couldn’t hold all the cards. We’d end up draping cards over heavy string swagged across the picture window, attached to the living room curtain rods. It was a visual and tangible reminder of the number of people who were thinking of us that year and wishing us all the best. Today, the cards delivered by the mail carrier are few. No need for a mantle or swagged string because we’ve discovered that it’s cheaper and quicker to send an ecard or a greeting by email. As much as I appreciate the efficiency that technology affords us today, there was something comforting and soul-affirming in the Christmas rituals of the past. I think it was because we gave ourselves the gift of “time.” Time to plan, time to anticipate, time to wonder, time to savour… This year, along with the many wonderful gifts I give, and receive, I hope time to be among them. Happy Holidays. 2

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FEATURES

36 Budget Travel = Rich Experience

Cut the cost of travel by staying in people’s homes.

6 Brick by Brick

42 36 Hours in Ottawa

Nancy Hughes explores her family’s history.

Luxury and history in the nation’s capital.

8 Navy Ambassadors

Naden Band continues to entertain and bridge gaps.

DEPARTMENTS

10 His Own Way

Stained glass artist Harry Reed.

40 Classiﬁeds

14 War and Friendship

47 BBB Scam Alert

A piece of art history searches for a new home.

16 My Fondest Christmas Memories

COLUMNS

Childhood Christmases are never far from the heart.

18 Music Library for Grandchildren

4 The Family Caregiver

Educational, joyful – you can’t go wrong with music.

by Barbara Small

19 Ricochet

38 Victoria’s Past Revisited

Sometimes reality is funnier than ﬁction.

20 A Multitude of Chocolate: Oaxaca

Travel isn’t just about new places, it’s about new food.

24 Holiday Gift Guide

Gift ideas your friends and family will love!

by Norman K. Archer

41 Ask Goldie

by Goldie Carlow

26 A Cat for All Seasons

46 Outrageous & Courageous

27 Fine Tuned

48 Reﬂections: Then & Now

A long-time friend remembered at Christmas. Professional luthier James Ham.

28 Detection on Gabriola

Detective-story writing is not lost on this little island.

32 Gearing Up for Gift Giving Make ‘em, buy ‘em or do both.

34 Her Buried Spirit

Children’s author Kate Noble. Senior Living (Vancouver Island) is published by Stratis Publishing.

by Pat Nichol

by Gipp Forster

Cover Photo: Author Nancy Hughes on the grounds of Camosun College whose Young Building was built by her grandfather’s company. See story on page 6. Photo: Roy Ferguson

Publisher Barbara Risto

Head Ofﬁce Contact Information: Box 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria BC V8T 2C1

Editor Bobbie Jo Reid editor@seniorlivingmag.com

Phone 250-479-4705 Fax 250-479-4808 Toll-free 1-877-479-4705

Copy Editor Allyson Mantle

E-mail ofﬁce@seniorlivingmag.com Website www.seniorlivingmag.com

Ad Designer/Coordinator Faye Holland Advertising Manager Barry Risto 250-479-4705 For advertising information, call 250-479-4705 sales@seniorlivingmag.com Ad Sales Staff Ann Lester 250-390-1805 Mathieu Powell 250-589-7801 Barry Risto 250-479-4705 WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM

Subscriptions: $32 (includes GST, postage and handling) for 12 issues. Canadian residents only. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Senior Living is an independent publication and its articles imply no endorsement of any products or services. The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher. Unsolicited articles are welcome and should be e-mailed to editor@seniorlivingmag. com Senior Living Vancouver Island is distributed free throughout Vancouver Island. Stratis Publishing Ltd. publishes Senior Living Vancouver Island (12 issues per year) and Senior Living Vancouver & Lower Mainland (12 issues per year). ISSN 1710-3584 (Print) ISSN 1911-6403 (Online)

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THE FAMILY CAREGIVER

Visiting During the Holiday Season

isiting friends and family over the holiday season can be a time to reconnect with those we haven’t been in touch with much throughout the year. Visits can be enjoyed and appreciated, but they can also add additional demands and stress to already overwhelmed family caregivers and care recipients who are frail, elderly or ill. Whether you are visiting someone else or others are coming to your home, or whether the visit is for an evening or for an extended stay, here are some tips to help reduce stress and allow everyone to enjoy this time together. If you are the primary family caregiver, and hosting the visit: Let visitors know in advance what to expect. If they have not visited in a while, prepare them for any changes in the care recipient’s health, behaviour or appearance. Explain your daily routine, and let them know the best time to visit. Ask for and accept help. Make a list of what needs to be done. If someone asks what they can do to help, respond with specific requests. Focus on people’s strengths. Some visitors are happy

to help with personal care, while others would prefer to grocery shop or clean the gutters. Allow others to share in the caregiving. This can give you a break. Allow them to contribute, and give the care recipient an opportunity to interact with someone new. Don’t feel you have to “entertain” your visitors. Sometimes simply spending time together is enough. Remember to take time to have some fun, share and laugh too. If you are the visitor: Make arrangements well in advance. Even if you are only coming for a short visit, call ahead to ask the caregiver what time would be best. When is everyone’s energy strongest? When are people resting? For longer visits, ask whether it would be better to stay with them or elsewhere. Resist the urge to advise the caregiver about what they should be doing differently. Remember what happens during your visit may not be the same as day-to-day care. Often the ill person will rally forth when visitors come. Plan to visit in small groups for short

BY BARBARA SMALL

periods, so that neither the caregiver nor care recipient becomes too exhausted. Offer to help with chores, errands or other holiday-specific tasks, such as shopping, baking and decorating. Allow the caregiver to get away and have some free time. Perhaps give him or her a gift of a lunch out, a trip to the spa or a chance to attend some holiday events. Express your appreciation to the family caregivers. Simple recognition of their time and effort may be enough to make caregivers feel more appreciated and help them stay strong, healthy and better SL able to continue to provide care. Next month: The Importance of Empathy in Caregiving Barbara Small is the Program Development Coordinator for Family Caregivers’ Network Society located in Victoria, BC. www.familycaregiversnetwork.org

The Family Caregiver column is brought to you by the generous sponsorship of ElderSafe Support Services

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Author Proﬁle

BRICK BY BRICK

Photo: Roy Ferguson

“I

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BY VERNICE SHOSTAL

never imagined in my wildest dreams that I would actually write, publish, distribute and sell a book,” says genealogical researcher Nancy Hughes, author of Built by Luney Bros. Ltd. Nancy began researching her family history as a hobby in 1993 and, by 1997, had three filing cabinets of information and photographs. Her original plan was to include a chapter about her grandfather’s and her great uncle’s construction business in a family history book; however, while interviewing family members, former employees and people who knew her grandfather, Nancy had accumulated too much material for a single chapter. She also found, during her research, that numerous books had been written about the architects who designed the buildings in Victoria, but there was no recorded history of the construction industry that built the structures. Recognizing the gap, Nancy set out to record the Luney Brothers building history (1885-1962) in a book rather than a chapter. Nancy has fond memories of her grandparents. Her grandfather was a businessman who wore a three-piece suit, white starched shirt, tie, hat and topcoat. He carried a pocket watch on a chain and always had hard candy, a penknife and tape measure in his pocket, she recalls. Victoria owes much of its construction history to the Luney Brothers, who were responsible for over 180 buildings in the city. Some of these included 21 schools – elementary, junior high, high school, colleges and university, including the Victoria Normal School (now Camosun College) and the Royal Roads Grant block. They built St. Joseph’s Hospital, the Nanaimo Hospital, Central Block at Royal Jubilee Hospital, the Royal Jubilee Tuberculosis Building, nurses’ homes at St. Joseph’s and the Jubilee as well as banks, bridges, street and highway pavements, the Canadian National Railways line into Victoria and 500 wartime houses for veterans. Although many of the structures have been replaced, at the time of his retirement, Walter Luney said, “Near-

ly every street in town has at least one building we put up.” A well-respected member of the community, Walter served as president of the Victoria Rotary Club, Queen Alexandra Solarium, Potentate of the Shrine Gizeh Temple and sat on many boards including the Chamber of Commerce, the Masonic Lodge, the Plumbing Board of Examiners, St. Mary’s Church and the Protestant Orphanage. He was one of the charter members of the Victoria Building Industries Exchange when it was formed in 1911 and served as its president. He was elected to the Victoria City Council in 1933 and served as alderman for the city until 1937. “Grandpa [Luney] used to delight in telling us stories of the mischief he got up to as a child,” she says. Like the day he brought a pocketful of baby rats to school, or the time he planted a paper-wrapped firecracker under a girl’s desk and the pot-bellied stove blew up when the girl threw the camouflaged firecracker in it. “Nana would get after Grandpa saying he shouldn’t be filling our heads with that nonsense.” Of her own parents, Nancy says they were strict, but not restricting. “They were strict in manners and politeness,” she says. But the children were free to walk to and from school, visit friends, explore the neighbourhood and play in the fields, woods and empty areas, as long as they were home at dinnertime. Growing up during the Second World War, Nancy remembers blackouts, having covers over the car headlights with little slits that emitted the smallest possible amount of light

and the sound of air raid sirens. After secretarial school, Nancy held an office job in Victoria until she married Ray Hughes, her high school sweetheart, in 1959. For the next 11 years, the couple lived at Shawnigan Lake. Back in Victoria and two children later, Nancy took up swimming and received her Bronze Medallion in lifesaving. She spent a year writing poetry while taking lessons from British-born writer and poet Robin Skelton, and then persisted with karate lessons until she achieved her brown belt. Her next venture was Chinese brush painting, followed by five years of learning to read, write and speak Chinese. “I’ve always admired people who could speak multiple languages,” she says, “so if I was to make the effort to learn another language, I wanted to learn one I could use in Victoria.” After touring China with her daughter in 1979, Nancy enrolled in an East China Normal School in Shanghai in 1982, and again in 1984, through the University of Victoria’s summer studies. A perennial volunteer, Nancy has served on the boards of the Victoria Spinners and Weavers Guild and the Victoria College of Art. In 1973, she was presented with a volunteer medal by Mrs. Dave Barrett, wife of former Premier Dave Barrett, for volunteering with G.R. Pearkes pre-school for hearing impaired children. For many years, she cared for a family friend who suffered from dementia. She paid the friend’s bills, did her banking and shopping, took her to doctor’s appointments, included her at Christmas dinner

and special occasions, moved her in and out of condos and care homes, held her hand to calm her when she was upset and made sure no one “ripped her off.” “Everything a daughter would do for her mother,” says Nancy. A patient, persistent, energetic and tenacious researcher, Nancy’s interest in her family led her to the Mormon Church, the University of Victoria, the Vancouver City Archives and Library, B.C. archives, building permits, tax records, plumbing records and the censuses. She especially enjoyed the “Eureka” moments when she found names of relatives she had not been able to locate. Since the book’s publication, family members of former employees have told Nancy they see her book as a legacy to their children and grandchildren. Inadvertently, a genealogical research that began as a hobby became a historical document. Nancy’s next book, Barking up the Wrong Tree, will deal with the family hisSL tory she originally intended. Built by Luney Bros. Ltd. can be purchased at Ivy’s Bookshop, Munro’s Bookstore, Tanner’s and Bolen books. To learn more about Nancy Hughes or to view online photos of historical buildings built by Luney Bros., visit www.luneybrosltd.com Nancy Hughes will discuss her book at A Celebration of Local Authors presented by Inspiring Authors on Sunday, December 12, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Terrace Room, Marriott Hotel, 728 Humboldt St., Victoria, No admission charge. Open to the public.

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DECEMBER 2010

Arts & Entertainment

NAVY AMBASSADORS BY CANDICE SCHULTZ

SENIOR LIVING

also to remind civilians that there are plenty of incredible jobs in the navy. Edith has played with the Naden band in Victoria since 1989. She played clarinet in high school, then attended the University of Ottawa and had the opportunity to play with the Ceremonial Guard. Edith moved on to New Brunswick and played with the Stadacona Band of Maritime Forces Atlantic, and then to Victoria, where she now resides. “I feel very lucky to play my clarinet every day,” says Edith. Each member’s primary job is rehearsal and performances, but they also have secondary duties that keep them busy in their role as navy ambassadors. Edith, for example, was also the Naden Band’s project manager for the navy’s Centennial Road Show, which took place from May through October of this year. Ticket sales from each performance were donated to regional charities. As project manager, Edith identified cities for the band to visit, booked venues and contacted potential sponsors. Ultimately, the road show was a success and the band played several sold out concerts. The band’s performance in Edmonton at the Winspear Centre on Friday, July 23rd was especially moving for Edith because at least two-thirds of the audience wore red to the concert. “It’s wonderful to be a part of that sort of thing, and feel the bond that a city can have when they unite in a common goal,” says Edith. This Christmas, the Naden Band will unite with the Salvation Army in another common goal, the annual Photo: Carol Barton

uring the past year, the Naden Band of Maritime Forces Pacific played in venues at home in Victoria and as far away as Thunder Bay. More commonly known as the Naden Band, this naval music ensemble of 35 members performs across the country and around the globe. This year, the Canadian Naval Centennial was especially important for the Naden Band: they toured the country in support of the celebration with the intent of bringing the navy to Canadians. But the year isn’t over yet, and there are still opportunities to see the Naden Band play in Victoria and Vancouver. Formed during the Second World War, just a few decades after the Canadian Navy came into existence, the band was a way to boost civilian and military morale. They held dances, played in concerts, on the radio and in parades. They also helped raise money for the war effort by holding War Bond Drives in Western Canada. The Naden Band’s role as navy ambassadors in Canada and abroad continued as the decades passed. In 1991, the band travelled to Vladivostok, Russia and officially became the country’s first foreign visitor after the Cold War. Petty Officer (second class) Edith Eaton, who plays clarinet for the Naden Band, looks back on this trip as one of her most significant performances. “We can go into a place where we don’t speak the same language,” she says. “I had this experience when

[the Naden Band] was in Russia. The music was the common language. It broke the ice.” In 1994, the band was one of five military bands cut from the federal budget. Reinstated three years later, its role in the Canadian Navy is just as important today as it was when it was formed. Within the concert band, the Naden Band has several smaller ensembles made up of band personnel, such as a jazz quintet, a parade band, and “Salty Soaks,” an eight-piece Dixieland ensemble. The ensembles perform for a wide variety of occasions including sporting events, fundraisers and cocktail parties. While the official mission of the Naden Band is to provide support for the Canadian Forces, members of the Naden Band agree their primary goal as musicians is to bridge the gap between military personnel and civilians. Through this form, they’re able to bring the Navy to the citizens. “We are goodwill ambassadors,” she says. The Naden Band’s secondary goal is WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM

Christmas Toy Drive. Petty officer (first class) Michael Broadley, the Naden Band’s lead trumpet player, has been involved with the band for over 33 years. He also spent time playing in Calgary and at Royal Roads. As a senior member of the band, Michael enjoys meeting new musicians and revels in their excitement about their new career. “I enjoy mentoring them and passing on my experience,” he says. One of Michael’s favourite memories as a member of the Naden Band occurred in 2002 when Queen Elizabeth II dropped the ceremonial first puck at a Vancouver Canucks game. As a member of the Naden Band, Michael was proud to play amongst the royal trumpets that introduced the ceremony. Michael stood next to Wayne Gretzky and the British monarch on the red carpet while she dropped the puck. This was her first attendance at a hockey game in 51 years and part of a 12-day tour across Canada that celebrated the 50th anniversary of her rule. Michael played in the first Salvation Army Toy Drive more than 30 years ago, which didn’t have the same turnout that it has today. As word spread, the Salvation Army Toy Drive grew and the band extended the run from one night to three, and added a show in Vancouver. The band also plays a closed matinee in Victoria for school children. “It’s wonderful because the kids enjoy it so much,” says Edith. As someone who has been involved in the Salvation Army Toy Drive since the beginning, Michael believes strongly in how important the concert is to so many families. “We all remember being children. To imagine being a child without gifts, going to school and listening to the other children talk about what they got for Christmas, it would be awful,” he says. “It’s imperative that we have this toy drive to help the needy families. The important thing to me is to light up a child’s face.” Edith agrees. “It’s part of our Christmas tradition [in Victoria]. We’re so pleased to have the toys go and make Christmas a little bit brighter for those who need it.” Giving back to the community is just one way that the

Naden Band members Petty Officer First Class Cathy Hammond, Petty Officer Second Class Edith Eaton and Petty Officer Second Class (retired) JoAnna Cawdell at a performance in Thunder Bay, Ontario.

Photo: Stephanie Greaves

Arts & Entertainment

Naden Band helps the navy connect with civilians. Like Edith, Michael feels lucky to spend his days playing music, knowing how important his role is as a navy ambassador. “Being the face of the navy is our most important role, and so is the connectivity between the civilian and military world,” says Michael. “People can relate to music. People can’t always understand ship manoeuvres. I think that as a musician in Canada, it’s one of the most rewarding jobs you can have. We don’t just play symphony, jazz or rock ‘n’ roll SL in the clubs. We cover all aspects of music.” Victoria Christmas Concerts In support of The Salvation Army Toy Drive (Please bring an unwrapped toy). Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton Street, Victoria (Corner of Blanshard and Broughton Streets). December 13, 14, 15, 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $7. Tickets are on sale now at the Royal Theatre OR MacPherson Playhouse Box Offices, 250-386-6121 or toll-free 1-888717-6121. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.rmts. bc.ca Both Box offices are open Monday through Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with the Royal Theatre Box Office closing for lunch from 1:30-2 p.m. daily.

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Arts & Entertainment

HIS OWN WAY

Photos: Gail Wiseman Reed

BY SELINDE KRAYENHOFF

“Y

ou can always find a way.” This conviction has served Ladysmith’s Harry Reed well over the years. A self-taught stained glass master with over 2,000 finished pieces to his name, Harry’s life work evolved from a hobby he started 30 years ago. In 1980, Harry arrived on Vancouver Island from Ottawa with $50 in his pocket. His degree in psychology got him no further than a job with a landscaper. That landscaper had the grounds contract at the Crofton Mill. “I soon realized I could make a lot more money inside the mill than out,” says Harry. “I kept applying.” Finally, one day he was offered a job. He worked in the groundwood department where it was noisy, steamy and hot. It was hard work. One day, he took a how-to book on stained glass out of the library and started playing around. “It wasn’t a very good book,” says Harry. “I had to figure things out for myself.” He liked the 10

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challenge and continued to experiment. “I’ve never put myself into a position of having a teacher say to me, ‘You can’t do that,’ so I developed my own way of doing things.” This learning through trial and error allowed Harry to develop his own unique style. After three years at the mill, Harry had saved enough money for a down

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payment on a house. And, by then, he had a family. Harry remembers, “I thought, ‘No one else is doing stained glass in Ladysmith – why not start my own business?’” His wife was working outside the home, so there was one steady income. There were few business expenses – only ads in the local paper and the Yellow Pages to help him attract customers. More importantly, having a business at home meant he could be with his children. “I would have hated to be away all

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Page 10, Arbutus Shedding Bark after Percy Weston Page 11, Curly Lily after Iris Churcher Left, Resurrection after 12th Century French window Below, The Westwind after Tom Thompson

day and only see them at dinnertime,” says Harry. “I created a kind of corral that jutted into my studio. That way, I could see them while they played, and I worked.” Harry managed to get in five to six hours of work a day; busy in his studio when the children were napping, when they were happy to play independently and in the evenings. And when they were old enough to go to school, he increased his hours. Harry’s repertoire is extensive. His customers’ requests have stretched him. He’s created windows of people’s pets, their artwork, for churches, and major architectural projects. He’s translated the work of the Group of Seven, Matisse, Escher and art from prehistory

like the Mongolian Horse from the Laseaux Caves into stained glass. Harry consults closely with clients to make sure the designs will work. He’s learned what makes for a beautiful window. “I don’t like busy designs,” he says. “I encourage people to work with the medium of stained glass; what would look best.” And always, Harry has his own projects on the back burner. “I am really interested in the medieval period. I’m constantly looking through books for inspiration,” he says. In his studio, Harry works to the background sound of Gregorian music.

“I like it. It doesn’t trigger memories or strong emotion, it just gets me into a meditative mood.” He likes the simple colours and the naive approach to the themes of the 1213th century stained glass work. “That era resonates with me,” says Harry, even though he’s quick to share that these works are not his best sellers. That’s the benefit of having a successful business – Harry is able to spend time on creations that give him the most pleasure. Harry enjoys all aspects of the stained glass work. He creates the cartoon, or drawing, as the pattern from which the pieces will be cut. The drafting he learned in his engineering studies (before he switched to psychology) serves him well during this step. This is followed the cutting and soldering

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together of the glass pieces. “It’s a step-by-step process, and the joy for me is in the making, not the desire to be famous,” says Harry. “I even enjoy the clean up!” The most reliable feedback Harry gets is through his sales. People like his work and buy it. Stroll through Ladysmith and check out samples of Harry’s art at the public library, The Printingdun Beanery, The Royal Dar restaurant and Bayview Framing and Art. But it’s in his studio where one gets an appreciation for the scope of his work. Every surface incorporates stained glass: the door and windows, the lights and lamps. The rich colour of the glass and the sound of monks chanting give the sense of stepping into another world – the world of a master craftsman, a world Harry Reed created SL to sustain him, his own way. For more information or to meet Harry Reed and view his work, call 250-245-7743 and visit the High Street Stained Glass Studio (closed Sundays).

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“We want our customers to be happy, satisfied and comfortable. People want continuity in homecare. Our clients develop relationships with our Community Care Workers,” says Kim. “The way to ensure continuity is to make sure that our staff are being honoured and respected, as well as our clients.” “It is our philosophy that our workers also need to be supported physically, emotionally and in their training and skill development. We strive to nurture the human potential of our workforce.” All staff at ElderSafe are formally trained and certified and professionally supervised by a Licensed Practical Nurse or Registered Nurse. Any profits generated by the organization are re-invested in additional program offerings for seniors, and in training and skills upgrading for their nurses and Community Care Workers.

Kim Duffus, BC Regional Director of Saint Elizabeth Health Care.

When it comes to home and community based health care for seniors ElderSafe Support Services is known for providing flexible, client driven, professional care. Building and maintaining community partnerships is also of prime importance for the organization. “We work closely with other community service agencies,” says Kim. “By having community partnerships with a variety of service providers such as LifeLine, not only can we keep our workers up-to-date on vital technologies that aid seniors, but we can provide our clients with a wealth of relevant, helpful information.”

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Heritage

War and Friendship BY MARGARET GROWCOTT

SENIOR LIVING

Photo: Kevin Growcott

piece of native art that Garett Ollander inherited from his uncle is destined for a new home. Where the valuable piece will be displayed is still unknown, but it will surely benefit students, historians and lovers of West Coast art. Born in Port Alberni in 1936, Garett is a retired RCMP Marine Division officer, who worked in the furthermost points of Vancouver Island and as a coast guard officer in the Arctic (see “Life at Sea” in Senior Living, March 2009, online). He was later a marine consultant to a major corporation, which took him to Australia, China, Norway, England and Holland. He was even skipper of the famous M.V. Lady Rose for a while. Not bad for someone who was a self-described “vagabond” as a youngster. This venture, however, has nothing to do with the sea, but is a coming home of a priceless piece of native art. Garett acquired a model totem pole when his Uncle Bud died in 1981. It had been in his uncle’s possession since 1969, when John Jacobson, a Master Carver of the Nuu-chah-nulth nation of Ahousaht, B.C., presented it to him. Marvin (Bud) Smith was a barber in Port Alberni and served overseas in the Second World War. Towards the end of the war, Bud was in Holland fighting alongside John Jacobson, although the two did not know each other well. When the Germans were being pushed out of Holland in 1944, Bud was seriously wounded. John Jacobson quickly came to his rescue, making sure Bud was protected from further fire whilst conveying him to the medical post. John saved Bud’s life, and the two men formed a long-lasting friendship when

they returned to B.C. As a tribute to their friendship, the Master Carver presented Bud with a signed 26.5” (67.3 cm) totem pole on November 11, 1969 to commemorate Remembrance Day and the fact that they had both served in the Canadian Army. Although Jacobson was a highly recWWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM

ognized carver in the Nuu-chah-nulth nation, apparently he was not in the habit of signing his work. Therefore, the pole he presented to his friend was important, although, at the time, little was thought of the fact that this particular piece of work was signed. Some years after it came into his pos-

session, Garett decided he should get an appraisal of this model totem pole. Kerry Mason, an appraiser in Victoria specializing in Canadian and Northwest Coast art, was thrilled to see this signed totem pole, which was stylistically similar to an unsigned eight-foot (2.4-metre) totem in Government House, Victoria. She deduced that this and other anonymous poles in the collection of the Royal B.C. Museum appeared to be John Jacobson’s work. These works were previously unidentified as belonging to any one artist. The totem, titled “Eagle, Serpent and Killer Whale,” is carved in red cedar and remains in excellent condition. In her appraisal, Kerry Mason said, “The aesthetic value of the pole is huge. The form is exceptionally fine and the details both subtle and sensitively rendered, the artist using the grain of the cedar to emphasize and enhance the form of the components.” The iconography of the pole is distinctive to the Nuu-chah-nulth cultural group. The creatures of the sea, land and air depicted in this case by the Killer Whale, Serpent and Eagle are believed to be spiritually connected. “Through transformation, the spirit of the Eagle takes the form of Serpent on land and Killer Whale in the sea,” says Mason. “The belief in the interconnectedness of all aspects of nature is strong in Northwest Coast cultures. Additionally, the Eagle, Serpent and Killer Whale are important crests in Nuu-chah-nulth society.” The pole provides an important historic record of the artwork of John Jacobson, the Nuu-chah-nulth culture, in general, and the carvings of the mid-20th century on the west coast of British Columbia. “Should this pole be donated to either a university or museum, it would prove invaluable to scholars investigating the techniques, iconography and cultural context of a wide variety of artists and artwork,” says Mason. After the discovery that his model totem pole had led to the authenticity of other artwork in the Royal B.C. Museum, Garett realized how unique this item was and that it should occupy a special place. Friends suggested he sell it for a tidy sum,

but Garett is not interested in cashing in their museums. It is not widely known on the historical piece. that many First Nations served in the A chance encounter on a B.C. ferry war. The Legion feels the pole is unique with Woody Hayes, at that time chair as it was created as a war memorial and of the board of Vancouver Island Uni- presented by a First Nations carver to versity, helped Garett out in his di- his friend, a white man. lemma. Woody suggested Garett meet Because Garett will eventually rewith Shawn Atleo, Grand Chief of the lease the pole once the rightful quarter is Assembly of First Nations in Ottawa, determined, he commissioned B.C. artwho was chancellor of every campus of ist Bill Maximick to paint the totem in Vancouver Island University. As he is detail. This impressive painting depicts also a member of the Nuu-chah-nulth, a Master Carver at work, who bears a the Grand Chief would have prime in- resemblance to the late John Jacobson, terest in the totem and its destiny. In- as well as another Ahousaht artist. It will stead, Garett met with Chief Cliff Atleo be a permanent reminder of the skill of of Ahousaht, B.C., who had conferred the carver and the actions that precipiwith his nephew, Grand Chief Shawn tated the piece: war and friendship. Atleo. For a time, it was thought the Whether the pole remains in B.C. totem should be presented to Vancou- or goes to Ottawa, art enthusiasts and ver Island University to benefit First historians alike will long remember SL Nations students. Ultimately, however, Garett’s generosity. they both felt the totem belongs in a muAlthough officially retired, Garett’s seum in Ottawa. At the same time, Legion officials latest project is a course offered at in British Columbia and Ottawa have North Island College: Seniors’ Quest shown an interest in the pole and they for Knowledge. For more information, MPW-239 Harp Sandhu Senior Living ad:December 2010 10/21/2010 3:08 PM believe this totem belongs in one of visit www.nic.bc.ca/eldercollege

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DECEMBER 2010

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MY FONDEST CHRISTMAS MEMORIES BY JO-ANN ZADOR

ach year, the Christmastime rituals of my childhood started when Dad, the responsible “father-knowsbest” of the 1950s, transformed into the biggest kid on the block. He would start the holiday traditions by piling us into our old Ford and, with a wink of his eye and a nod of his head, we were heading out on our magical Christmas ride. Our first stop was on West Hastings Street in downtown Vancouver; a short walk brought us to the spectacular Christmas window displays of Woodward’s Department Store. With our cold noses and mittened hands pressed against the glass, the enchanted forest scene – made all the more magical by the twinkling lights, gaily decorated fir trees topped by fairy-placed stars and the fluffy “snow” covering the forest floor – delighted us to the tips of our toes. Marching red-coated, brass-buttoned nutcracker soldiers led a parade of ballerinas in frothy pink tutus trimmed in glimmering silver sequins; round and round they went, surrounding Santa, red-nosed Rudolph and the other prancing reindeers, who drew the brilliantly decorated sled through the forest path. There were skaters gliding across the ice, dancing candy canes, winking snowmen, flirtatious snowladies wearing perky hats, whimsical chubby elves, and carols ringing through the air. It was pure fantasy and a fairyland made for our young imaginations. Piling us back into the car, the magic continued as we drove towards home. Dad twisted and turned through the neighbourhood streets, our oohs and aahs ringing loudly and our hands clapping with delight as we rounded each corner and admired the houses garlanded in bright lights. Our gentlest rejoicing was reserved for the magnificent rustic manger scene our kindly neighbour, Mr. T., lovingly erected each year, just so we didn’t forget the reason for the celebration. The evening always ended with an invitation from 16

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Mrs. T. to enjoy a mug of hot, sugary cocoa, always a bit lumpy, but with gooey, melting marshmallows on top; it was lip smacking good! Suitably wired, we were tucked into our beds with visions of days of merriment ahead: a relaxing of the household rules, visiting Santa to place our orders, sleeping filled with excitement and sneaking sweets that appeared in tiny little candy dishes around the house. After what seemed like weeks of waiting, the big night finally arrived! Dad was at his best: twirling us around the room to the sounds of the big bands he loved so much. We giggled, we sang, we jumped and nearly busted with excitement. As soon as we had plated the cookies and milk and placed them perfectly on the fireplace mantel for Santa, we listened to “The Night Before Christmas” and were then tucked into our beds. Snuggling in, I stayed awake for hours, my tummy roiling with anticipation. There was nothing to do but wait and wish the long night to pass quickly! My little sister finally dropped into a restless sleep, one eye and both ears open so nothing would be missed, especially the hoofbeats on our roof. My young mind twirled. Had Santa arrived, had I been

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Featured Business good enough, had he made it safely down the chimney and past our ferocious (in his mind) Paddy-dog? How many treasures had he left under the tinsel-laden tree? Had my hints been heard? Would the coveted Madame Alexander ballerina doll-with-realhair be under the tree? Or perhaps the white buckskin figure skates or the silver charm bracelet, possibly the coveted transistor radio or the spoolknitting kit, maybe the next issue of Nancy Drew or the latest Archie comic. I knew for sure that there would be a juicy Mandarin orange and a potato in my mantel-hung stocking, along with a giant red and white candy cane, which I could eat before breakfast! Finally, Christmas morning arrived! All we had to do was wait in bed for the “signal” – Dad’s signal, the start of that special day; my sister, brother and I were warned to not even think of peeking over the staircase banister. Waiting for the sound of Dad’s footsteps down the stairs, marked by the creak of the landing, was almost too much to bear. Then came the crackling sound as Dad lit the logs in the fireplace; we could just see Paddy-dog stretched out in front of the hearth, in his dog mind relishing this special day and loving the warmth of the fire. We knew that the plate of cookies and the milk set out the night before would be gone; we always hoped that Santa got there before Paddy-dog. All this meant that the signal was not far off. First, HoHoHo, a little pause, another HoHoHo, then the joyous sound of our Christmas song “Oh What a Beautiful Morning” from Dad’s favourite Broadway show, “Oklahoma!” Let the fun begin. Christmas will always be “Oh What a Beautiful Morning.” I have never forgotten the significance of that song and its role in developing my love of Christmas. Today, I am much older than Dad was in those magical days of my childhood Christmas, but I am still a SL believer in his magic!

WOOL By Starr Munro

Natures Miracle Fibre

Sheep’s wool. It’s warm, durable, cushioning, water repellent, reusable, biodegradable, non-allergenic, fire resistant, UV protective and mold resistant. It’s essentially the superhero of natural fibres and for Anyes de Laat, owner of Soul Comfort Sheepskin, wool is the obvious, cost-effective, preventative solution for a multitude of ailments. “Most people are unaware of the natural healing power of wool,” says Anyes. “For centuries holistic practitioners around the world have known about its healing power. My ultimate goal is to bring wool back into the position of respect it once held in the medical profession.” Anyes has spent the past 29 years creating natural wool products that relieve pain and comfort the soul. Her primary mission is to educate families and health care professionals about the natural healing qualities of this special fibre. “The healing power comes from wool’s ability to absorb 30 to 40 per cent of its weight in moisture,” says Anyes. To put this into perspective, cotton absorbs four to eight per cent, while polyester absorbs about zero to four per cent. Our skin needs to breathe and wool promotes both air and blood circulation and prevents bacterial growth wool does not take on body odours. “People use wool in the desert and in the Arctic. It’s a natural insulator that will keep you at 98.6 degrees year round,” says Anyes. “Do you know how much energy goes into regulating your body temperature? Wool does all the work for you. If you surround yourself in wool when you sleep it lets your body go into a deeper state of rest. We also lose an average of one litre of moisture per night. Wool absorbs moisture and wicks it away from your skin allowing it to breathe.” Wool has been known to help prevent, treat and relieve symptoms for people with arthritis, fibromyalgia, eczema, swelling, asthma, osteoporosis and bedsores. “Medical experts agree that 95 per cent of bedsores are preventable,” says Anyes. “The three main causes of skin breakdown are moisture, pressure and chafing. Wool is soft, absorbs moisture and promotes circulation. Sheep wool fabric has been proven to

have a 68 per cent success rate at preventing bedsores.” Whether you are looking for a preventative treatment solution or just something purely warm and cozy, Soul Comfort Sheepskin offers a wide range of sheepskin and sheep wool products. Everything from bedding, to medical sheepskin, custom footing and regular footwear, pet products, clothing and baby line are designed and manufactured locally in Duncan. “We use only the best quality wool at Soul Comfort Sheepskin. I only import 100 per cent Australian and New Zealand sheepskin as Canada does not have it or sheep wool fabric

�� available. Our medical line meets Canadian Infection Control Standards,” says Anyes. “I am continuously gathering more information, medical trials and data, and always welcome the opportunity to work with the medical community to develop further studies on how wool can improve our lives. At Soul Comfort Sheepskin, we care about your health and I am committed to bringing you the finest quality wool products.”

SOUL COMFORT SHEEPSKIN & SHEEP WOOL 190 Fourth Street, Duncan & Hillside Mall, Victoria DECEMBER 2010 17 WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM 1.800.404.0622 www.soulcomfortsheepskin.com

Gift Ideas

A Music Library for Grandchildren

BY MELISSA MARTZ

he gift of music is one of the best presents to give a child. Music is the universal language that connects people, regardless of age. Whether a person is eight months, eight years, 18 or 88, music will usually elicit a response. Everyone has benefited from music as a learning tool. Think of songs learned as a child. What made it stick? Chances are it had repetitive words and a simple, recurring melody. Perhaps it involved hand gestures or miming that helped reinforce the lyrics. Share these songs with grandchildren, and help another generation love and appreciate them. Songs can help people remember and use language – it’s no wonder the alphabet is set to music! Canada has a wealth of recording art-

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SENIOR LIVING

ists whose specialty is children’s music that has delighted and given generations the foundation for a lifelong love of music. Raffi, Sharon, Lois and Bram and Fred Penner were the “ringleaders of children’s music” throughout the 1970s-90s. Now, along with them, children can enjoy the music of Erick Traplin, Smudge Fundaes, Rick Scott, Mary Lambert, Dan Devion (Dan the Music Man) and Music with Brian. These recording artists know that music stimulates the brain using both hemispheres, and have produced songs that allow children to be exposed to a variety of types of music. Some songs encourage children to snap, clap and dance along and, at the same time, develop higher IQs, improve attention spans, enlarge vocab-

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ulary and help them learn to rhyme and take turns. As well, music can be the groundwork for literacy and creates more confident readers. Since 1989, children’s entertainer Erick Traplin has shared his love for music through a repertoire of songs enjoyed by both children and adults, which can help them create a bond when they spend time together. Traplin understands the critical importance of starting a music library. “Physicists have shown that the sun, the moon, the earth, the sky, you and I, everything is made out of atoms and atoms are made of smaller and smaller components until all you have at the very beginning is a vibration. And music is a vibration and that’s why it affects us at such a deep and personal level. “Songs are like signposts in our lives. You hear a song and it can transport you to an earlier time with all the memories good or bad that go with that time. Hearing a song you sang in your childhood can help you recapture those carefree times and put a smile on your face in the present. So the earlier you start your grandchildren’s music library, the sooner they can start creating their own musical signposts.” Begin 2011 on the right track: give grandchildren greater confidence and self-esteem through a music library of their own. Their parents will be grateful for such a special gift this holiday season. SL

“D

Ricochets

o you love me?” means we, or more accurately, I, need to return something to the store, redecorate the garage or rearrange the back yard. The first week I met my wife, she persuaded me return a curtain rod she had purchased a year before. Over the years, there have been many such instances but the “almost selection” process has since been refined to a fine science. Upon recognizing the need for a new sweater, for example, she visits 10 stores, selects and carts home eight quarter-finalists. She then models each candidate in front of a mirror with the winning finalists of other categories, such as skirts, slacks and jewelry. Several neighbours and her Card Club are called in for consultation. The ballots are tallied by the College of Cronies and burned in the fireplace. White smoke denotes a probable, but not absolute, finalist. The winning store is notified and the losers await the awarding of second place, third place, and also ran positions. Hotly contended losers sometimes take weeks, or even months, to score. The longer such evaluations take, the greater the probability that I’ll be the one drafted to return the item. I’m now on a first-name basis with most of the local stores’

Humour BY BOB SHIRLEY

customer service departments. I’ve learned not to say that she really didn’t need the item, but it was at a price at which she thought the store was losing money. Ricochets are not limited to clothing. She loves to landscape, and re-scape, and re-scape. A tree may look great near the corner of the house. Ten minutes after transplanting it to the other corner of the house, she will decide that the original site actually looked better. I then have the choice of moving the hole back to the original position or of rotating the house 90 degrees. I call an emergency meeting of the neighbours and Card Club to plead my case to avoid further trauma to the soil, wear and tear on the shovel and the possibility of physical assault. The votes are taken, the smoke flies, and I end up moving the tree to a third and new location. But everyone knows it’s too early to return the shovel to the garage. The neighbours depart and return with their lawn chairs, barbecues and coolers. The men study the slope of the terrain, subjectivity to seismic eruption and zoning restrictions. Finally, white smoke erupts from the neighbour’s barbecue. A spot has been chosen! It’s perfect from all standpoints, esthetically pleasing and raises property values. What’s that? She says the spot is fine – but now it’s the SL WRONG TREE?

an exceptional taste, of the good life.

One of Victoria’s top dining experiences is found at Victoria’s finest seniors residence, Carlton House of Oak Bay. Our celebrated Swiss chef employs his creative talents using only premium, fresh ingredients. The result is unsurpassed meals for our residents and their invited guests. Learn more about an exceptional life at Carlton House. All-inclusive suites are available from $2495 a month. Call Seona Stephen today at 250-595-1914 | www.carltonhouse.caa

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DECEMBER 2010 AM 19 12/3/09 10:38:30

Travel & Adventure

A Multitude of Chocolate OAXACA BY DOROTHY SHAMAH

hen retirement is on the horizon, many of us seek adventure that transcends the emptiness of unexpected freedom. When I turned 62, ready to begin the third stage of my life, I sought a travel destination far from home. Oaxaca, Mexico beckoned. One might expect a traveller with such an excursion in mind to speak enough Spanish to manage the journey. One might be wrong. My carry-on luggage had wheels, but Spanish did not roll off the tip of my tongue. I disembarked in Mexico City, a metropolis of some 18 million people. Fortunately, international airport terminals use simplified language augmented by graphics to facilitate foreign passengers, but even this Spanish was too complex for me. Confused, I stepped into line at the counter under the larger than life sign of the airline on which I was to make my connection and, after a half hour, plunked down my ticket for the agent to peruse. “Senora, the check-in for domestic Aero Mexico is to your left, five counters. Your plane boards in thirty minutes.” “Gracias, senor.” I dragged my little bag along the busy concourse full of soft rolling Rs to the correct counter, checked in, headed for the exit lounge, and pulled out my book to pass time, only to find no reading glasses. Accompanying me in my rush along the packed concourse, they seemed to have lost themselves. Previous international travel has taught me to expect the “best” of people: The clerk in the shop that stocked reading glasses, who indicated she spoke no English, patiently attended my awkward attempts at communication; and the ticket agent took extra time to offer me explicit directions to the correct counter. Neither criticized my poor Spanish. The best part of the assumption of goodness in others is that they often deliver. Arriving a few hours later in Oaxaca, I immediately found my daughter Sarah with whom I would be staying, and her partner, a Mexican graphic artist, who waited with hugs and smiles before we drove to the ridge-side compound where their tiny adobe cottage was nestled with four other homes. 20

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Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán As I unpacked my bags, I looked out past cacti with huge green bouquets of spiny leaves growing in the well-swept red-dirt yard to the rooftops of colourful Oaxaca. The next morning, after Sarah walked to the school where she is an administrator, I, aware of an internally screaming desire to retain mobility of body, spirit and mind, began my exploration of the city. I was engaged in a fast-paced retreat into the future, forging ahead of immobility and loss of cognitive processes. Memories of my mother’s loss of words because of dementia haunted my progress. I wanted to live in the varied cultures of the planet and, at the same time, maintain connections with my past. Unlocking the gate and exiting the compound, I smiled for a moment as I recalled the stroll to the Zocalo the night before. Two of us were deep in conversation filling in the empty spaces of the previous year when I stumbled on the uneven cobblestones. Suddenly, I tumbled onto the walkway. A Mexican gentleman rushed across the street to help. My daughter, stunned at my sudden disappearance, brushed me off and thanked him as we continued to the Plaza de Armas for a taza de chocolate. In the startlingly clear sunshine of this next morning, I

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Planned Giving could see the bell towers of the cathedral through the maze of multicoloured pink, blue, green and yellow walls that lined the streets. After enjoying the cathedral’s central facade depicting the Virgin Mary as well as the bronze altar, I rested in the Zocalo beneath the shade of larger-than-life ancient trees. Returning to the compound, the three of us prepared a fresh garden salad before our “required” siesta. From 12 to 3 p.m., the families of Oaxaca retreat to their homes, eat their luncheon meal, and take a nap in the heat of the day. After three, the streets are full of children on their way to school and shoppers purchasing vegetables for dinner. Mother and daughter joined them to walk to Sarah’s place of employment, the Berlitz School of Oaxaca. Along our twokilometre stroll, fellow walkers were friendly and thoughtful.

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Open-air cooking. On our return, the scents of home cooking hovered over the city. “Have you tasted mole, Mom?” asked my middle child whose command of Spanish gave her a comfort level in this Mexican city that I could only dream of attaining. “Several varieties are notable; black is my favourite. How ‘bout you and I go out for dinner tonight, my treat?” The basic mole sauce that the Oaxacans serve is made from roasted negro chilies, raisins, almonds, sesame and pumpkin seeds flavoured with roasted cinnamon, cloves, peppercorns, oregano and Mexican chocolate. The mole we enjoyed that night was served over a huge slice of roast turkey – savoury as well as sweet. We dined in the flower-strewn courtyard of the historical building renovated into a restaurant where

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DECEMBER 2010

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Fitness & Recreation Whether surﬁng, climbing, walking, working out at the gym or taking classes at the rec centre, boomers and seniors are making ﬁtness a regular part of their lives.

fine wines such as a Freixenet cabernet complemented the meal. Superb! “Sarah, this is delicious. I hope you tuck your mole recipes in the bottom of your suitcase when you come home. Certainly, it is as unique as Thai green curry – indigenous foods are so thoroughly distinctive.” “Yes, Mamacita. I’m practising,” smiled my talented daughter. “However, Mother, moles I’ve eaten in cities outside of Mexico have not compared well to this rich, dark sauce. The French brag about their hollandaise, and I know you love the Thai green curry. I’ve tasted marinara in Italy, but none compare with the subtle chocolate mole. It’s one of the premier sauces of the culinary world.” We spent Saturday at a Zapotec ex-

cavation site, Monte Alban, the capital of an ancient civilization that ruled the area from 500 BC-800 AD. The afternoon was hot, so I purchased a straw hat complete with an Oaxacan hatband of many colours. That hat travelled with me across the Pacific on at least six trips. I used it for fancy dress evenings as well as for long treks into the Australian rainforest. Finally, a less than considerate fellow passenger on Qantas stacked his computer bag too near in the overhead luggage compartment and squashed the straw beyond recognition. After buying the hat of many colours, I tried to climb the steps up to and down the ruins. Those ancient Mexicans may have been short, but they obviously had strong thigh muscles. Lifting one’s leg high enough to reach the next step hun-

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dreds of times in a row had to strengthen not only the legs but also the cardiovascular system. My arthritic right knee gave me distress. At the end of the afternoon, I retired to the museum where the cool air within the adobe walls provided a people watching respite. Later that evening, we went to a movie theatre attached to the local shopping mall, where I read Spanish subtitles for an American adventure movie. It was half over before I realized that I only had to listen; the actors were, of course, speaking English. Habit is a strange travelling companion, but I did enjoy a delightful evening laughing aloud with the Mexican audience who found the foibles of Norte Americano gringos hilarious. A delightful awareness, a new experience “with subtitles” created a fine way to continue my Spanish language education.

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Oaxaca colours.

On my final morning, the crowded, fragrant markets in central Oaxaca delighted all three of us. We wandered among the stalls where women rhythmically slapped out fresh tortillas that baked on the hot stone ovens lining the walkways. Fresh juice, churned from mangos, oranges and pineapples, filled the market with mouth-watering scents. At my daughter’s suggestion, I sat before the hot stone fires and munched delicious scrambled eggs, fresh vegetables and freshly baked tortillas washed down with piquant vegetable juice – a gourmet delight.

Imagine the seed a conversation can plant. New ways of fighting disease. A work of art that moves generations. A business that creates thousands of jobs. And the University of Victoria students behind these achievements will have you to thank for making it possible. Your gift. Your legacy. A planned gift to UVic can blossom into anything. Contact Natasha to start the conversation about creating a lasting legacy in your will or estate plan.

Birds of paradise Geraniums Winter lilies waiting to bloom Sky peppered with billowy whites Doors open; a new day beckons. Oaxaca sunlight Frames blue, scarlet, yellow adobe walls.

One gift. Unlimited possibilities.

Natasha Benn | 250-721-6001 | nbenn@uvic.ca

SL WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM

DECEMBER 2010

Holiday

IMAX ANNUAL PASS

SPA CERTIFICATE

National Geographic IMAX Theatre Located inside the Royal BC Museum (250) 480.4887 ext 4 www.imaxvictoria.com

KingFisher Oceanside Spa 1.800.663.7926 www.kingfisherspa.com

GIFT I GUIDE

ooking for the perfect gift item for the Senior on your shopping list? Here’s 12 gift ideas ranging from the absolute practical to the simply luxurious...

t’s a Big Gift – The IMAX Annual Pass Do you know an IMAX fan, one who loves to explore the world, one who wants to see each and every film, sometimes more than once? That person is the perfect candidate for a really big gift! IMAX Annual Pass holders see all the films they want, as many times as they want at one low price. A limited number of annual pass gift certificates are available now. For prices and more information, visit www.imaxvictoria.com. JANSKA WEAR RED POCKET SCARF Living Room Pharmacy 1.877.214.6337

CAPE COD CHAIR AND STOOL Bloomfield Flats Custom Cedar Furniture www.bloomfieldflats.ca

loomfield Flats manufactures outdoor furniture and accessories using Vancouver Island Red Cedar. Quality workmanship and competitive pricing represent the best value found on today’s market. Our furniture makes excellent retirement, birthday, anniversary or wedding (Oh, and Christmas) gifts and adds functional elegance to any home, garden, patio or cottage. Bloomfield Flats makes furniture to fit every body type with ergonomic design and durability. Our “Westcoast” line is more upright and easy to get in and out of. New products include cedar boxes, serving trays, garden trugs and bar stools. Custom work is always welcome. 24

SENIOR LIVING

tylish ladies who wish to be warm and cozy this winter will love JANSKA WEAR. It’s perfect for the world traveller or the house-bound, and is available at Courtenay’s Living Room Pharmacy These fashionable, washable, polar-fleece pieces are perfect for keeping off draughts and winter chills, indoors or out. A generous cut, strategically placed pockets (for iPod, phone, glasses, pocket book or tissue), simple lines, and, at most, one large, easy-to-manipulate chic fastener, make Janska Wear easy to wear for those who have limited flexibility or dexterity. JANSKA WEAR is a pleasure to wear at home or on the go.

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ive the gift that says you care… Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa gift certificates or gift cards are the perfect holiday gift for everyone on your list. They can be used for services at our award winning Spa, dining in our Oceanside restaurant or for that much deserved weekend getaway. Plus as an added bonus you will receive a $20 promotional gift certificate for every $200 purchased.

HOT HEALTH Hot Health Systems 1.877.393.6114

ain and suffering caused by health problems such as arthritis, diabetes, multiple sclerosis and stroke can seriously impede your quality of life. But with regular use of Hot Health Systems’ Vibration Trainer you can free your body from the shackles of pain and find the freedom to live your best life. Increase your strength, balance and flexibility, and ease joint pain! Vibration Exercise technology naturally flexes your muscles leading to improved circulation, muscle strengthening and increased bone density without the usual joint stress from conventional exercise. It accelerates injury rehabilitation (including hip or knee replacement); decreases arterial hardening; enhances digestion and increases the hormones that are critical in the regeneration and repair process. Call us now for your consultation.

GIFT CERTIFICATE SAS Comfort Shoes 160-2950 Douglas Street (250) 382.7463 www.SASshoes.ca

skills and build confidence allowing the older driver to maintain their driving license longer while driving safely. Overcoming the effects of aging on driving skills, applying the basic rules of the road, and preventing collisions are among the topics stressed in the course. TREASURE Ribbon Gift Cards www.dharsent.ordermygift.com or call Dan Harsent (250) 812.3561.

ive the gift of comfort, with a pair of SAS Comfort Shoes. We have the widest selection of sizes and widths in stock, to get that perfect fit. Purchase a gift certificate for that loved one this year, so they can come in and get professionally fitted. Receive a 10% bonus certificate on all gift certificate purchases. GIFT CERTIFICATE Eldersafe Support Services (250) 385.0444 www.eldersafe.com

n ElderSafe Support Services Gift certificate provides the most valuable gift. Give the gift of time. Time to spend with loved ones during the holiday season. This gift certificate can be used for someone to assist you or your loved one with Christmas shopping, transportation, baking, decorating and cleaning - just a few of the services we can provide. THE GIFT OF INDEPENDENCE Roadmasters 55 Alive Driving Refresher Course Value $55. Call (250) 383.6041

osing the privilege to drive can take away much more than a license to drive. Many drivers face this outcome due to an increasing difficulty in some driving situations, due primarily to the physical changes of aging. A Driving Refresher Course can refresh driving

elatives out of town? Can’t get out to shop? Want to WOW! your employees or clients this year? Give them Ribbon Gift Cards. With a Ribbon Gift Card, they shop online from a selection of brand names like Cuisinart, Henkels, Swarovski, Vivitar, Maui Jim, Snap-On and more. Their gift ships right to their door with no delivery charge to them or you! 15 gift collections to choose from, cards never expire, 180 day satisfaction guarantee.Give the gift of Choice! Ribbon Gift Cards. Free Shipping anywhere in North America. CHARM BRACELET Barclay’s Fine Custom Jewellers (250) 592.1100 www.barclaysjewellers.com

his Holiday Season, Treasure Family Memories with a PANDORA® Charm Bracelet. Give PANDORA® from Barclay’s Jewellers as a gift and life’s special moments become unforgettable. Add to their jewellery with charms starting at $25 as new memories are created. With hundreds of unique charms to choose from, the jewellery you create will be as unique as the person who receives it.

NATURAL SPECTRUM LAMP Pine Lighting

790 Spruce Ave Victoria, BC V8T 5A5 (250) 475.0105 or www.healthylighting.ca

he Original Natural Spectrum® Lamps utilizes 56 years of research expertise to create a versatile and practical lamp. Glare is eliminated and colors look vibrant through a Verilux Parabolic Grid Diffuser and Flicker Elimination Technology® reduces fatigue, eyestrain, and headaches. A flexible gooseneck and two levels of illumination place indoor daylight exactly where you want it. An optional matching magnifier, in ivory or graphite, quickly mounts to the lamp and provides up to 6x magnification for up close, detailed work. The durable adjustable utility tray with a non-skid surface is also available and sold separately. Special pricing at Pine Lighting for the floor lamp model is $99.00 (not shown) and the desk lamp (shown here) model is $69.00 STERLING SILVER GENUINE STONE RING Shimmer Jewellery Suite 406 - 645 Fort St. (at Broad St.) 4th Floor of the Yarrow Building Call Ed at (250) 380.1333 or shimmer@shaw.ca www.makeitshimmer.com

ive something different this Christmas. Sterling silver genuine stone jewellery under $200. 15% off regular merchandise prices (in stock) with presentation of this ad. (1 per purchase). Shimmer Jewellery is stocking up on hot sterling silver designs this Christmas at very affordable prices. There has never been a better time to find unique and beautiful genuine stone jewellery set in sterling silver. Also great selections of gold and white gold jewellery on sale. Open Mon-Fri, 9am - 5pm.

Happy Holidays!

WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM

DECEMBER 2010

Lifestyle

A CAT FOR ALL SEASONS am said to be an incarnation of Dr. Doolittle. Although I don’t speak to animals, they nevertheless seem to like me. A cat sitting outside a house will run up to me when I walk by on the sidewalk, cry “meow, meow” and insist on rubbing against my legs. Meeting a dog, well, it comes with that hip-swaying, tail wagging sideways and toothy grin that dogs call a smile and translates to “I am so pleased to meet you” – rarely anything unfriendly. I love most critters, and dogs and cats seem to be attuned to my attraction and fondness. With such a pedigree, it wasn’t too difficult to convince me that my six-year-old daughter needed a kitten for Christmas. That was in 1977. The cutest little black, mostly Siamese she-fur-ball came to be a pal to Snoopy, our Beagle; a dog that believed in the peace and love of the days and enjoyed cuddles with a cat. Loved and spoiled by the family, they provided many Norman Rockwellish photo ops. Naming the cat was surprisingly easy. My little girl liked “Skana,” the name of the then new baby orca at the Vancouver Aquarium. To prevent confusion between the cat and the whale, we suggested a one-letter change to Shana – even better! Shana grew from kitten to cat, but was still just a compact little thing, somewhat shortish but higher on the rump, jacked up like a hot-rod with large rear wheels. She was not into shredding upholstery, but climbing up on a carpet wall hanging was considered legal. Fur black and shiny like a freshly polished boot, a small white patch on her chest, she would stare and give an insolent swish of her tail when reprimanded, as in “come and make me, big boy!” Although free to roam outside, she never pulled disappearing stunts and didn’t provide us with offerings of dead birds or mice. Often she would just sit in the backyard, watching birds pecking the ground, without that typical tiger-crouch slithering of a real carnivore. But then again, she had unusual tastes for a cat: almost anything given by hand, she would eat with relish. Bits of carrots, green peppers, peas, grapes cut in half, apples; our friends had to see to believe it. The years went by. My little girl grew; we moved twice, her mom died, I remarried and moved house once more. Big girl, then 18, left home in 1989 for school in England, and Shana became our cat. Cats live 14-16 years, on average. But Shana, 10 years later in 1999, was still with us, albeit slowed by age, quite frail and so thin that when lying on her side she looked flat, like roadkill. Her life included a bit of kidney problem, special diet and lots of sleep, the usual for a 22-year-old feline. Whenever my wife and I left to travel, either a family 26

SENIOR LIVING

member or a hired house-sitter stayed at our place and cared for Shana. For a trip to Australia in early 2000, however, we had no luck finding anyone to house-sit and decided to kennel Shana at our local vet’s clinic, accommodating only a few cats and providing veterinary care as needed.

Photo: George Zador

BY GEORGE ZADOR

We left several phone numbers where we could be reached by the kennel and some people caregivers. We were the mainstay of not just an old cat but also several similarly aged and frail humans as well – my mother, aunt, mother and father-in-law. A couple of weeks after landing in Sydney, we had a message left to call Dr. so-and-so, and not immediately recognizing the name, we were certain it had to do with my mom or aunt. It was Shana’s vet; sorry to tell us that she was in bad shape, he could perform some heroics, but it would be a kindness to help her into cat heaven. We gave him permission to euthanize and then cremate the remains, and cried shamelessly over the loss of this old friend. But my God, 23 years old, nine lives rolled into a long one. What did we expect? Returning home, we were presented with a small box containing Shana’s ashes and a statement of $580 for “services rendered.” Now, 10 years later, the box of ashes still sits on our bookSL shelf: far too valuable to bury!

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FINE TUNED Arts & Entertainment

rofessional luthier James Ham repairs, restores and creates violin family instruments and bows. Immersed in the world of music in all its many facets, he is also a keen performer and continuing student. Jim was born in Augusta, Georgia to a mother who was an accomplished musician and a father who designed hydroelectric dams for the Tennessee Valley Authority, which may explain Jim’s excellence in both the musical and the scientific disciplines of his craft. Following a move to Canada, where his father worked with B.C. Hydro, Jim decided to make this country his permanent home, moving to Victoria with friends in 1972 to open an instrument repair shop. “I believe the finest instruments in the world are being made today – they just aren’t old yet,” says Jim. A member of the prestigious American Federation of Violin and Bowmakers, his career began as a repairman, honing his skills by working on thousands of instruments in his original shop Old Town Strings, which still exists. Today, he prefers to work from his private studio. “I’m mostly self-taught,” says Jim. “But I do owe a debt of gratitude to two outstanding mentors, bowmaker Frances Rutherford and award-winning violin maker Raymond Schryer. We all share a passion for violins.” “Of course, there is a large conservative camp that believes the only good instrument is an old instrument, but others are open to something different.” In 1995, Victoria resident Gary Karr, Founder of the International Society of Bassists, commissioned Jim to build his first string bass. Karr, who famously owned a 1611 Brothers Amati bass, credits Jim with making more advances in bass building since the time of Stradivarius than anyone else. Although Karr had commissioned at least 20 basses in the last 40 years, he was never fully satisfied until Jim’s uniquely constructed model. This first commission resulted in a stream of orders and, in 2001, he was the recipient of the prestigious Manning Innovation Award for unique design improvements for the double bass. Today, musicians throughout Asia, Europe and North America proudly play his instruments.

Every summer since 2003, Jim has participated in the acoustics workshop at Oberlin College in Ohio, attended by accomplished professional violin makers and scientists who study the physics of violins. One of the participants who didn’t really fit into either category was a builder of racing shells made from Balsa wood. He had fashioned a few rather bizarre and strangely shaped violins from this material. “Strange they may have been but they were nevertheless acoustically amazing!” says Jim. “One had a particularly unconventional neck, but after a bit of reshaping it became even more formidable, and easier to play.” Fellow classmates and instructors agreed that despite its weirdness, this violin had a power and responsiveness matched by few conventional violins. Neighbour and fellow scientist/violin maker Ted White, who had participated in a 2004 Oberlin Acoustics Workshop, was equally excited about the possibilities of ultra-light Balsa instruments. “Ted makes violins while I make basses so we decided to collaborate on making a Balsa wood cello,” says Jim. “We wanted to make something that pushed the limits yet still looked conventional to a cellist and we completed the ultra light cello in just two months ready for demonstration at the 2005 convention of the Violin Society of America in Philadelphia.” Since the ultra-light cello is about half the weight of an ordinary cello, the initial reaction from many top cellists was the fear it would break if played too vigorously. Once that fear was abolished, they were all astonished at the rich and powerful sound. “Ted and I are working on the next version of the ultralight cello with the intention of making an instrument for eventual sale. I also plan to make an ultra-light bass, viola and violin. Stay tuned!” For Jim, relaxation means performing folk music with friends as well as playing second violin with the Civic Orchestra of Victoria. He also loves visiting flea markets and, not surprisingly, a special treasure is his collection of handmade Haida Native American tools. The allure of retirement never occurs to those fortunate enough to be doing what they love. When the “r” word comes up, Jim’s reaction is “Me? Never! I SL keep telling my wife I’m 16 – not 61!”

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Photo: Bill Schettler

BY ALIXE WALLIS

DECEMBER 2010

Author Proﬁles

Detection on Gabriola BY NAOMI BETH WAKAN

abriola, dubbed the “Island of the Arts’ because of the many artists, performers and writers who reside there, is also home to four folks who specialize in the art of detectivestory writing; a relatively large number for such a small community. The number, however, is not unexpected on an island that hosts the second largest poetry festival in Canada, along with a yearly Theatre Festival and Dancing Man Musical Festival.

Photo: Laura Sawchuck

Retired ophthalmologist Roy Innes has written three detective stories, Murder in the Monashees, West End Murders, and the recently released Murder in the Chilcotin. Roy says of his chief protagonist RCMP Inspector Mark Coswell, “He has a couple of my own vices, if they can be so viewed – a love of gourmet food and good wine. Very little in these novels of mine is pure fiction.”

SENIOR LIVING

His considerable life experiences offer a rich source of characters, settings and plotlines for his novels: medical school, summer jobs logging and waiting tables, over 30 years of medicine in Vancouver and a busy retirement that includes annual moose hunts with three old friends. A continuing theme throughout his books is an obvious admiration for the RCMP, which started during boyhood growing up in the Prairies and has been reinforced as he came to know many of its members and their families. On retirement, Roy was accepted into the Humber School of Writing after he submitted a portfolio of his short stories. “I was assigned a mentor, Olive Senior, a notable in Canada’s literary world. She critiqued [the] detective novel that I’d written over the year’s course and, at the end, she declared ‘You’ve done something good here. I suggest that you submit it for publication.’ I did so, and to my great surprise, I had it accepted by the first publisher I approached, NeWest Press of Edmonton, Alberta.” The book did well and a second novel, already written, was also accepted and ultimately published by them in 2009. Thereafter, Roy was encouraged to carry on with his characters as a series. Of his latest book, Murder in the Chilcotin, Roy says, “It grew from a caribou hunting trip in the Itcha WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM

Mountains of B.C.’s Chilcotin region. There, I came across two deserted pioneer cabins that turned out to be the very ones described by Richmond Pearson Hobson in his classic pioneer tale, Grass Beyond the Mountains.” Roy, ever alert for new plots, combined his discovery with research into the history of the First Nations in the district; the Chilcotin Wars, in particular, and their tragic outcome as overseen by the “hanging judge,” a controversial and perhaps unfair title for Sir Matthew Baillie Begbie. Roy writes every day and has two novels – a young adult fiction and a psychological thriller – going the rounds. The fourth in the Inspector Coswell series is in the incubation stage while he finishes a number of short story contest submissions. Success as a finalist in the 2009 John Kenneth Galbraith Literary Award competition with his short story “Sheila Pritchard,” has inspired him to continue writing for these contests between novels. James Hawkins has a direct base for his eight David Bliss mysteries – he was a police officer for 20 years and a private investigator for eight. He also has two non-fiction bestsellers under his belt: The Canadian Private Investigator’s Manual and 1001 Fundraising Ideas for Canadian Charities. Still, he was nervous after finishing his first detective story. “I had a reluctance to submit it in case it didn’t get the immediate acceptance of my non-fiction. So I delayed.” James delayed by writing two more detective stories, buying a poetry café (the one where he had sat for a year

writing his third story) and, as if that wasn’t enough procrastination, he bought the store next to the café and opened an art gallery. One day, the Acorn-Livesay poetry festival held a reading at James’ café and he persuaded the organizer to allow him to read some of the more poetic passages from his three books. After the reading, a woman approached him and asked to see more of his writing. He eagerly gave her

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Photo: Sheila Swanson

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the first chapter of Missing Presumed Dead. A few days later, she returned with the president of the Dundurn Publishing Group, which led to the publication of that book and James’ next seven; all bestsellers. “I am switching genres for my upcoming book because I am writing a biography of the eminent Gabriolan actor Antony Holland, who, though now in his nineties, still acts and also bakes delicious bread daily,” says James. The connection he has with Antony Holland is that James – policeman, gourmet chef, art-gallery owner, detective-story writer – is also a playwright and actor and has converted a couple of his books into plays, which Antony helped him stage. From a mutual admiration, the biography was conceived and will be published the fall of 2011.

“Never” and “Always” are two words that alternate the start of book titles by detective storywriters Sandy Frances Duncan and George Szanto. The stories in the series are set alternately on islands in the Georgia Strait and in Puget Sound. The ones starting with “Never” are based on islands off the Canadian west coast (perhaps “Never” being a play on the stereotype of Canadians being rather reluctant about everything) and the ones beginning “Always” are based on

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DECEMBER 2010

islands off the west coast of the States (“Always” because “Americans are so gung ho about everything,” as Sandy puts it). So, Never Sleep with a Suspect is set on Gabriola Island (already published), Always Kiss the Corpse on Whidbey (now out) and Never Hug a Mugger on Quadra Island (out in the fall of 2011). But why would two well-established writers in their respective genres (George – novels and plays, Sandy – children’s, young adult fiction and feminist writing) turn to detective story writing? “Fun,” says George. “It’s a change from the lonely, solitary life of a writer,” says Sandy, and she adds, “We laugh a lot as we progress through a book, and that’s great.” For years, these two long-time friends, both avid readers of detective fiction, had discussed the possibility of doing a book together. Even before they had both settled on Gabriola, Sandy recalls, “George and I walked along Berry Point Road and planned out a whole first ‘who-dunnit,’ involving a car that turns into a boat, and smuggling or something like that.” Sandy was already living on the island, so when George and his wife Kit also settled on Gabriola, the time seemed right for them to start working together. Still, it took George and Sandy more than three years to get the basic alternating islands’ plan laid out and the first detective story down on paper in 2009. Once it was finished, the next book, Always

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Photo: Ian Wood

Author Proﬁles

Kiss the Corpse, moved more rapidly and came out this fall from Touch Wood Editions. The third book is already at the editing stage. George and Sandy write together so seamlessly that it is hard to tell that two authors are at work. Kit Szanto, George and Sandy’s reader of the first rough, says, “Sometimes, I will guess that a certain passage has been written by one, and it turns out that the other actually wrote it.”

Charles Dickens Jeremy Tow

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adapted by

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SENIOR LIVING

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Of their writing method, Sandy says, “We started to develop our leading characters and we structured the whole first book. Then we broke it down into sections and then scenes within sections. The scenes we allotted naturally, as one of us said, ‘I’d like to do that one,’ or ‘Oh! I can’t deal with this one.’” Occasionally, they each became close to a chosen character and want to develop it on their own. Writing so closely together, Sandy and George are able to give each other immediate feedback. “There’s no place for ego when you’re writing in this way,” says George. For stories not based on Gabriola, George and Sandy took trips to scout areas for local colour. They also have local checkers on each island to make sure they haven’t made any bloopers, and that they have their geographical and sociological observations of island community life straight. “My wife, Kit, and I have mainly lived in big cities where community life was defined by the workplace. Coming to live on Gabriola, we found that our everyday life is SL our community life too.”

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Bring us all your favourite jewellery pieces this January and take advantage of: * FREE High Speed Polish * FREE Ultrasonic Bath * FREE Steam Cleaning

* FREE Inspection of Fittings, Mountings, and Stones * FREE Tightening of Loose Stones & Clasps

Your Jewellery is Our Specialty

Where to buy: Gabriola Island – Page’s Marina; Vancouver Island – Bolen Books and Munro’s in Victoria, Mulberry Bush in Parksville and Qualicum, Volume One in Duncan, Back Page Books in Nanaimo and local independent bookstores. They are also available online.

BC N IO T I D E

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www.barclaysjewellers.com 106-2187 Oak Bay Ave. 250-592-1100

A Helpful Guide for Seniors Considering Their Residential Options

To Move or Not to Move?

Published by Senior Living January 2009

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ONLY

9.95

If you are a senior who has been wondering lately whether you should consider moving - either because you find the maintenance of your current home more difficult due to diminishing ability or energy, or you simply want a lifestyle that allows you more freedom and less responsibility - then this is the book that can help you ask the right questions and find the solution that is right for you. A handy reference guide for seniors and their families wrestling with the issues around whether relocation is the best option. This 128-page book provides helpful, easy to read information and suggestions to help seniors and their families understand the decisions they need to make.

Books may be also purchased at these Island locations: (Please call ﬁrst to conﬁrm availability)

ORDER FORM - “To Move” Name______________________________Address _______________________________ ___ BOOKS @ $14.60 each (includes $3.95 S&H plus 5% GST) = TOTAL $____________

___ Cheque (payable to Senior Living) ___ CREDIT CARD # _________________________________ Expiry ___________ Name on Card ____________________________________

Mail to: Senior Living 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria BC V8T 2C1

Please allow 2 weeks for delivery

City______________ Prov ___ Postal Code____________Phone ____________________

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• Falconer Books, Nanaimo (250-754-6111) • Home Instead, Victoria (250-382-6565) • Medichair, Victoria (250-384-8000) • Medichair, Nanaimo (250-756-9875) • Medichair, Duncan (250-709-9939) • Munro’s Books, Victoria (250-382-2464) • Pharmasave Campbell River ((250-287-3222) • Pharmasave Comox (250-339-4563) • Pharmasave Cook St (250-386-6171) • Pharmasave Duncan (250-748-5252) • Pharmasave Esquimalt (250-388-6451) • Pharmasave Hillside Ave (250-595-8106) • Pharmasave James Bay (250-383-7196) • Pharmasave Ladysmith (250-245-3113) • Pharmasave Quallicum (250-752-3011) • Pharmasave Sidney (250-656-1348) • Pharmasave Tuscany Village (250-477-2225) • Pharmasave View Royal (250-881-8887) • Pharmasave Westhill Centre Nanaimo (250-740-3880) • Pharmasave Mill Bay (250)743-9011 • Tanner’s Books, Sidney (250-656-2345) • Volume One Books, Duncan (250-748-1533) • Crown Publications (250)386-4636 DECEMBER 2010

Gift Ideas BY NADINE JONES

Gearing Up for Gift Giving

“When you give of your possessions you give but little, it is when you give of yourself that you truly give.” –Kahlil Gibran

SENIOR LIVING

Shopping at craft fairs helps the artists and pleases the recipients with all sorts of interesting handmade treasures. Pre-holiday craft fairs happen frequently this month. Handmade jewelry is always acceptable if chosen carefully for a specific recipient. Little girls with pierced ears love a selection of small earrings. Many women my age love knitting. Tea cozies are back in style; baby layettes never went out of style; and the long scarves people are wearing today are easy to make and one can never have too many. Stores never lose their glitter and temptation and most of us succumb to the lure. What is more festive than rubbing shoulders with happy shoppers in December with “Come all ye Faithful” playing softly in the background? Whether you’re buying gifts, making them or both, have yourselves a wonderful holiday season and a peaceSL ful New Year.

Photo: Nadine Jones

ome people are creative and enjoy making gifts for friends and family during the holiday season; others head for the stores. I do both. As a grandparent, I love to receive my annual calendar with a picture of twin grandkids because it reminds me all year how lucky I am to be a grandmother. Christmas cards personalized by family pictures are always appreciated. However, I don’t like Christmas letters: I never read them. But I think I’m Johnny-out-of-step because most people I know look forward to catching up on news of friends and family that way. Handcrafters have an advantage: they can feel the holiday spirit for a couple of months before the season while they work on gifts. There are a few things I enjoy making and giving this time of year. I make lots of shortbread and yuletide cakes for family and friends – most people I know like to eat. I start baking Christmas cakes in November and shortbread about the beginning of December. I buy a pound of butter every once in a while, so I don’t have to buy it all at once for my genuine Scottish shortbread. I’m not a seamstress by any stretch of the imagination, but I can cut out and sew together variously coloured sixinch squares in long strips and then sew the strips together making a six-by-eight-foot square. Then, I buy and wash a sheet from a thrift shop for backing, put kapok in between the front and back, sew it up and, presto, a colourful warm quilt. Clearly, I’m not a quilter, but my simple quilts have bright happy colours; they are warm and gratefully accepted by the Downtown Women’s Centre. I try to make at least three a year. I’m also into baskets. I was lucky to have been taught by a First Nations artisan how to make cedar bark baskets in all shapes and sizes. Baskets filled with cookies and candies are always appreciated.

Hand-crafted baskets can be ﬁlled with goodies. When the treasures are gone, the baskets can be useful in hundreds of ways.

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Gift of Comf

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Spread Holiday Cheer

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Gift Certif

Happy Holidays!

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LOOKING FOR SOMEONE TO ACT FOR YOU IN YOUR SENIOR YEARS? F. Kenneth Walton, Q.C. Barrister & Solicitor Victoria BC (250)595-5368 Fax. (250)595-5378

• 35 years a lawyer • Compassion & integrity • Preparation of wills, representation agreements, power of attorney and health care agreements • Probate and estate processing including sale of estate goods • Will look after provision for your present healthcare needs or property management • Willing to accept appointment as executor of your will or as an attorney under a power of attorney or representation agreement • Will attend at your home

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righten the lives of lonely or isolated seniors in your community this holiday season through the Be a Santa to a Senior® service program. In the last five years, 60,000 volunteers delivered more than one million gifts to 660,000 seniors. How the program works: 1. Area non-profit agencies provide the names of lonely or financially challenged seniors in our community, as well as gift ideas for each senior. Volunteers write the first name or code name of the participating senior and their gift preferences on a Be a Santa to a Senior® tree gift tag. Program volunteers place each tag on a Christmas tree located in participating businesses. 2. Pull a gift tag from the tree, and purchase gift(s) for the senior from the gift ideas listed on the tag. Give the unwrapped gift to the participating business operator. 3. Program volunteers will regularly collect gifts and refresh tree tags from participating businesses as needed, and then deliver the gifts to each participating senior. The Gift Wrap party will be held on Tuesday, December 14 at 1 p.m. at Shannon Oaks Retirement Home. Delivery of gifts will take place Dec 14-16. For more information, call the Be a Santa to a Senior® Workshop at 250-385-6565, or go online to www.beasantatoasenior.ca Sponsored by Home Instead Senior Care. SL

• Will do estate court cases

Call me for a free consultation (250)595-5368

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DECEMBER 2010

Author Proﬁle

HER BURIED SPIRIT STORY AND PHOTO BY VERNICE SHOSTAL

ormer human resources consultant and threetime breast cancer survivor Kate Noble, author of the Duffy the Dragon series, has turned to a more playful lifestyle. She writes children’s books. Throughout her long career, Kate wrote numerous proposals, reports and semi-technical documents. At the same time, she was writing poems, ditties and short stories for her own pleasure. Her final bout with cancer drove her to go deeper and discover more of her inner creative flow. After several years of self-reflection and exploration, she found the kind of work she loves and has meaning for her. “Duffy the Dragon is my Phoenix from the ashes,” says Kate, who has “reconnected with fantasy and playfulness.” A mother of two adult children, Kate finds satisfaction in expressing ideas, thoughts and stories in words and phrases. “Often when I sit down to write, I have a strong sense that the stories have already been written and my role is to put them on paper.” Writing, publishing, distributing, marketing and selling Duffy storybooks enables Kate to use the business skills she developed in her career “with a joyful, childlike creative energy. It brings me a sense of peace, satisfaction and self-respect.” Kate grew up in postwar England. Looking for adventure when she was 19, she and a girlfriend came to Canada where, before marriage and a family, Kate worked at several jobs and studied English and sociology at the University of Guelph. Eventually, she moved to Victoria. When she was first diagnosed with cancer in 1992, Kate panicked, went into denial and finally concluded it was a random occurrence, that after the surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, she could forget about it. A second diagnosis a year later blew her world apart. Thinking a major lifestyle change was necessary, Kate moved to Nova Scotia with her two young children and settled in a semi-rural environment, where she hoped to reduce stress, reflect and spend time with her family. Returning to B.C. in 1997 to continue her former career, a third bout of the disease hit her in 2000. This time, instead of running away, she turned to writing. Between 2000-06, Kate recorded the stories and ideas she realized had percolated in her mind for decades. 34

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Duffy the dragon showed up one day in April 2006 as she washed the dishes. “Suddenly, urgently, I was compelled to write,” she says. “With soapy fingers and maniacal mumbling and giggling, I dashed to the keyboard and, as my teenage kids gave me that ‘Mum’s at it again’ look, began frantically typing. I continue to be possessed by a storytelling dragon to this day.” Kate feels this fantastical creature is a manifestation of her buried spirit, rising from the healing source of her cre-

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ative energy. She has discovered a piece of herself made of magic, and now spends her days “playing with my enchanted companion, who rescues me from my sometimes maudlin tendencies as a breast cancer survivor.” Although most of the Duffy series are custom-themed for cancer charities Kate supports, her latest book, Duffy the Christmassy Dragon, is a Christmas tale where Duffy, with his unique fire-breathing dragon powers, comes to the aid of Santa’s reindeer when they can’t land on an icy roof. In addition to her many trips back to England to visit her family, Kate has also travelled to Australia, where she was captivated, among other things, by the short-legged, metrelong Australian wombat. Her fascination with the marsupial is growing into another children’s story.

“Often when I sit down to write, I have a strong sense that the stories have already been written and my role is to put them on paper.” –Kate Noble

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An active individual, Kate is dedicated to personal fitness. She attends jazzercise classes, runs three or four times a week and dances, one of her passions. In the last few years, she has taken up Swing Dancing Jazzercise. An animal lover who lives with several cats and dogs, Kate has learned that every life is a journey of discovery. Some of her own discoveries: “Life is a gift; time is short; health is a balance between physical, emotional and intellectual well-being; the heart can be trusted more than the brain; laughter feels good; kindness, compassion and genSL tleness are strengths to be constantly developed.” A fundraiser for various cancer organizations, Kate’s Duffy books can be purchased at any branch of the Bank of Nova Scotia, The Red Barn, Country Grocer, Hemp and Company and through DFH Realty.

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DECEMBER 2010

Travel & Adventure

Budget Travel = Rich Experience

y husband and I received an invitation to a family wedding – an “April in Paris” affair. Of course, we wanted to go, but could we afford it? We had enough frequent flyer miles for a round trip flight, but the staggering accommodation prices had us stumped. A friend told us about her affordable travel club, which offers reciprocal home stays to fellow members throughout the world. The club is called Evergreen, but there are others (see sidebar). Annual dues are nominal. Some have a small gratuity payable to the host family, and most include a continental or full breakfast along with the lodging. We joined and soon received a directory listing the members. Now, all we had to do was plan our trip, and contact members who offered their homes in places we hoped to stay. With the money we would save on hotels, we’d be able to do more than just attend the wedding. Because Evergreen didn’t have host homes listed in each location we planned to visit, we also joined another similar club. Our flight landed at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris, where we’d reserved a rental car. From there, we drove about an hour northeast to Rouen, our home for the next few nights. Our host family, an elderly couple, who were tickled to have North American guests, warmly welcomed us. Our room was clean and comfortable with twin beds and a bathroom down the hall. After we settled, our hosts sat down for a chat and gave us insider tips not found in any guidebook. The next morning, after a wonderful French breakfast of warm croissants and steaming coffee, we explored the charming, medieval city of Rouen. Cathédrale de Notre Dame looked vaguely familiar to me, but it wasn’t until I saw a poster for sale on the street that I recognized 36

SENIOR LIVING

STORY AND PHOTOS BY POLLY TAFRATE

this as the church Monet painted so many times. The outside of the cathedral was sand-coloured and reminded me of a sandcastle at the beach. Inside, the stained glass was most spectacular. After we left the church, we wandered along cobblestone streets to the place where young Joan of Arc was burned at the stake, supposedly as a heretic. A lovely display of vivid pink flowers commemorates this spot. A place our hosts suggested was the workshop/store of the famous Rouen blue ceramics. A few women were hard at work painting this delicate porcelain. Of course, I couldn’t resist buying a few small pieces, which the owner carefully wrapped for safe travel. Our next two days were spent enjoying the wedding festivities in Paris, but we did manage to squeeze in a quick trip to the Louvre Museum and drive past the Eiffel Tower. Saying goodbye to our gracious hosts wasn’t easy. They’d made our first home stay a wonderful experience! Now, we were headed to Normandy in northern France. There, our hostess, Monique, a widow who relished company, greeted us just as warmly. Our room had a double bed with an eiderdown comforter. That evening, Monique drew us a map of the important sites, noting where to park and suggesting good places to eat away from the tourist frenzy. She recommended spending a morning in Bayeux at the Tapestry Museum, a UNESCO site. Our first stop in Normandy was the famous beach, which we’d seen in many documentaries. The cold and raw wind blowing across the English Channel may have contributed to our spine shivers, but I doubt it. Envisioning the scene in 1944 when almost three million troops crossed the Channel and landed at this beach made us sombre and reWWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM

This page, from top, Edam cheese cart, The Netherlands. Hand Rouen porcelain, Rouen, France. Le Cathedrale de Notre-Dame, Rouen, France. The author and her husband in Paris. Opposite page, top, Canal lined with bikes in Amsterdam. Bottom, Keukenhof Garden display, The Netherlands.

Travel & Adventure flective. The highlight of our next stop at The Visitor’s Centre was a film on the D-Day invasion. Parents proudly talked about their boys, read some of their letters and showed their photographs. I wasn’t the only one leaving the auditorium with tears on my cheeks. Even with all this preparation, we weren’t ready for the sight of the cemetery, where symmetrical rows of white crosses and Stars of David mark the graves of the young men who died. We wandered among the rows, reading where these boys were from and the dates they died. We’d bought a few flowers from a vendor and laid them at random graves with a short prayer – just to remember. When it was time to leave, we bid a sad farewell to our charming hostess and set off for Brugge, Belgium. Francoise and Pierre were our new host and hostess and they were just as welcoming as those at our first two places. They left for work early every morning, but that evening they showed us a refrigerator stocked with all kinds of tempting goodies we could cook for breakfast. I was a bit apprehensive about cooking in a European kitchen, but I soon mastered it. This time, our room had a double bed and an ensuite. For the next few days, we strolled around this perfectly preserved medieval city, also a UNESCO World Heritage site. One afternoon, we enjoyed a scenic ride along a canal, taking in Brugge from the water. This city is famous for

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handmade lace and we were able to watch a few women working this delicate craft. The tough part was deciding which pieces to take home. Brugge is also known for its chocolate and we made certain to taste and buy our share. All too soon, we were packing our bags again for our last stop, Oudorp, Netherlands, a short drive from Amsterdam and the gardens at Keukenhof. We arrived at the home of our jovial host family in the late afternoon and knew immediately we were in good hands. That first evening, they suggested we all go out to dinner – Dutch treat, of course – where we feasted on a pot of fresh mussels and pommes frites. The next morning, we drove to the gardens, delighted that this “April in Paris” wedding coincided with the blooming of the seven million flowers in this spacious park. The flowers were creatively planted with swirls of brilliant colours in every hue imaginable; a place one must see to appreciate. The following day, our hosts insisted on showing us Amsterdam, another

IF YOU GO: www.evergreenclub.com or 1-800-962-2392. Similar international travel organizations: www.affordabletravelclub.net www.hospitalityclub.org www.globalfreeloaders.com (people over 40) Home exchanges: www.seniorhomeexchange.com www.homexchange.com

picturesque city where there are more bicycles than cars. Together, we took a canal boat ride, visited the Anne Frank House, and had a quick peek at the Van Gogh Museum. All too soon, our European vacation was over. We were sad to leave, but our hosts cheered us up the following morning over breakfast when they announced they’d decided to come to Canada for a visit this summer and asked if they could stay with us. We were more than delighted and started regaling them with sightseeing ideas. Our memories of Europe are phenomenal. And the experience was made that much richer by the people we met and the warm and inviting homes in SL which we stayed.

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t s a P s ’ a i r o t c Revisited i V

THE BIRDMAN

atcalls followed him whenever he walked the streets of Victoria. People would flap their arms and cluck like chickens to ridicule one of the city’s most intrepid inventors – William Wallace Gibson. But he was never deterred by insults and, ultimately, Gibson became the first man in Canada to invent and successfully fly his own airplane on September 8, 1910. He was born in the coal-mining region of Dalmellington, Ayrshire in Scotland in 1874 on the banks of the “the Bonnie Doon” river. It is one of the oldest villages in the country. While still a small child, his family moved to a farm at Moffat in Canada’s Northwest Territories in 1883, to a region that later became the province of Saskatchewan. William was infatuated by flight. He started with kites of every shape and size imaginable. Once he produced a kite that measured seven feet (2.1 metres) to which he attached a basket where he placed nine passengers – all gophers. The flight was remarkably successful and for at least an hour, his passengers enjoyed breathtaking views of the Prairies. Unfortunately, a sudden change of wind brought the kite crashing to the ground. There were no survivors. When he was 13, his parents took him out of school to work on the farm. In 1900, he became a blacksmith and moved to Wolseley. Then he opened a hardware store in Balgonie and became the first automobile owner in Saskatchewan in 1902. He then began experimenting with more challenging flying contraptions and, in 1904, he made a model plane powered by the spring from a window blind. The lure of gold eventually brought William to Vancouver Island. He bought a claim near Campbell River for $500

then sold it a few years later for $10,000 and used this capital to finance his forays into the area of serious aeronautics. His father, who had secured a position with the Forestry Division of British Columbia’s Department of Agriculture, prompted his move to Victoria. Young William bought a large house, 146 Clarence Street in Victoria’s James Bay, and set up his workshop in the coach house, while still pursuing his daily job in real estate. He was 35 years old with no formal training, but had passion and dogged determination, coupled with an innate genius. Everything he did was unconventional and he made creative use of existing materials. He began by flying elaborate model aircraft from Beacon Hill, but being in such a public place, he found himself the butt of every cruel joke. Consequently, he determined that all his future experiments would be conducted, as far as possible, in secret and often under cover of darkness. Finally, he achieved success with a model that was to become the prototype of the full-scale plane he had always dreamed of producing – a four-cylinder, two-cycle, 50horsepower flying machine. In 1903, the Wright brothers had paved the way with their first flight and William was determined to do better. He enlisted the aid of the Hutchinson Brothers to build the engine, weighing 210 pounds (95.3 kg) that drove two propellers. Tom Plimley, who had just begun to move from his trade in bicycles to automobiles, built the under-carriage from four bicycle wheels. The rest of the plane William constructed himself of spruce, using blue silk purchased from Fred Jeune of Jeune Brothers on Johnson Street to cover the 20-

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The Tale of William Wallace Gibson BY NORMAN K. ARCHER

foot (6.1-metre) wings. The pilot’s seat was simply a western saddle installed just in front of the engine. When his “Twinplane” was ready to test, William hauled it in segments by horse and cart to Mount Tolmie and, during the night, put it through a series of short tests. On September 24, 1910, with the sun shining brightly and before a crowd of skeptical onlookers, William powered up his machine, shot it down the improvised runway and lifted it into the air. Then one engine cut out. He fought with the controls and brought the plane to an abrupt halt into a large oak tree. The “Twinplane” was a wreck, but he had proved his point. He had made a plane that could fly. Very few were impressed and the newspaper carried only the smallest column reporting what was undoubtedly an amazing feat. “His flight this week was seen by several people who wondered what the enormous moving thing in the air could be as they saw it sailing across the fields towards Mount Tolmie.” And that was it! But it had been a costly proposition and William was broke. So, he sold his house for $14,000 and invested the money to start constructing his next plane – the “Multiplane.” The wings were constructed of strips and fir, resembling venetian blinds, to give the machine more lift. Lieutenant-Governor Thomas Paterson was impressed with William’s evident genius and offered the use of his farm in Ladner for future tests, where no intruding oak trees would impede his progress. He was then persuaded by an unscrupulous promoter to hold the test flight in Kamloops, but the promoter so irritated William that he cancelled the flight and moved to Calgary.

William’s wife, Jessie, put her foot down. The risks and dangers were too much and she made him promise to make no more test flights, which is why his friend and cohort, Alex Japp, was the pilot of the Multiplane when it flew for almost a mile on August 12, 1911. But while he was trying to land, Alex saw that the field was covered with badger holes, so he veered off course and crash landed in a swamp. Few seemed to care, so the disillusioned William, now near bankruptcy, gave up his flying ambitions and moved to California. His creative genius would not be stilled, however, so he directed his energies into the invention of new machines for the mining industry, which were enormously successful and in use worldwide. In 1965, he died a wealthy man at the age of 91. Astounding as it may seem, William Wallace Gibson, Canada’s pioneer aviator, inventor, builder and pilot of the country’s first power-driven aircraft has still not received due recognition by the National Aviation Hall of Fame. British Columbia has honoured him, however, and a fullscale replica of his remarkable “Twinplane,” built by local students, can be seen on display in the B.C. Aviation Museum near Victoria, a fitting tribute to Canada’s first “BirdSL man,” who took to the air exactly 100 years ago. Norman Archer is an historical city tour guide in Victoria and the author of Tales of Old Victoria. Contact him at 250-6551594 or nka@canada.com

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DECEMBER 2010

CLASSIFIEDS SAANICH VOLIUNTEER SERVICES seeks volunteer shoppers’ helpers to assist clients by driving them to stores and with purchases. Call 250-595-8008. SENIOR CONCIERGE SERVICES Marvelous companionship with personalized services. Grocery shopping, errands, and memorable outings. Call Agnes Campbell 250-588-5509. www.catch-the-moments.com

HOME INSTEAD SENIOR CARE - Ask us about our new concierge services. We provide a little assistance when you need it. Do you need meal preparation, light housekeeping, laundry, shopping, appointments, or respite? We are also hiring seniors. Call 250-382-6565.

FOOT CARE IN YOUR HOME Victoria Region by Foot Care Specialist / Foot Nurse Marcia Goodwin R.N., B.Sc.N. 35 Years Nursing Experience. Call (250) 686-3081.

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WANTED: OLD POSTCARDS, stamp accumulations, and pre-1950 stamped envelopes. Also buying old coins, medals and badges. Please call Michael 250-652-9412 or email fenian@shaw.ca

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COMPUTER BASICS IN YOUR HOME. Patient senior computer lady to show you e-mail, surﬁng. Hourly fee. Connect with your world. 250-516-5980. DRIVING MISS DAISY ® Christmas lights abound at night. We’ll tour you around with great delight! 250-588-4638 (Victoria) 250-507-2336 (Sidney) HOUSE & PET SITTING - Female, PT writer, 15 years experience, excellent references. Peace of mind while away. http://house-sitter.ws 250-419-2381. RUTH M.P HAIRSTYLING for Seniors in Greater Victoria. In the convenience of your own home! Certiﬁed Hairdresser. Call - 250-893-7082.

RJH HAIRSTYLING in the comfort of your home for everyone in your family. Serving the Victoria area. Please call Debi at 250-477-7505. MUSIC LESSONS at the Peninsula Academy of Music Arts, 1662 Mills Road, North Saanich 778-426-1800. All instruments. www.PeninsulaAcademy.ca HOME AGAIN SENIORS TRANSITION SERVICES: Downsize and move with ease. We offer a caring hand. Call (250)984-4044 or visit www.seniorshomeagain.ca

COMPASSIONATE CARE RCA Certiﬁed. First aid, drivers license - companion chauffeur, light housekeeping. Call Alanna 250-588-5412. PERSONALS: VICTORIA MAN 67 NS, tall trim wants to meet a woman to share hikes, beach, music, theatre and food. 250-721-1593.

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Registered under the Hearing Act

OCTOBER 2009 39

Dear R.C.: Yes, it is true that many women, especially older widows, are afraid in today’s society. Sometimes, older women living alone can become targets of unscrupulous criminals. Generally speaking, it can be safe for older women who are on their own, but it is vital that they have a close support system. Usually they can remain in close contact with family and friends. If this is inconvenient, some arrangement with a neighbour can prevent dangerous situations. Women should not live in fear, but good common sense can prevent disaster. Dear Goldie: I have recently moved to beautiful Victoria. After many years in Toronto with family and a wide circle of friends, I now live with one son who is often

Dear L.J.: Change of residence to a new city is particularly challenging for seniors. Victoria, however, is a city with many senior organizations, so you should not feel alone for too long. If you keep an eye on the daily newspaper, you will see many social events geared to seniors. Also, most churches now have a coffee hour following the service. I know of many friendships that blossomed there. Victoria has a large senior population. When you visit local restaurants, it is common for another senior to start a conversation. Of course, you have to be prepared to reciprocate, if a friendship is to develop. Be alert for other seniors who may be in need of comSL panionship too. SENIOR PEER COUNSELLING CENTRES Victoria 250-382-4331 Duncan 250-748-2133 Nanaimo 250-754-3331 Sidney 250-656-5537 Courtenay/Comox 250-334-9917 Salt Spring Island 250-537-4607 Port Hardy 250-949-5110

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Dear Goldie: When I read the letters women write to you, I get the impression many of them live in fear and are truly afraid to take the bull by the horns and live the life they desire as we men do. What is the problem here? It seems to me men and women have many equal opportunities these days. –R.C.

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away on business trips. I feel quite alone. I won’t use the word “lonely” because people are very kind, however, I do miss close companionship. What can you suggest? –L.J.

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DECEMBER 2010

Travel & Adventure

36 Hours in Ottawa

BY JANE CASSIE

PHOTOS BY BRENT C ASSIE

n Canada’s capital, our governing nexus, the centre of parliament, the Maple Leaf flaps proudly from many a flagpole. But if you think this vibrant city is all about pageantry and politics, you may want to take another look. Better yet, come along with us on this 36-hour whirlwind visit to Ottawa and discover a few of its must-see gems. Friday 3 p.m. – A ROYAL RETREAT We check into The Fairmont Chateau Laurier, a regal-like beauty that’s steeped with turrets, history and service, conveniently tucked into the city’s pulsating hub. Following in the footsteps of dignitaries and duchesses, we revel in the luxury and even go for the glitz – a fourth floor Fairmont Gold experience complete with pedigree perks like breakfast buffets and evening canapés.

Murray Street – an amazing eatery.

4 p.m. – OTTAWA OVERVIEW Walking tours are offered year-round, and even during these chillier months, it’s a great way to become acquainted with this city’s past and present treasures. Bundled in woollies and with Craig MacDonald leading the way, we stroll by famous landmarks and learn about Ottawa’s colourful traits – everything from political characters and legendary founders to its architecture and eateries.

Snuggling up in a royal suite.

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8 p.m. – AMAZING GRAZE ...One of which becomes our gastronomy stop for the evening. Nestled in the heart of the ByWard Market is Murray Street, a favourite eatery that’s earned accolades for its charcuterie fare. Chef Steve Milton and his culinary team create pâtés, terrines, chutneys and other regionally inspired

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11 a.m. – GLIDE ON THE WORLD’S LARGEST RINK Sandwiched between the Parliament buildings and our getaway gem is the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that links Kingston to Ottawa. During these winter months, 7.8 kilometres of this pristine waterway is devoted to those who like to lace up and skate. The super-sized rink stretches all the way from the downtown core to Dows Lake, making it the largest in the world. A pedestrian pathway hugs up to both sides, so even those without blades (like us) can get in on the action. If you visit in February, Winterlude offers even more! The Rideau Canal transformed.

specialties. The quintessentially Canadian menu is complemented by a lineup of microbrews and fine local wines. Yum! Saturday 9 a.m. – PARLIAMENT AND POLITICS After fueling up on the Fairmont’s morning spread, we’re stoked to see the sites and it seems befitting to start with the one that’s up front and centre. Though skeptical about doing a ho-hum government tour, we discover this is anything but! Neo-Gothic arches embrace the impressive copper-roofed structures that sprawl over an emerald lawn. Behind these majestic walls, the grandeur continues. Gleaming marble, stately limestone, ceilings of stained glass. Like mice of the Pied Piper, we follow our guide, Eric, and get a Coles Notes overview – from the devastating 1916 fire that destroyed the original edifice, to today’s noble Senate Chamber, where the Head of State schmoozes with parliament. Centre Block is where most of the action takes place, even for the dozen felines that shack-up behind this hallowed hall. To the east of this cat sanctuary is the whispering wall that doesn’t permit the sharing of secrets, and topping it off is Peace Tower, a view-boasting perch that provides one pretty city panorama.

2 p.m. – IT’S TEA TIME BACK AT THE CHATEAU Dainty sandwiches, lox with cream cheese, cranberry scones and thick clotted cream – they’re all served on fine bone china and with sterling service. If this beloved British ritual doesn’t make you feel like a queen, nothing will. Although once a hoity event, Zoe’s Lounge eliminates all pretentious airs. We arrive in our tourist duds and feel right at home when raising our pinkies. It’s a feast that’s literally steeped with tradition and one that gets our vote!

Photo: Deneen Perrin

Courtesy of Ottawa Tourism

Travel & Adventure

We raise our pinkies and give a toast to tea time.

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DECEMBER 2010

of prestigious people who have shaped our nation. At the Canadian War Museum, we check out everything from Canada’s military timeline, war art and battle scenes to its eco-green grass roof. And at the National Gallery of Canada (NGC), we ooh and aah at the finest collection of Canada’s visual arts in the world. Crowned by headsets and meandering through its palatial galleries and Great Hall, we get the commentated audio scoop by well-versed radio voices and Canada’s former governor general, the honourable Adrienne Clarkson. 2 p.m. – NEPEAN AND NOTRE-DAME Both of these must-see landmarks offer different Ottawa perspectives. From Nepean Point, just behind the NGC, the

Neo-Gothic arches embellish the Parliament.

4 p.m. – GLEBE TROTTING A short taxi ride away is Glebe, once a turn-of-the-century blue-collar community, now trendy and terrifically hip. Boutiques, bookstores and shops border the tree-lined streets and, when it’s time to dine, the options are awesome – Wild Oat for the health conscious, Flippers for the fish lover, New Nupur for spicy Indian fare. After much deliberation, we opt for a regional favourite in nearby Old Ottawa South. 6 p.m. – ONE TERRIFIC TAILOR – er...uh...TAYLOR John Taylor made his mark on our capital as the chef of Domus Café by utilizing fresh homegrown ingredients to create his regional fare. And like any good thing, it took off. Fortunately, for foodies like us, he’s opened Taylor’s Genuine Food and Wine Bar, a nosh spot located just beyond Lansdowne Park. Seafood from Lake Erie, veggies from the local market, in-house-prepared pancetta, sausage, and terrines – each artistically presented dish is a fusion of flavour. Sunday 9 a.m. – MEANDERING MUSEUMS Ottawa is one cultured capital! With 29 museums to choose from, and limited time left, we opt for three of the bigwigs. The Canadian Museum of Civilization retraces a thousand years of Canada’s history and provides us with a “Face To Face” forum

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Stunning architecture in Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica.

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vista stretches all the way to Gatineau, Quebec. And within the sacred confines of Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, it’s the stunning architecture, a symbol of its prestigious past. This city’s oldest standing and largest church, and seat of the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Ottawa, is recognized as a national historical site. Light filters through the panes of stained glass to an impressive nave that’s canopied by gothic arches, bordered by terraced galleries and anchored by a stunning altar – definitely a place that inspires the spirit! 3 p.m. – BY THE WAY... Don’t miss the ByWard Market! Up to 175 vendors set up shop at this open-air venue and, even in the cold of winter, it’s bursting with business. We saunter the aisles where bistros butt up to boutiques, arts and crafts play together and veggies, fruits and flowers brim over with abundance – it’s an amazing menagerie of savoury delights, inviting scents and colourful sights. And like the rest of our 36-hour SL Ottawa soirée, it’s full of surprises!

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Live Well. Age Well. Veggies, fruits and ﬂowers in abundance at ByWard Market.

IF YOU GO:

Check out these webs ites when planning your trip: www.fairmont.com/la urier www.ottawatourism.c a/ www.ottawawalkingto urs.com www.parl.gc.ca/vis www.murraystreet.ca www.rideauheritagero ute.ca/en/ www.winterlude.ca www.civilization.ca www.warmuseum.ca www.gallery.ca www.notredameotta wa.com www.byward-market.c om

Carefree Activities, Outings & Great Meals Respite Suite Available. Call for a Lunch & Tour!

ALEXANDER MACKIE Retirement Community

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DECEMBER 2010

Photo: Frances Litman

Courageousgeous

a r t u O

BY PAT NICHOL

HAVE COURAGE

WARRANTY I have the courage to trust myself. s we move into the dark- MEDICAL wings ofRESEARCH a hummingbird for tasks that �� ness of this time�� of year, need to be��done in�� a hurry. Sometimes, �� I have the courage to give myself listen carefully. It is time it helps to soar like an eagle far above University of Technology, Sydney, Australia - Postural steadiness improved Hot Health Ltd. warranty the significantly after 8 weeks of training and was most significant in those with the most my accomplishments. to be still and at diminished peace.postural It control. so you can see not only the challenge, credit for Systems Whole Body Vibration Trainer for 3 (three) �� and pois time for each of us to set �� aside the �� but �� also all�� of the surroundings years for parts, service and labour within �� have enjoy giving frenetic pace that sometimes takes over tential answers. There are many ways �� a radiusI of 250the km courage from theto home office of School of Rehabilitation, Medical Sciences, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran. - Whole and receiving love. (and gifts) this season, and take care of our inner Lethbridge, AB. body vibration training improved proprioception and balance in athletes with reconstructed ACL. spirit. Listen to the words of wisdom �� areI have warranted beyondto that distance the courage grant myself �� and courage in your heart until your Choose the wings that suitParts Sports Sciences Resident, Graduate Education * Research, Canadian Memorial for 3 (three) years with manuals and/or permission to play. mind hears it too. Chiropractic College - Many studies have reported an increase in muscle performance after whole-body vibration, but none have evaluated the possibility of vibration the challenges may faceDVD videos available for self-service of What gifts can we give ourselves intherapy for application as functional restoration after injury. The you results of this case study imply that vibration therapy has the potential to aid in the management of parts replacement. tissue injury and the sequel of disuse and immobilization. I have the courage to communicate this season of love and givingacute – soft gifts during this season. �� lovingly with understanding as my that will carry us through the next �� -----------------------goal. Department of Exercise Physiology, Katholieke Universiteit, Belgium - Knee extensor year and beyond? strength increased significantly after 24 weeks of training. It has the potential to induce strength Our inner spirit has wings that can gain to the same extent as resistance training at moderate intensity. We are so confident that you will love �� I have the courage towe face future, fly over challenging situations to help for us to fly. Use your imagination your Vibration Trainer that arethe pleased �� a 15-day Health andto Welfare, St. Catherine University,or Matsuyama, but live in thismoney-back moment. guarantee us see from a vantage point Faculty that ofmay help you skim soar Japan through theto offer - Background: Increased arterial stiffness (hardening of the arteries) is a wellestablished cardiovascular risk factor.of WBV mechanically stimulates abdominal not be obvious when we become en- events this season with courage. PROVIDED THAT all packaging materials and leg arteries and may decrease arterial stiffness. WBV is feasible in vulnerable Trainertois get returned and immobilized humans. These results suggest that WBV acutely decreases arterial I haveand thethe courage excited tangled with fears and anxieties. My gifts to you are the followingare retained stiffness. in ALL of its original packaging and in its Choose the wings that suit �� the chal- affirmations of courage. They are giv- about life. original condition by means of the original �� lenges you may face during this season. en with love and my hope is that youshipper. Money will be returned as soon Katholieke Universiteit, Belgium - After 24 weeks vibration training significantly increased bone mass density of the hip and might be useful in the prevention of my family to – may Choose to use the wings of a dragonfly will receive them inbe anthe spirit of thisas theFrom osteoporosis. No vibration side effects were observed. This may effective way Trainer is received by yours Hot Health to modify well-recognized risk factors for falls and fractures in older women. SL your courage help you soar. to skim lightly over a situation, or the joyous season. Systems Ltd. �� Sports Medicine Laboratory, University of Rome, Italy - Whole-body vibration is a suitable training method to improve knee extension maximal strength, countermovement jump, and flexibility in a young female athlete. Flexibility is important not only for performance but also for the prevention of muscle-tendon injury.

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143% improvement in physical function 77% improvement in equilibrium 60% improvement in vitality 57% improvement in quality of walking 41% reduction in pain 23% improvement in general health

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Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, St. John Hospital, Budapest, Hungary

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Medical University of Vienna, Austria - This pilot study indicated that whole-body

—�� vibration may positively inﬂuence the postural control and mobility in MS patients.

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SCAM ALERT BY ROSALIND SCOTT

Holiday Season Swindles

he winter holiday season is prime time for scammers to take advantage of unsuspecting, overspent shoppers. Protect yourself from becoming a victim by being informed on how these frauds typically work. Like most new scams, seasonal scams usually share components with their old counterparts, but often employ a simple new twist. The Better Business Bureau warns consumers to be on the lookout for the following three holiday schemes this year: 1) Holiday E-Card Scams Electronic cards are a great, inexpensive way to stay connected to friends and family during the holiday season. The downfall of e-cards is that they require the receiver to either click on a link or install software in order to view the card. Criminals sending fraudulent e-cards to unsuspecting users often embed viruses, spyware, malware and trojans in these links and software. How can you protect yourself? Common signs that you have received a problematic e-card in your inbox include receiving it from an unknown sender or generic sender (such as a “friend” or “relative”), spelling mistakes in the email or those with an attachment. To protect yourself, make sure you never open an email, click on a link, or download software from an

unknown source. Never open an e-card that comes with an attachment and be sure you regularly install and update antivirus and spyware software. 2) Counterfeit Electronics Purchasing discounted electronics online or via classified ads may seem like a great way to get a costly product at a reduced rate, but be warned that the promise of low-cost electronics often comes with the price of being ripped off. Cellphones, computers and gaming devices are only a few of the counterfeit electronic gadgets being produced and sold. Counterfeit electronics may be less expensive and work relatively well, but they are often made with faulty parts, substandard circuitry and may pose a safety hazard. How can you protect yourself? The simplest way to avoid purchasing counterfeit electronics (while saving some money) is to look for seasonal sales at reputable electronic stores. To find a trustworthy brick and mortar or online electronics dealer visit vi.bbb.org and search by “type of business.” When you purchase a product, make sure you understand the refund or exchange policy and get a receipt. To determine if an electronic device is legitimate or counterfeit, check the product, packaging and instruction manual to make sure it is CSA international certified, contains all its listed components (i.e. cables, batteries etc.) WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM

and that it hasn’t been damaged or tampered with. 3) Fake Charities Holidays are the best time of year for charities to fundraise, and a great time of year for con artists to pull on the heartstrings of unsuspecting victims by pretending to represent a charity. Many fake charities mimic legitimate charities in their name, cause and services. How can you protect yourself? Protect yourself by planning who you will donate money to this holiday season. If you decide to donate impulsively, write a cheque to the organization, not the person fundraising. Ask for a receipt with the name and contact information of the charity. Never give out personal or banking information and don’t fall victim to high-pressure fundraising tactics. If possible, research the charity before you make a SL donation. For more information on protecting yourself during the holiday season and throughout the year, visit vi.bbb.org If you believe you have been the target of a scam, call the Better Business Bureau Vancouver Island at 250-3866348 in Greater Victoria or at 1-877826-4222 elsewhere on the Island, so others can beneﬁt from your experience. E-mail info@vi.bbb.org DECEMBER 2010 2010 DECEMBER

ReﬂTHEN ections & NOW MEMORIES

or the older, Christmas is like a giant bouquet of flowers – each memory a separate bloom to remind us of the many different people we have been, and the long journey we have travelled. It not only commemorates the birth of that special child so long ago, it also celebrates the valley of the child when we dwelled there and believed there, and put together what one day would become memory there. Popcorn strings, blazing hearths, and the smell of pine or fir or spruce permeated the room, teasing us to believe we were actually in the forest. Plus, there were those unforgettable delightful smells of minced pies, tarts, gingerbread men and all kinds of delicious treats coming from the kitchen. Christmas stockings weren’t bought in stores then! Instead, dad’s socks served well to hang on the mantle over the fireplace or on the bedpost, which offered an extra thrill to think that the great man himself would enter your bedroom late at night, leaving you simple treats to be discovered in the morning. I can still feel the strings of tinsel as they draped through my fingers, and how I was taught each year to place them gently – not throw them – so they could

be reused the following year. The Salvation Army Band played on our street under the streetlamp. I remember thinking that my parents were kind and generous when they went out to give a nickel or a dime to the army dressed in blue and red. But each year as I grew older, a little of the Christmas fantasy faded. Time challenged us – it told us to leave childish ways behind and not be sensitive because that was not the way of men. Girls could stay there longer, but boys were taught to flee from tears as fast as they could; and where once Christmas had been our master, we became the masters of Christmas. As still more Christmases came and went, we began to tiptoe back just a little when we thought no one was looking. Our five senses tickled by what once had meant so much. As parents, we watched our children experiment with magic, as they held fast to the impossible, and believed in the impossible. As we shared with them the true story of Christmas, we watched their eyes fill with the wonder of goodness. We were their guides. And as they began to transcend from

“Reﬂections” MAIL-IN ORDER FORM Reﬂections, Rejections, and Other Breakfast Foods Name_____________________________________ by Gipp Forster A collection of Gipp’s humorous and nostalgic columns. A wonderful read for Reflections, �� yourself, and a and Other Breakfast Foods thoughtful gift for friends and family members.

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BY GIPP FORSTER

little to big, we did not encourage or coax them to stay just a while longer in that place of soft sacred music, or red striped candy, or cuddly stories, or wish lists, or chimneys and animals that could fly. Or to stay a while longer by the manger and hold the child without fear of dropping him. Then, suddenly, you are grandparents and you finally notice your bouquet has grown. And the blooms call you to remember. Not only that you were a child, but also that your children were children, even though they now have children of their own. So, with more Christmases to look back on than look forward to, we nurture our bouquet with smiles and fondness and tears and joy. We hold favourites in this bouquet of Christmas memories. Brightly coloured roses of the times that brought great joy! Orchids for when we left the noise and excitement to stare up at the stars. Violets for those times we looked back in search of home. Daisies for when we insisted on being lost and wondered why we were not found. So many varieties, so many dreams now held by memory. Christmas is a wonderful time! In the beginning, it is a journey forward. Toward the end, a journey back. As we stop to plant a flower of memory in each Christmas past, we hope our children and their children and their children after them will go in search of our garden, as they venture back to plant their own. May each bouquet join and be one, so when the wind of history sings, it will be a glad and joyous song! SL

�� Senior Living Housing Directory is a valuable online resource for seniors and family members looking for alternative housing to match their desired lifestyle, or medical/mobility needs. Over 500 senior residences and housing communities throughout BC are listed in this comprehensive directory. Compare services, amenities, and prices. Sort your selection by region, or type of care. This directory is published by Senior Living, a monthly magazine distributed to approximately 850 locations across BC.

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Senior Living’s online searchable senior housing directory is a perfect complement to its semi-annual senior housing special editions in February and August. Senior Living also publishes a 128 page book called “To Move or Not to Move? A Helpful Guide for Seniors Considering Their Residential Options.” We have sold over 3,000 copies of this book. No other magazine we know of has such a comprehensive, interconnected group of housing resources. For more information about any of these products or services, call (250)479-4705 or toll-free 1-877-479-4705. Or email ofﬁce@seniorlivingmag.com

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