York Life AURORA | NEWMARKET
MAY - JUNE 2018
HEALTHY & DELICIOUS RECIPES
SPECIAL! All-Canadian green BEAUTY roundup
YORK LIFE: AURORA, NEWMARKET EDITION
+ TIPS
FOR REFRESHING
YOUR DECOR
Take it outside!
CREATE YOUR YOUR OWN OWN BACKYARD BACKYARD OASIS OASIS CREATE
$5.95
contents Cover photo: Jim Craigmyle
M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 8
in every issue 5
25
one last thing
27
custoM clean The secrets behind creating a stylish laundry room
Cheers, eh?
health
food & drinK
12
32
get beach ready in a hurry Simple strategies to lose extra weight fast
15
gotta run
37
20
evolution of a forMer Model This Aurora couple fell in love with their from-the-builder home nearly 30 years ago. An updated kitchen has definitely rekindled that romance
features 53
in the Kitchen With‌
clean, green, allcanadian beauty rounduP
All-star cleansers, toners, serums, moisturizers and more that are good for you and the planet
fresh taKe!
Four easy recipes for delicious dining alfresco
travel sMarts How to sleep on a plane
60
ProPerty Paradise How to create your own backyard oasis
Dos Mariachis, where passion, family and fun make every day feel festive
Better physical and mental health is just a hop, skip and casual run away
hoMe
50
Why furniture placement is so important
living Well News, tips and fun facts
66
designer tiP
travel 44
reconnecting in los cabos Sometimes getting far away from all that is familiar is what you need to be at home with yourself
Find the recipe on page 32!
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 3
York Life
editor’s note
Publisher Dana Robbins Regional General Manager Shaun Sauve
Canadian Beauty
Editor Jacqueline Kovacs copy editor Deanna Dority
Small confession: I’m something of a cosmetics junkie. I think it started when I was a tween, coveting my sister’s mascara and lip gloss. To this day, I get a lift out of buying new makeup or skincare treatments. I know I’m not the only one — Canadians spend about $800 million a year on facial-care products alone. But how safe is that investment? Do any of us really know the potential long-term impact of applying the various chemicals in big-brand cosmetics on our skin? Unless we get a bad reaction of some kind, most of us don’t give our moisturizers, eye creams and body lotions a second thought. But some do — like the women (including a few from York Region) behind the products featured in our clean, green, all-Canadian beauty roundup. These products feature organic, locally sourced, proven ingredients that are kind not only to your skin, but also to the earth. And speaking of the earth, feel like making your piece of it a lot more luxurious this spring and summer? Our Property Paradise feature has advice from literally the ground up, with practical info on landscape design, soil enhancement, plant choice and tying it all together with decor and furnishings to suit your outdoor style. We haven’t forgotten your indoor style, either. This issue brings you home tours, professional tips and DIY ideas so you can enjoy the start of summer, inside and out.
Jacqueline Kovacs
Three things I love from this issue
Contributors Jim Craigmyle, Naomi Hiltz, Sue Kanhai, Andrea Karr, Joann MacDonald, Rachel Naud, Adriana Paolella, Kasie Savage, Julia Suppa, Daniela Tirone, Doug Wallace Director of Advertising Amanda Smug Advertising Manager Mara Sepe Advertising Sales Amanda Andolina, Pam Burgess, Dawn Chaykowsky, Joelle Hawley, Tony Segreti, Judy Starr, Willen Tam Regional Director, Production and Creative Services Katherine Porcheron Editorial Design Emily Ayranto, Nicolette Blazenko, Brenda Boon, Nick Bornino, Jennifer Dallman, LuAnne Turner Director of Business Administration Phil Sheehan Director of Distribution Mike Banville
York Life, Aurora, Newmarket and area, is published by Metroland Media, York Region. Statements, opinions and points of view are those of the sources and writers and do not necessarily represent those of the publisher, advertisers or York Life magazine. Contents copyrighted. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any article, photograph or artwork without written consent from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Submissions are welcome from writers and photographers. We assume no responsibility for unsolicited material.
York Life 580B Steven Ct. Newmarket, ON L3Y 6Z2 (905) 853-8888
Fresh-tasting, in-season recipes, p. 32.
4 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
Reconnecting and relaxing in Mexico, p. 44.
All-natural Canadian beauty products, p. 53.
living well
It’s Patio Season! Going out for a drink or a bite to eat is just that much better when you can take it outside. Patio season is finally here and, lucky for us, York Region boasts more than its share of spots to eat in the great outdoors. Here’s just a small sampling:
Jake’s on Main, Markham: This pub’s patio fills up fast. Enjoy live music along with a variety of poutines, grilled cheeses, tacos, wings and pizza — perfect washed down with a cold brew and good company. jakesonmainunionville.com Grey Goat Pub & Grill, Newmarket: Enjoy traditional grub such as pub pie of the day, liver and onions or corned beef on rye from the leafy patio overlooking Main Street. The 12 beers on tap and live music are just the icing on the cake. greygoatpub.com The Schomberg Pub and Patio, Schomberg: Home to the “Schomberger,” this pub boasts historical roots, when the building was home to the area’s only doctor, back in the 1800s. Drink to your health with craft beer or seasonal bevvies on the popular patio. theschombergpub.com
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 5
living well | Health It’s the exercise so many of us love to hate — the squat. But this one move can give you a perky butt and strengthen your quads, hamstrings, back and abs. Do them wrong, though, and not only is your work in vain, but you could also injure your back or knees. Daniela LaFace, self-described personal butt kicker at Stouffville Fitness and Bootcamp, gives us the scoop on how to squat. • Start with your feet shoulder-width apart, toes facing forward.
Do You Know
Squat?
• With your weight in your heels, keeping your abs tight and hands in front of you or on your head to keep your back straight, sit down and back as if you are sitting on a chair, making sure your knees are not going over your toes. • Pressing your heels into the ground, slowly bring your body back up to standing. That’s one squat. “With proper form and no weight, you can start with three reps of 10 squats,” LeFace says. “Just make sure that you are moving slowly to really focus on contracting your abs and driving through your heels.” stouffvillebootcamp.ca
SP T CHECK Along with shedding layers and showing some skin, it’s time to take a closer look at any moles you have. Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is the number one cancer killer of Canadian women aged 25 to 30 and the second-most common cancer in young adults, aged 15 to 34. Early detection of any abnormalities leads to early treatment and better outcomes, the Canadian Skin Cancer Foundation says. And a mole check is as easy as ABC:
a b c
is for asymmetry: A healthy mole should look the same on both sides. If the sides look different, have it checked.
is for border: If the edges are smooth, it’s probably fine. If the edges are uneven, have it looked at.
Sip Your Way Slimmer You know how that morning coffee perks you up? It turns out, it can also rev up your metabolism by up to four per cent for about 2½ hours. What’s the big deal? That means by just sipping your brew over the course of the morning, you can burn an extra 100 calories a day. Credit coffee’s caffeine and antioxidant chlorogenic acid, which help metabolize fat and sugar. To make the slimming effect work for you, enjoy your joe bit by bit, since your body starts to break down caffeine after 30 minutes.
is for colour: Healthy moles have one even colour. More than one colour means see your doctor.
GLOW WITH YOUR GUT Did you know you can eat your way to looking and feeling better? It’s true — but you’ll need to consume about 11 different fruits and vegetables. That may sound like a tall order, but an Aurora-based company has made it easy. Replenish, founded by self-described fruit-and-veggie advocates Jennifer Fisher and Dagmar Schoenrock, is a vegan, organic, nutritional powder made from 11 carefully selected fruits and vegetables, including sweet potatoes, blueberries, beets, spinach and cranberries. “Looking good on the outside really starts in the gut,” Schoenrock explains. Although the company is specifically targeting symptoms associated with menopause, the founders point out that Replenish’s health benefits are for everyone. So while mature women report reduced hot flashes and mood swings, and improved sleep, acne-sufferers see clearer skin, men say they notice more youthful skin and all claim to have better energy. A one-month supply costs $59. Find out more at replenish11.com.
6 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
living well | Home
TREND: give your home the
royal treatMent “With the impending royal nuptials, we’ve seen the British influence trickle across the pond in everything from food to fashion, and now decor,” says Janette Ewen, designer and decor expert on CityLine, CTV Morning and Breakfast Television. “Take design cues from London’s hottest new hotel, The Curtain, and embrace jewel tones, like this gorgeous emerald green.” — Rachel Naud
FAB Find!
Reflect your good taste with this Nottingham wall mirror from Zilli Home Interiors in Woodbridge. It’s a stylish way to bring more sunlight into any room. $399, zillihome.com
How to get intimate
Moved into a bigger new home? Give it that warm, lived-in feeling with these tips from Erin Lazer, owner of SpaceStyle Home Staging, Organizing and Design in Richmond Hill. • Move furniture away from the walls. “This creates more intimate conversation areas,” Lazer says. “Having space behind the furniture helps the room feel spacious and ensures you are not miles apart from the other people in the room.” • Add accent pieces. Items such as coffee tables and end tables fill the space, offer a practical spot to put something down and connect to the seating throughout the room. • Hang large-scale art. “This adds interest, expresses your personal style and creates focal points,” she says. • Layer up. Once you have your main furniture pieces, Lazer says to layer in accent pillows, lamps, window treatments and tabletop accessories. Use colour and texture to add interest. • Use a large area rug. This will ground the space and absorb sound, she says. The front legs of large furniture pieces like sofas and accent chairs should be on the rug. — R.N.
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 7
living well | Food & Drink
KITCHEN TIP:
Build a Better Burger
What takes a hamburger from ordinary to OMG? Cam Dyer, owner, founder and chef of TheSmoke (thesmoke.ca) in Vaughan, shares his secrets. 1. the bun has to be up to the task. “It has to be soft and hold whatever juiciness is there without falling apart,” Dyer says. “It should be the same diameter as the meat, so that first bite isn’t just all bun.” 2. the Meat should have enough fat, so don’t use extra lean. “Use lean or medium, or a combination of those two,” he says, “so you get that juiciness.” 3. the condiMents you choose are key. “In my opinion, mayonnaise is part of a burger — it has to be,” Dyer says. Four veggies — lettuce, fresh tomato, red onion and pickles (can be on the side) — are also recommended. Beyond that, it’s a matter of your own tastes, so consider cheese, bacon, jalapeños and the like. 4. the teMPerature at which you cook your burger is also important. You want very high heat, Dyer says, to really sear the meat and hold in the juices. Then salt and pepper your patty as you cook it…and bon appétit.
A Convenient Way to Crush Those Cravings Used to be that when late-night hungries hit and driving was not an option, you had two choices: pizza or Chinese food. All that has changed with the arrival of Uber Eats in Simcoe County. Now residents of Aurora and Newmarket can have home delivery from such popular restaurants as Hungry Brew Hops, Father’s Moustache Grill and Bar, Levetto, Kosmos and more. To take advantage, simply download the app or visit ubereats.com, choose your delivery location and the meal you want and place your order. Just as with the rideshare app, you can track the progress of your food’s arrival. Cleanup, however, is on you.
TREND:
Tequila! sMooth Move We can’t get enough of this low-sugar Greek yogurt from Maison Riviera. The Quebecbased company has reduced the sugar by 40 per cent — without adding artificial sweeteners and without sacrificing taste. The secret lies in using fruit picked by Italian master confectioners and blending them with the texture of the yogurt. The resulting creamy, subtle sweetness is addictive. Available at Whole Foods, Sobeys, Foodland and Metro.
8 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
What are A-listers like George Clooney, Jennifer Garner, Gwyneth Paltrow and Helen Mirren sipping when they want to chillax? Tequila. And we said sipping — not tossing down a shot glass of the stuff after licking salt. And Hollywood heavyweights aren’t the only ones: According to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, tequila sales have risen more than 120 per cent since 2002. Some credit the spirit’s rise in popularity as a kind of liquid protest against U.S. President Donald Trump. But connoisseurs chalk it up to the discovery of the blue-agave-based drink’s subtle tastes and aromas. But whether you prefer your tequila silver, rested or gold, we say, “Salud!”
living well | Travel
ESSENTIA L :
Stopover: Berlin Although Frankfurt is the more popular hub for connecting flights in Europe, try to work Berlin into your itinerary this summer. The history, the architecture, the incomparable rhythm of life, Berlin has one of the most varied cultural landscapes in Europe. And you don’t have to spend a ton to have fun: 1. Step back in time on Museum Island, a fivemuseum complex in the middle of town. 2. Hit a traditional beer garden and experience the simplicity and the inclusivity of people of all ages sitting down to plates of hearty fare, mugs in hand. 3. When you tire of sightseeing, head to the beach. Strandbad Wannsee on the eastern shore of Wannsee Lake is the largest inland beach in Europe, at 1,000-plus metres long. Go to visitberlin.de/en. — Doug Wallace
Kobo Aura H2O This travel-friendly tablet wins top marks for being waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about it too much by the pool, and for its anti-glare E Ink display, which makes it easy to read in the sunshine. It holds 6,000 books and delivers weeks of battery life — you may not even have to pack your charger. $200 at kobo.com and select retailers. — D.W.
Flight Plan:
50%+
More than half of Canadians who travel are motivated by their holiday accommodations to redecorate their homes. SOURCE: BOOKING.COM SURVEY.
TURNDOWN: The Warehouse Hotel, Singapore
Opened in January 2017, the 37-room Warehouse has since received a lot of international attention, touted as one of the best boutique hotels in town. The restored building was indeed a spice warehouse and dates back to 1895, when the neighbourhood was rife with spice traders and gangsters. The design incorporates this storied past, along with the gorgeous facade and many original ceiling beams. Visitors include design-savvy tourists, as well as business-creative types from the U.S., Europe, South Korea and the Philippines. Being right on the Singapore River in Robertson Quay, the Warehouse gives guests easy walking access to Clarke Quay, Chinatown and on to Marina Bay. Po, its modern-Singapore restaurant from the camp of noted chef Willin Low, is a destination in itself. From about $250, thewarehousehotel.com. — D.W. York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 9
living well | Beauty
rainbow Connection Photos Courtesy of Nars Cosmetics>
Neutral shades are taking a hit this season in favour of vibrant eye makeup that makes a statement. Seen on the spring runways at shows like Rachel Comey, the look has since trickled down to the mainstream with a touch more subtlety — ‘cause huge rectangular chunks of cobalt shadow aren’t superwearable in real life. Use the trend as inspiration to try a brighter shadow on your lids, trace your lashes with colourful eyeliner or even slick on primary-hued mascara. Rachel Comey Spring 2018 — Andrea Karr
WhiP it good
smooth Moves
Nothing kills a warm-weather buzz like slathering on a handful of greasy sunscreen, except finding a mole that’s changed shape or colour. Skin cancer is no joke with more than 80,000 cases diagnosed in Canada each year, but practising sun safety doesn’t have to put a damper on your day. Coppertone has developed a broad-spectrum whipped sunscreen in SPF 30 and 50 that’s actually fun to apply. (Imagine rubbing a dollop of whipped cream onto your body and you’ve got the idea.) With its hydrating, light-as-air formula, this sunscreen might even make you crave your new sun-care ritual. Coppertone Clearly Sheer Whipped, $10 at mass-market retailers — A.K.
It’s almost beach season, which means it’s time to up your shave game with the latest addition to the Schick Intuition family: the f.a.b. (“forwards and backwards”) razor. It’s the first razor in Canada with a bi-directional cartridge, aka five blades that let you shave forward and backwards without lifting the razor off your skin. With the three top blades set for shaving up and the bottom pair for shaving down, you’re ensured a close shave minus nicks and scratches. Don’t you just love when something simple gets even better? Schick Intuition f.a.b. razor, $13 at mass-market retailers — A.K.
Monster Mash Cue the girly squeals of delight, because these fuzzy new fragrances by Nina Ricci are aww-tastic. Known as “Les Monstres,” the tiny cartoon creatures decorated with fur baubles are made for the emoji generation — and come complete with youthful scents to match. Ruby-red Nina is a mix of sparkling pear and candy floss, and bright blue Luna smells of juicy pineapple and lime for a touch of tropical flair. Buy them for their fruity notes and for the way they’ll look on your daughter’s vanity. Les Monstres de Nina Ricci Nina EDT Spray (red) and Luna EDT Spray (blue), $96 each for 80 mL at Shoppers Drug Mart, Hudson’s Bay, Sephora.ca and more — A.K.
10 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
health
Line of Fire Love a barbecued steak but worry about those char lines? Fair enough: Research has shown that the charred exterior (and well-done interior) of the meat is loaded with heterocyclic amines (HCA), a known carcinogen. Indeed, back in 2009, a study found that people who ate their steaks very well done were 60 per cent more likely to develop pancreatic cancer than those who liked theirs rare. You can reduce the risk by avoiding barbecue flare-ups or by grilling over indirect heat. But the tastier way to keep your steak safe is to marinate it. A 2010 study found that adding rosemary to meat before ’cueing it reduced HCA by up to 90 per cent. Researchers chalked it up to the herb’s antioxidants. However, garlic, onion, tart cherries and honey also seem to block the chemical from forming. The takeaway: Marinade is your friend.
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 11
health | Fitness
Get Beach Ready
in a Hurry Were you all revved up to lose weight this year, only to find your commitment lost steam? Don’t drown your sorrows in Häagen-Dazs! Read on for simple strategies to get back on the losing track from Newmarket weight-loss expert Gina Livy BY JacQueline Kovacs
• 01
drink More Water
• 02
eat More often
12 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
Yeah, yeah, you’ve heard this one more than a few times, but Livy argues that upping your H2O is key to losing kilos. “We need 3½ litres per day just for normal functioning,” she says. Increase that amount and you’ll decrease bloating (so you’ll look slimmer) and dehydration-related cravings. Plus, you’ll help your body do what it wants to do in spring — drop fat. “We are naturally wired in spring to drop extra fat,” Livy says. “In winter, we’re in hibernation mode and the body is inclined to store fat. That changes as the days get warmer and longer.” Boosting your water intake helps your body flush out what it doesn’t want.
It may seem counterintuitive, but feeding your body regularly helps shed excess weight. “You stimulate the digestive system, signalling your body to move the previous meal out,” Livy says. But that doesn’t mean you should be noshing on fries between meals. Instead, you want to eat smaller portions of real foods, which your body processes the most efficiently anyway. Not eating, meanwhile, switches your body into starvation/survival mode, making it cling to fat stores.
• 03
get More sleep “Sleep is huge,” Livey says. “You need that REM sleep.” Indeed, studies have shown that you often burn more calories when you’re in REM (the dream phase of sleep) than when you’re awake, just lying in bed or watching TV. That’s because the amount of brain activity associated with REM requires glucose, the building blocks for most foods. “So don’t be afraid to sleep in or nap,” she says, adding that you might want to avoid late-night snacking, as that can interfere with sleep.
• 04 Watch the alcohol
Interestingly, Livy doesn’t consider drinking wine, sipping a single malt or even enjoying a beer that much of an issue. “Alcohol is mostly a problem because of the food you eat with it,” she says. So, if you must snack while you drink, stick to vegetables and lean proteins and forget go-tos like high-carb bread or pasta. Another one to skip: low-calorie beer. Seriously. “We all know by now that low-cal and no-cal don’t work when it comes to food,” Livy says. “The same thing goes for beer. It may be lower calorie, but once you consume it, it turns to sugar faster than regular beer.” So, opt for a real ale or lager for weight loss.
• 05 Move your body
“Spring is a great time to exercise,” Livy says. “Get outside and walk or hike or do what you enjoy to move your body.” Getting active in nature, she adds, helps lower stress and the associated cortisol levels, which then helps with weight loss. And you’ll feel energized without the snacking: “The more energy you use, the more your body will give you.” That said, Livy warns against exercising excessively. “When you exercise hard, you put your body in a state of stress,” she says. “Without breaks, your body can’t repair and rebuild. In fact, too much exercise-related stress can lead to weight gain.” Aim to get your heart rate up for 30 minutes, three times a week for your vigorous activity, and just daily activity for overall health.
• 06 supplement smartly
The body doesn’t naturally want to hold on to excess weight, Livy says, so you can help it do what it wants to do, not only by following the previous tips, but also by taking the right vitamins and minerals. She recommends: • vitamin D – taking the sunshine vitamin reminds your body that it’s not winter and it’s time to shed excess fat • omega-3 – this good fat actually helps speed fat loss • probiotics – these good bacteria aid digestion and keep you regular • magnesium – to calm you, help with sleep and keep you regular
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 13
health | Fitness
14 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
GOTT A
RUN
Better physical and mental health is just a hop, skip and casual run away BY Kasie savage
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 15
health | Fitness
C
anadians are on the run. About 14 per cent of us hit the road, sidewalks and trails each year, making running our second-most popular activity after walking. It’s not hard to see why: It can be done any time, anywhere, without a membership and with little investment in gear, save for a great pair of shoes. Running burns up to twice the calories in an hour as weight training, releases a floodgate of endorphins (the famous runner’s high), strengthens the heart in addition to most major muscles, and can be done alone or with friends. Want to give it a try? We spoke with Kim Sarraino, manager of Markham’s Running Free, a specialty running store (it also has a location in Newmarket), to find out what a newbie needs to know before pounding the pavement this season.
2. Dress as if it’s 10 degrees warmer outside than it actually is, no matter the time of year. It won’t take long for your body to warm up and adjust to the temperature.
With hundreds of shoes on the market, what should a novice runner look for in a pair of running shoes? Before they even start, new runners should go to their local running speciality store and have one of the trained staff look at their feet and how they run. Based on these findings, staff can recommend the correct support shoes, along with an explanation as to why those shoes are suitable.
Say we set our sights on a fivekilometre run, how long would it take to train for that? Is there a formula, or can we just build up endurance naturally? The easiest and more sustainable way to train for your first five-kilometre run is to follow a plan of increased walking/running over typically an eight- to 10-week period. These can easily be found online at no cost.
What about the gait? Is there a right and wrong way to run? Over the years, there has been much debate about the right or wrong way to run. When a person starts to run, just getting into a routine and becoming consistent is hard enough, so don’t worry about your gait. Just run!
I’ve heard people say they can run 20 kilometres on an empty stomach in the morning so fuelling yourself before a run isn’t necessary. Is that true? What do you recommend? You can run on an empty stomach because our bodies do have storage of glycogen (fuel used to run made from the carbohydrates we eat), but only for a shorter distance before we need to top up our fuel again.
How should a new runner dress? Whether you are a new or seasoned runner, there are really two rules to apparel. 1. Never wear cotton anything. Cotton absorbs sweat, and becomes heavy and smelly and causes chaffing. Wear a synthetic material: this will keep you cool, [and the material will] dry faster and keep the smell at bay. This includes undergarments.
16 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
Is a warm-up important or can we just start jogging out of the gate? A warm-up before the start of any sport is always a good idea. A short five-minute walk will help your muscles loosen and your heart prepare for the upcoming exercise. What’s the difference between jogging and running? Believe it or not, there is no difference. Some people might say that you are a jogger if you run slower or a certain distance, but this is simply not true. If you run, fast or slow, long or short, you are a runner!
What’s the best time of day to run? It’s different for each of us. If you feel more alert in the morning, you should run then. If the evening is better suited to you, run then. It doesn’t matter when you choose to go; it just matters that you do it when you can fit it in your day and feel best.
Kim Sarraino of
running free’s
top-5 must-haves for new runners:
1 2 3 4 5
The correct running shoes, fit by a trained staff member
A good pair of cushioned socks
A top, short sleeve/long sleeve
A bottom, shorts/pants
A watch that has a timer to notify you when to walk/run
How do you run in the heat? Is it dangerous for people to run in 30-degree Celsius weather? It typically takes our bodies two weeks to acclimatize to the weather changes. Going out in the middle of the day with the temperature at its highest without becoming used to it is a recipe for disaster. If you want to run in the heat, make sure you are hydrated, take water with you and increase your time in the heat a bit each day to give your body time to adjust. Alternatively, if you don’t like the heat, go to the gym, or head out first thing in the morning or later in the evening when it is a bit cooler.
“
When a person starts to run, just getting into a routine and being consistent is hard enough. Don’t worry about your gait
”
Any tips for staying motivated? Follow a training plan and reward yourself for each milestone achieved. For example, get yourself a new top or download some new music to listen to while you run. Get a friend to meet you for coffee or a smoothie after you run so you have something to look forward to. Or, better yet, talk them into joining you for that run out on the road first. Most of all, don’t let the running become a chore — having fun while you are doing it is number one. Always consult your doctor before you begin any new fitness activity.
IF THE SHOE FITS You don’t have to spend a fortune on good running footwear — you just need a cushioned shoe that you feel comfortable moving in. Here’s what to keep in mind.
This shoe’s 10-mm toe-to-heel drop may help you avoid knee injuries.
ouTSoLe A blown-rubber outsole with forefoot pads and flex grooves means better heel-to-toe transition.
HigH-TeCH maTeriaL Mesh in the forefront means more flexibility and a lightweight structure.
no-SeW oVerLaYS Seamless, breathable overlays mean a secure fit.
miDSoLe Look for a well-cushioned sole for comfort and durability. 880v8 running shoe from New Balance, $160, newbalance.ca
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 17
Q
uality meats from small farms, custom cut the way you like it!
SUPPLYING FINE QUALITY MEATS SINCE 1992
NEWMARKET
18025 Yonge Street, Unit 4 (Yonge & Bristol Roads)
905 895-0437 AURORA
220 Industrial Pkwy. S., Unit 1
905 841-6679 HOURS
Tues. & Wed. 9-6:30pm Thurs 9-7pm | Fri. 9-8pm Sat. 9-5pm Closed: Sun. & Mon.
18 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
D
E COM HE T E SE CE! REN IFFE
SHO OUR ! T I V I S T O D AY
P
www.klostersbutchershop.com
home
Perfect Your Patio A touch of shade, a comfy seat in the warm breeze, a drink and some good company — what’s not to love about patio season? Hint: It starts with a whiny buzz and ends with a small, itchy bump. Mosquitoes can be the bane of our much-anticipated outdoor season. But they don’t have to be. In minutes, the Patio Shield from Thermacell creates a 15-foot-by-15-foot zone of protection that lasts for hours. Quiet and scent-free, this sanity-saving device comes in five colours to suit your bug-free patio style. $34.99, at Canadian Tire, Home Hardware, Home Depot, Cabelas and Walmart
Win Mosquitoa -f summer ree ! Lik
e us o (facebook.c n Facebook o or follow u m/YorkLifeMag) s on Instag ram (@ yorklifema g), love about tell us what you p in York Reg atio or porch life ion, and yo u co win a gift p ackage fro uld m Thermacell .
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 19
home | Room Tour
Evolution THE
20 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
OF A FORMER MODEL
this aurora couple fell in love with their from-the-builder home nearly 30 years ago. an updated kitchen has definitely rekindled that romance
BY sue Kanhai PHOTOGRAPHY BY JiM craigMyle
T
his isn’t the first time this Aurora residence has been written about. Back in 1991, this then model home was featured in the Toronto Star. It had a unique layout for the time, and perhaps the biggest draw was the kitchen’s southern-exposure breakfast nook. Fast-forward nearly three decades and the home is once again drawing interest. Tony and Mary Anne Magliocchi are the original owners. Over the years, they’ve undertaken many updates to the house, including creating an enviable master bedroom retreat, but it’s their latest project — a kitchen overhaul — that really wows, with help from Elisse Shimonov, design consultant with Aurora’s Niche Decor. York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 21
home | Room Tour
Wish List: • Reconfigure angled countertop and add more counter space • Matching quartz countertop and backsplash • All new appliances • Great breakfast area, including full table surface for when guests are over • More storage/cupboard space • Open up the space and improve flow • Update the look
22 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
“The goal was to make it new again with the fresh look and [today’s] trends,” Shimonov says. “The house had a very homey feel and that was the one thing nobody wanted to eliminate. We didn’t want it to feel too modern or too cold.” While the original design of the kitchen was what drew them to the house, Tony and Mary Anne looked forward to one day making small changes to improve the overall flow and function. A railing separated the kitchen and family room, creating an awkward division that closed off the spaces. The existing countertop jutted out at an odd angle and made getting around it difficult. Shimonov started by asking the couple about their lifestyle and how they like to work in the kitchen. That helped her determine the layout, including details such as where to put the dishwasher in relation to the sink, and the ideal oven placement for when they’re entertaining and cooking at the same time. As a result, appliances were repositioned,
a bulkhead that ran the full perimeter was removed, wiring had to be relocated and an opening between the kitchen and dining room was closed off. “We’ve definitely got more storage now because of it,” Tony says, “with cabinets that go all the way to the ceiling.” Tony, now retired, used to work in engineering. He relied on his connections to create a customized dream team for the project. “When you get to hire independent people to do the work, people you know, it makes it a lot easier,” he says. The process took about six months, which wasn’t too difficult for the family, as they have a small kitchenette downstairs. Tony was on-site every day, able to coordinate all of the tradespeople. Clearly the kitchen-reno gods were smiling. “I’ve done renovations before and the one thing I was scared of was the kitchen,” Tony says. “I’ve heard nightmares. You can never get a kitchen to work out exactly when the guy comes to install it, but honestly, it was really
“The goal was to make it new again with the fresh look and today’s trends. The house had a very homey feeling and that was the one thing nobody wanted to eliminate. We didn’t want it to feel too modern or too cold.” — Elisse Shimonov, Niche Decor
smooth, which I was surprised by.” He credits Cortina Kitchens of Woodbridge for the positive experience. Shimonov, meanwhile, chose all the finishes. The countertops have the look of Calacatta marble but are made of quartz. The white stone with grey veining extends up the walls. “Carrying the countertop onto the backsplash was a feature I wanted because it’s such a beautiful stone,” she says. “This way, you get the full effect and see it straight on. It’s clean and elegant. It’s not a big space, so we didn’t want it to be too busy.” The kitchen table has a Carrara marble top and fibreglass base. The chairs are covered in ostrich-look vinyl, which is easy to clean but high on style. The drapery is stationary, not functional, meant to maximize the natural light. Shimonov came up with the customized asymmetrical lighting design. She used individual pieces hung strategically. The couple’s favourite spot in the house is the eat-in area. In fact, the breakfast nook with the impressive wall of windows was what sold them on the house in the first place; this update just reinforces their love for it. “This is what we had envisioned we would do eventually, and after 20 years, we finally did it,” Tony says. “It feels like we have a private dining area for dinner — you can be seated so nicely and comfortably.” The breakfast nook, Shimonov adds, was almost a fluke because the couple wasn’t looking for anything spectacular for that area. “But because of the architecture and how the
The breakfast nook (top), with its impressive wall of windows, is the couple’s favourite spot in the house. In the kitchen, meanwhile, the countertop of white stone with grey veining extends up the walls.
wall had that natural curve to it, we kind of fell into this design,” she says. “The custom curved banquette and beautiful marble table turned out to be a pretty big feature.” The bar stools, wine fridge and ample, comfy seating make this the main area where the couple now entertains. Thanks to the smart redesign, they have easy access to everything they could possibly need to keep guests — and themselves — happy. York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 23
NGM Glass has been serving Newmarket & Aurora area for over 15 years specializing in Frameless Showers and glass railings. For your next project or renovation call or e-mail us and we can set up a home consultation to turn your dreams to reality. Our business is glass but if you need a skilled contractor for your bathroom remodel we can recommend a couple in the area (we work with quite a few) This also applies for custom decks. info@newmarketglass.com or call 905-898-5351
www.newmarketglass.com
home | Designer Tip
Furniture Fix
Here’s why the where is just as important as the what
By Red Barrinuevo
As the saying goes, it’s not just the tools in your toolbox that get the job done, it’s how you use them. Think of your furnishings as tools that, when used correctly, serve a functional, spatial and aesthetic purpose. As a stylist and “redesigner,” I often find that the furnishings themselves aren't the problem. Rather, it’s their arrangement that can make a home feel cramped, inefficient or just plain awkward. So, what’s the trick to proper furniture placement in your space? Step one is to measure, then measure again. The size of your space will define the type of furnishings you’ll incorporate and how many pieces you'll need. Time to hit the showroom? Not so fast. More measuring is essential. Furniture tends to look smaller in the store because it’s in a wide open space with a high ceiling. When you bring that L-shaped sofa home, it may take up your whole living area. Measuring before buying will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises and the hassle of returns. Once you have an idea of size, think about function. In today’s modern, open-concept homes, a single space will need to serve many purposes. An open-concept main floor might be used as a foyer, dining area, living area, family room and work space. With a solid
plan and the right furniture selections, this is all possible in a single space. This is where zoning comes into play. Think about creating several intimate conversation areas, achieved through colour and some strategic elements. One or two chairs, a side table, a great lamp and a midsize rug underfoot are all you need. As you plan the zones in your space, think about your traffic patterns. How do you walk through the room to get to an adjoining space or another zone within the room? TIP: In a dining area, you’ll need at least three feet of space between your wall and the dining chair to allow room to pull the chair out without bumping into the wall. That said, intimacy is, of course, key to a good conversation zone. Don’t be afraid to place a couple of chairs close together and tell someone your story. Finally, look up. Having a high ceiling makes a big difference in the overall feel of the room. If your living room is blessed with high ceilings, take full advantage of that extra space. It doesn’t give you extra seating, but it does draw the eye upward, making the room seem bigger and grander. Fill in vertical space with gallery photos or a beautiful gallery wall.
Beautiful furniture that's improperly placed will fall flat. Redesigning a room to get that wow factor often involves a few new furniture finds coupled with your existing pieces, and a well-planned perspective on how to place them. Toronto-based, award-winning interior stylist Red Barrinuevo is an interior decorator and principal of Redesign4more, serving clients in Toronto and the GTA. The firm is known for creating stylish yet functional spaces through its home staging and interior styling services. redesign4more.com
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 25
home | DIY Decor
Custom Clean
Designer Lisa Canning had a challenge: create a stylish laundry room in a Keswick home with no garage, no basement and no outdoor shed. The space had to fit off-season clothing, sports equipment, paint cans and random odds and ends, not to mention room to wash, sort and fold clothing. Canning conquered, and now she shares her stylish secrets with us.
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 27
home | DIY Decor
1. Start with colour. The laundry room is the perfect spot to inject a bold hit of colour; you can be more adventurous than you might typically be in a bedroom or living room. With all the natural light in this space, I knew we could go dark and bold. I used Benjamin Moore’s Bermuda Blue 2061-30 on the custom cabinets and picked up the colour in a patterned rug from HomeSense and striped towels by Pamuk and Co. Bright, bold colour in any application can really make a space look and feel more custom and original. 2. Add architectural details. Another way to make a space look more custom is to add architectural details. We changed the swing on the existing door to open against the staircase to maximize the space in the actual laundry room, and replaced the interior door with a Metrie Pretty Simple door with Millennium patterned glass. In addition, we wrapped the entire room in Metrie’s MDF tongue-and-groove to create a shiplap look. Shiplap (and all mouldings, really) lends a subtle texture to a room.
We changed the swing on the existing door to open against the staircase to maximize the space and used a glass-front door
3. Customize your storage. Proper storage is essential to keeping an area clutterfree, and a family from feeling overwhelmed by stuff. I designed the millwork here 36 inches deep to give the family lots of space for large, bulky items. To keep
Bright bronze accents lend a trendy touch to the work space. Easy-view bins keep everyday items organized, within sight and accessible.
28 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
OVER
storage practical, I used a series of large, easy-view bins by neatfreak, so things like towels and cleaning supplies are within plain sight. The triplesorter laundry system with built-in ironing board, also by neatfreak, offers additional surface area for laundry sorting and folding, and eliminates the need for a folding ironing board, saving precious storage space. Finally, we created custom floating shelves out of the same Belanger laminate counter we used to provide room for additional storage and decorative display. 4. Add some bling. I love me some handcrafted cabinet hardware, and these pieces by Shayne Fox Hardware are my current obsession. These bright bronze pulls and knobs are made from cast bronze with a “living finish” — they are going to oxidize and patina over time. My obsession with all things bronze continued with the Cassidy faucet by Delta in Champagne Bronze. A small hit of a warm metal is a really on-trend way to add a custom element.
40 YEARS IN THE
BUSINESS LARGEST SELECTION OF PRE-OWNED LUXURY VEHICLES
5. Customize your cleaning. Don’t forget: You can customize the most important aspect of your laundry room — your washer and dryer. We selected a stackable washer and dryer by Whirlpool to maximize all available space. The front-load machines offer a multitude of settings that handle everything from well-worn sports gear to delicate dance costumes. With three finishes to choose from, we went with white as a bold contrast against the blue cabinetry. A laundry area can be both pretty and practical. Here, the working sink gets a hint of bling with the Champagne Bronze finish faucet. Open shelving works for both accessories and storage.
✓ FLEXIBLE FINANCE OPTIONS ✓ CERTIFIED & EMISSION TESTED
19990 HWY 11 SOUTH BRADFORD, ONTARIO
905-775-6497
www.broadwayautosales.com Buying a used vehicle? Don’t trust your luck, Trust our reputation! York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 29
Taylor Funeral Home a special place to remember
You are unique. Your loved ones are unique. So at your time of need or when planning ahead, rely on our specialists to provide everything you need to create a one-of-a-kind remembrance.
Call us today for a FREE Planning Kit:
905-898-2100 Taylor Funeral Home Newmarket Chapel by Arbor Memorial
524 Davis Drive, Newmarket, ON
taylorfh.ca
Newly renovated to serve you better
Arbor Memorial Inc.
Family Owned. Proudly Canadian.
food & drink
The Princess and the Pinot German wines are getting the royal treatment thanks to Charlotte Freiberger, one of Germany’s two official wine princesses (there is a queen, too), who recently visited Canada. Her mission? To raise awareness about the diversity and quality of her country’s wines. Long characterized simply as sweet, German wines in fact offer a variety of aromas and flavours, from the crisp and intense Dachshund Pinot Grigio to the medium-bodied, black cherry and cranberry notes of Villa Wolf Pinot Noir to, yes, the fruity Loosen Up Riesling — all now available at the LCBO. With pricing starting at $9.90 (for Stubborn Ass White Blend), it’s easy to expand your world of wine.
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 31
food & drink | Recipes
Fresh Take� BY ADRIANA PAOLELLA
32 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
With grilling season upon us, and so much great produce to choose from, who doesn’t feel inspired to cook up something new? These four recipes fit the bill for simply delicious dining alfresco. Bonus: They are easy enough for every day but decidedly company worthy, too
ASPArAGuS AND TOMATO TArT ½ 450 g pkg frozen puff pastry, thawed ½ pkg artichoke dip (I used artichoke and asiago dip) ½ red onion, thinly sliced into rings 16 asparagus spears, ends trimmed and stems sliced in half lengthwise 1 tbsp olive oil ¼ tsp salt 1 cup grape tomatoes 1 tbsp balsamic glaze Preheat oven to 400°F. Roll out puff pastry and place on a parchment-lined baking tray. Spread artichoke dip over pastry and top with separated onion rings. Coat asparagus with oil and salt, then arrange over pastry. Layer tomatoes overtop. Bake on bottom rack of oven for 20 minutes. Remove and allow to cool on a wire rack. Drizzle with balsamic glaze (or a reduction) before serving. Makes 4 servings.
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 33
food & drink | Recipes
LOADED STEAK SALAD BOWL WITH CILANTrO DrESSING STEAK: 1 large or 2 small boneless ribeye steaks 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp Montreal steak spice 1 clove garlic, diced 4 basil leaves 4 mint leaves DRESSING: 1 cup cilantro leaves (stems removed) 6 to 8 large basil leaves 6 tbsp olive oil 3 tbsp red wine vinegar ½ tsp salt SALAD: 4 cups greens (baby romaine and mixed greens) 2 peaches cut into wedges 1 avocado, cut into chunks 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1 tbsp hemp hearts
34 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
Place steak in a bowl or ziplock bag with oil, garlic, steak spice, basil and mint leaves. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Heat barbecue on high. When hot, grill steak for 4 to 5 minutes on one side, then turn over and grill another 4 to 5 minutes. Allow steak to grill again on each side, rotating the direction to get crossed-grill marks. Remove and slice thinly when it’s cool enough to cut.
To make the dressing, combine cilantro and basil leaves. Add oil, vinegar and salt. Using a hand blender or food processor, blend until combined. Arrange all of the salad ingredients in a large bowl. Place steak over salad and drizzle with dressing. Makes 4 servings.
GrILLED OCTOPuS 2 medium-sized octopuses (about 1 lb each) ½ tsp dried oregano 1 tbsp olive oil 1 clove garlic, diced 1 lemon salt, to taste 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add octopuses and boil for 40 minutes. Remove and let cool for about 10 minutes. Remove the head from the tentacles by cutting off two tentacles at a time.
Combine oregano, oil and garlic in a bowl. Add octopuses, stirring to coat, and let sit until grill is ready. Heat barbecue on high. When hot, grill each octopus for 1 to 2 minutes. Turn over and grill again for 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from heat and place on a dish. Top with freshly squeezed lemon juice and sprinkle with salt and parsley. Makes 4 servings.
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 35
food & drink | Recipes
MANGO TrIFLE TIrAMISu juice from 2 oranges 1 oz Malibu coconut rum (or white rum with 1 tsp coconut extract) 5 small or 3 large mangoes 4 eggs, separated 5 oz whipping cream (35%) 6 tbsp sugar 1 tub mascarpone cheese (leave out at room temperature 1 hour before using) 2 sleeves ladyfinger cookies shredded coconut In a bowl, combine orange juice and coconut rum. Set aside. Peel and finely dice all but one mango; purĂŠe remaining mango and add to diced mangoes. Set aside. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form; refrigerate. Beat whipping cream until stiff and refrigerate. Combine egg yolks and sugar and beat until creamy. On medium to low speed, add mascarpone cheese and combine until smooth. Using a spatula, fold in egg whites and whipped cream. Start layering: Set out eight to 10 dessert cups. Cut cookies into small pieces, dip each into juice mixture and arrange a portion in bottom of dessert cups. Top cookies with some diced mango, followed by coconut. Spread a few tablespoons of the cheese mixture overtop, smoothing with the back of a spoon. Repeat the cookies, mango and cheese layers, and top with more diced mango and shredded coconut. Makes 8 to 10 servings.
Adriana Paolella is a recipe creator with a passion for food, writing and teaching. See what she’s cooking on her Instagram page @fortheloveoffoodandlife and find more of her quick and healthy recipes at adrianalovesfood.com.
36 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
food & drink | In the Kitchen
In the Kitchen with
Dos Mariachis Passion, family and fun make every day festive at this Aurora restaurant By SUE KANHAI | Photography by JIM CRAIGMYLE
C
inco de Mayo might be over, but the feeling is still pretty festive at Dos Mariachis in Aurora. The three-year-old restaurant has an uncanny way of making any ordinary day feel special. What’s their secret? Es Alva and his wife, Lilian, are both passionate, accomplished chefs who love what they do. Their restaurant is a true family affair, with their son, Josh, tending bar and daughter, Alex, serving their loyal customers. It’s the perfect combination of a relaxed, welcoming venue with fresh, delicious food. York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 37
food & drink | In the Kitchen Starting a restaurant is a daunting task for any chef, but this duo took a very savvy approach. For four years before they purchased this space, Es and Lilian rented a booth at the Aurora Farmers’ Market. It was here, every Saturday morning, that they made a name for themselves, selling churros and carnitas tacos to hungry market-goers. Week after week they had lineups, always selling out shortly after the market opened. The feedback was amazing, with everyone wanting to know when they would open a restaurant. That enthusiasm was the driving force behind Dos Mariachis. “The first year is a tough one. Nobody knows you,” Es says. “Those customers from the farmers’ market kept us alive that first whole year. Many are still regulars. It’s amazing.” Their most popular dishes are their enchiladas, fish tacos and fish Veracruzano. But all your favourites are here, too, including meat tacos, flautas, fajitas, chiles rellenos and chilaquiles. Start with a bowl of pozole or tortilla
soup, add a bottle of Jarritos and share a slice of tres leches cake to round out your meal. The chefs take customer feedback to heart, tweaking the menu every so often. Diners’ impassioned pleas for tamales and ceviche, for example, saw both dishes added to the kitchen’s rotation. The festive atmosphere is another draw. Lilian has decorated the cozy and inviting space with touches straight from Mexico, like the multicoloured woven mantelitos (tablecloths) atop every table, the intricate papel picado (decorative paper banners) strung from the ceiling, traditional ponchos and art featuring Mayan and Aztec figures on the walls. “The big difference between now and 15 years ago is that there was not a lot of awareness about Mexican food back then,” Es says. “Nowadays, [it seems] everybody has been to Mexico.” Many of their customers from Aurora, Newmarket and Richmond Hill will tell him about a recent or upcoming trip. They might
still remember a dish they had a year ago and wonder if he can recreate it. The chefs often do, happily sharing the story behind it. Diners are also much more knowledgeable about food in general. They know a burrito or a chimichanga is Tex-Mex rather than authentic Mexican. “They can tell if you’ve cooked everything from scratch or if you’ve just assembled premade ingredients,” Es says. “They know the difference.” Chefs get a lot of press these days, but Es has no need for the spotlight. “Our success would not be possible without the support of the community and the great people we have working in the restaurant. From the person doing prep in the morning to the person serving customers or washing dishes, it’s a team. It’s not just me.” Dos Mariachis 444 Hollandview Trail, Aurora (905) 503-5530
FIVE Qu ESTIO NS w ith E s A lva , ch e f fo r D o s M a ri a chis 1. When did you first become interested in cooking? It was about 18 years ago. I used to work in a restaurant in Toronto as a dishwasher; that’s how I started, and then I moved my way into the kitchen. I always really liked cooking.
extra two or three minutes chopping an onion the right way instead of doing it in a rush. You have to slow down and do it nicely. You’ll enjoy it more, too.
2. Who is your favourite chef? My wife, Lilian [shown with Es, above]. Back home, she cooked for her brothers, her mother — everybody. She has been cooking all her life, since she was 13 years old. From the start she was good at it and she has never stopped. I love her passion for food. I can’t see her doing anything else but cooking.
4. What’s your signature dish? We have very traditional dishes: one of them comes from Veracruz, a famous city and state on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. The dish is called fish Veracruzano. It’s done with red snapper and a lot of vegetables from Veracruz, like small tomatoes, onions, a little bit of pepper and salt. You just grill it slowly and serve it topped with fresh salsa. It’s very authentic Mexican food.
3. What do you think is the most common mistake people make when cooking? Impatience. You have to love it; you have to find the time. These days, that’s very hard to do, I understand. People are always in a rush, with work and family. But when you cook, you have to stop everything and focus on it. It makes all the difference if you spend an
5. What’s your favourite thing to order when you dine out? My wife and I like Thai food. We like seafood in general — that’s our favourite — so when we go out we order shrimp, fish, scallops, lobster once in a while. Every time we go out, we try to find a place that serves those dishes.
38 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
CHICKEN TINGA TACOS 1 lb boneless chicken breasts 1 cup tomato paste 3 tbsp chipotle pepper in adobo sauce 2 cloves garlic ¼ tbsp black pepper ½ cup chicken broth salt, to taste 1 large white onion 3 tbsp cooking oil 4 soft corn tortillas fresh cilantro Place chicken breasts in a large pot and cover with about an inch of water. Bring water to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink inside. Remove chicken, keeping the broth, and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Shred chicken and set aside.
In a blender, add tomato paste and 2 to 3 tbsp of chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, depending on how much heat you like. Add garlic, black pepper and ½ cup of the reserved chicken broth. Blend together until smooth. Add salt. Thinly slice onion, julienne style. Heat a medium frying pan over low-medium heat. Add oil, then add onion and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes — do not cook until brown. Slowly pour in tomato paste mix and cook for another 3 minutes on low heat. Add chicken and continue cooking on low heat for another 5 minutes, stirring to coat chicken evenly with sauce. On a heated, soft corn tortilla, spoon ¼ of the cooked tinga, adding some fresh cilantro for garnish. Serve with a slice of lime on the side. Beans and rice make a perfect complement to tinga tacos. Makes 4 servings.
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 39
York Life DININGGUIDE R E S T A U R A N T S
•
F O O D
•
E N T E R T A I N M E N T
CYNTHIA’S CHINESE RESTAURANT ENJOY AUTHENTIC CHINESE CUISINE We have dedicated ourselves to offering two things: fine dining and a truly authentic Chinese cultural experience. Your meal begins with your host dressed in costume leading you to the table. Once seated, you’ll be greeted by your cocktail waitress and your drinks and appetizers will be brought by a cocktail waitress trained to understand both Chinese cuisine as well as every customer’s specific dietary needs. Cynthia’s was founded by Cynthia & Joe Lam, in 1993. Joe learned the restaurant business in Hong Kong where he trained as a chef at one of the top restaurants. When he met Cynthia in Australia, they married and opened a series of successful restaurants in New South Wales and Victoria. In 1992 they came to Canada and opened Cynthia’s in 1993, working with Cynthia’s brother Andy, another accomplished restaurateur. Nothing is overlooked as Cynthia’s entire experience is designed to make your meal an event to remember!
16715 Yonge Street (at Mulock), Newmarket | 905-836-8113 | www.cynthiaschinese.com
LET’S BE FRANK - COME ENJOY A DELICIOUS MEAL AT OUR NEWLY EXPANDED & RENOVATED RESTAURANT Whether it is a business function or special occasion such as a wedding, birthday or anniversary, nothing will wow your guests more than a mouthwatering meal catered by Let’s Be Frank Italian Eatery. Proprietor Sam Farnaghi and his accomplished team use only the freshest ingredients to achieve the most authentic Italian culinary experience. Let’s Be Frank features a wide selection of menu options to suit all tastes including entrees such as veal, chicken and salmon cooked to perfection, meat or vegetable lasagna as well as a variety of pastas with a choice of meat, tomato or cream sauce. Delicious appetizers, soups, homemade pizzas, sandwiches, salads and chicken wings are also available. Let’s Be Frank can accommodate groups of 10 to 500 people. Call today to place an order for your next event or visit the newly renovated Newmarket location if you prefer to dine in for lunch or dinner. Let’s Be Frank……. it is truly the best Italian food for miles around.
1100 Davis Drive (southeast corner of Davis and Leslie), Newmarket | 905-967-1122 | www.letsbefrank.ca
York Downs Golf & Country Club www.yorkdowns.com
Unionville, Ontario
AS
AN A SSOCIATE MEMBER, YOU WILL ENJOY ALL THE PRIVILEGES OF A FIRST CLASS GOLF CLUB • • • • •
27 holes, no tee times required Play 18 holes in under 4 hours Fully walkable course Outstanding practice facility Extensive Junior Program
Please contact Mike Stubbs at mstubbs@yorkdowns.com or 905-477-3105 for details. 905-477-3105 x225 | mstubbs@yorkdowns.com
42 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
| www.yorkdowns.com
travel
Safer Travels Got plans for a road trip — long or short — this summer? If you’re travelling with little ones, along with the bouncy seat and blankie, consider bringing along the eClip, a safety product hitting the market in June. Attached inside your vehicle, the device reminds parents and caregivers to take their child out of the car seat. Combined with an app on your smartphone, eClip uses Bluetooth technology to alert you when you’ve walked more than 15 feet away. It also monitors the temperature in your vehicle to keep it safe and comfortable for your child. According to the Canadian Safety Council, an average of 37 deaths take place each year in the U.S. (statistics aren’t available for Canada) due to dangerously hot cars — the majority of those deaths are children aged three and younger. Find out more at elepho.com/eclip.
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 43
travel | Vacay
RECONNECTING in
Los Cabos
Sometimes getting far away from all that is familiar is what you need to be at home with yourself BY JACQUELINE KOVACS
44 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
T
wo drummers tap in time as the scent of burning copal, a local tree bark, engulfs me. Gloria, a highly regarded shaman from the area, picks up her instruments, divining rods for auras — two ball-tipped metal rods, each emerging at a 90-degree angle from small wooden handles. She raises them over my head, moving them bit by bit down the length of me. They swing from open to closed. My chakras are apparently in protest. It’s a bit surprising, considering where I am — a press trip to the Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort. This sprawling, 375-room hotel overlooking the Sea of Cortez is home for a few sunny days — and a welcome relief from the Canadian winter. Here, our group of seven gets to enjoy high-end (but no-attitude) dining in three of the property’s six restaurants, a blissful eternity pool, peaceful walks on the nearly vacant beach and multiple ways off-resort to take in the vibrant culture of Los Cabos. How could anyone staying here be anything but chillaxed? Well, if you brought with imminent deadlines, missed your connecting flight from Chicago to San José del Cabo and thus wound up spending five hours taking in the delights (not!) of O’Hare International, and, thanks to a Canada-based technical glitch, have been unable to fix layout problems in a magazine nearing its press date, you might feel a little less than Zen. But as I soon found out, I was in exactly the right place to remedy that and reconnect with what matters.
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 45
travel | Vaycay
Every spacious room in the elegantly understated Hilton Los Cabos boasts an ocean view. The sea is a bit rough for swimming, but the infinity pool makes up for it. Gloria seems to have picked up on the stress behind my smile. Through spa director Adriana Tello, she tells me that while my body is in Mexico, my mind is everywhere but. I have to learn to be where my body is and to be open to the energy of the Earth around me. The jaded journalist in me would have been quietly dismissive, but as she “heals” my aura with a bundle of herbs, which we then burn, I actually feel an odd lightness come over me. Maybe there’s something to this stuff after all. And with that, I decide to open my mind to this experience and the other wellness activities on this trip’s agenda. Call it an experiment in positivity. Unbeknownst to me, the experiment had actually launched earlier — the first morning at the resort the day before, when we all took part in a painting class. The 46 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
instruction was “paint how you feel.” I felt woefully inadequate as a painter, but Tello spoke soothingly about how our own inner dialogues trip us up or cut us off from fully experiencing our lives. I listened, painted, and the resulting waterscape was better than any visual art I’ve attempted. How is it that letting go is actually the route to reconnecting? Despite that experience, and Gloria’s insights, I still have to remind myself to turn off my hamster-wheel brain at the outset of a treatment at the resort’s world-class eforea spa. During the 80-minute, locally inspired Nohult Detox Cure, I am exfoliated with chia seeds, slicked with a body mask and wrapped in a warm cocoon. After rinsing in a multi-head shower in the treatment room, I am massaged from head to foot. Deadlines? What deadlines?
To reinforce this relaxed feeling, I walk along the rugged shoreline. The sand is quite coarse and the ocean is generally too rough for swimming, but aside from another couple of beach walkers, the area is beautifully deserted. I wind my way along the shoreline, weaving around dramatic rock formations, breathing deeply and listening to the calming roar of the tide. There is something undeniably grounding and restorative about walking barefoot in this raw, powerful display of nature. The day’s pièce de résistance? A spainspired dinner in the same fragrant courtyard where my aura cleansing had taken place. Every mouthful — from the sushi served on stones used for hot-stone massages (cold, in this case and, yes, cleaned) to the chicken mole to the variety of sweets (lemon verbena, Papantla vanilla,
Whether you favour sushi, tacos or churros, the property boasts a range of delicious dining options, emphasizing what is seasonal and local. With so much good food, beach walks are a pleasant must.
SHOWCASING THE BEST OF YORK REGION
TO ADVERTISE CALL 905-853-8888
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 47
Family Owned & Operated Established 1842
We are proud to be Newmarket and Aurora’s only locally-owned and family-run funeral home, serving Newmarket, and surrounding areas, since 1842. We offer a full range of traditional funeral and low-cost cremation services. Wes Playter, Manager 157 Main Street South, Newmarket, ON L3Y 3Y9 905.895.6631
www.roadhouseandrose.com
Selling Real Estate and
Loving It!
What you can expect… • Quality Service & Attention to Detail • Your Home Marketed & Advertised until SOLD! • Thorough Understanding of Market • FREE Market Evaluation – No Cost No Obligation
“I look forward to speaking with you.”
Darrell Morrison Sales Representative
Direct: 905-252-7997 Office: 905-836-1212 dmorrison@royallepage.ca
www.MoveWithMorrison.com
48 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
salty caramel popcorn) on the four-tiered dessert display — is bursting with fresh, local flavour. Later, in my spacious room, I sleep better than I have in years. The group opts for a change of pace the next day and we head out to an organic farmers’ market in the city. Here can you find not only fresh produce and homemade salsas and condiments, but also local art, jewellery, even a bouncy castle for visiting kids to play in. We then all head for a stroll along Marina Puerto Los Cabos, a pretty habour that boasts a funky restaurant made from a shipping container. Our walk suddenly opens onto a large, green lawn, dotted with five-foot stone sculptures. Known simply as the Sculpture Garden, it’s an oddly peaceful place. Soon enough, it’s time to head back to the hotel for a cooking class and lunch with executive chef Mauricio Lopez, the creative culinary thinker behind yesterday’s spa dinner. As we get our hands-on lesson on how to make tamales, Lopez speaks with pride about how he and his team have learned to accommodate every food restriction they’ve faced — from allergies to intolerances to veganism — without giving up taste or presentation. The lunch-and-learn is topped off with churros, still warm and served with caramel sauce. The only downside? Everything tastes so good that I am almost uncomfortably full. Good thing our afternoon activity is an eyeful rather than a mouthful. We board a 45-foot deep-sea fishing boat to look for whales in the Sea of Cortez, passing “the Arch,” the area’s renowned landmark rock formation. Once again, Los Cabos does not disappoint: a majestic humpback breaches mere metres from our boat, and a little later, another swims rapidly alongside us. I’ve never seen a whale before and I’m surprised by what a moving experience it is. The contemplative mood that settles over our group is briefly interrupted, however, as Poncho, a well-known local sea lion, amusingly pops up in the wake of our boat, hoping we have fish for him. All too soon, it’s time for our last meal at the resort, this time outside. Once again, chef Lopez and his team wow us with a traditional Mexican buffet set up market style. With tamales, chicken mole, squid ink linguini, the freshest-tasting octopus I’ve ever had and other delicious mains, it’s hard
Take the time to get lost among the labyrinth of back alleyways and stop at a tiny trattoria to enjoy a leisurely meal
Los Cabos provides an all-senses experience, from the sights and sounds of the area’s famous whales to the delights of chef Lopez’s culinary creations. to leave room for the killer dessert cart. But who couldn’t squeeze in fresh assorted macarons, festive-looking doughnuts or, my favourite, the salty-and-spice chocolate tart? The setting — a ring of palm trees with a view of the ocean as the sun sets — is the icing on the red velvet cake. Small wonder I have to pass on the shore-side s’mores post-dinner, when we sit around a beach bonfire and watch a pair of fire dancers twirl flaming batons and rings around their bodies and into the dark night air. A magical ending. As I reluctantly head home the next morning, I realize some of that Los Cabos magic has rubbed off on me. Despite a few more airport-related hassles and the return to our chilly climate, I keep calm, think about the present, not past mistakes or future demands, just as Gloria had wisely advised. As for my lingering yen to return to the place? Call it a strong connection.
Compassionate, Caring, Consistent
Caregivers... always there for you, helping families in need.
Help in the Home Do you need help because a loved one has limited mobility due to injury, age or because they’ve just been discharged from hospital?
• Personal care • Meal preparation • Housekeeping • Footcare • Companionship • Medication administration GEM Health Care Services is a proud 4 time sponsor of the
2018 Run or Walk for Southlake presented by Nature’s Emporium.
Proud past recipient of the Business Excellence Award: Professional Services Business of the Year!
GEM Health Care Services 905.836.6999 • www.gemhealthcare.com 30 Prospect Street, Suite 303 Newmarket
Sue Bauer, President
sue.rae.bauer@gemhealthcare.com
travel | Smarts
How to
Sleep Better Plane
on a
While many people find it difficult to sleep on an airplane, what with all the commotion and tight quarters, there are ways to make it easier. For those of you boarding at midnight, getting up at zerodark-hundred to fly to the beach or settling in for 14 hours or more, here are 10 things to consider. BY DOUG WALLACE
1.
5.
2.
6.
Choose a window seat so you can really hunker down and get some rest without having your arm and shoulder bumped by anyone travelling along the aisle, and no one asking to be let out to the washroom. Select your seat as far away as possible from the galleys, which can be quite noisy; the bathroom lineup, which is just too gawky; and the bulkheads, where the parents with infants tend to be seated.
3.
Keep in mind that the very back row and the row in front of the exit-door row may not recline.
4.
Put all carry-on luggage in the overhead bin, leaving the space under the seat in front of you free for just your feet. Take off your shoes and put on the comfy socks they give you (or bring your own). Those feet are going to swell no matter what.
50 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
Make sure your seat belt goes overtop your blanket, so flight attendants don’t have to wake you up to make sure it’s done up in the event of severe turbulence. A neck pillow and earplugs go without saying, but throw on an eye mask as well.
7.
Keep sleep aids simple — melatonin, Gravol — particularly if you don’t want to be loopy while passing through customs. Consult your pharmacist before you take any over-the-counter medications. Stronger sleeping tablets should be reserved for super-long flights and must only be taken under the advisement of your physician.
8.
Limit or, better, avoid alcohol, which only makes sleep more fitful.
9.
Tell yourself, “It’s currently 1 a.m. where I’m landing. I should get to sleep now.” The power of suggestion often works. The whole key is to adapt as quickly as possible to the time zone you’re visiting, so you may as well start on the plane. This may require breaking with the airline’s in-flight service routine, skipping the meal and going right to sleep immediately upon takeoff.
10.
If you absolutely, positively have to have a good night’s sleep on the plane — before an important business meeting or, like, your wedding day — spring for a nicer seat in the front and stretch right out.
REDEFINE YOUR BEAUTY Voted Top Medi Spa in Canada 2017
Advanced Medical Skin Care and Body Treatments in a Luxurious Spa Setting
OUR SERVICES
+ Cosmetic Injections + Laser Treatments + Medical Aesthetics + Body Contouring + Registered Massage Therapy
C A L L O R V I S I T G L O W M E D I S PA . C A
YORKVILLE 129 Yorkville Ave, 4th Floor Toronto, ON M5R 1C4 416.920.9998 AURORA 15435 Yonge St. Aurora, ON L4G 1P3 905.726.9333 MARKHAM 8500 Warden Avenue (within the Hilton Suites Hotel) Markham, ON L6G 1A5 905.470.8522
June 21, 23 & 24, 2018
3 UNIQUE DAYS
OF POLO
At The Toronto Polo Club
Interna�onal Polo Matches | Food & drink | Fashion| Shopping| Champagne Divot Stomp & More….
Get Tickets & Reserved Tables POLOFORHEART.ORG Proceeds to benefit
EVENING EVENT
AFTERNOON EVENT
FAMILY FUN 5K WALK/RUN/BIKE
| BeauTY SPeCiaL |
CLEAN, GREEN
All-Canadian Beauty Roundup PHOTOGRAPHY BY JiM craigMyle
Y
ou chug down a juice cleanse every six months, mix your own DIY natural cleaners and shop in the organic grocery aisle, but what’s in your bathroom vanity? After all, everything we put on our skin is absorbed by our pores and into our bodies. With the growth of green beauty, there are plenty of alternatives to incorporate into your routine, and, as our roundup of all-stars shows, you needn’t go far to find some of the best.
SoapStars
(clockwise from top) Detox soap bar, including activated bamboo charcoal, olive oil, shea butter and tea tree oil, from Keswick-based Naturally Natalie, naturallynatalie.ca; Lavender Basil soap, handmade with shea butter and glycerine by Newmarket’s Greenly Skin Care, greenlyskincare.ca; Barber Shoppe soap, including activated charcoal, from Greenly Skin Care; Twisted Citrus soap from Greenly Skin Care; Wild flower soap bar, including French rose clay, lavender and tangerine essential oil, rose and calendula petals, from Naturally Natalie; Celestial oak & adzuki Bean bar soap, handmade with organic oats, adzuki beans, lavender and bergamot essential oils, from Mellow Bath & Body in Newmarket, mellowbathandbody.com
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 53
feature | Eco-Beauty Roundup
Clean Sweep moisturizing Day Cream from Eauné in Toronto is made entirely from organic, naturally derived ingredients, including coconut and argan oils, and absorbs quickly to deliver vitamins, moisture and antioxidants. $30, eaune.com
This cleanser from Shelby Naturals features antimicrobial camellia seed oil, for antioxidants and collagen production, and calming peppermint essential oil, among other all-natural ingredients. $29.99, shelbynaturals.com
face Cream Day + night from Mount Albert’s Shelby Naturals is formulated with sea buckthorn fruit oil and Moroccan argan oil, delivering antioxidants and boosting collagen. $24.99, shelbynaturals.com
54 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
Seabuckthorn Best Skin ever Cleanser moisturizer from Muskoka’s Living Libations uses jojoba and coconut oils along with sea buckthorn, grapefruit and more to “reset” your complexion to its natural, luminous state. $20, livinglibations.com/canada
Ste. anne’s Skin nourishment Toner uses rose, thyme and chicory, among other locally sourced ingredients, to revitalize your face and neck. $26.50, steannes.com/skin-nourishment
Local Lovelies MELLOW BATH + BODY, NEWMARKET Offerings: Soap bars, body scrubs, masks and lip polishes crafted and packaged by hand in founder Melody Rattanavong’s home studio without parabens, sulphates, preservatives or synthetic fragrances. Her dry facial masks, formulated with charcoal, clay and maca, are activated with a few drops of water, and the popular soaps are packed with essential minerals and oils that exfoliate and soothe even the most sensitive skin. What’s more, the minimalistic packaging is reusable and recyclable. Inspiration: An HR professional by day, Rattanavong started making soap four years ago as a creative outlet from her corporate job. When family and friends got wind of her passion project, her product offerings expanded, focusing on the use of essential oils, botanicals and clays that cleanse, revitalize and moisturize skin without any artificial colour. “We’re all so busy and on the go, I want these products to be there to take some chill-out time,” Rattanavong says, adding she hopes to make her clients’ days a little brighter and more invigorating through her product line.
In Your Neighbourhood Since 1924!
RESIDENTIAL • SALES • SERVICE • INSTALLATION 017
• • • • • •
COMFORT ALL YEAR LONG!
Furnaces Fireplaces Air Conditioning Duct Cleaning Humidifiers Air Cleaners
Financing Available
We Service All Makes and Models
905-727-4258
•
136 Wellington St., East, Aurora
www.tholiver.com
Availability: mellowbathandbody.com, Etsy and stockists across Canada. — Daniela Tirone
SHELBY NATURALS, MOUNT ALBERT Offerings: A skincare line of creams, serums, lotions and toners made in a home studio with fruit, flower and plant oils sourced from Europe. Founder Shelby Ondrus and her team hand pour each product into glass packaging that showcases the beauty and quality of the natural ingredient list. Officially launched in 2016 after years of researching botanical and essential oils and floral waters, the unisex collection has fans from every age and stage of life. Inspiration: What started as a solution to Ondrus’s own persistent acne turned into a career path for this trained nutritionist. As she learned how to treat her skin without the use of harsh chemical products, her clients began to notice and asked to try her solutions. Her concoctions became a hit and the brand was born, with a focus on oils that respond to skin’s natural tendencies and deliver antioxidants, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory and collagen stimulants. “Many people are afraid of oils, as they think they clog pores,” Ondrus says, “but really they go deeper into the layers of the skin to heal and restore more than water-based products can.” Availability: shelbynaturals.com and Nature’s Emporium. — D.T.
Solid Oak Pine & Maple Mennonite Hand Crafted • Solid Wood • Custom Designs Choice of Stains • Delivery & Set-Up
Hwy 9 & Hwy 27, Schomberg 905-939-2899 • 905-775-8031
www.mennonitefurnitureontario.ca York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 55
feature | Eco-Beauty Roundup
SkinDeep
firming eye Cream, from Ste. Anne’s Skin Nourishment line, uses soothing botanical extracts and firming agents to condition skin for moisturization, resulting in more even skin tone. $65, steannes.com/skin-nourishment Made for dry, dehydrated and mature skin, Drench is designed to deeply hydrate the skin and remedy cellfunction breakdown long term. $35, steannes.com/skin-nourishment
Step 3 in the Daily Essentials skincare line from Shelby Naturals, this Serum features neroli, bergamot and myrrh to help your skin rejuvenate and glow. $49.99, shelbynaturals.com
This revitalizing Luxury face serum from Toronto’s Raluca Skincare is made with 11 nourishing oils and seven pure essential oils, including vitamin E, argan and lavender, to feed and hydrate the skin as you sleep. $43, ralucaskincare.com 56 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
open Sky eye Serum, from Muskoka’s Living Libations, uses pure plant botanicals to fortify, freshen and tone the delicate skin around the eyes. But it can also be used on the face and neck. $20 for 10 mL, livinglibations.com/canada.
Botanical facial Serum in Hibiscus + rose, by Naturally Natalie, is handmade, lightweight, easily absorbed and ideal for dry, irritated or damaged skin. Bonus: Use it as a makeup remover, cleanser, moisturizer and eye serum, too. $36, naturallynatalie.com
Local Lovelies NATURALLY NATALIE BOTANICAL SKIN CARE, GEORGINA Offerings: Natalie Neugebauer handcrafts this small-batch botanical skincare line of hand-cut soaps, paraben-free body butters, botanically rich salves and plantbased serums in her home studio. She uses local ingredients as much as possible, growing her own lavender, calendula, mint and chamomile that she dries for her herbal infusions and soap making, and sources essential oils and plant-based butters and oils from sustainable sources. Her Detox soap bar, Rose Glow facial serum and Mint Cocoa Body Butter are among her most popular. Inspiration: Working full time in the financial services industry, Neugebauer had a passion to help others and find cleaner alternatives to everyday products. She loves working with therapeutic-grade essential oils for the invigorating benefits they can have. “The therapeutic benefits of essential oils have helped many people, myself included, with symptoms of anxiety and depression,” she says. “That’s why I keep doing what I’m doing.” Availability: naturallynatalie.ca, Etsy and markets across York Region and Toronto. — D.T.
GREAT SAVINGS at Aurora Home Hardware BURLINGTON VANITY WITH TOP 1door, 2 drawers 31.5” x 22.5” 3224-025 Reg. 1299.99 1door, 2 drawers 37.5” x 22.5” 3224-026 Reg. 1399.99 2door, 6 drawers 49.5” x 22.5” 3224-027 Reg. 1699.99
*mirror and faucet not included
Come and see the difference Do it yourself doesn’t mean do it alone. Here’s How!
289 Wellington St. E., Aurora
905-727-4751
GREENLY SKIN CARE, NEWMARKET Offerings: Created 2½ years ago by the mother-and-daughter team of Lindsay Barker and Katy Thomson, Greenly offers a range of handmade soaps, bath bombs, lip balms, solid-lotion bars, whipped body butter, bubbly bath bars as well as made-to-order skincare products. As much as possible, they use local ingredients, but everything in their skincare line is organic and from sustainable sources. Inspiration: “In our family, we have sensitive skin,” Barker says. “And Katy is allergic to everything.” They decided to investigate what it was about soap that was causing Thomson’s skin to react, and in the course of their research realized they could make their own soap — and better. “Then we realized that other people would like it, too,” Barker says. They started selling their products at craft shows and then launched the online site so that their growing customer base could buy products when they wanted them. They also expanded beyond soap: Barker and Thomson plan to keep their business small for now and then will look to find more wholesale clients. Says Barker: “We like to make what we make really well.” Availability: greenlyskincare.ca
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 57
feature | Eco-Beauty Roundup
Bathing Beauties True Blue Spirulina Shampoo penetrates hair down to the roots, removing waxy buildup and dry akes with bioactive botanicals. Hair is left clean and soft. $44 for 240 mL, livinglibations.com/canada
mint Cocoa Body Butter uses cocoa butter, shea butter, coconut oil, vitamin E and peppermint essential oil to deliver intense hydration. A little goes a long way on the face, body, dry spots and sensitive skin. $20, naturallynatalie.ca
58 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
Bergamot, patchouli and lemon verbena feature in this skin-loving Hydrating Lotion. Designed for all skin types, it leaves skin soft, supple and smelling spa-fresh. $25 for 250 mL, steannes.com/skin-nourishment
Solstice Lemongrass Body Scrub smooths and invigorates your body with a natural blend of organic cane sugar, lemongrass, shea butter, coconut oil, sweet orange and other sensory pleasers. Allnatural, handmade and vegan. $34 for 240 g, mellowbathandbody.com
Face Forward This cold-pressed argan oil from Toronto’s Leaves of Trees is an intense moisturizer with high levels of vitamin E, carotene, antioxidants and fatty acids. Use it on your face to repair damage, calm acne and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It’s also perfect for dry spots on the body and as a hair balm. $44 for 50 mL, leavesoftrees.com A cult favourite, this nourishing Beauty Balm from Toronto’s Selfish uses jojoba, cranberry seed oil, shea butter, nettle oil and other natural antioxidant-rich ingredients to leave your skin soft, dewy and radiant. $60, selfishcare.com
Detox your complexion with eclipse Charcoal + Chia + maca facial mask. Just a spoonful mixed with water and applied to the face draws out impurities, moisturizes and promotes elasticity for more radiant skin. $22, mellowbathandbody.com
Hydrextreme from Toronto’s Consonant Skincare is clinically proven to moisturize better than hyaluronic acid (used in injectable facial fillers). A blend of just two ingredients — Cassia angustifolia seed extract and vegetable glycerine, this serum not only soothes skin irritations, it also hydrates, plumps and restores your glow. $72 for 10 mL, consonantskincare.com
Fine Finishes
Lipcandy handmade lipsticks are free from parabens, petroleum-based oils, artificial fragrances and other things you shouldn’t eat. Instead, these lovely lip colours leave your kisser soft and pretty with beeswax, peppermint oil, chia seed oil and other safe ingredients. Bonus: Choose from 11 colours. $22, lipcandy.ca
Get glowing with Lip Shimmers from Living Libations. Double-duty shade Pink Lady’s Slipper adds colour to lips and cheeks, while Ballet Slipper gives your pout a subtle shimmer. Formulated with natural ingredients such as beeswax, jojoba and stone root to keep your smile safe. $30, livinglibations. com/canada Take the edge off with this Lux glass nail Polisher from Toronto’s Milana Yudina. Use it to create a high shine on natural nails or for a smooth base for nail polish. Washable and eco-friendly. $12, email mila@milayudesign.com York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 59
home | Gardening
paradise
PRoPERty
How to create a relaxing getaway space, right in your own backyard BY andreW hind
H
ow do you create a warm and welcoming personality for your home? Many people focus on the interior spaces. The smart ones, though, begin with the outdoors, focusing instead on landscaping. That approach only makes sense, according to Frank Ferragine, aka Frankie Flowers, bestselling gardening author, popular media 60 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
personality and Bradford native. “An attractive landscape design instantly enhances the property’s appeal. It’s like good packaging on a present.” Landscaping also offers a solid return on investment, adding as much as 15 per cent to a home’s value. “It’s estimated potential buyers will judge a home in the first 30 seconds,” he says, “and in many cases, curb
appeal is more important than the inside of the home.” There are essentially two types of landscaping: cosmetic and foundational. The first is done merely for appearances; you have a vision and transform your property to make that dream a reality. The second is more to fulfil a specific function — a raised
Choosing a
landscape designer the right landscaper can improve your enjoyment of your yard and increase your home’s value. But how do you choose the right one? “the most important thing is to get a certified landscape designer,” Audriana VanderWerf says. “to be certified, you must be seven years strong in your career and have passed an extensive test, so you instantly know they are qualified. you can find a listing on the Landscape ontario website [landscapeontario.com]. Look for a sustainable, environmentally friendly designer.” Spend time reviewing landscape contractors’ portfolios and check references. Communication between client and designer is crucial, so make sure there is a comfortable connection before hiring anyone.
bed to enclose rich soil capable of sustaining vibrant gardens, a retaining wall to eliminate erosion, or even a patio for entertaining. The two types are not mutually exclusive, however. In the hands of a skilled landscape designer, a foundational landscape feature can be a beautiful addition to any property and a cosmetic design can still serve a fairly
functional purpose. Besides resale value, landscaping has other appeals, including: tImE SAVInGS Many people aren’t willing to commit endless hours gardening to achieve a beautiful property. Would you rather spend your weekend relaxing or gardening? Smart
landscaping can help you achieve a handsome look and free time to soak up the fleeting summer sun. Mulching heavily reduces weeding and watering, for example, while a crushed gravel yard eliminates the need to mow grass. EnHAnCInG GARDEnS Smart landscaping and using aggregates can York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 61
home | Gardening give you a leg up by enriching the soil and improving drainage, making vegetable plots more bountiful. Enjoyment We want to get the most we can out of the summer, and landscaping can help. Perhaps you can think of nothing more appealing than sitting in a comfortable chair, mug of steaming coffee in hand, watching the morning mist burn off the lake. The problem is, your property is all slope. A landscaped terrace nicely solves that issue. For every desire you have for your property, a good
ahead of themselves. They like the look of a beautiful garden, but not the work that’s involved. Budget is another limitation: how much do you want to spend? And then there are landscape limitations such as space, sunlight and use of property. A good designer, however, can help overcome any limitations to create a property that meets your expectations.” For Audriana VanderWerf, lead landscape designer for Bradford Greenhouses Garden Gallery, working with homeowners starts with an interview of sorts. “I start with asking
“If you have heavy clay content, a peat base or natural forest compost is the best way to help break up the clay to allow good root growth. For sandy soil, a richer compost or manure is best to add nutrients,” Josh Meyer, owner of Newmarket’s New Roots Garden Centre, says. “When starting a garden, using a good-quality three-in-one mix [top soil, peat moss and compost] is a good start. For an established
garden, amending with compost is the best option. This adds nutrients back in, which plants need for optimal production.”
Photo here and previous page courtesy of Lowe’s
landscaper can provide a solution. The range of projects to improve a property’s appeal are endless: stonework, adding a porch or patio, creating gardens to add texture and colour, installing ponds or other water features, laying pathways and more. The options are limited only by your imagination and your budget. “The key to achieving the property of your dreams is to know your limits and expectations,” Ferragine says. “Time is the first limitation. What time do you have to maintain the property? A lot of people get
soil
The dirt on
Successful gardening depends a lot on soil quality. Thankfully, you’re not stuck with what’s naturally in your backyard — additives can make a big difference.
62 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
put together a landscape design is a good investment. You’ll save money and time by avoiding expensive, frustrating mistakes. Reinventing a property is possible with landscaping, transforming it from something you own to something your own. Big or small, expensive or budget constricted, landscaping will enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property, increase its value and add to the enjoyment of our lovely, limited summer.
Photo courtesy of Lowe’s
clients some simple questions,” she explains. “What’s your lifestyle and how do you want your garden to complement it? What are the needs of the family? And what are your plans for the future?” You may know what you want, VanderWerf says, but a designer can guide you through the process and may know of better, more affordable options. Even if you’re handy and want to do the labour yourself, hiring a professional to
outdoor living
spaces
A patio or porch is the core element in any outdoor space. After all, what’s a backyard without a place to sit, relax and maybe enjoy a meal? If you’re considering adding an outdoor living space, begin by thinking about how you want your yard to function. Do you want an outdoor dining area for summer nights, or more of a place to huddle around an outdoor fire? How many people would you like to accommodate? Will it be a formal space or something more casual? these are all important considerations and will help inform your decision about the design.
“When planning a patio or deck, I recommend bringing your furniture into the area you have in mind to make sure the area is big enough to accommodate it and allow room to move freely. no one ever said a patio is too big, but one that’s too small will spoil your enjoyment,” Audriana VanderWerf says. mark the area with cones or paint to ensure the space will work for you. “Also, I recommend walking to and from the house a few times to ensure the flow is seamless,” she adds. “this is important when barbecuing and bringing things in and out from the kitchen.”
Plant
selection
there are so many options available when it comes to plants that you can easily become overwhelmed by the array of annuals, perennials, shrubs and trees. How do you pick from among them? “you can easily narrow down the selection just by keeping in mind the conditions in your yard,” Frank Ferragine says. “Do you need shadeloving plants, for example, or do you have full sun exposure? Is your soil sandy or claylike? Also, if your time is limited, you’ll want easy-to-maintain varieties. Rather than going for the newest varieties, sometime the older varieties are better — I call them ‘tried-and-true’ for a reason. older varieties are often hardier and require less care.” think beyond spring and summer. “to have colour throughout the year, make sure to include plants that flower in spring, summer and fall,” josh meyer says. But it’s not all about bright flowers. Create interest in other ways. “For instance, planting a few evergreens in key points will bring colour to the garden in winter. As well, you can accessorize with ornaments. Dark, shady corners are great spots to place a bench or birdbath to create interest in an otherwise boring spot.” Finally, don’t overlook the value of texture and shape when selecting plants. “texture is so important,” Audriana VanderWerf says. “you can have great effect with an interestingly shaped plant — like corkscrew hazel — even if there is little colour. Evergreens and deciduous plants with nice texture and architecture are vital components of a garden design.”
Keep your yard conditions in mind when selecting flowers, Frank Ferragine advises.
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 63
MORE
THAN STORE! Hot Tubs
Gourmet gas and charcoal BBQ’s Designer Patio Furniture Water testing and chemicals Pool liners and Safety covers Above ground pools Pool and hot tub service Pool openings and closings
905 713 2317 • 1 Vata Court, Aurora ON L4G 4B6 • www.backyardpoolandspa.ca
YORK REGION’S PREMIER FURNITURE SHOWROOMS
64 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
home | Gardening
the
Even-Better
backyard
You’ve got your outdoor design in place, but how do you take your yard from functional to fabulous? We got the scoop from Pam Byer, senior interior designer with Aurora’s Design Line Studios
1
Think colour and pattern. “you want to bring the indoors outdoors and make it an extension of the home,” Byer says. So, think of picking up on colours alongside patterns that you love to use inside. Soften seating with cotton throws and cushions that make the space more comfortable and inviting. these days, you can find a range of cushy options that can handle being outdoors.
Photos courtesy of Lowe’s
2
Explore outdoor rug options. “the right rug can make an outdoor space feel like a room,” she says. “these days, outdoor rugs are available in so many colours, patterns and sizes that they often closely resemble their indoor counterparts in looks, but are fabricated to brave moisture, sunlight and other weather elements.” It’s an easy way to really define an area and add another level of cozy after dark.
3
Upscale your eating. Who doesn’t look forward to dining alfresco? But that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with plastic, paper or a plain-jane presentation. Instead, Byers says to think about accessories, such as colourful vases, pretty lanterns and table centres (you can move them inside if the weather turns nasty). “Go oversized, have fun,” she says. “Inside, you might have to limit sizing, but outside, you have more options.” And when it comes to place settings, consider natural wood for a special, rustic touch that ties in with the outdoors.
4
Create an outdoor room. “If you set up a seating area around a firepit or a gas fireplace, or near a large-screen tV under a pergola, you can have movie nights and parties well into the fall,” Byer says. Add such furnishings as end tables to make it really feel like a room. (you can bring it all inside come winter and use it in your basement or some
other space and get year-round use out of it.) to add a little punch, coordinate the colours of the throws and cushions in your seating area with the flowers you plant. think, too, of playing up the outdoors in your choice of furnishings by selecting teak, blocks of wood or concrete end tables and touches of metal, Byer suggests.
5
Provide proper protection. When it comes to buying outdoor cushions, throws, rugs and the like, look for fabrics that can withstand the elements, such as those from Sombrella. make sure you can get shelter from the sun, too, with temporary structures such as large umbrellas, or something more permanent, like a pergola. And don’t forget to add a little style to your shade — fairy lights and lanterns are an easy way to add nighttime sparkle. For a pergola, consider adding a custom feature, such as a herringbone-patterned roof.
York Life Newmarket May June 2018 | 65
one last thing
Photo by Jim Craigmyle
Cheers, eh? Talk about raising a glass. We love these “rebeered” tumblers from Artech Glass Blowing Studios, made from recycled beer bottles. This is just one of four tumblers featuring Canadianisms such as zed, loonie, toque and, of course, eh. It’s a great way to get your Canada on when you crack open a cold one this summer. $72 for a set of four, Too Good General Store, Markham, toogoodgeneralstore.ca 66 | York Life Newmarket May June 2018
2018 LINCOLN MKX Sophisticated and Stylish
Discover Ingenuity You Can Feel When elegance and intensity converge, remarkable ideas take shape. Lincoln MKX exemplifies this progressive way of thinking. From the moment you slip behind the wheel, a feeling of quiet confidence washes over you. With its effortlessly engaging drive, the 2018 Lincoln MKX influences you in ways that are truly empowering. Ways designed to inspire extraordinary drives and exceptional experiences. When you’re away, your Lincoln MKX patiently awaits your return, to welcome you, invite you in, and even illuminate your path in the darkness. As you approach, it senses your key fob from about 3 metres away and slowly raises its exterior LED lights and signature lighting. It also graciously casts a luminous welcome mat with the Lincoln logo on the ground beneath each sideview mirror. LED lights in the door handle pockets glow with an intensity that’s finetuned to the exterior colour. Inside, the cabin puts on a show with ambient lighting. Once you close the door and relax into your seat, Lincoln MKX deploys the autofold sideview mirrors with memory according to your personalized settings. It’s been expecting you.
18001 LESLIE STREET, NEWMARKET (SOUTH OF GREEN LANE)
905.853.5000 www.shanahanlincoln.com
P:905.853.5495 • F:905.853.3236 • 1151 Gorham St., Units 11/12, Newmarket • info@fischercustomcabinets.com • www.fischercustomcabinets.com