York Life Vaughan Sept/Oct 2017

York Life VAUGHAN

JOAN KELLEY WALKER The Real Housewives star opens her heart – and her stunning King City home!

Your guide to LOCAL PAMPERING

PLUS:

School Lunches

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contents

septem b er / o ct o b er 2 0 1 7

in every issue

Food & drink

FEATURES

8

30 rediscover fresh

fall fare Three delicously different recipes

52 the queen of king

The real life of television star

Living well News, tips and fun facts

66 like a local Canada’s Wonderland

37 In the bag School lunches they’ll really eat

hEALTH

39 in the kitchen with...

Enoteca Motorino, Woodbridge

16 Grey Matter’s Anatomy

Protecting your brain as you age 19 back to you A mom’s guide to post-summer

pampering

21 Happy food Dietary tweaks to improve your

22 capturing a moment

in time This sundial-inspired home is

enchanting and serene

29 Laundry rooms that

clean up in style Designer Cynthia Soda shares her

Travel 44 rustic gem

Relaxed indulgence at Viamede, a

historic resort in the Kawarthas

body and mind

HOME

57 The essentials list Six top-performing wines

professional tips

Cover photo: Jim Craigmyle

Find the recipe on page 34!

4 | York Life September October 2017

48 going guanacaste Northwestern Costa Rica is a

region with it all

and philanthropist Joan Kelley Walker

58 Nailed it!

Brian Curtis’s instinct for the

reclaimed wood trend proved to

be bang-on

62 Scaling success Reptilia has a passion for

reptiles, conservation and unique experiences

York Life

editor’s note

Publisher Dana Robbins Regional General Manager Shaun Sauve Editor Jacqueline Kovacs copy editor Deanna Dority

Fall Forward For those of us who consider Labour Day the “real New Year,” this is the ideal time to try something new, and in this issue, you’re sure to find some great ideas.

If you’re thinking of making your well-being more of a priority, check out “Back to You” (page 19) for a range of ways to feel both healthy and pampered. Best of all, our real-life suggestions are all right here in York Region. Maybe you crave a little adventure in your life. Flip to page 48 to discover why Costa Rica might be just right for you. For something a little closer to home, consider Viamede (p. 44), a rustic gem in the Kawarthas.

Perhaps the simplest change is just to mix up your go-to menu with some of fall’s fabulous produce. We’ve got some unusually delicious recipes, beginning on page 32, to get you started.

One of the best changes any of us can make, though, is contributing to our communities. Just ask King City’s Joan Kelley Walker, philanthropist, star of The Real Housewives of Toronto and our cover story. As you’ll find out, throughout her remarkable life, Walker feels deeply connected to her community and has always made a point of giving back.

Speaking of community, we’d love to connect with you! Here’s how to get social with us: @YorkLifeMag Facebook.com/YorkLifeMag @YorkLifeMag Social icon

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For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

Jacqueline Kovacs

Stuff I’m Swooning Over:

Contributors Liz Bruckner, Jim Craigmyle, Naomi Hiltz, Sue Kanhai, Andrea Karr, Signe Langford, Joann MacDonald, Leslee Mason, Rachel Naud, Karen Robock, Kasie Savage, Julia Suppa, Doug Wallace Advertising Director Amanda Smug Advertising Manager Tanya Pacheco Advertising Sales Dawn Chaykowsky, Joseph Montagnese, Madelaine Rostek, Tony Segreti, Howie Taylor Regional Director, Production and Creative Services Katherine Porcheron Editorial Design Brenda Boon, Nick Bornino, Geoff Thibodeau, LuAnne Turner Director of Business Administration Phil Sheehan Director of Distribution Mike Banville

York Life, Vaughan 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.

This health-and-beauty multitasker is the first thermal spring water to be approved by the Canadian Dermatology Association. eau-thermale-avene.ca

6 | York Life September October 2017

Slip on this handcrafted silver-and-turquoise ring by Amanda Brittin and you’ll not only add a trendy hit of blue to your life, but also support York Region Handcrafted Maker’s Association, a local group of artisans. yorkmakers.ca

Looking for an eye-opener?

Bella Aura’s Instant Eye Lifting Contour is an antiaging serum that brightens and de-puffs using all-natural, organic ingredients.

(PS: It’s also Canadian.) bellaaura.com

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©2017 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Starpoints, SPG, Preferred Guest, Aloft and their respective logos are trademarks of Marriott International, Inc., or its affiliates. ©2017 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Starpoints, SPG, Preferred Guest, Aloft and their respective logos are trademarks of Marriott International, Inc., or its affiliates. ©2017 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Starpoints, SPG, Preferred Guest, Aloft and their respective logos are trademarks of Marriott International, Inc., or its affiliates.

living well

What’s for Dinner?

Come fall, when work and school schedules kick back in, mealtime can get a little routine, too. But the Dietitians of Canada is making it easy to get out of the dinnertime rut with a free ebook of recipes inspired by the flavours of Canada. In its 30 pages, Celebrate Canadian Food: In the Kitchen With Canada’s Dietitians features such recipes as pickerel cakes, Saskatchewan wild rice and mushroom soup, baked candied salmon and even DIY Buddha bowls.

Each recipe also includes the author’s social media contact information so that you can connect with them, try the recipes and share your delicious results on social media, using the hashtag #RDkitchenparty. The food fun awaits at https://view.joomag.com/ celebrate-canadian-food-dietitian-canada150-ebookf/0505253001498662198?short.

8 | York Life September October 2017

Studies show that students enrolled in martial arts programs have increased self-esteem and improved focus and concentration abilities in the classroom.

With 45 years of martial arts instruction under its belt, Northern Karate Schools is the trusted choice for many men, women and children in the GTA. With 12 world-renowned locations, NKS offers award-winning programs taught by instructors with decades of experience.

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living well | Health

As temperatures dip, we all start shutting the windows — and closing in the dust.

In case you could use some motivation to stay on top of those bunnies, consider this: A new study from Duke University says that house dust might actually be making us fat.

New findings published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology report that exposure to the endocrine-disrupting chemicals, or EDCs (found in everyday household products like cosmetics, cleaning products and food packaging) may disrupt our metabolism, triggering an increase in body fat. House dust tends to harbour EDCs, prolonging our exposure to the chemicals. — Karen Robock

A Coffee (or Three) a Day For many of us, there’s nothing like that morning cup of joe to get a perked-up start to the day. But now it seems caffeine worshippers may wind up with more days in their lives to enjoy than those who don’t drink coffee.

Scientists have identified a link between daily coffee intake and a reduced risk of death from a whole host of diseases, including cancer, diabetes, stroke and kidney disease. U.S. researchers analyzed the data of 185,855 adults between the ages of 45 and 75, followed for an average of 16 years, and found an 18 per cent lower mortality risk in those who drank three cups of coffee a day. “Coffee contains a lot of antioxidants and phenolic compounds that play an important role in cancer prevention,” says lead study author Veronica W. Setiawan of the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California “Although this study does not show causation or point to what chemicals in coffee may have this ‘elixir effect,’ it is clear that coffee can be incorporated into a healthy diet and lifestyle.” — K.R.

Give your morning coffee (and your counter) a fall update! Set of 4 espresso cups with stand, $7.99 at HomeSense.

On Your MIND

Get Outside — YOUR Way Think of it as the Spotify for outdoor activity. GoodTimesOutside.ca, the new site by MEC, Canada’s go-to retailer for outdoor gear, sorts activities by ability, vibe, location and more, inspiring people to explore nearby parks, lakes and trails. “Being active outside is incredibly beneficial for people’s physical and mental health,” says David Labistour, CEO of MEC. Whether you’re into canoeing, camping or hiking, fall is a great time to enjoy the great outdoors. — K.R.

10 | York Life September October 2017

Did you know that women suffer from depression and dementia twice as often as men? Learn more at this year’s Joy of Aging conference, a chance for women over 40 to connect and focus on their health. Grab a girlfriend and get ready for a morning packed with delicious food, live music, an outstanding silent auction and more. The 9th annual Joy of Aging Keynote speaker will take place October Dr. Vivien Brown 22 at Bellvue Manor in shares some of Vaughan. Tickets are $75 the basics about each, or $650 for a table brain health on of 10. Check out page 16. thejoyofaging.ca for more info. — K.R.

living well | Home

Warming TREND Want to add a little warmth to your home? No, we’re not suggesting turning up the furnace or getting a fire going. Instead, Pam Byer, general manager of Design Line Studio in Aurora, says to create a snuggly ambience by incorporating shades of metallic to give your house that cozy, fall feeling.

“Cool, brushed metals are being set aside for matte, warm metals like bronze and gold,” Byer says. “These metals are resurging onto the home decor scene and will lend a touch of sophistication to any space. And they are a great complement to the hot, new navy blues and tried-and-true grey palettes that are trending in 2017 as well.” Sounds like a golden opportunity to try something new.

— Rachel Naud These on-trend products can all be found at Design Line Studios Inc. in Aurora.

Love Your Lawn Your lawn has had a busy few months — rainy spring, spotty summer, maybe some heavy foot traffic. So show it some love in early fall with nematodes, says John Kohnen of Black Forest Garden Centre in King City. “This will combat grubs, which come up in the spring,” he says. “Raccoons and skunks love grubs and can do a fair bit of damage when rummaging your lawn for them in spring.”

How else can you give your grass a good start next spring? Make sure you do your last mow before winter sets in, Kohnen says. Cut it a little shorter than usual, give it a good raking and apply a fall fertilizer. “Fertilizing in the fall ensures your lawn receives the necessary nutrients needed for a good, strong start to spring,” he says. Your lawn deserves no less. — R.N.

Pumpkin Pleasers Put more treat in trick-or-treating with these battery-powered LED Mercury Pumpkin Glimmer Strings lights from Pier 1. Hang them along door frames or banisters, or weave them through wreathes and centrepieces for a quick hit of glam to your Halloween gathering. $29.95, pier1.com — R.N.

Retro Vibes Want to add a little retro fun to your great indoors this fall? Spin a favourite vinyl record on this portable turntable, available in red or blue.

Innovative Technology Bluetooth Nostalgic Portable Vintage Suitcase Turntable, $79.95, walmart.ca GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 11

living well | Food & Drink

Ripe for the PICKING We all know how good apples are for us — we eat them year-round — but nothing compares to biting into a Mac plucked right off the tree. We’re talking cool autumn sun, crisp fall fresh air, and the sweet aroma of ripening apples all around. Here are three pick-your-own apple orchards the whole family can enjoy. Grab your baskets!

• Pine Farms Orchard in King Township grows about 15 varieties and includes a bake shop and café. pinefarmsorchard.com • At Applewood Farm Winery in Stouffville, cap off a bracing day of apple picking with a warm mug of applejack — for the grown-ups only, of course. applewoodfarmwinery.com • Get spoiled at Homestead Orchards in Georgina, where you can choose from more than 20 varieties of apples in the orchard and a bakery. Don’t forget to take home a pie or two. homesteadorchards.com — Signe Langford

Words to EAT By

“Voula has a way with words, an eye for beauty, and a consuming passion for cooking delicious food without fuss.”

MARION KANE Food

Sleuth®, writer, broadcaster, cook

•

mor e

th an

0 15 ipes rec •

CA I ROS NT PRESS

Voula Halliday

No more excuses! Toronto-based chef and author Voula Halliday has put together more than 150 easy-to-make recipes along with tips and pantry lists so you can easily eat at home. With pretty photos to whet the appetite and inspire, Halliday offers plenty of variations — many recipes can be made meatless in a snap — as well as tasty ways to use up leftovers, all in a compact cookbook.

What is the chef herself up to this fall? “Knowing that fall harvest will bring my favourite foods in abundance means that I am busy organizing my preserving schedule,” she says. “We prepare canned tomatoes, we grill peppers by the bushel for the freezer, and we make chutney and relish from anything that works well, including beets, apples and onions. This year, I plan to add something new to the mix — it’s an Appalachian sour corn recipe.”

Eat at Home, Voula Halliday, Cast Iron Press, $34 — S.L.

Extending an Olive Branch…

North!

We were delighted (and surprised) to learn that not only can olive trees thrive in Canada, but we can even enjoy our own homegrown olive oil. Back in 2000, George and Seri Braun planted 3,000 hardy olive trees on their Salt Spring Island farm, but it wasn’t until last December that their waiting and tending paid off with a harvest of more than 1,000 pounds of green olives. Within minutes of being picked, the olives were pressed into delicious, healthy oil. The Olive Farm is already sold out of its first pressing, but the Brauns are taking orders for this year’s harvest. theolivefarm.ca — S.L.

12 | York Life September October 2017

In a PICKLE? Eating fermented foods — such as sauerkraut, kimchi and kombucha — continues to grow in popularity. Besides the taste, fermented foods promote healthy gut flora, gastric acidity and a boosted immune system. The problem is, many store-bought fermented foods have been pasteurized, which kills the good bacteria and therefore the associated health benefits. Home fermenting is the answer, of course, but if the thought of an antique stoneware crock the size of a laundry hamper bubbling away in the corner gives you a case of the nerves, we understand. And we have a solution. These stylish, modern jars from Montreal’s Mortier Pilon are just the right look and size to get you started on the path to do-it-yourself fermenting.

Mortierpilon.com — S.L.

living well | Beauty

TREND: Fit to Be Tied Photo courtesy of Moroccanoil

Whether you knot a slim strip of satin around your ponytail or tie a thick piece of velvet into a makeshift headband, a black ribbon is the prettymeets-goth way to dress up your favourite hairstyle for fall. — Andrea Karr

Golden Arches

“Healthy, groomed brows and lush lashes are beauty assets,” says Anna Koniaris, Caryl Baker Visage national face expert. To make your routine more efficient, look for multi-use products such as clear brow gel, which can be brushed onto unruly eyebrows to perfect their shape, or swiped over lashes to add volume and definition.

Caryl Baker Visage Perfect Brow Finish, $21, carylbakervisage.com — A.K.

FIZZ FIX

With bamboo charcoal for a deep cleanse, O2 bubbles to oxygenate and Syn-Ake dipeptide to freeze lines, this ain’t your mama’s sheet mask.

Apply to clean, dry skin for 10 to 15 minutes and feel the bubbles pop and fizz as the hydrating, purifying serum works its magic.

Rodial Snake Oxygenating & Cleansing Bubble Mask, $78/8 sachets at Murale, murale.ca — A.K.

First CLASS

Work It

Want flawless-looking skin? American beauty brand It Cosmetics is now available in Canada at Sephora and online at sephora.ca and itcosmetics.ca, making it easier to try its bestsellers, including skin-perfecting CC cream, dark circle-banishing under-eye concealer and pore-diminishing loose powder. Use them in tandem for a fresh, matte complexion that will hold up under bright lights or close inspection.

It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50+, $49, Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer, $32, Bye Bye Pores Poreless Finish Airbrush Powder (Loose), $32, itcosmetics.ca — A.K.

The latest addition to Tiffany & Co. isn’t a diamond, but its bottle might have you fooled.

The jewellery house’s new eau de toilette lives in a glass flacon with a base cut like the 128.54-carat yellow Tiffany Diamond and shoulders shaped like a Lucida-cut diamond engagement ring. And within that luxurious home, a vert de mandarine top note, sensual iris heart and patchouli finish blend into a floral musk that puts the ritz in spritz.

Tiffany & Co. Eau de Toilette, $120/50 mL, tiffany.ca — A.K. GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 13

living well | Travel

Stopover: Miami Beach, Florida

Photo: Paul McCossin

Heading to the Caribbean? Rather than just switching planes in Miami, why not stick around for a few nights? Spend an afternoon milling about the galleries — and fun graffiti — in the Wynwood Arts District. Though many have left for cheaper ground, their spaces have been replaced by cool shops like Shinola and Base, plus a few great cafés and restaurants.

Near Wynwood is the chic Design District, full of big names like Givenchy, Rick Owens, Lanvin, Martin Margiela, Hermès, Tom Ford and more.

The authentic Cuban vibe of Calle Ocho in Little Havana is a perfect preCaribbean pit stop, with its coffee counters, beauty parlours, gift shops and bakeries.

And, of course, you’ll need to get your pre-tan on at South Beach, so you don’t land in the Caribbean with a blindingly white belly. While you’re there, grab a cocktail at one or more of the heavyweight hotels like the Edition, the Delano, the Sagamore (which has its own very cool art collection), 1 Hotel and the new Faena Hotel. — Doug Wallace

Canada’s

Travel Essential: Gear UP The Travelpro Crew 11 21" Carry-On Spinner is our new go-to bag, coming complete with an exterior USB port that lets you power up on the go (battery not included). The real value, though, is the wobble-proof handle and easy steering: While most luggage has a mind of its own, this one’s selfaligning magnetic wheels make it easier to weave through crowded airport lines with your hands full. $270, thebay.com, holiday.ca — D.W.

14 | York Life September October 2017

Top 5 Favourite

International Cities

• New York City • Las Vegas • London • Paris • Orlando (Source: Hotels.com)

Turndown:

The Hoxton, Holborn, London, U.K. There are so many hotels in London it makes your head spin. Ditto the prices. So the smart money is on finding the best value, and the 174-room Hoxton, Holborn ticks all the boxes and more. The key here is the excellent location: You’ll save a fortune on cabs with so much within walking distance, including Oxford Street and Soho, the West End theatres and Covent Garden; the Holborn tube station is just down the street. The area has plenty of bars and restaurants to check out, including the hotel’s Hubbard & Bell. The rooms are super-functional with a refreshing yet quirky design — retro light fixtures, cheeky toile wallpaper, salon-style artwork, leather accents. Freebies include Wi-Fi and international calls, plus a breakfast bag hung on the doorknob in the morning with bananas, yogurt, granola and OJ. From $400, thehoxton.com — D.W.

health

Vitamin Zzz Want to ward off a cold this season? Hit the sheets. A recent study found that people who clock less than six hours of sleep per night are more susceptible to the common cold virus than those who sleep seven hours or more. Interestingly, researchers noted that age, stress level, whether or not the person smoked and BMI made no difference in the study’s findings.

So what’s the sleep-sneeze connection? It seems that sleep has a key role in regulating the immune system. The study’s authors found that a lack of shut-eye affected the behaviour of T cells — important to immunity. Yet another reason to make sleep a health priority.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 15

health | Brain Health

Grey Matter’s Anatomy

By Karen Robock

You may be surprised by what you can do to protect your brain as you age, if you put your mind to it. We asked Dr. Vivien Brown, a family physician and vice-president of medical affairs at Medisys Executive Health, to share some of her expertise.

In what ways are women’s brains different from men’s?

Men tend to see better at a distance, whereas women have better peripheral vision. Women have better emotional memory and recognize emotion in faces better than men do. Men have more grey matter [where vision and memory are controlled] and less white matter [the deeper tissues where blood pressure, heart rate and temperature are regulated], while women have more white matter and less grey.

16 | York Life September October 2017

Women also have better verbal skills, which is important when it comes to testing for cognitive decline because they often do better on the testing, which means actual problems may go undetected and get diagnosed later, at a point where they’ve already lost more of their abilities.

Is it true that women are more prone to depression and dementia?

Unfortunately, 70 per cent of new cases of Alzheimer’s are women. We know that women

have more depression than men do and are more at risk for certain diseases, like multiple sclerosis, but we don’t know exactly why.

How does stress impact our brains?

Stress is not good for brain health and it affects older women more. We can measure cortisol levels in response to stress in older women, and they have a threefold increase compared with men and younger women. Decreasing stress is important because

it’s not just about having a better mood, it physically impacts your body when you have chronic, unrelenting stress. It changes your telomeres — the caps on the ends of chromosomes — which means your cells are changing and die off faster. Part of healthy aging is maintaining healthy cells for a longer time.

Why is sleep so important to brain health?

Sleep is when the brain regenerates. It makes a difference if you have broken sleep or get a good sleep; if you get REM sleep or not; if you get enough sleep per night or not. We can always get away with something for a short time, but when it’s chronic, it harms our health.

How can women protect the health of their brains as they age?

We should be thinking about many of the same things we talk about for cardiac health — making healthy eating choices, including

“Decreasing stress is important because it’s not just about having a better mood, it physically impacts your body when you have chronic, unrelenting stress” high-antioxidant foods, is important. Exercise is important because it improves blood flow to the brain, which improves memory. Managing cholesterol and hypertension are also factors. Really, this is about healthy aging as a whole.

Why is the Joy of Aging event such a good opportunity for women in the community?

Women attending this event care about their health, are interested in learning more, and I applaud that. So as long as you keep learning, you keep your grey matter active. Social connectedness is also important to a healthy brain, so an event like this is beneficial in that way, too.

Tell us about your new book.

It’s called A Woman’s Guide to Healthy Aging, and focuses on areas where I think we can make a difference, including exercise, sleep, nutrition, bone health, cardiac health and brain health. We don’t want weekend warriors — people who overdo it on the weekend and do nothing Monday to Friday. That is actually bad for your health. This is really about explaining why we advise certain things and how women can make good decisions on a day-to-day basis.

Hear more from Dr. Brown at the Joy of Aging event on October 22 at Bellvue Manor in Vaughan, where she will be delivering a keynote speech and signing copies of her new book, A Woman’s Guide to Healthy Aging: 7 Proven Ways to Keep You Vibrant, Happy and Strong.

See thejoyofaging.ca for more information and tickets.

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health | Beauty

Back to School, Back to You A mom’s guide to post-summer pampering

By KASIE SAVAGE

S

ep-tem-ber — three little syllables that delight and excite most moms. After nine long weeks of kids and camps and trips and travels and the endless go-go-go of child-focused fun, moms often come out of summer feeling drained from putting their own needs last. September is the perfect time to recharge your personal batteries and hit the reset button on mental and physical wellness.

If you feel rundown, worn out or just down in the dumps, then you need a day to spoil yourself — and that doesn’t mean reheating your coffee in the microwave instead of chugging it cold. Here are three “aaah-tineraries” to help you get that pep back into your parenting step, regardless of your level of mom guilt (find yours below). Best of all, each fits perfectly within the hours of a regular school day, so no babysitting required!

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 19

health | Beauty

1 2 3

Aaah-tinerary Level 1: Guilty Mom

Level 1: Guilty Mom You are a self-care newbie and will still somehow end your day feeling guilty about not sitting by your phone — just in case the school calls.

Level 2: Pampered Princess You are not afraid to show up at the bus stop displaying obvious signs of self-indulgence — a latte in hand or a blowout sounds nice.

1

Level 3: Kids? What kids?

You are ready to wave goodbye to your tired, exhausted self in the morning and say hello to a new and improved you, Mom version 2.0, come school dismissal.

2

You’re new to this and that’s just fine. Kiss the kiddos goodbye, hop in the car and head to a Pilates class for the ultimate in stretching, lengthening and posture improvement. Walk out with your head held high, your core cinched and a sense of accomplishment, then make your way to the salon for a fresh new cut and style. Let the wind dance through your hair like a pop superstar in a music video as you strut confidently into a healthy luncheon spot for a tasty meal. After all, pampering builds an appetite. Post-nosh, pop into a local jeweller and spoil yourself with a new necklace or pair of earrings — something that makes you happy.

Consider trying: • Pilates at Spine Stretch Studio, Aurora (spinestretchstudio.com) • consult/cut/blow-dry at Becoming Hair Studio, Aurora (becominghairstudio.com) • lunch at Rawlicious, Newmarket (rawlicious.ca) • jewellery at Finch Centre Jewellers, Maple and Woodbridge (finchcentrejewellers.com)

According to the American Psychological Association, on a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 being the highest level), 15% of moms rated their stress as a 10, compared with only 3% of dads.

“Pellevé skin tightening treatments are applied to the entire face, decreasing the appearance of wrinkles without surgery or downtime. PelleFirm is a skin tightening treatment that targets loose skin on the abdomen, arms or back of the upper thighs.

The heat energy delivered to the skin stimulates collagen formation and feels like a warm massage.”

— Dr. William Andrade, York Plastic Surgery Centre

Aaah-tinerary Level 3: Kids? What kids?

Aaah-tinerary Level 2: Pampered Princess You haven’t updated your social media profile picture in two years — the last time you had an indulgent day to yourself.

Recognizing that you love the afterglow that comes from a day of self-care, wave goodbye to that big yellow bus and say hello to an hour of focused reflection and deep relaxation at the yoga studio, the same one you wistfully drive by on the way to kids’ hockey and dance practice each week. Post-Zen, pop into a quaint café for a latte and freshly baked treat, and actually take the time to savour the taste. Then, head to a scenic resort and spa for a trifecta of luxe treatments. The mani-pedi-facial combo leaves you polished (literally), rejuvenated and hungry for the on-site gourmet lunch.

Consider trying: • yoga at Ten Yoga, Keswick (tenyoga.ca) • tea latte and snack at Elaine’s Black River Coffee, Sutton (facebook.com/ ElainesBlackRiverCoffee) • mani/pedi/facial and lunch at the Briars resort, Jackson’s Point (briars.ca)

20 | York Life September October 2017

3

You know exactly who you are and the importance of self-care, which is why you have someone else bid farewell to the kids for once. After all, this is your day and you have big plans. First up is a visit to a specialized fitness and wellness facility to experience the positive effects a relaxation massage will have on your mental and physical health. As a seasoned pampering pro, you’re ready to up the ante, which is why you head to a reputable plastic surgery centre to meet with a team of professionals and undergo skin tightening treatments, filler or maybe even Botox. You’re put at ease knowing these procedures are pain-free, take less than an hour and are administered by a qualified plastic surgeon. With zero downtime, settle in for lunch on the patio of your favourite little hot spot, then squeeze in a quick manicure and some retail therapy at a trendy local boutique.

Consider trying: • relaxation massage at Bellerby Wellness, Aurora (bellerbywellness.com) • skin treatment at York Plastic Surgery Centre, Newmarket (yorkplasticsurgerycentre.com) • lunch at Let’s Be Frank, Newmarket (letsbefrank.ca) • manicure at Jenny Nails Spa, Aurora (jennynailsspa.ca) • shopping at Lemonberry, Aurora (lemonberry.ca)

health | Nutrition

Happy Foods May help ward off depression.

Stabilize your moods, reduce stress and boost your health with these easy dietary tweaks B y L i z Br u c k ne r

S

ometimes nothing quells the effects of a crappy day quite like a big-asyour-head bowl of Ben & Jerry’s.

But loading up on calorie-heavy foods isn’t the only (or the healthiest) way to calm an emotional storm, researchers say.

It turns out that noshing on nutritious foods can provide many mood-enhancing effects — many of them on par with those you’d experience with prescription antidepressants.

Case in point: Scientists from Australia’s Swinburne University of Technology reported that volunteers who simply downed regular high doses of dark chocolate beverages experienced greater

feelings of overall calm and contentment, while a study by Nurses’ Health found that women who boosted their daily intake of alpha-linolenic acid — found in flaxseed, soybeans, walnuts and tofu — were less likely to experience feelings of depression. And there’s more: Research presented at the American Chemical Society cited that chemical properties found in a variety of berries and foods containing omega-3 fatty acids (found in such foods as eggs, yogurt, spinach, fatty fish and seafood) mimic the structure of valproic acid, a widely used prescription moodstabilizing drug incorporated into many antidepressants.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 21

health | Nutrition “Simply put, choosing to eat healthy foods that benefit your body and mind will help you feel good from the inside out, and will do so almost immediately,” says Angela Wallace, a Vaughan-based registered dietitian, certified personal trainer and family food expert. Some of the near-instant benefits she cites include an improved mood, increased energy, better focus and clarity, and deeper, more restful sleep. “Healthy eating, physical activity, emotional well-being and better sleep are all interconnected and dependent on each other,” she says. “By focusing on and improving one of these areas, you are likely to see improvements in the others, as well.”

Here are the feel-good foods Wallace recommends.

Avocado. A great source of vitamins C, E and K, avocados also contain copious amounts of magnesium, beta-carotene, omega-3s and folate — all of which help ward off depression. This creamy fruit also packed with B vitamins, which help reduce the production of amino acids linked to anxiety and depression, and is high in healthy fats and protein — essential components for brain function and healthy skin — and low in sugar. Aim to eat half an avocado a few times a week for maximum effect.

Nuts and seeds. They make a great snack, can be easily added to many meals (think cereal, salad and quiche) and provide your body with much-needed plant-based protein, healthy fats, fibre and essential vitamins and minerals. Wallace says eating just one-half cup of each per day has been shown to improve heart health and weight maintenance, as well as reduce symptoms of depression.

This powerful treat is good for your mind and body.

22 | York Life September October 2017

Dark, leafy greens. With myriad varieties to choose from — rapini, spinach, kale and Swiss chard among them — these leafy beauties can boost the overall health factor in any salad, soup, pasta dish, stir-fry and more. And because each option is an excellent source of antioxidants, fibre, calcium, iron and magnesium, they’re also linked to increased energy levels and lowered symptoms of depression. Regular intake of these veggies is also touted to benefit blood pressure and nerve function, control blood sugar levels and boost bone density. For best results, aim for three one-cup servings per week.

Berries. Easily added to cereal, yogurt, baked goods and pancakes or enjoyed on their own, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries and blackberries are teeming with antioxidants, known to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, cancers and overall inflammation. A study published in the Journal of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine also found that antioxidant-rich berries minimize the effects of anxiety and depression after participants treated with antioxidants for two years logged significantly lower depression scores than those treated with a placebo. For maximum benefits, aim to eat one cup of berries every day.

Fatty fish (salmon, trout, mackerel).

Brimming with omega-3s, these fish species have been linked to a host of health benefits, including heightened mental clarity, lowered

risk of heart disease, and helping the body protect against cancers, dementia and arthritis, Wallace says. A recent study also reported that omega-3 supplements improved the symptoms of those diagnosed with depression.

Try to eat your favourite fish variety twice a week for optimal mood-boosting results.

Oats. Sure, they’re a warm and fuzzy way to start the morning, but oats are also full of mood-boosting selenium and dietary fibre, which help reduce the risk of heart disease and lower cholesterol. They’re also low on the glycemic index, so your blood sugar levels will stay stable long after you’ve eaten them. Look for large-flake options to up the nutritional ante, and think outside the box and include them in baked goods and pancakes, and as the main ingredient in homemade granola.

Chocolate. Its decadent flavour aside, chocolate does the body good. Studies show that it contains medicinal properties that inhibit cancer growth, regulate genes that control body weight, increase blood flow to the brain and protect nerve cells, all while acting as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.

Recent findings have also shown it contains feel-good chemical compounds that minimize symptoms of depression and anxiety, and enhance calmness and contentedness; plus, its natural dose of caffeine works as an energy booster. Work more into your diet by choosing dark versions (look for variations with 70 per cent or more of cocoa), and aim to enjoy it in regular, but moderate, amounts.

home

Cozy Up to Fall

Photo: Linda Mazur Design

That chill in the air means it’s time to think about the great indoors. Newmarket-based designer Linda Mazur shares her tips for adding a little autumn to your home.

Layer up: According to Mazur, “Fall is one of the comfiest decor seasons, so layer up throw pillows, beautiful blankets and area rugs to create that warm, inviting feeling in your home.”

Embrace the dark: Embrace the dark: “A darker colour palette, like the rich navies, deep purples, earthy mineral greys and spicy reds we are seeing, helps to create a warm feeling in your home,” she notes.

Sleep easy: Mazur says to “Pull out the fluffy duvet and layer your bed with inviting throw pillows and maybe a great faux-fur throw.”

Think fabric: “Introduce rich, lush velvets, cozy chenille, textured linen, wool blends, even faux furs and shearlings, to create the feeling of warmth in your living space,” she says. “Blend scales, colours and textures in both your accessories and fabrics to create an inviting space.”

Want a Designer’s Advice? Visit facebook.com/YorkLifeMag and share your decor challenge, and you could win a free one-hour consultation with Linda Mazur!

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 23

home | House Tour

Capturing

a Moment in Time

With its unique, sundial-inspired architecture, this modernist hilltop retreat is both

By Sue Kanhai enchanting and serene

24 | York Life September October 2017

I

t’s not often you come across a true architectural gem. Built in the late 1960s, this 8,000-squarefoot, poured-concrete, modernist residence in King Township was inspired by a sundial.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 25

home | House Tour Designed with a straight wall that faces north and radiating fin walls that divide the interior, the home has bedrooms that catch the morning sun, while the common areas receive light in the afternoon and the living room welcomes sunset at day’s end.

“It’s so thoughtfully designed,” says Janice Williams, broker with Sotheby’s International Realty Canada. “There’s a purpose for every room, a reason why it’s laid out the way it is.”

That the house acts as a giant timepiece is just one of its unique features. The clean-lined, minimalist home is set back and hidden, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning forest and valley views. Its many amenities include walkouts from almost every room and an indoor pool and sauna. It gives the impression of a retreat, with a serene Zen feel.

The property itself — more than 17 acres — is just as remarkable. Lush and private, the outdoor space engulfs you in trees and nature, and is abundant with wildlife. The grounds boast a spring-fed pond, a barn and a winding, tree-

covered drive up to the main house.

A large clearing of flat, undeveloped land in the back is the perfect spot to realize your own vision of paradise. There’s ample room for horses, a private vineyard, European-style orchards, even a three-hole golf course. “The line of sight from the kitchen or dining room over this land is gorgeous,” Williams says, “reminiscent of California or Tuscany.”

The owner of the house was a successful concrete-forming contractor in Toronto, one of the pioneers of architectural concrete. He built some of the city’s most iconic buildings, including the John P. Robarts Research Library at the University of Toronto, the Ontario Science Centre and the old Four Seasons Hotel.

In the late 1960s, the owner hired architect Morton Katz to help design a home for his family. Both were admirers of Le Corbusier, the legendary Swiss-French architect and founder of modern architecture. He, too, used exposed concrete as his primary building material and shared a minimalist aesthetic.

Solid concrete as a building material offers practical perks. It keeps the house cool in the summer, so air conditioning isn’t needed. It warms the house in the winter and helps retain heat.

The pair also incorporated elements of architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s work. Wright was known for designing homes that integrate seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.

Borrowing from his Prairie School style of architecture softened the house significantly.

Its lower ceilings create an intimate ambience.

Natural materials like wood and stone warm the interiors, such as the maple ceilings in the living and dining rooms. Another trademark of Wright’s was a calm and restorative sanctuary-like feeling — a quality this home has in spades.

The house’s two levels have the same layout, making it a perfect choice for two families to share. The separate living quarters are ideal for intergenerational living, for families

The home is designed so that all the bedrooms catch the morning sun. Prominent windows maximize the view and help bring in the feeling of nature, as do the walkouts in almost every room. The overall house is designed as two levels with the same layout, making it ideal for two families to share.

26 | York Life September October 2017

“It’s rare to find a home that’s such a conversation piece. It’s completely unique — and is the perfect antidote to life in the city”

The sleek kitchen includes touches of wood and metal, along with plenty of space for food preparation, casual dining and socializing.

Solid concrete helps keep the house cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired touches such as low ceilings create an intimate ambience, while natural materials like wood and stone warm the interiors. The result is a home with a calm and restorative sanctuary-like feeling.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 27

home | House Tour

that want to stay together, yet still maintain a degree of privacy.

The “Sundial” house was deemed architecturally significant by the City of Toronto. It’s been owned by the same family since 1969 and was only recently put on the market. Williams hopes the new owners might restore and add on to the place, updating it with luxurious finishes.

Elongating the outdoor terrace and even adding a third level to the house would be exciting changes.

“It’s rare to find a home that’s such a conversation piece,” she says. “It’s completely unique, the perfect antidote to life in the city. For somebody who needs to be close to the city but who likes nature and having peace and privacy, it’s absolutely ideal.”

The property is just as exceptional as the home itself. The lush, 17-acre spread engulfs you in trees, nature and wildlife. It also includes a spring-fed pond, barn and treecovered drive to the main house. It only makes sense that from the home’s entrance and sitting areas to its indoor pool, every space makes the most of the natural environment.

Amenities: • eat-in kitchen • granite countertops • walk-in closet • ensuite bathroom • hardwood floors • indoor pool • library • den • three fireplaces • open porch • balcony • terrace • walkout basement • wraparound deck • barn • farmland • pond • forest 28 | York Life September October 2017

home | Laundry Room

Doing the laundry can be a daunting and never-ending task, which is all the more reason that its designated space should be as functional and stylish as possible.

Designer Cynthia Soda shares practical tips and the dreamy inspiration behind this Stouffville space

Laundry Rooms

That Clean Up in Style photography by Stephani Buchman GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 29

home | Laundry Room

P

erhaps second only to the kitchen, the laundry room acts as the hardestworking space in our homes, so the design needs to have both form and function.

These Stouffville clients were looking for that, but with a retro-modern-vintage-eclectic feeling to it. Before getting to those fun finishes, though, certain key considerations have to be made to ensure that the homeowners are left with a space that easily facilitates all that happens there.

That starts with taking an inventory of everything that you may need for the basic laundry tasks — detergent, softener, baskets and so on. You need to ensure there’s a place for each thing. Secondary chores such as hanging, folding, ironing, even feeding pets may be added for some households.

In our bright blue laundry space, a couple of furry friends needed a place to sleep, so the millwork was custom designed to allow for this, as well as storage for a full-size ironing board, iron, dog food, shampoos, brushes and extra cleaning supplies. We also mounted hanging rods high enough for long dress shirts and some mid-length dresses. The key is to take stock of what it is you’re trying to achieve

in these spaces and make sure you’ve thought up a solution for each of these activities. That’s what working with a designer will do — create a space that truly works for your lifestyle.

Once you’ve nailed down the functions and created a layout and design that works, it’s time to focus on the personality. If you’re afraid to try out the latest trend or colour of the year that you find yourself drawn to, the laundry space is a perfect place to dabble and express yourself. Go a little wild with tile or try bold

Take an inventory of everything that you may need for the basic laundry tasks. You need to ensure there’s a place for each thing colour. Go for trendy matte black or that gold hardware we’re seeing everywhere.

We did all of the above in our Stouffville space and the results were fantastic. Because of our clients’ open mind when it came to styling, we were able to go big with black-andwhite patterned hexagon floor tiles and gold faucet and hardware for a modern edge, while Benjamin Moore Gossamer Blue pillow-style

cabinets gave us that retro-vintage vibe the owners requested.

One of the final features of any laundry space is light. In the Stouffville space, an unused door became a window over the washer and dryer, letting in loads of natural light.

Plus, we added a wire-framed light fixture from Supreme Lighting in Markham for an edgy, industrial touch.

Don’t overlook the importance of abundant light — it’s no fun doing chores in a dungeon.

If your laundry room is on the second floor, but has no window, consider adding a sun tunnel by Velux, which can flood the room with light. If you’re washing clothes in a basement, consider adding a window, or at least ensure that you have planned for enough overall ambient and task lighting to brighten your mood. After all, until our appliances can sort and fold on their own, we may as well love the space where it all happens.

Cynthia Soda is owner, principal interior designer of Stouffville-based Soda Pop Design Inc., providing renovation and design for clients throughout the GTA. sodapopdesign.ca; Instagram: @csodapop; Twitter: @sodapopdesign

Don’t forget the importance of light. In the Stouffville space, an unused door became a window over the washer and dryer, letting in loads of natural light 30 | York Life September October 2017

food & drink

Pumpkin Power When you carve up your jack-o’-lantern this year, don’t pitch the seeds or you’ll be throwing out a tasty nutritional powerhouse. Just 2 tsp of roasted pumpkin seeds delivers protein, fibre and 25 per cent of the daily recommended amount of magnesium, essential for muscle and bone. If that weren’t enough, the seeds are also a rich source of tryptophan, which helps relieve insomnia.

Preparing this natural snack is easy. Just rinse about 2 cups of seeds, removing any stringy bits, and spread in a single layer on a couple of baking sheets to dry thoroughly.

Then, toss with 2 tsp of vegetable oil and ¼ tsp of salt to coat, and roast at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally for even toasting. Cool and enjoy, storing any leftovers in an airtight container.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 31

food & drink | Recipes

Rediscover

Fresh Fall Fare

By SIGNE LANGFORD Photography by DONNA GRIFFITH

That first hint of chill in the air signals the return of comfort-food season, and the autumn harvest means there are lots of delicious ways to enjoy heartier meals.

These three recipes are a great way to easily try something deliciously different 32 | York Life September October 2017

Braised Burdock Gratin If you’re having a hard time finding burdock, try your local Asian grocery store, where it might be called gobo.

For the Burdock 10 spears burdock root, peeled and washed 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock Over medium-high heat, in a covered saucepan or deep skillet, gently boil burdock in stock, making sure it’s submerged at the start. Keep covered and cook until almost fork-tender, about 40 minutes.

Transfer burdock to a lightly buttered ovenproof casserole dish, arranging in a single layer; set aside. Reserve stock for the cheese sauce (top up if need be). Preheat oven to 350°F. For the cheese sauce 2 tbsp butter 2 tbsp flour ¼ tsp white pepper ¼ tsp nutmeg ¼ tsp fine sea salt ¼ cup medium-dry sherry ½ cup vegetable or chicken stock (use reserved stock) ½ cup 18% cream 1 cup grated sharp or extra-old white cheddar In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, melt butter. Add flour, pepper, nutmeg and salt, and stir continuously until butter and flour are a nutty brown, smooth, thick paste — about 5 minutes. Add sherry, stock and cream and stir briskly to combine. Fold in cheese until melted and combined.

Pour evenly over burdock. Set aside.

For the topping 1 cup puffed rice cereal 1 tbsp melted butter ½ cup grated sharp or extra-old white cheddar 1 tsp fine sea salt white or black pepper, to taste ¼ cup finely chopped fresh chives or garlic scapes for garnish (optional) Add cereal to a small bowl and drizzle with butter; toss to coat as evenly as possible. Add cheese, salt and pepper and toss to coat as evenly as possible.

Sprinkle mixture over sauced burdock and bake at 350°F for 40 to 45 minutes or until bubbling and golden on top.

Garnish with chives or garlic scapes.

Makes 4 to 6 side-dish servings.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 33

food & drink | Recipes

Honeyed Orange-Persimmon Cornmeal Cake

INGREDIENTS ¼ cup butter 3 tbsp honey juice of one large orange (about ¾ cup) 3 large store-bought persimmons (or about 7 tiny wild ones), tops trimmed, cut into half-inch wedges ¾ cup flour 1 cup finely ground yellow cornmeal 1 tsp baking powder ¾ tsp fine sea salt 3 eggs ½ cup sugar ½ cup runny or warmed honey 2/3 cup maple water or sap; milk or apple juice will also do ½ cup extra-virgin canola oil zest of 1 large orange; about 1 tbsp

Preheat oven to 350°F. In a 9- or 10-inch cast iron skillet over mediumhigh heat, add butter, honey and orange juice.

Melt, stirring to combine. Reduce heat to low. Add persimmons and let simmer for about 5 minutes or until liquid has reduced slightly. Turn heat off and set skillet aside while making the batter.

In a large bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, baking powder and salt, breaking up any lumps. Set aside.

In the bowl of a stand mixer, or in a large bowl, using a whisk, beat eggs, sugar and honey until frothy. Add maple sap (or other liquid), oil and zest, and continue to beat until well combined.

34 | York Life September October 2017

All at once, add dry ingredients to egg mixture and blend to combine well, breaking up any lumps and making sure everything is moist; but don’t overmix. Gently pour over persimmons.

Pop skillet into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until golden. Note: There might well be some bubbling up and dripping, so a bit of foil under the skillet — or on the bottom of the oven — is a good idea.

Serve warm with whipped cream.

Makes 6 to 8 servings.

Puffy Egg Squares

INGREDIENTS ½ cup mascarpone, at room temperature ¼ cup nduja (a spicy, spreadable salami), at room temperature, casing removed 5 eggs, divided 1 sheet allbutter puff pastry, thawed according to package directions 4 tsp roasted red peppers in olive oil, mild or spicy (storebought is fine) finely chopped fresh basil, chives or flat-leaf parsley for garnish (optional)

Preheat oven to 400°F. In a small bowl, add mascarpone and nduja and blend well; set aside.

With a fork, beat 1 egg in a small bowl.

Place a length of parchment paper on the counter and flour very lightly. Unroll pastry onto paper and, with a floured rolling pin, carefully roll out dough to stretch it another 1 to 2 inches. Lift paper with dough onto a baking sheet.

With the tip of a sharp paring knife, cut sheet of pastry into 4 squares. Turn up edges of each pastry square to form a lip, pinching at the corners to keep in place.

Brush edges of pastry squares with egg; prick bottom of squares several times with a fork.

Spread the mascarpone mixture among the four squares, making a depression in the centre of each. Crack an egg into each depression and top with 1 tsp of the roasted peppers. If you have any runaway whites, pinch pastry edge to make it higher.

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until edges are puffed and golden and yolks are starting to set. Sprinkle with chopped herbs, if desired.

Makes 4 servings.

Originally from Hudson, Quebec, Signe Langford is a restaurant chef-turned-writer. Her first book, Happy Hens & Fresh Eggs: Keeping Chickens in the Kitchen Garden with 100 Recipes, was published in 2015. For more stories and recipes, please visit signelangford.com.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 35

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When students aregenuinely genuinelyknown, known, their fully understood When students are their learning learningcan canbebe fully understood and beautifully supported. They can thrive. and beautifully supported. They can thrive.

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www.tmsschool.ca

food & drink | School Lunches

In the Bag We’ve all been there — finding a half-eaten soggy mess in our kid’s lunch bag at the end of a long day. It doesn’t have to be like that.

We turned to Carol Harrison, a registered dietitian and founder of “Yummy Lunch Club” (yummylunchclub.ca), for her tips on packing a lunch kids will actually want to eat.

By Leslee Mason

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 37

food & drink | School Lunches

mix-and-match Greek yogurt parfaits and granola are Make It a Team Effort some better alternatives.

Harrison notes that one of the biggest mistakes parents And skip the juice and sweetened drinks in favour of make is failing to get their kids involved. “It’s critical to water. Not only is it the ultimate thirst quencher, but you’ll involve your kids in packing their lunch for so many also save money. reasons,” she says. Not only are they more likely to eat lunches they’ve had a hand in preparing, it’s also a great Stay Ahead of the Game way to teach children food skills, safety and the importance Avoid the mad school dash by making lunches right after of nourishing their busy bodies. dinner. “The kitchen’s already a mess, there’s food out and Keep the involvement age appropriate, with big kids you can plan to use up your dinner leftovers to curb your taking on greater responsibility. Have them write out or tell food waste at the same time,” you the foods they’ll eat, and Harrison says. Another tip? have them help choose items Make extra dinner items that at the grocery store. On the can be packed for lunches. For weekend, do fun activities example, chop and put aside such as picking your own extra broccoli the next time a produce at a nearby farm or stir-fry is on the menu. doing some baking together.

Food requirements for kids On her website, Harrison Be sure to choose a container that can change over the year, offers a “Plan It, Pack It, Eat keeps food hot or cold for at least especially during a growth It” checklist to help. six hours. It should be kid-sized and spurt, so be sure to regularly feature an easy-to-access wider check in with your child about Apply the mouth. the portions you’re packing.

Healthy Plate Model Harrison is a fan of the Prevent a messy (or hot) disaster Create a Yum List healthy plate model. That by testing your child’s ability to As the weeks go on, coming up means half your lunch is open and close the container bewith appetizing school lunches made of fruits and vegetables, fore putting anything in it. can get daunting. Keep those a quarter is whole grains and brain bumps at bay by posting the last quarter, lean protein.

Be diligent about food safety. a handy list of lunchtime faves.

“Protein is the nutrient that “Too many people think that putYou’ll find recipes and tips at helps us to feel full from ting a piece of piping hot chicken yummylunchclub.ca, but in one meal to the next,” she or fried rice in a Thermos is fine, the meantime, here are a few explains. “If kids haven’t had but it won’t keep the heat unless to keep in mind: enough protein, it’s going to it’s got liquid,” registered dietitian • Food on sticks. Opt for be hard for them to focus by Carol Harrison says. “So, you want mini-chopsticks rather than the end of the day.” to put saucy or soupy items in a skewers for a fun and schoolWhile it may be tempting, Thermos.” friendly option. try to keep highly processed • Meatballs. Who doesn’t love foods out of the equation. “It’s the grab-and-go convenience so easy to grab something of tasty meatballs? For some out of a package and throw it great DIY options, go to Harrison's website for five easyin the lunch bag,” she says, “but the challenge is that kids to-make big-batch veggie-beef meatballs. start to see these as everyday foods and it becomes a habit.”

• Bean dips. Don’t just dip your veggies in them — use The same goes for empty-calorie treats, like candy, which them as spreads, Harrison says. “Put them on the inside of Harrison recommends should be reserved as occasional a wrap, even if you’re using chicken or beef.” The bean dips, goodies. “It could be a fun thing on a Friday,” she says, she says, add loads of nutrients and fibre as well as some adding that avoiding them completely can make some kids protein. want those foods even more. Homemade two-bite muffins,

Hot Lunches

Done Better

1 2 3

38 | York Life September October 2017

food & drink | In the Kitchen

In the kitchen with

Enoteca Motorino

This Woodbridge restaurant serves up Italian fare with a difference — really!

By Julia Suppa | Photography by Naomi Hiltz

I

t’s not difficult to spot an Italian restaurant in Woodbridge. In nearly every neighbourhood plaza, you’re sure to find a hot table, pizzeria or full ristorante touting authentic Italian cuisine.

At Enoteca Motorino, though, what’s being served up is a little different. “We call it modern Italian,” chef Domenic Chiaromonte says. “It’s classical dishes, with a twist. We weave different flavours, Mediterranean flavours.”

The 41-year-old professionally trained chef is no stranger to restau-

rant-goers in Vaughan. His fans and supporters have followed him from location to location: first at Match Bar & Grill, a restaurant he co-owned for more than a decade, then to T2 Lounge, followed by Chiaro and now Enoteca Motorino, where he’s been a fixture in the popular kitchen since 2015. But Chiaromonte admits to cutting his chef teeth in his mid-teens at a Toronto restaurant, Prego Della Piazza, where he worked under acclaimed chef Massimo Capra. He started as a busboy, and “When there was availability,” he says, “I jumped in.”

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 39

food & drink | In The Kitchen

The jumping continues. As the restaurants have changed and evolved, so, too, have the chef and his cuisine. Growth in venues continues too: a second location, Enoteca Motorino North, is scheduled to open at Dufferin Street and King Road in King Township this fall.

At Enoteca Motorino, the focus is on the flavour, with simple, tasty dishes. Chiaromonte says he’s gone back to his nonna’s (grandmother’s) cooking for inspiration. “That’s where it’s at,” he says. “You know, we used to laugh at the traditional stuff, but we’re making familiar dishes, stuff we really used to enjoy as kids.”

But there’s nothing old-fashioned here. The juxtaposition of old world, new style rings true as soon as you step inside and see the restaurant’s bright red bar with a massive wood-fire pizza oven in behind. The menu mirrors this feeling, too — old-world familiarity, loaded with modern detail and complexity.

Take their pizza. The restaurant offers two types of the popular dish: a southern style and a traditional, Napolitano wood-burning-oven style. Both are staples in Italian cuisine, but here, it’s not unusual to find Chiaromonte ex-

The focus at Enoteca Motorino may be on traditional, old-world flavours, but there's nothing oldfashioned about the restaurant’s style, including the bright red bar and massive wood-fire pizza oven.

perimenting with different flours, like charcoalbamboo or avocado.

And the pasta, risotto and gnocchi are not forgotten. Tender gnocchi puffs are given new life when they’re made with mascarpone, all the

F ive Que stions When did you become interested in cooking?

Very young — I’m going to say I was seven or eight years old. My aunt was a chef and I would be in the kitchen with my mom and my aunt. My friends would come calling and say, “Let’s go play hockey,” and I would say, “No, I’m cooking.”

Even when I was a teenager and my friends would want to go out, and I’d say, “No, no, no, Martha Stewart’s on.” I was a huge Martha fan when I was younger. Hers was the first cookbook I bought.

Who would you say is your favourite chef?

Right now, I would have to break them up. For flavour, back in the day, was Mario Batali. My first trip to New York was at his restaurant, Otto. It blew me away — so many familiar flavours, of Mom and Grandma. And he was cooking for 400 or 500 people. I was really impressed. And for food presentation, it would have to be a guy I worked for, Charlie Trotter in Chicago. He just passed away last year.

40 | York Life September October 2017

while being immersed in a rustic tomato, basil and roasted garlic sauce. But the humble chef is grateful when complimented. “I just want patrons to say, ‘That guy makes good food.’ I want them to come back.”

Wi th C hef D omeni c C hi aromont e

What do you think is the most common mistake people make when cooking?

I say being too rigid with recipes. When you’re cooking and you like something, don’t be afraid to use it. Recipes aren’t always right. I’ve used recipes sometimes and it doesn’t taste right.

Use it as a base, yes. For example, for a Bolognese sauce, I like to start with pancetta. I like the flavour it gives out. People are afraid to be creative when they’re cooking.

What is your signature dish?

Right now it’s probably perfecting my pizza dough — avocado dough, bamboo dough. We just finished making spelt. We are making all different types, and textured doughs that are healthy. It’s become like an infatuation.

What is your favourite thing to order when you dine out?

Tuna tartare. It died out, but now the craze is back. It’s simple, but flavourful.

Stuffed Focaccia (Recipe from Enoteca Motorino) To make dough: 2 tsp yeast 1 1/2 cups warm water 4 cups all-purpose flour 2 tbsp olive oil 2 tsp salt To stuff focaccia: A combination of any fresh ingredients, including cherry tomatoes fior di latte (a cow’s milk Mozzarella) fresh basil red onion zucchini flowers

To prepare dough, combine yeast with water and mix together with flour. Add olive oil and salt and continue mixing to form a dough. Do not overmix or knead.

Form the dough into a ball, cover with a dishtowel and allow to rest in the fridge overnight. The texture of the dough should be bouncy, yet firm.

When ready to assemble the focaccia,

preheat the oven to 400°F. Roll out the dough into the shape of a circle and add fresh ingredients to one side only. Fold over the circle in half, gently pinching the open side, and cut a few vent holes to allow steam to escape.

Bake for 18 to 20 minutes.

Makes 2 to 4 servings.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 41

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travel

Well, There You Go! Planning an autumn escape or a mini-getaway? Or, maybe you’re just on the move a lot. However and wherever you’re going, arriving with your health intact is key to success in both work and play. That’s where this clever kit comes in. The Saje Travel Safe On-the-Go Convenience Kit is designed to support your well-being wherever you go this fall, so you arrive soothed and refreshed. Safe Hands lotion fights germs to get you cleanly through airports and train stations; Arrive Revived Mist eases jet lag; and Restoral Ointment soothes skin irritations. Perhaps most importantly, the Eater’s Digest Remedy relieves an upset stomach. (Take that, turkey dinner!) It’s the perfect companion for travel by plane, train or car to Thanksgiving feasts this season. $44.95, Saje.com — Karen Robock

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 43

travel | Getaway

Rustic Gem

Soothingly simple accommodations set the stage for relaxed indulgence at this historic resort in the Kawarthas

By Jacqueline Kovacs

44 | York Life September October 2017

V

iamede, a historic, full-service resort on Stoney Lake in the Kawarthas, describes itself as “boldly different.” While that does ring true, those two words don’t quite capture the entirety of the Viamede experience, as my angler husband, Patrick Walsh, and I recently discovered.

A short drive from Peterborough, Viamede not only boasts over half a kilometre of glorious shoreline, but also a wealth of ways to relax and unplug from the hectic pace of day-to-day life, while feeling pampered and indulged — minus any uncomfortable pretense and attitude. Here’s what we experienced.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 45

travel | Getaway STAY If you’re looking for five-plus-star, big-city hotel finishes and accessories, look elsewhere. But if you’re seeking soothingly simple accommodations that meet your needs and suit an at-thecottage vibe, this is your getaway. Our spacious suite included a generous living/dining area with kitchenette and two-sided fireplace, bedroom with king-size bed and Jacuzzi, as well as two balconies and flat-screen TVs. There were only two of us, but the suite could easily fit a couple of active children too — in a pared-down space that eliminates the worry that the kids might wreck something.

That said, families may prefer one of the resort’s one-, two- or three-bedroom air-conditioned cottages, the largest of which can sleep up to eight people. They, too, include a kitchenette, living/dining space and a patio, complete with barbecue. Wherever you choose to stay, your booking at Viamede includes access to all of the resort’s programs and activities, as well as a satisfying breakfast buffet.

EAT Breakfast fans will appreciate Viamede’s morning spread. Those who like it hot can fill up on scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, home fries and fried tomatoes. But you can also enjoy fruit, yogurt and cereal, as well as coffee, tea or hot chocolate. The buffet is available every morning from 8 until 11, but throughout the day you can get water, coffee and tea, as well as freshly baked cookies and fruit to snack on.

For heartier fare, The Boathouse offers a lunch and dinner menu that emphasizes local, sustainable ingredients. Enjoy a turkey ciabatta with cranberry-apple chutney and fresh, local greens or a six-ounce burger on brioche with all the trimmings; or opt for the crispy perch salad, listed as an appetizer but worked as a delicious lunch main for me.

For a dining experience you won’t soon forget, reserve a spot at the nine-table Mount Julian.

We chose the seven-course tasting menu (there are also five- and nine-course options), which included an asparagus, grape tomato and 12-yearold goat cheese salad; chilled wild leek and potato soup; and pan-seared perch with corn and edamame and white wine butter, among other freshly prepared delights. Each course was paired with a taste of an exceptional wine, selected by Viamede general manager Ben Sämann, who also acted as meal server, explaining where and why various ingredients were chosen.

The menu at Mount Julian not only changes

with the season — it can change by the day, depending on what chef Jay Nutt and Sämann find in the forest, at local markets or on the resort’s own farm. In other words, each meal is a unique and delicious experience.

PLAY Given its enviable shoreline, Viamede has an abundance of summertime activities, including renowned fishing (see “Catching a Break”), but the fun doesn’t end come fall.

In the cooler seasons, this year-round resort changes its focus to relaxation, Sämann explains. “Sit by the fire, have a cappuccino, read a good book, go for a hike before warming up again. We call our theme ‘Après-ski, without the risk of skiing.’”

Beyond wintry walks, you can take advantage of Viamede’s modern indoor/outdoor pool, steam room and sauna, and fully equipped gym.

You can also treat your tired muscles to a massage from registered massage therapist Jenny Chambers, who operates Stony Lake Spa within the resort. The spa also doubles as a yoga studio for those seeking a little Zen. Indeed, it’s hard not to feel remarkably relaxed and reconnected at Viamede. From the pared-down, embrace-nature accommodations to the artfully delicious dining to the staff who embody the perfect balance of friendly and professional, this resort will have you coming back for more.

catching a break

Viamede’s forest-to-table approach to food is a large part of what attracted chef Jay Nutt to the Stoney Lake resort.

46 | York Life September October 2017

It’s 6 a.m. and Viamede Resort’s owner and general manager, Ben Sämann, is already down at the dock on Stoney Lake casting for cruising bass. Soon I arrive, and we head out for a few hours of fishing aboard the resort’s Boston Whaler 150 Montauk. Sämann has been fishing these island-and-reef-dotted waters since buying Viamede in 2010, and in short order both he and I are catching and releasing large- and smallmouth bass, as well as perch, pumpkinseed and rock bass. So goes the morning ritual at Viamede, where angling guests are invited to join the owner himself for his daily dose of fishing.

Lying at the eastern end of the Kawartha Lakes reViamede owner Ben Sämann displays one gion, Stoney is regarded as one of southern Ontario’s top of the morning’s catches. fishing hot spots, and for good reason. Renowned not only for its bass fishing, the 28-square-kilometre lake also serves up plenty of panfish, walleye (or pickerel, as they’re known locally) and monster muskies. While Sämann is a decided bass aficionado, the lifelong angler is happy to point guests in the right direction should they want to tackle the lake’s other species on their own. But for a fun, fish-filled morning — punctuated with great conversation about Stoney’s storied history — it’s tough to beat sharing a boat with the amiable owner of historic Viamede.

— Patrick Walsh

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GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 47

travel | Vaycay

GOING GUANACASTE Home to everything from sandy beaches to dry forests to protected wetlands, the Guanacaste region in northwestern Costa Rica plays an excellent host Story and photos by Doug Wallace

F

or the health-conscious traveller, finding a natural balance between relaxing solace and unbridled activity is the backbone of any good plan. With the variety of things to see and do in Guanacaste, not to mention the incredibly diverse terrain, you can easily feed mind, body and soul, making the most of your time — or making it stand still. Here is your checklist.

48 | York Life September October 2017

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 49

travel | Vaycay

1. GET BACK TO NATURE. It’s often hard for vacationers to evaluate the healing power of simply embracing nature, until after they return home. This holds true in the Nicoya region of Guanacaste, a tourist hub for those heading to rainforest, parkland or beach. It is also one of the five “Blue Zones,” designated parts of the world where residents have abnormally high life expectancies. Nicoyans are proud of this association, as shared Blue Zone characteristics include a focus on family, a semi-vegetarian diet rich in legumes, constant physical activity and engagement in the community.

The water in Nicoya is also said to contribute to the healthful tenor of the region, championed by William Salom, owner of Rancho Humo, a private ecological reserve and cattle ranch near Palo Verde National Park. “Drink as much as you like,” he says.

“The well is deep!”

Salom converted what was once his family vacation property into a 10-room paradise, where the surrounding wetlands is home 50 | York Life September October 2017

to dozens of bird species, including herons, storks, gulls and ibises.

Watching dozens of big, white egrets nesting in the foliage of a tiny island sanctuary has a powerful, hypnotic effect. And when you spend an hour boating down the Tempisque River trying to spot baby crocodile eyes poking up out of the water among all the floating driftwood, your mind drifts right along with the passing waterline (ranchohumo.com).

2. HIT THE BEACH. If beach bumming is written in pen on your itinerary, Guanacaste has more than its fair share of sun and sand, from the Santa Rosa National Park in the north right on down to the Pacific coastline. Some are remote and super-quiet, while others are full-on beach towns, teeming with surfboards, beach bars, water sports and condo rentals.

Nosara Beach is a great getaway known for its yoga retreats, hiking, farmland, forest and waterfalls (nosara.com, nosarayoga.com).

3. TREAT YOURSELF. We all know how far a little posh pampering can go. The Papagayo Peninsula has that in spades. This so-called Gold Coast is known for its luxury and exclusivity, not to mention a close proximity to the Liberia airport and its popularity with the rich and famous: Beyoncé has visited a few times and Pink got married here. Charlie Sheen, Spike Lee and Madonna all have homes here. Yachts, big and small, moor at the Papagayo Marina on the Culebra Bay side of the peninsula, the largest marina in the country.

If the Four Seasons is too rich for your blood, melt your cares away at the relatively new Andaz Peninsula Papagayo. This is a Hyatt spinoff, a boutique lifestyle brand with 153 exquisitely designed rooms, blended right in among the bamboo trees, and blackand white-sand beaches.

“We really try to reflect the local culture with little touches that all mean something to Costa Ricans — details that make you feel welcome,” says Mariela Cabezas, the hotel’s

marketing manager. These little touches include a gorgeous swimming pool designed to mimic the riverside, drawing a parallel to the Costa Rican tradition of enjoying family time at the river’s edge. Guests are also encouraged to participate in visiting the local people, through various sponsored initiatives, having a cultural experience as well as a relaxing one.

The spa is particularly beautiful. Each spacious treatment room has its own washroom and mini-balcony, plus both outdoor and indoor showers. Body-treatment and housebrand Biosfera spa products are made with local ingredients — purple corn, beans and rice exfoliants — all natural and organic.

The orange-and-eucalyptus signature scent is the nearest thing to heaven (papagayo.andaz. hyatt.com) 4. AMP UP THE ADRENALIN. This area is also full of adventure-sports opportunities thanks in part to the variety of natural terrain, with its forest trails and

rocky canyons with winding river rapids.

Nowhere is this more abundant than at Hacienda Guachipelin at the edge of the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park. This hotel and working ranch compound leads the pack in terms of waterfall rappelling, canyoning, river tubing, zip lining, mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking and horseback riding.

There’s even a surprisingly extensive yet not-too-scary Serpentarium for you to eye up more than a few indigenous snakes (guachipelin.com).

5. TAKE THE WATERS. Part of the Hacienda Guachipelin complex includes nearby Rio Negro Hot Springs, where thermal hot springs and spa mud baths, courtesy of the 9,000-year-old Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, take your mind off absolutely everything except how nice your skin feels.

Tucked away at the edge of the river in the middle of the forest are six natural mineral water pools, with a vat of mud stewing in a big clay pot near the hot springs vent by the

riverbank. Paintbrushes are at the ready for you to create your body art. Once you’re covered from head to toe, you let your mud mask dry before washing it off with a cool outdoor shower or a dip in the river.

More extensive body treatments and massages can be enjoyed at Simbiosis Volcanic Mud Springs & Spa, also associated with the Hacienda (guachipelin.com).

6. MAKE A PLAN. With average highs of 30°C year-round, Guanacaste is primed for a visit any time, depending on your threshold for rain. High season is from November to April. From May to August, it may rain in the afternoon and during the night, but you can still get your fair share of sun. Whichever month you choose, the Costa Rican pura vida philosophy will be there waiting for you. Translating into “pure life,” this phrase is akin to “aloha” in Hawaii, an expression and greeting that embraces the authentic things in life — just as the Costa Ricans do (visitcostarica.com).

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 51

feature | Cover Story

THE OF

The real life of television star AND philanthropist Joan Kelley Walker

By Kasie Savage | Photography by Jim Craigmyle

52 | York Life September October 2017

O

n the edge of town, where Aurora meets King Township, lies the inconspicuously nestled estate of the Walker family. And while their surname sounds ordinary, their lives are far from everyday.

Joan Kelley Walker, a fixture in the Canadian television entertainment industry (most recently featured on Slice’s The Real Housewives of Toronto), is not only one of Canada’s most well-connected and wealthiest women, but also a devout philanthropist, mother of four (two sons and two stepchildren), community volunteer and wife to Magna International CEO Don Walker.

Her privilege becomes apparent as you enter through not one, but two wrought-iron security gates, bookended by a lush forest of pine and spruce trees. A long driveway leads you to the Walkers’ homestead — a 19th-century farmhouse reproduction flanked by a spacious coach house, on 15 rolling acres of apple orchards, an apiary, vegetable and herb gardens and trees galore.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 53

While the outside is nothing short of bucolic, the interior of the home can only be described as farmhouse-glam. Walker greets me with rollers in her hair as a laid-back Labrador and a perky German shepherd pup mill about excitedly. A team of stylists from the Toronto Fashion Academy arrange designer gowns on a rolling rack in the opulently large kitchen, while a makeup artist talks “looks” and arranges his supplies.

House staff busy themselves, moving room to room, making for an all-around frenzied scene. A quick house tour reveals endless rooms, well-appointed sitting areas, an indoor pool complete with waterfall, and a rooftop terrace with sweeping views of the orchards, but any sense of ostentation vanishes once you meet the warm and welcoming woman of the house in person.

A small-town girl at her core — born and raised in Wilcox, Sask. — Walker has spent the bulk of her life committed to improving the lives of others. As a World Vision goodwill ambassador, she has been on numerous trips throughout Africa and Central America, and knows full well how fortunate she is to be able to help those in need. Currently, the Walkers sponsor 30 children through World Vision, but on a larger scale, she recalls one of the missions to Africa that left the greatest impression on her.

“In Mozambique, we support a 20-squaremile plot of land that was without organization or roads. Together (through World Vision), we built roads, a well and made a plan for 20 years of sustainability,” Walker says. “The impact is extremely powerful. We were at a well we had built and a mother came up to me and said, ‘Thank you for the well, because now I know my children won’t die of waterborne disease.’ So the impact of that is so great on so many levels.

As a mother and as a human being, I believe that we should all have access to clean water.”

Although many of her philanthropic efforts have had a global impact, Walker is quick to stress that helping others and making a difference can start small. “I grew up in a town where the church was central to the community and people were neighbourly and helped each other out in any way they could,” she says. “I have been doing what I can my whole life. I like to help people.”

Joan Kelley Walker loves bringing the outdoors into her King City home, so the house is dominated by glass windows, doors and skylights. Plus, she says, the property’s tranquility fuels her.

54 | York Life September October 2017

feature | Cover Story

“What makes a house a home is the love that is in it.

Forget the decor, that’s the fun part. I get such a kick out of looking out my window at a bird feeder. I love bringing the outdoors in”

She stresses that income makes no difference in the ability to do good. “People can help out by doing anything. There’s so much need locally and in our own community,” Walker says, giving such examples as cutting a neighbour’s lawn or sending someone extra baking. “Keep an eye out for each other — that’s the way we should all live. I like to support Neighbourhood Network [a non-profit branch of Magna International]. They help all sorts of people who you would never know needed help.”

When she’s not donning her charity hat, she enjoys spending time with her family, hunkered down at home — whether in King, their pied-à-terre in Toronto, their retreat in Muskoka or their other houses in Colorado and Florida. Regardless of the locale, Walker is passionate about what truly makes her home beautiful.

“What makes a house a home is the love that is in it,” she says. “Forget the decor, that’s the fun part. I get such a kick looking out my window at a bird feeder. I love

bringing the outdoors in, and we have a lot of glass and windows in this house to achieve that. I wanted a home that was supercomfortable, and this is a big house, but we use every inch of it. There’s no place where I tell the kids, ‘Don’t sit there, don’t eat there.’

This is a house to be lived in.”

Glass windows, doors and skylights dominate the residence, which not only lets the beauty of the outdoors in, but also punctuates Walker’s reasons for choosing King as the location of the family’s main residence. “I grew up in a farming community, so I’m used to having wide open skies and space. But the most important thing is the tranquility that you get out here.

I get charged up with the peacefulness of King City. It allows me to keep my strength.

It fuels me.”

What also fuels the fit and fabulously chic Walker are the opportunities coming her way since appearing in Toronto’s edition of The Real Housewives reality show franchise. From a soon-to-be-launched collection of dresses — which she describes as “low- to

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feature | Cover Story moderately priced, fabulous dresses that any woman can wear” — to a lifestyle collection of home furnishings and decor, this It Girl is enjoying some fame to accompany her fortune.

But as any friend of Walker’s or fan of the show knows, Walker’s wealth does not betray who she is at her core — compassionate and caring, thoughtful and generous, preferring to be defined by her philanthropy rather than her designer wardrobe.

As the interview wraps up, Walker invites me back to her home once the apples in the orchard are ripe for picking. “You’ll have to come and fill up some baskets,” she says warmly. “We have so many apples to give.”

Joan Kelley Walker’s

local hot spots Dining: • Fishbone Restaurant, Aurora • Locale, King City

Shopping: • Dekade Clothing, Aurora • Trend Boutique, Aurora • Injoy Boutique, Aurora • Upper Canada Mall, Newmarket

Relaxing: • the tree swing on her King Township estate • the white leather lounger in her dressing room

Walker believes in giving back — both at home and abroad. A World Vision goodwill ambassador, she has travelled to multiple projects in Africa and Central America. Her family also sponsors 30 children.

56 | York Life September October 2017

feature | Vintage Selections

The Essentials List An inside look at top-performing wines

By Michael Pinkus

U

sually, I write about limited releases, one-time wines that come through Vintages at the LCBO and that may never appear again. But once a year, I get the opportunity to taste wines known as “the Vintages Essentials” — think of them as the general list of the Vintages section.

They’re wines that are available all year and should be available at most, if not all, Vintages locations. These wines have proven year after year to be top sellers, and once a wine reaches a certain selling-consistency plateau, it gets to be part of this exclusive line of wines.

The essentials list fluctuates very little — many wines have been on it for years — and it is one of the most coveted categories to be in at the LCBO. But just because these wines are always

available and sell consistently does not mean they are always the same. Vintage date plays a huge part in all wines and the essentials list is no different, but unlike regular Vintages products, these wines can change without notice, and just because you liked the 2012 does not mean you’re going to love the 2013 as much.

Having recently had the opportunity to taste through this year’s batch of the Vintages Essentials, I’m presenting a quick view of my top six selections. These wines featured below offer you the best bang for the buck.

Michael Pinkus is a multi-award-winning wine writer, past president of the Wine Writers’ Circle of Canada and creator of the Grape Guy Events app. Learn more at michaelpinkuswinereview.com.

Ravenswood 2014 Vintners Blend Old Vine Zinfandel California ($24.95, LCBO#359257) Zinfandel is the perfect BBQ wine, and this Ravenswood offering continues to deliver flavour for a price that’s hard to beat. With its elegant plum, black cherry cola, vanilla and white smoke, this wine makes it easy to see why Zin is their specialty. (¬¬¬¬+)

Kendall-Jackson 2014 Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay California ($19.95, LCBO#369686) Popular in the U.S., this wine does well here, too. Typical buttery-ness on the nose with a rich and creamy mouthfeel. There’s an apple middle and buttery, smooth finish, with some nice acidity to keep it in check.

Fans of Cali-Chard, this will do you nicely. (¬¬¬¬+)

Taylor Fladgate 20-Year-Old Tawny Port Portugal ($67.95, LCBO#149047) Port is one of the great pleasures in life, and none makes it feel that way better than Taylor Fladgate. This gorgeous 20-Year-Old Tawny has spiced cherry, apricot and orange peel notes with great acidity on the finish.

There’s also a little burn that lets you know that alcohol is there. (¬¬¬¬+)

E. Guigal 2012 Côtes du Rhône France ($16.95, LCBO#259721) Don’t be fooled by the under-$17 price tag. This wine is great now and will age another seven years without a problem. Silky smooth mouthfeel with chocolate, black cherry, vanilla and a mocha latte finish — an easy-drinking delight. (¬¬¬¬)

Catena 2014 Malbec Argentina ($19.95, LCBO#478727) If you haven’t tasted a good Malbec, then you haven’t had Catena. This is an elegant and multi-layered wine, with its mocha-cherry-raspberry, blueberry, vanilla and coffee bean that finish with some long chocolatey notes. Time to get to know Malbec from the best. (¬¬¬¬+)

CastelGiocondo 2011 Brunello di Montalcino Italy ($49.95, LCBO#650432) Your special occasion bottle for now and into the future: silky black and red cherry fruit with hints of mocha, licorice, leather and cedar backed by tannins and acidity. In a big glass, it becomes approachable and elegant. (¬¬¬¬+)

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 57

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58 | York Life September October 2017

At 48, Brian Curtis took a risk and started a sawmill and woodworking service. His instinct for the reclaimed wood trend proved to be bang-on

By Rachel Naud

Photo by Naomi Hiltz

A

fter years of working on the truck at his dad’s furniture business in Montreal, Brian Curtis noticed a trend. “I saw stuff coming in and looking like crap,” he says, “and then when it left refinished, it looked brand new.”

It was also around that time the news broke that bigbox retail giant Target was coming into the home decor space in Canada, making it harder for independent shops to compete. That’s when Curtis decided it was a good time to make a change.

“It was time to get out,” he says. “I could see the writing on the wall.” The message on that wall? Start something new. So, at 48, when most Canadians are counting down and strategizing for retirement, Curtis took a risk and started Deer Brian Inc. “People thought I was crazy,” he says, “but I wanted to work for myself and I wanted to work with my son. I always loved working with wood and have refinished it in the past.

Today, Curtis, now 58, works alongside his son, Chris, and wife, Norma, at Deer Brian Inc., a carpentry and woodworking company that specializes in an array of services, including selling barn beams and lumber, custom sawmilling, bar dismantling and restoration work. Located on Highway 27, five minutes north of Major Mackenzie Drive, Deer Brian has had an impact on one of the most popular spots in Toronto — the Drake Hotel.

When the hotel hot spot wanted a redesign in 2009, it called upon Curtis for materials to create a reclaimed wood barn beam. It was a request that had the company changing its operations to accommodate the well-known hangout.

“The work we did for the Drake got us into milling,” Curtis says. “We realized we needed a bigger mill with that order.”

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 59

feature | Business Profile

Brian Curtis does a variety of work, including live-edge tables and rustic staircases. His favourite was a custom Douglas fir herringbone ceiling (left).

Since then, the orders have just grown in intensity. “Last August, people requested 48-inch-wide single slabs, instead of just a 48-inch-wide bookmatch tabletop,” he says.

“That’s a 150-year-old walnut tree. It’s our biggest seller.”

Curtis admits one of the biggest challenges he faces with running Deer Brian is finding the product that customers want. “You have to be realistic when it comes to the size of trees that are available,” he says. “We do all we can to meet our customers’ demands. We have learned fairly fast what products to keep in stock and which ones not to. We’ve become more customized. There’s no two years the same.”

One of the biggest trends that Curtis is seeing is the demand for reclaimed barnboard. “Everyone wants a feature wall, or they use it for sliding doors with the exposed track,” he says, adding that mantels, fireplaces and harvest tables are also on trend when it comes to using reclaimed wood at home.

And while at one time homeowners wanted their furniture to be showroom perfect, today’s trend is leaning toward being imperfectly perfect. “We cut for imperfections, believe it or not,” Curtis says. “We could look at a log and know what we’ll get out of it. I like to see the knots, the imperfections, to a point. Customers want holes and a bit of rot so they can put glass on top of it.”

His advice for those looking to incorporating reclaimed wood into their home’s decor? Balance it out. “I don’t 60 | York Life September October 2017

recommend mixing different types of reclaimed barn material,” he says. “Black walnut and barn wood have their place, and the majority of the time, black walnut is more contemporary. I like natural wood throughout the house, but I don’t like it when cabinets and floors are in the same stain. So, mix it up.”

He also advises homeowners to realize that real wood is an actual living beast that breathes and continues to move for a year before finally stabilizing. “It will shrink in the winter when the weather is dry and expand in the spring and summer when the humidity is high,” he says. “We’re not talking drastic movement, but I tell people who are using it for a table, for example, to make sure the mounting holes in the legs of the table are bigger than the screws.

This will allow the table to float — to expand or contract.

Otherwise, it can break at the joints.”

While Curtis has worked on a variety of projects, both commercial and residential, he says one of his favourite jobs was a custom Douglas fir herringbone ceiling that was placed on the underside of the entrance of a customer’s pool house. “People work hard for their money, and instead of investing in a cottage, these customers wanted to put their money in their backyard,” he says. “That project was one of a kind. It looked pretty slick when it was done.”

Learn more at deerbrianinc.com.

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feature | Business Profile

Scaling Success Canada’s largest indoor zoo, Reptilia has a passion for reptiles, conservation and unique experiences

By Rachel Naud | PHOTOGRAPHY By NAOMI HILTZ

62 | York Life September October 2017

If you’ve ever wanted to hike the rainforests of South America but lack the time, try heading to Reptilia Zoo and Educational Facility, the largest indoor reptile and amphibian zoo in Canada — right in Vaughan.

Home to hundreds of slithering and scaly creatures — including its two star crocodiles, Induna and Nandi, which combined weigh 2,000 pounds — Reptilia is an exceptional facility where visitors are both educated and entertained. In fact, its commitment to service is what earned the company a Business Achievement Award from the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce.

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Reptilia’s 25,000-square-foot facility houses hundreds of slimy and scaly creatures.

Popular for educational programs, the venue is also used for team building, product launches and even weddings.

64 | York Life September October 2017

“We have an amazing, dedicated, hardworking cast,” says Laurie Hewlett, director of business for Reptilia. “One of our board members was the former CEO of Disney operations, so we’re always giving customers the most memorable experiences possible.”

The company also prides itself on giving each visitor, no matter what age, a personal experience. “Each cast member focuses on providing magical moments,” Hewlett says, “intimate hands-on experiences for any guest coming in the door.”

Those guests come from all walks of life to the 25,000-square-foot facility, including corporations looking for team-building excursions, and kids enjoying birthday parties, summer camps and educational programs. After hours, the zoo becomes a unique event space, available for cocktail parties, employee recognition gatherings, customer appreciation nights, product launches and even weddings. Reptilia will help arrange a liquor licence and catering for such occasions.

Reptilia also ventures out and regularly educates a diverse set of clients, from classrooms and veterinary tech programs to the military and Environment Canada. “We recently went to the University of Toronto’s engineering program to utilize the reptiles to show how science and engineering are correlated,” Hewlett says. “Education is our strongest,

Reptilia Education & Conservation Foundation focuses on conversation on a local and global level. Reptile and amphibian species are threatened globally due to pollution, habitat destruction and the exotic pet trade

most well-known avenue, but we have a diverse audience.”

Despite its array of clientele, there is one thing about Reptilia that always remains constant: its mission to spread the word about conservation. Reptilia Education & Conservation Foundation (RECF) focuses on conversation on a local and global level. According to its website, reptile and amphibian species are threatened globally due to human activities, including pollution, habitat destruction and the exotic pet trade.

While Reptilia supports conservation education in schools, RECF also participates directly with local and global communities on bioresearch initiatives. “In Canada and the U.S. there is a huge risk to turtles,” Hewlett

says. “We have several that are endangered and at risk.”

One of the reasons behind the risk is that people often pick the wrong reptiles as pets — something Reptilia strives to educate people about. “We are big advocates on what makes a good pet and what doesn’t,” Hewlett says. “In fact, 75 per cent of the animals at our zoo are rescued, confiscated, dropped at our door or deemed inappropriate pets.” Some of the facility’s alligators had been sewn into a person’s trench coat and were rescued as the would-be smuggler tried to cross the border.

While Reptilia tries its best to find new homes for some reptiles through its adoption program, inappropriate pets are either moved to other zoos or stay there.

If you need any proof that many reptiles are not appropriate pets, drop by Reptilia during one of the four daily feeding times. You can watch a reptile eating its meal, right in front of your eyes, whether it’s a python grabbing and wrapping up a goat for its supper or an alligator jumping and snapping for its snack.

Come next year, Reptilia will be bringing such experiences to more people. “Reptilia is going public on the stock market,” Hewlett says, “so in the next five years, we’ll be expanding to other locations in Ontario, Montreal and other places in North America.”

Until then, Reptilia will continue doing what it does best: educating and informing visitors, young and old, about reptiles and amphibians. Find out more at reptilia.org.

GoodLifeMagazine.ca | 65

like a local

Halloween Haunt, Canada’s Wonderland Welcome to your nightmare — again! This year, Canada’s Wonderland in Vaughan is marking its 13th (yes, 13th) Halloween Haunt. The country’s biggest playground of terror, Halloween Haunt attracts thrill-seekers from York Region and beyond looking for a frightfully good time that includes 20 haunted attractions — mazes, scare zones, live shows and nail-biting rides in the dark. Join the fear seekers for 14 nights between September 30 and October 31, from 7 p.m. to midnight. Find out more at canadaswonderland.com.

66 | York Life September October 2017

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