Goodlife Barrie Summer 2021

PERFECT SWIMWEAR

BARRIE

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FA R M E R S ’ M A R K E T T O U R

ORO-MEDONTE

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INNISFIL & AREA

NEST NATURE INSPIRED

taste INTUITIVE EATING local flavour BARRIE HILL FARMS

roam GLAMPING

$5.95 SUMMER 2021

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GOODLIFE BARRIE EDITION

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the country estate, rethought.

welcome to braestone.

Braestone is an award winning country estate community located in the heart of the Horseshoe Valley. Inspired by the farmhouses, barns, and sheds of the Oro-Medonte region, the homesteads are an authentic reflection of refined country living with four seasons of outdoor activities at its doorstep.

Hiking, skating, apple picking and maple sugar tapping are just a few of the many remarkable activities homeowners experience living at Braestone.

We invite you to join in our vision and become part of Oro-Medonte’s finest community. Contact us today to learn more.

Distinctive and timeless bungalow, loft and two-storey homesteads on a selection of 1/2 acre to over 1 acre valley and ridge lots.

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Another project developed by:

GEORGIAN COMMUNITIES

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Jayne's

L UXURY R ENTALS Isn’t it time your property paid you back?

‘Malibu on Simcoe’ – Lake Simcoe, Barrie

Luxury Property Owners Contact Us to List Award Winning Agency provides luxury turnkey rental experiences for owners and guests.

Specializing in: • Single family minimum one week eek rentals • Thorough screening of guests • Greeting guests upon arrival • Weekly cleaning and security

RBC CANADIAN WOMEN ENTREPRENEUR AWARDS

• 24/7 guest support • Large security deposits • 70% guest repeat rate • Concierge includes private chefs, shopping services, hot tubs, and more!

Trust is Paramount,

Contact Us Today!

oped by:

WINNER

IAN TIES

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jaynesluxuryrentals.com GoodLife • 705-706-7900 | Barrie Summer 20212021 3 ■

90 Joseph St., Port Carling ON P0B 1J0 • TICO #50021857

2021-06-23 3:46 PM

SUMMER 2021

GOODLIFE GOODLIFE Vice President, Community Brands Kelly Montague Regional General Manager Simcoe - York - Muskoka Shaun Sauve General Manager Simcoe & Editor Elise Allain Graphic Design Brian Roberts Katrina Kuzyk

Contents upfront

6 shopaholic nest home tour 10 nature inspired 19 noteworthy 43 swimsuits BEAUTY

SKI TRAILS ROAD

MUSKOKA HOME TOUR

STYLES AND SECRETS

taste

26 local flavour 35 feature feature 38 46 goodlife wines roam 50 feature 56 luxury adventure luxury adventure 63

Advertising Coordinators Nadine Kennedy Kate-Lynn Roberts Advertising Representatives Carolyn Brayiannis Debbie Booth Kate Byers Stacey MacDonald Mary March Photography Contributions Louise Jones Editorial Contributions Barbara Ramsay Orr Carmelo Glardina Dawn Ritchie Katherine Elphick Tracey Luel

BARRIE HILL FARMS

FARMERS’ MARKETS

INTUITIVE EATING

SOUTH AMERICA

for digital editions of this local publication and others, please visit Simcoe.com - (e-editions at the bottom of the page)

First Place

Statements opinions and points of view expressed are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent those of the publisher, advertisers or GoodLife.

For further information regarding all our products, we invite you to call us at 705-726-0573.

GLAMPING

GOLFING IN THE TROPICS

For advertising inquiries, please email: goodlife@simcoe.com 705-726-0573 ext. 792031 Digital Edition: goodlifemagazine.ca

ROYAL LONDON

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*Photo taken prior to Covid-19.

Book your SUMMER CLEANING now so the kids are all ready for that uninterrupted learning when they’re finally BACK TO SCHOOL. General Anesthesiologist Sleep Dentistry Cosmetic Dentistry Orthodontist & Periodontist on Staff Flexible Hours Evenings & Saturdays • Kids love White Cedar Dental We Deal Directly With Most Insurance Companies

Thank You

for your continued support in this years Readers’ Choice!

Grateful and Hopeful for 5 Years in a Row! "Our goal is to have everything in-house so that you can always count on us to take care of you here.

We are taking every precaution to keep our patients and our team safe and we look forward to delivering the same customer first driven service to you with each and every visit!” ~ Dr. Bashi

610 Huronia Rd., Barrie whitecedardental.com

705-737-1151 GoodLife | Barrie Summer 20212021

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beauty

upfront | shopaholic

Cheeks that shimmer Bronze cheeks

Enhance a tan with the Tower20 Bronzino Cream Bronzer.

Add the emollient blendable cream to cheeks for a summer glow.

Sephora.ca

You’re glowing

The Bronzing & Illuminating Powder by Guerlain is available as a limited edition this summer to create a flawless healthy glow. Its fragrance is a delightful combination of ylang-ylang and orange blossoms.

Guerlain.com

At first blush

The Nudies Bloom blush by Nudestix is your ticket to radiant cheeks. These makeup sticks create a natural flush of dewy colour on the go with a colour block on one end and a brush on the other.

Nudestix.ca

Roll with it

Lift, tighten and tone your cheeks with the CARAT Ray Face & Body Roller that can quickly reduce the look of puffiness, leaving the skin looking rejuvenated and fresh.

Nordstrom.ca

Pocket-sized trio

The Kaja Play Bento Trio fits in your pocket. All you need for sun-kissed cheeks. It includes cream bronzer, powder blush and highlighter for an effortless look. Sephora.ca

Magic wand

The Facial Instant Sculpting Wand from SBLA targets the most visible areas of the face prone to aging: eyes, brows, forehead, lips, cheekbones, and the nasolabial folds (aka ‘puppet’ lines) with a noninvasive solution. Sbla.com

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Be cheeky

Take care of the cheeks on your bottom this summer with the Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Cream. This award-winning, cult product tightens, firms and softens skin with a fresh coconut scent. Soldejaneiro.com

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We are finally open again & looking forward to pampering

YOU FACIALS MASSAGES MANICURES PEDICURES AND MORE *

CELEBRATING 33 YEARS IN BUSINESS

705.721.5800 I skinsational.ca GoodLife | Barrie Summer 20212021

*As restrictions are lifted and adhering to all Covid Safty Protocol.

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behold design kitchen bath interiors

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Come Visit our Showroom 20 Owen Street, Barrie • 705-726-6200 • beholddesign.com

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Canadian Customs

Designer and TV personality, Jane Lockhart’s, customizable furnishings offer Canadian craftsmanship that feature unique tufting, nail heads, French seams, and piping all made to order. With 240 fabrics, 42 colour palettes and 14 collections in her Jane by Jane Lockhart line you can choose your frame, fill, and all the special details that will personalize your home furnishings.” Go to janelockhart.com to see more.

Forging Ahead

Frugal and Friendly

Rattan’s Return

Lighting suppliers Hubbardton Forge continue to push the envelope with bold sculptural designs from the fiery forges of their artistic blacksmiths. Fluid shapes, crisp angles and burnished patinas make an artistic statement sure to become a lively topic of conversation at dinner parties. Look for their sconces, pendants, chandeliers, and floor and table lamps at Glass Lighting Gallery in Barrie.

Natural-bristled kitchen scrub brushes are part of the drive to reduce the plastic particles that enter our waterways and are consumed by aquatic life. Environmentally-friendly natural bristles eliminate that danger, are biodegradable and the superior cleaning tool for maintaining seasoned cast iron cookware. Get them at Halliday House in Cookstown.

Natural cane, wicker, and rattan from the vines of the rattan plant are a hot trend signaling a return to sustainable products that elicit an earthy connectedness within the home.

Find rattan in woven baskets, mirrors, shelving, chairs and upscale interior furnishings like this elegant woven cane sideboard from Aspen & Ivy in Barrie.

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nest

By Dawn Ritchie

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t was late 2016 when realtor Joanne Burlington and her husband, Dan, found the 44-acre property in rural Oro-Medonte that would fulfill the grand plan for their next home. On their must-have list was a property that offered both recreational and income potential and had enough room for a relaxed home with autonomous spaces for their close-knit family.

As a realtor, Joanne was acutely aware of the difficulties the next generation was experiencing in

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saving up enough to buy a home. Building a residence where her two sons could enjoy self-sufficiency while they saved for that milestone was top of mind. The land presented all sorts of income opportunities, including tree farming and a cleared spot out back for trailer storage rental. In future, parcels could also be severed off if the children wanted to build there or if they needed additional income streams.

Joanne and Dan pored over the Internet seeking inspiration for a design that would satisfy those priorities. They found what they wanted in a chic upscale farmhouse they could build into a hillside.

The lower level would encompass the two luxury apartments for the boys with plenty of light, a full kitchen and rough-in for a second kitchen, a workout area, two entertaining lounges, office space, private bathrooms, an extra guest bedroom, doggie shower, and walkout to a patio. Entry could be accessed directly through the garage for complete privacy or down the main stairs of the home.

The upper level could remain theirs with the primary kitchen, great room, laundry, office, a luxurious master suite with spa bathroom and two additional bedrooms. All in all, it would be a six bedroom, six bath home, not including the doggie shower.

Everything was falling into place. The couple sold their home in Midhurst and occupied a rental in preparation for the build when life threw a curveball. Rear ended and injured in a car crash, Joanne’s life and the project was put on hold.

Days turned into months, then years before they were finally fully back on track, but once the work began, it was with fervor. Dan took the lead hiring trades, overseeing construction, and weathering the storms that every new construction project presents. Along the way, he fell in love with the process and found a new calling.

Successfully completed, the restful home is now 2300 square feet of clean lines, high ceilings, luxury finishes and a mix of ultra-modern and cottage-style furnishings that reflect the very differing design tastes of Dan 12

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and Joanne respectively.

The kitchen was a compromise of those two styles with sleek quartz counters (from G.T.R Granite & Quartz, Countertops) topping a rustic wood island. Joanne wanted the knots to still be visible in the wood and Keith Lortie of Kei-Lor Kitchen and Bath complied. “He was great to work with,” says Joanne. Lortie even formulated a custom blue paint colour for the island which he dubbed Burlington Blue to meet Joanne’s exacting specifications.

“The island is where we all gather,” she says.

“I love the rustic look and modern countertop.

It’s beautiful, but the backsplash decision was a tough one. It was the last thing to do. It’s a very European look to have a solid backsplash but we were tired and just wanted everything done.”

They decided to go with the same material as the countertop even though Joanne was worried about it being too modern. “But it is wonderful,” she now says. “So easy to clean. “They did a wonderful job on the seams and did all the countertops for us.”

The kitchen is supported by top-of-the-line JennAire appliances and a Bosch dishwasher from Canadian Appliances. The eight-burner gas range boasts showy brass knobs and sports a pot filler

“I love the rustic look and modern countertop. It’s beautiful, but the backsplash decision was a tough one. It was the last thing to do. It’s a very European look to have a solid backsplash but we were tired and just wanted everything done.”

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Essa DEntal CEntrE

Our dedicated team is here for all your family dental work all summer long so that the kids are ready for that uninterrupted learning when we get them back to school in the fall.

So keep up with your brushing & flossing & we’ll be seeing you soon!

• Digital X-Rays • Dental Implants • Invisalign® • Nitrous Oxide • Evening Appointments Available 104 Essa Rd., Barrie • 705.737.1201 • essadental.ca

Award winning Physiotherapy!

Barrie Readers’ Choice Award “Barrie’s favorite Physiotherapy Clinic.”

“Barrie’s favorite Physiotherapist.”

4 years in a row!

Dr. Tim Cheesman Family Man, Family Practice

Consumer Choice Award “Barrie’s BEST Physiotherapist.”

4 years in a row! is coming from and explain the process as they go ahead

... We have 2 boys in rep hockey both having injuries this season, the team at Resolution had them recovered and back to the sport they love quickly and

705 252 5200 705.252.5200

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When it came to furnishing the home, the couple’s differing styles came into play yet again.

above. A double stainless steel farm sink sits in the island with an additional sink on the countertop under the window. Next to the kitchen, an inset accent wall is a callback to the island’s colour, painted Benjamin Moore Hale Navy.

When it came to furnishing the home, the couple’s differing styles came into play yet again.

Dan wanted ultra-modern and Joanne still wanted cottage. “We have to compromise,” she says. “And Dan has a great eye. The sofa in the great room was a bold piece for us.”

They chose a blue leather Italian ultra-modern sofa from Herchi Furniture Collection and partnered it with a custom rustic wood coffee table handmade by a dear friend, Jens Andersen. “The couch really didn’t look that comfortable, but boy, is it ever,” she says approvingly. The harvest dining room table that sits behind, is casual live edge wood from Bateman furnishings on Highway 11.

Ceiling height was another major decision and the original plan was for a twelve-foot ceiling in the kitchen transitioning to a flat fourteen-foot ceiling for the great room that lay just above the transom windows. But, as with any new build, missteps occurred.

The single day Dan wasn’t at the construction site the incorrect trusses were delivered and installed. When he arrived, he was met with a fifteen-foot cathedral peaked ceiling. “We were in shock,” says Joanne. “It was way too high. It looked like a church. What do we do?”

Decisions had to be made quickly. But instead of demolition and replacement, they chose to level off the peak creating a modified coffered look. Installing non-structural red fir wood beams 16

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would lower the ceiling effect to a more intimate level and add dimension. “We love the look now,” Joanne says. “It ended up being a happy accident.

An expensive accident, but a happy accident.”

A leftover piece of a fir beam was even repurposed as the mantle for the Kingsman fireplace, which is embedded in the Old English stonework (from Simcoe Black) that travels all the way up to the ceiling. To complete the look, two Renfrew leather armchairs in Adler Tan from Urban Barn pull it all together, perfectly echoing the rich tones of the red fir beam.

On the reverse side of the fireplace two roomy bedrooms share a three-piece bath. The master resides on the opposite side of the great room behind the kitchen and butler station, where the laundry and powder room are also found. The master enjoys a walkout to the rear yard and a luxurious three piece ensuite with tiling, flooring, and counters that harken back to the style of the kitchen counters. The shower stall is particularly striking here with unique black framed glass doors.

The home they finally completed met every one of their goals, but the consequence of the delay meant timelines and career paths were forever altered. One of their two sons purchased his first investment property during that period, negating the need for those two apartments. Dan was also flooded with requests to build homes for friends and associates, igniting that prospect.

With one son already heading out the door and a new future unfolding, they finally stopped and took a breath. “It’s a lot of home for the three of us now,” Joanne says. “And Dan has found a new

passion in building. He was already beginning to hand the reins of his HVAC business over to our son.” Without regrets, the couple has decided to put this gem on the market with an eye to building again as they embark on the next stage of their lives. Find 2056 Ski Trails Road, Oro-Medonte, in the sales portfolio of the Peggy Hill Team.

TRADES: Tilework, doors, and trim: Alex Schwartz Siding, finishing work: Joe Maw Stonework: Dave Baxter Trim & Doors: The Royal Wood Shop Well: Allan Wright Septic: Mark Penman Closets and Basement cabinets: Dan Miller Painter: Bob Lavigne Blinds: Suntek Maibec siding: Mike Argue Drywall and Taping: Isaac Johnstone Electrical: Mike Electric Stairs: Creative Design Roofing: United Plumbing: OWC Heating: Burr Heating and Air

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nest home tour

Nature

INSPIRES dEcor in this stunning Muskoka cottage

by Laurie Wallace-Lynch Photography by Inger MacKenzie

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The interior design of this Lake Joseph cottage, takes inspiration from its clean, modern exterior.

hen the view includes Muskoka’s crystal blue water and lush green pines, the interior design should be kept clean and simple to let the natural exterior be the focal point.

That’s according to Michele Hatziioannou, owner of House Warmings in Oakville who recently created the interior design for this Lake Joseph cottage and bunkie.

“The inspiration was the clean, modern exterior and staying authentic and true to the architectural design and the homeowner’s desire to have a warm space with clean lines,” says Michele. “The interiors mirror the architecture of the cottage, echoed in warm wood tones and organic textures used throughout.”

The cottage and bunkie were designed by Richard Mann Architect Inc. and built by Bachly Construction.

“Generally I ask clients for inspiration photos and then we walk around the House Warmings showroom so they can point out furniture or accessories they like,” explains Michele. “The owners love to watch sports on TV, so big comfy sofas were a must. They also wanted hints of white for freshness, but nothing that would feel too precious or be too dangerous in terms of spills. The solution was to use performance fabrics on the chairs.”

Neutral colours and organic textures are repeated throughout the cottage with the use of solid walnut and stone. “The architect designed the stunning feature fireplace wall in the great room using a combination of rich solid walnut and stone. The same combination is repeated on the wall leading to the lower level. We GoodLife | Barrie Summer 20212021

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nest | home tour

Neutral colours and organic textures are repeated throughout the cottage with the use of solid walnut and stone.

THE SECRET WITH ACCESSORIES IN CONTEMPORARY SPACES IS TO NOT USE THEM IN ABUNDANCE. LESS IS MORE.

In a large open concept space, it’s important to repeat design elements to tie the look together and add consistency.

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picked up the use of solid walnut to edge the credenza in the dining room and used walnut mini shelves in the kitchen to hold serving pieces.

When designing a large open concept space, it’s important to repeat design elements to tie the look together and add consistency.”

Other organic design elements include the sliding walnut door on the front hall coat closet as well as the rustic wood lamp in the living room. “We also used organic elements found in nature as accessories,” adds Michele. “We used stones from the garden, moss, branches, all of which complement the simple, clean lines of the home’s architecture. The secret with accessories in contemporary spaces is to not use them in abundance. Less is more. The living room has an entire wall of windows with stunning lake views, and nothing should compete with that.”

The master bedroom also boasts stunning lake views and once again the decor is simple and chic.

“The wall behind the king size bed is dark charcoal grass cloth that adds texture,” says Michele. “The accent pieces are handmade African Juju hats. The majority of the furniture in this home is Canadian made and we are quite proud of that.”

Down the hill from the main cottage is the bunkie that is akin to a lakefront condo with a kitchen, wine fridge, fireplace, big screen TV, two guest rooms and a bathroom. Extra wide doors

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Gluten-Free

Black Forest Cake

At Sigrid’s, baking is a never-ending art form.

For the past 38 years now, we have been a proud family-owned bakery near Barrie’s downtown.

All our baked breads and pastries are made from scratch with all natural ingredients, the way things used to be done! The flavour of our creations showcases the true passion behind our work.

If you’re looking for fresh gluten-free products that the whole family will enjoy, you’ve arrived at the right place! We bake fresh daily with no preservatives. From our sunflower, multigrain, raisin bread and classic loaf and buns to our Florentiner pastry, almond crescents, and macaroons and famous gluten-free brownies, Andrea Higgins we’ll win you over!

“Mmmh das ist Lecker!”

Sigrid’S Cafe & fine Bakery A TRADITIONAL EUROPEAN BAKERY

10 Ross Street, Barrie

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705.726.0121

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www.sigridsbakery.com

Join us this summer for virtual and outdoor yoga.

Daily classes, great community, and incredible yoga for your body, mind and spirit.

Award Winning Yoga Studio and Team Celebrating 10 years of business in Barrie.

Thank you for your continued support.

Calm. Fit. Inspired.

411 Huronia Road • www.modoyogabarrie.com • 705-790-8280 GoodLife | Barrie Summer 20212021

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nest | home tour

"THE INTERIOR DECOR KEEPS WITH THE NEUTRAL AND CALMING FEEL OF WHAT THIS BUNKIE IS ALL ABOUT.”

The blue sofa reflects the colour of the water.

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Open shelves were placed in front of large windows to display serving pieces.

open to reveal stunning lake views from the deck and BBQ area.

“The bunkie sits right at water level, so it almost feels like you are floating,” says Michele. “We chose a blue sofa to reflect the colour of the water.

When in nature, we don’t want to use a lot of colours which distract from the view. The beauty comes from the water, the sky, and the trees. The interior decor keeps with the neutral and calming feel of what this bunkie is all about.”

Over the kitchen sink is a large window which showcases a granite rock wall. “It almost looks like a painting,” says Michele. “The homeowner wanted a large window over the kitchen sink, and it was such a great decision, adding natural light and a stunning ‘wow’ feature. We put open shelves in front of large windows which gives the opportunity to display serving pieces. The cottage and bunkie are a magical place–warm and cozy with decor that serves all seasons.”

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Our goal is to make you completely satisfied with our service of professional cabinet refinishing while saving you the headaches and costs of a full kitchen teardown. We listen to your needs and work with you, every step of the way, to ensure the end result is everything you desire.

705-345-6102 • ecorefinishers.com

Serving Simcoe County and Muskoka GoodLife | Barrie Summer 20212021

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INSIDE, OUTSIDE, ANYWHERE WIRED AND WIRElESS AUDIO SOlUTIONS With so many great audio options, making the right choice can be difficult.

How we listen to music continues to evolve. Stream music from around the world and send it to your wired or wireless home audio system, or enjoy it on the go.

At Simcoe Audio Video, we will work with you at our showroom, in your home or at your office and help you design the right system for your budget.

JBL • SonoS • BoSe • BrySton • BLueSound • Paradigm • BowerS & wiLkinS • yamaha • nad • totem acouStic

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sound advice for the right price GoodLife | Barrie Summer 2021 411 Bayfield St. • 705-737-1195 • www.simcoeav.ca 2021-06-23 5:34 PM

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Outdoor Ice Cream and Paninis at Nicholyn Farms

Nicholyn Farms has added an outdoor ice cream and panini stand. On the sweet side, the newly constructed hut serves up Kawartha Dairy and Marble Slab scooped ice cream. “We have created our own Marble Slab recipes, including mint chip Oreo fudge, chocolate peanut butter banana, strawberry banana and more,” explained Shane Van Casteren, who owns and operates the country market with his family. Vegan, gluten-free, and full-fat options are on offer.

On the savoury side, various build-your-own paninis are on the menu, including vegan and gluten-free choices. “The goal is to have something for everyone,” he explained. Nicholyn Farms is a one stop shopping experience for locally produced food, certified organic and traditionally raised products.

Along with meats, dairy products, garden fresh produce, eggs, honey, preserves, prepared foods, plants and grocery items, a bakery is also on-site.

Nicholyn Farms is located at 3088 Horseshoe Valley Road West, Phelpston. (705)737-4498, www.nicholyn.com

S Craft Beer, Wine and Spirits, Downtown Barrie

The Wheeled Brew Bottle Shop has opened its doors to thirsty craft beer lovers. Located in downtown Barrie, the shoebox-sized venue is billed as Ontario’s smallest beer bar and bottle shop. Along with over 70 craft suds, the beverage shop also features various local ciders, wines and spirits.

Delivery is also available every Friday to Orillia, Barrie, Innisfil and Bradford with orders of a minimum $50+ placed by 10 AM. All orders include a small snack and you must be 19+ to order. The Wheeled Brew Bottle Shop is located at 7 Clapperton Street in Barrie, (705) 252-2739, www. craftbottleshop.ca.

The Benefits of Local Honey

Buying local honey and supporting local beekeepers has sweet benefits. “The honey bee, although small, plays a very significant role in food, farming and the environment,” said Sandi Dickey who owns and operates Dickey Bee Honey in Cookstown with her husband, Peter, a fourth generation beekeeper. “The bees and the beekeeping industry are extremely important to the health and vitality of Canada’s agricultural industry and the country’s economy. If we don’t have honey bees — we don’t have food.”

Best known for its award winning wildflower honey, Dickey Bee Honey offers various honey specialty products, including: gourmet condiments, salad dressings, a health and beauty line and beeswax candles. Products are sold on-site and at select Canadian retailers. Dickey Bee Honey is located at 4031 3 Line in Cookstown, (705)458-1258/ dickeybeehoney.com

The Corner Market Adds North Barrie Location

The Corner Market, a popular full-service neighbourhood specialty grocery and butcher shop in Barrie’s south-end, recently opened a second north-end Barrie location. Along with meats (fresh and frozen), baked goods, desserts, fresh produce, groceries and more, the food shop offers a tasty selection of homestyle prepared take-home meals. Vegetarian and vegan options are available.

The Corner Market locations are as follows: 580 Bayfield Street, (705)728-6035/ cornermarketnorth.ca and 225 Ferndale Drive South, Unit 1, (705)728-3071/cornermarketbarrie.ca

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local flavour

IN CONVERSATION WITH FARMER

MORRIS GERVAIS By: Katherine Elphick

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verything fresh, local and from Ontario is available at Barrie Hill Farms.

From farm fresh asparagus to pick-

ing fields loaded with strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, apples, pumpkins and more -- plenty is on offer. “We also grow our own peas, corn, hardy Ontario kiwis, and squash — to name a few,” says Morris Gervais, whose family has been operating the farm for over 50 years. A large farm market, bakery and cafe are also on-site.

To learn more about the popular

farm, which grows 220 acres of fruits and vegetables and 100 acres of cash crops, this Goodlife reporter recently sat down with Gervais at a field side picnic table.

Here’s how the conversation unfolded.

Let’s start with some breaking news. Tell us about your latest crop — pick-your-own popcorn.

Morris Gervais: We are always on the lookout for new experiences for our customers, and we thought this would be a really fun idea. It’s our first year planting popcorn, and the pick-your-own crop should be ready by late summer or early fall. Basically, you pick it, put it in a bag (as long as it’s dry enough) and then it goes in the microwave. Cooking instructions will be posted on the website. We are super excited about this crop!

I’ve heard you say that COVID hasn’t increased farming challenges, only human challenges. Can you explain?

MG: As a farmer, one of the first things I noticed about COVID was that it’s completely a human thing. In other words, it has nothing to do with nature. The strawberry plants or my apple orchard don’t realize there is a world wide pandemic going on. The challenges of growing and farming remain the same, but the sales and people side of the business are different because of COVID. How has COVID affected Barrie Hill Farms?

MG: As far as challenges go, this year has been much easier than season. Last year, we had to reinvent every aspect of our business to keep people safe with COVID protocols. Since we are into our second season, setting up was much easier. There has even been a silver lining, meaning that business has generally been pretty good. We are so grateful that the community has been coming out to support us. I think that’s because people have become even more connected to where their food comes from. Before the pandemic, people were interested in local food, but that has really intensified since COVID.

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in order to be successful growing fruits and vegetables this far north, we have to provide an experience for people.

Along with masks, social distancing and plenty of hand sanitizer, what are the main COVID safety changes that guests will notice when they visit the farm?

MG: We now offer online shopping, and a drive through, and those two things will never go away because they have become extremely popular with our customers. We have also made changes on the pick-your-own front, including a separate checkin (located in a different building than the main market) and we now sell pre-paid containers that you fill up. Prior to COVID, all the pick-your-

own crops were sold by volume. Now, you buy an empty basket, go to the field and fill it up as much as you want and then head to your car. We have also modified our wagons with dividers and sanitize them after every use. Prior to heading to the farm, we encourage people to review our safety guidelines on our website.

What’s been the key to Barrie Hill Farms’ success over the years?

MG: One of the biggest things my parents realized, and that I continue to realize is that in order to be successful growing fruits and vegetables this far north, we have to provide an experience for people. In other words, we have to sell direct to the consumer by having them come to the farm and enjoy the fresh fruit. We can never be the lowest cost producer because we can’t compete with the giant fruit producers from California, Mexico, Peru or Chile. Why? Because we have a short growing season, harsh winters to contend with and higher labour costs — to name a few.

That’s why it’s so important for consumers to buy locally grown Ontario food. That way, farmers like me will be able to stick around.

Speaking of your parents. When Barrie Hill Farms first took root in 1968, the first crops were tobacco (a common practice in those years). Then in 1977, fruit crops were planted and tobacco was phased out. Times have sure changed since those early days.

MG: My dad [Adrien Gervais], always used to jokingly say: we spent the first 10 years causing cancer and the next several years curing it [laughs].

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In addition to adding various new crops, your farm market has expanded quite significantly over the years. Along with farm fresh fruits and vegetables, grocery items, eggs, dairy products, bakery items, meats, frozen prepared meals and more are on offer. Does that cover the bases?

MG: The goal of the market is to sell anything that is grown or produced in Ontario. We sell what we grow, and if we don’t grow or produce it, we bring it in from other Ontario farms. That’s something that big grocery stores can’t guarantee.

I also wanted to mention that our farm made prepared meals, home baking, pies, and preserves have been a big growth area for us since the pandemic started.

Why do I always hear rumours that Barrie Hill Farms is for sale?

MG: I can confirm that we are very much in business and the farm isn’t for sale. Having said that though, farmers in Ontario have lots of challenges and many are getting discouraged.

The biggest issue is the lack of a political voice for farmers. In other words, the people who are making decisions about food production in Ontario are completely removed from the process and have no understanding of what it’s like to farm. In contrast, the US has a really strong agricultural policy.

How are the crops looking so far?

MG: It was a mild winter, so all of our perennial crops came through the winter really well. Things can change, but so far we are off to a great start.

GoodLife | Barrie Summer 2021

2021-06-23 5:36 PM

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Barrie - Newmarket - Midland GoodLife | Barrie Summer 2021 29 n

2021-06-23 5:36 PM

Your dad, Adrien, was well-known for growing award-winning giant pumpkins. Have you ever tried your hand at growing giant veggies?

MG: No [laughs]. I haven’t got any time for that. Growing giant pumpkins is practically a full-time job, and I’d have to retire to take that hobby on. But, we are growing various varieties of pumpkins at the farm that are great for baking, fall decorating or jack-o-lanterns.

Barrie Hill Farms 2935 Barrie Hill Rd., RR#2 Barrie (705)728-0571, barriehillfarms.com

STRAWBERRY SALSA Recipe: Barrie Hill Farms, Photo: Katherine Elphick

Making great use of the local strawberry crop, this tasty salsa is a great summer appetizer.

1 quart (2 cups) diced fresh strawberries 1/2 cup chopped cilantro 1/4 cup chopped red onion 1 chili pepper, de-seeded and chopped Pinch of salt

1/4 tsp crushed peppercorns 1 lime, juiced PREPARATION: Mix all ingredients and serve with corn chips.

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Jackie Ramler of Raymond James’ Executive Wealth Advisors Celebrates 15 Years of Helping Clients ‘Live the Goodlife’ You could call Jackie Ramler a ‘Dream Weaver’.

That’s because as a Portfolio Manager with Executive Wealth Advisors of Raymond James Ltd., Jackie helps her clients realize their dreams by suggesting solutions on how to get there.

“Less than one percent of financial planners in North America hold the Portfolio Manager designation and it turns out, I am the only person to hold the Responsible Investment Advisor (RIA designation) north of Newmarket,” says Jackie. “Previously, I had to get approval from my clients on any trades, but with the Portfolio Manager designation, I am able to make trades on their behalf.”

Jackie has been a dedicated leader in the financial industry for 26 years and has just celebrated her 15th anniversary with Raymond James. She focuses on finding wealth management solutions for business owners, executives and individuals by utilizing asset allocation and risk management techniques that are customized to help preserve or build wealth, based on her client’s goals. This lifelong learner holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree, Environmental & Political Science and a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Her list of credentials is as long as your arm (Certified Financial Planner, Chartered Investment Manager, and Portfolio Manager, to name just a few), but don’t let that intimidate you. She warmly welcomes clients to call her anytime

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and treats them like family.

“My education, and in particular my Environmental Science and Political Science degree has helped me screen “Clean and Green” investments for clients to align their investment strategy with their personal beliefs, principles or interests,” explains Jackie, who is a member of the Responsible Investment Association of Canada. “There’s no such thing as a perfect company, but if clients have an interest in the clean and green movement, I research companies to invest in those that are making a positive difference. There can be Capitalism for good.”

Jackie is also making a difference in her community. “I am so proud of my great team!

One day a month I pay for my team members to spend a day working in the community.

One team member volunteers at the Humane Society while another volunteers at a local school. We are also big supporters of Rainbows for All Children and, for five years, we ran their gala and raised $165,000. This year we hope to do a virtual murder mystery dinner theatre as a fundraiser.”

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Jackie began offering free Zoominars for clients on various topics including electric car technology, inflation and more. “I love Zoom and find it a really effective tool for connecting with clients and helping to answer questions about things we are all wondering about.”

For potential clients, Jackie offers a no-obligation meet and greet session. “One person who found me on the internet said, ‘you are the first financial person who talked with me, not at me.’ The same day one of my long-term clients told me she was moving her mother’s assets over to me to manage. These comments make my work so worthwhile, knowing that I am helping new and loyal clients on their journey. As our tag line says, we help clients live the good life!”

Asked if she has a favourite saying or words to live by Jackie answers: “You don’t need to take a lot of risk to earn solid rewards. I have a collection of ‘turtles’ and believe that slow and steady wins the race.” https://www.raymondjames.ca/jackieramler/ jackie-ramler.aspx Raymond James Ltd. is a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund.

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s t e k r a M ’ s r e m r Fa

VISITING

DURING COVID

By: Katherine Elphick

A

rea farmers’ markets look a little different these days. Pandemic protocols are abundant — stalls are spaced out, masks are mandatory, hand sanitizer is plentiful, food trucks are a no-no, entry is staggered and controlled, and the list goes on.

But, despite all of the COVID-19 adjustments, which often mean less space for vendors — area farmers’ markets continue to thrive. Take the Barrie Farmers’ Market, which is celebrating its 175th anniversary this year.

“I always look forward to market days,” confessed Sasha MacMillan, a regular market customer, who is also the marketing co-ordinator of the Barrie Farmers’ Market. “Even with everyone wearing masks, you know you are still being greeted by a smiling face when you arrive. The local community atmosphere is amazing.”

The Barrie Farmers’ Market runs year-round, and since 1846 has been held in the general area around the current site of Barrie’s city hall. While the mainstay market has evolved over the years, COVID-19 has required the market to pivot in a new tech savvy direction.

“The market has worked really hard to get all of the vendors on-line, so customers can either visit the market in person, or enjoy on-line shopping with curb side pickup,” she explained. This is especially helpful for downtown Barrie residents, who otherwise don’t have access to a nearby grocery store.

While the exact offerings can change from market to market, area farmers’ markets generally showcase homemade baked goods, a rainbow of local farm fresh produce, honey, locally raised meats, fish, plants, flowers, preserves, chocolate, local dairy products, eggs, gourmet food products, maple syrup and artisanal crafts -- to name a few.

Home-made prepared foods, including authentic multicultural cui-

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sine are also very popular. The Feast from the East stall at the Barrie Farmers’ Market is run by a Syrian couple who specialize in middle eastern food. Prior to moving to Canada four years ago, they owned their own restaurant in Syria.

Pandemic or not — other local farmers’ markets beyond Barrie have taken root. “Our numbers remain strong even though we’ve had to reduce our vendors (from 80 to 35), and limit entrance into the market because of COVID,” explained Sam Ball communications and promotion coordinator with the Collingwood Downtown Business Improvement Area (BIA) who is a spokesperson for the Collingwood Farmers’ Market.

Popularity stems from the fact that people want fresher foods grown locally.

“Customers are drawn to the market because they enjoy the community atmosphere, while supporting local farmers and the economy,” he explained. “It’s a nice weekend outing for many people.”

Along with standard COVID-19 safety protocols, the Collingwood Farmers’ Market, which was established in 2004, has expanded its offerings, courtesy of new provincial guidelines. “Along with local wine and cider, we can now sell craft beer and spirits,” he explained.

Over at the Creemore Farmers’ Market, COVID-19 restrictions have also reduced the size and location of the local market. “We’re now located in the parking lot of Creemore Springs Brewery,” explained Helen Martin, a spokesperson for the Creemore Farmers’ Market, which was established in 1997.

But customers keep coming. “People want food that is less travelled and less touched than what you find at the grocery store,” she explained. “They love that they shop in the open air, and can talk to the producer to find out how [the food item] was grown, prepared or how it was raised. Even before COVID hit, more people have realized that supporting local agriculture is important.”

But the best reason to go to a local farmers’ market is freshness, according to Martin. “Where else can you buy a tomato that was freshly picked that morning?”

GoodLife | Barrie Summer 2021

2021-06-23 5:37 PM

SIMCOE COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKETS With summer just around the corner, it’s time to open up those local farmers’ markets. While some run yearround, most get rolling on the Victoria Day long weekend.

With that in mind, here’s a rundown on various Simcoe County farmers’ markets.

Worth visiting, these colourful local markets offer a bounty of farm fresh delights and delicious food products.

Alliston Farmers’ Market Centre St. and Victoria St. W, Alliston allistonfarmersmarket.ca. Open Saturdays 8 AM to 2 PM from May 22 to the end of October.

Barrie Farmers’ Market, Barrie City Hall (corner Mulcaster and Collier Sts. barriefarmersmarket.ca Open Saturdays yearround 8 AM to noon. You can also choose to order online in advance and pick up your market finds.

For the latest market updates, follow on Facebook or Instagram.

Bradford Farmers’ Market Bradford (425 Holland St. W at the Bradford Library), 905-960-4565, bradfordfarmersmarket. ca. Open Saturdays 10 AM to 2 PM, May 22 to Thanksgiving weekend. An online store is also available, and is open from 8 AM on Mondays until 9 PM on Thursdays. Pick up is on Saturday mornings in the Leisure Centre parking lot at 471 West Park Avenue (right beside the market’s usual location at the BWG Library).

Collingwood Downtown Farmers’ Market Collingwood (corner of Second & Pine Sts.) 705445-5595, collingwooddowntown.com/farmersmarket. Open Saturdays 8:30 AM to 1 PM, Victoria Day weekend to Thanksgiving weekend.

Creemore Farmers’ Market Creemore, Parking lot of Creemore Springs Brewery at the corner of Edward and Mill St., 705-466-3591, creemorefarmersmarket.ca. Open Saturdays 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM, Victoria Day weekend to Thanksgiving weekend.

Innisfil Farmers’ Market, Innisfil Recreational Complex (YMCA), South Parking Lot (7315 Yonge St.),(705)436-3710, innisfilfarmersmarket.ca. Open Thursdays: 1 PM to 6 PM, June 3 to Thanksgiving Weekend. A satellite site is located at 3311 County Road 89 (Entrance 4 of the Tanger Outlets Cookstown Mall) Open Fridays: 1 PM to 6 PM, June 11 to September 10.

Orillia Farmers’ Market Orillia, (beside Orillia Opera House at the Orillia Public Library), corner of West and Mississauga Streets), 705238-7955, orilliafarmersmarket.on.ca. Open Saturdays year-round 8 AM to 12:30 PM. Orillia Fairgrounds Farmers’ Market Orillia (Orillia District Agricultural Society at 4500 Fairgrounds Road just off of Hwy 12 W), orilliafairgroundsfarmersmarket.ca. Open Saturdays year-round 8 AM to 1 PM. Southern Georgian Bay Farmers’ Markets is open at two locations on different days, sgbfarmersmarkets.com. Open on Fridays in Victoria Harbour on Veterans Lane from 3 PM to 7 PM, open on Sundays in downtown Midland (525 Bay Street) from 9 AM to 1 PM. Both markets run from Victoria Day weekend until Thanksgiving weekend.

Springwater- Elmvale Farmers’ Market Elmvale (municipal parking lot on 33 Queen Street West), springwater.ca/community/springwater_ elmvale_farmers_market. Open Fridays 9 AM to 2 PM from June 18 to September 17.

Wasaga Beach Farmers’ Market Wasaga Beach (1724 Mosley Street/the RecPlex), www.wasagabeachfarmersmarket.ca. Open Tuesdays 4 PM to dusk from June 15 to the first week in October.

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taste | recipes

One -Pot

l w o b rice

Bean andVegetable

Steaming the carrots and sweet peppers maintains their colour and crunch in this Mexican-inspired vegetarian meal. Local Queso Fresco, a “fresh cheese” with a slightly salty taste and creamy texture is a tasty addition to this bowl.

Preparation Time:: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 52 minutes | Serves 4 INGREDIENTS

PREPARATION

1 cup (250 mL) long grain brown rice 1/4 cup (50 mL) vegetable oil 1 tsp (5 mL) lime zest 2 Tbsp (25 mL) fresh lime juice 1-1/2 tsp (7 mL) Ontario honey 1/2 tsp (2 mL) ground cumin 1 clove garlic, minced 1-1/2 cups (375 mL) julienned Ontario carrots 1 Ontario greenhouse sweet yellow pepper, sliced 1 can (540 mL) black beans, drained and rinsed 2 cups (500 mL) Ontario greenhouse cherry tomatoes, halved 2 cups (500 mL) sliced Ontario greenhouse cucumber 1 head Ontario greenhouse Leaf, torn 1 cup (250 mL) croutons 1/2 cup (125 mL) crumbled Ontario queso fresco or feta cheese 1/4 cup (50 mL) toasted pumpkin seeds

Cook rice according to package directions.

In small bowl, whisk together oil, lime zest, lime juice, honey, cumin and garlic, set aside.

Place carrots in steamer basket over saucepan of simmering water, cover and steam for 4 minutes.

Push to one side; add peppers to other side. Cover and steam for 3 minutes or until tender, set aside.

Divide rice, carrots, peppers, beans, tomatoes, cucumber, lettuce and croutons among 4 bowls. Top with cheese and pumpkin seeds; drizzle with dressing.

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GoodLife | Barrie Summer 2021

pasta

Primavera

This version of a classic pasta recipe uses just the right amount of water that magically cooks down to create a silky sauce (no draining necessary!). Cooked chicken can also be added to this vegetable dish.

Preparation Time:: 15 min | Cooking Time: 30 min | Serves 4 to 6 INGREDIENTS

4 cups (1 L) fusilli pasta (375 g) 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced 1 tsp (5 mL) salt 1/2 tsp (2 mL) black pepper 2 cups (500 mL) 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces Ontario asparagus 1 cup (250 mL) diced Ontario greenhouse sweet red pepper 1-1/2 cups (375 mL) Ontario greenhouse grape or cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup (250 mL) Ontario green peas fresh or frozen, thawed 3 Tbsp (45 mL) butter 3/4 cup (175 mL) shredded plain or jalapeño Ontario havarti cheese (about 75 g) 1/2 cup (125 mL) chopped Ontario basil leaves Garnish: shredded Ontario havarti cheese PREPARATION

Place pasta in large deep pot. Add garlic, salt, pepper and 3-1/2 cups (875 mL) hot tap water. Cover; bring to boil over mediumhigh heat. Uncover; set timer according to cooking directions on pasta package. Cook pasta stirring often.

When 5 minutes remain, stir in asparagus and red pepper. Cover, return to boil; continue cooking, stirring occasionally (if necessary, add another 1/2 cup (125 mL) hot water).

When 2 minutes remain on timer, stir in tomatoes, peas and butter; cover, cook 2 minutes. Uncover, cook, stirring, until pasta and vegetables are tender and water is almost completely evaporated, about 1 minute.

Remove from heat; stir in cheese and basil; mix well. Serve immediately with additional cheese.

2021-06-23 3:56 PM

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strawberry

(recipe/photo: Foodland Ontario The combination of Ontario strawberries and strawberry jam give these squares an extra kick of fruity flavour. The squares freeze well for up to 1 month.

Preparation Time: Baking Time: Cooling Time: Makes 16

20 minutes 45 minutes 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup (125 mL) butter, at room temperature 1/2 cup (125 mL) packed brown sugar 1-1/2 cups (375mL) large flake oats

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Oatmeal Squares

1 cup (250 mL) all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt 1/2 tsp (2 mL) baking soda 1/2 cup (125 mL) sliced almonds 2 cups (500 mL) chopped Ontario Greenhouse or Field Strawberries 1/4 cup (50 mL) strawberry jam 1 tsp (5 mL) cornstarch PREPARATION

Line 9-inch (23 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper.

In large bowl, using electric mixer, beat butter and

brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add oats, flour, salt and baking soda; mix well with wooden spoon.

In small bowl, set aside 1-1/2 cups (375 mL). Stir almonds into remaining oat mixture. Press into prepared pan. Bake in 350°F (180°C) oven for 10 minutes or until lightly browned.

In medium bowl, combine strawberries, jam and cornstarch. Spread mixture evenly over crust. Top with remaining oat mixture pressing lightly.

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until lightly browned.

Cool on wire rack for 30 minutes before cutting into bars. Refrigerate any leftover squares.

GoodLife | Barrie Summer 2021

2021-06-23 3:56 PM

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taste

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GoodLife | Barrie Summer 2021

2021-06-23 5:42 PM

Intuitive eating Cookbook author Lindsay Taylor eliminates the rules and guilt around eating

By Stephanie Hounsell

Photo by Kelly Wilk

You’ve had a long, hard day and have been looking forward to that fudge sundae for hours. Now it’s staring right at you, all oozy, sweet and creamy. You dig in and it’s every bit as satisfying as you’d imagined. But 10 minutes later, you’re not feeling so great. And the guilt is setting in — until now, you’d stuck to your diet so carefully. You go to bed flooded with negative thoughts and vow that tomorrow will be different.

It’s a scenario that so many people can relate to. And it’s one that culinary nutrition expert and cookbook author Lindsay Taylor wants to change. Her message? “No rules and no guilt.”

Her approach to healthy eating is refreshingly simple. She focuses on whole, real foods rather than processed, refined ones and provides delicious recipes to help. Rather than a list of “do’s” and “don’ts,” Taylor encourages intuitive eating and feeling good — which looks different for everyone. “The main message I want to get across is that no matter where you are in your life you can eat the food you love and the food that makes you love how you feel,” Taylor says.

In April, Taylor released The Food Doula Cookbook: A Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy and a Nourished New Mom, which takes the guesswork out of eating during pregnancy, from conception to postpartum.

Divided into trimesters, the book tackles each stage of pregnancy’s needs and challenges — from nausea to cravings — and provides recipes and easily-digestible information. Although written for expectant women, anyone can enjoy the recipes and the book’s pages echo the author’s positive, sensible approach.

So many faulty, restrictive messages fill our minds when it comes to eating, she says. Many originated during the diet culture when losing weight was applauded and all fat was bad. “It’s done harm to most of us,” Taylor says. “We have labelled so many foods as bad and we’ve pushed those same labels onto ourselves. Like, ‘If I eat this ice cream and pizza and chocolate and chips, those are bad foods, so I’m bad if I eat them.’”

Taylor wants to be part of the movement toward body and food neutrality and intuitive eating. “There doesn’t have to be any good or bad labels, there can just be you and your unique self and the types of foods that fuel you the best,” she says.

So what is intuitive eating, anyways? Intuitive eating involves making the connection between what we eat and how it makes us feel, Taylor says. It’s about paying attention to what our body says to us about what food it needs, when it needs it and how much. Taylor, who has daughters aged four and six, is teaching them to start making those connections. They might eat a cupcake together and then talk about how it made them feel good at first, but not-so-good later on.

It can be tricky knowing where to start on the journey to healthy eating. Taylor recommends steering clear of the “take away” mindset — getting rid of certain foods — and instead promotes an “add in” approach. What good-for-you, make-you-feel-good foods can you add in? Find some tasty new fruits and vegetables and work on making your plates more colourful, she advises. Maybe add an extra colour or new vegetable to each meal.

Small changes are key. Cooking one new recipe a week is a great goal, or even adding in an extra daily glass of water. Making things fun in the kitchen is another worthy goal, Taylor says. A new cookbook, a funky apron or a happening playlist can be just what’s needed to freshen things up.

Using seasonal produce can also inspire excitement and creativity.

Summer brings berries and local greens, two of the best foods you can eat, Taylor says. She recommends trying different lettuces and greens like kale and bok choy and adding in a handful to whatever you’re eating, whether eggs, soup or pasta sauce. As for berries, go wild. Make some strawberry chia jam, a crumble or crisp, or throw some into a smoothie.

Taylor was raised with an appreciation for nutrition and delicious food and went on to get an education in public health. But not knowing how to cook, she couldn’t turn her book smarts into fun, nourishing GoodLife | Barrie Summer 2021

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2021-06-23 5:42 PM

taste | intuitive eating

meals. Recognizing that gap, she studied to become a culinary nutritionist and, with a special interest in nutrition in pregnancy, a doula. Her cookbook ties all that together.

Even though the pandemic has, for some, led to stress eating and over-indulgences, it has also re-introduced many people to the kitchen. More people have been cooking at home and, especially at the beginning, were trying to make do with what they had.

For some home cooks it also provided time for meal planning, which saves time and money.

Spending an extra 15 minutes in the kitchen can turn one made-from-scratch meal into three. Cook for more than one meal, Taylor recommends. Then the barbecued chicken and grilled veggies from day one can be folded into a taco or used to top a pizza on day two. “I’m a fan of not cooking every single day,” Taylor says.

People often believe healthy food doesn’t taste as good and that there’s no place for “sometimes” foods. They envision a lifetime of salads and salmon with no butter. But Taylor’s recipe repertoire includes enchiladas, chicken fingers and other meals some might think are off the table. “It really can be super delicious,” she says.

As for the fudge sundae scenario we started with, Taylor might not advocate doing this every day. But occasionally, or with something equally pleasurable like eating out with friends, Taylor says go for it. “Just enjoy. We all deserve a little pleasure and if that pleasure is going to a restaurant and ordering whatever is calling to you at the time, I think that’s great.”

Chocolate Avocado Pudding

Chocolate Avocado

When you’re done using your

Dairy-Free, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, Nut-Free, Freezer-Friendly 2 small ripe avocados (or 1 large) 3⁄4 cup (175 mL) non-dairy milk 1/3 cup (75 mL) maple syrup 1/3 cup (75 mL) cacao powder 1 tsp (5 mL) vanilla extract Pinch of sea salt 1 to 2 tbsp (15 to 30 mL) hemp hearts (optional) Add all ingredients to a high- powered blender and blend on high, about 1 minute, or until smooth and creamy.

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Tip:

blender for this recipe, it’ll be covered in chocolate. Just add Makes 5 to 6 Bliss Bars Blend up the ingredients for Late-Night Chocolate Avocado Pudding.

Then spoon the pudding into ice pop moulds. Transfer to freezer until frozen, about 2 to 4 hours.

2 to 3 cups of your favourite milk, blend again, and voila, you’ve got chocolate milk!

Recipes and images from The Food Doula, by Lindsay Taylor, published by Plumleaf Press.

GoodLife | Barrie Summer 2021

2021-06-23 5:43 PM

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2021-06-23 5:43 PM

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noteworthy

Swimsuit Styles and Secrets to Finding That

Perfect Swimsuit

By Laurie Wallace-Lynch

A

lthough there may be no such thing as one ‘perfect’ swimsuit style that looks amazing on every woman of any size or shape, the good news is there is a perfect swimsuit for you!

Finding that perfect suit involves knowing a few tricks of the trade as shared by BLISS BENEATH owner Tamara DiSaverio.

“There’s no one-size-fits-all swimsuit, but there are universally flattering features and styles that can help women and girls to look and feel their best,” says Tamara. “The first style trick is getting a proper fitting swimsuit in your bra size. This involves having a bra fitting. If a woman wears a 36FF bra, we start here. Having the proper fit will immediately provide a more flattering silhouette.

Underwire helps lift and separate and support just like a bra, and when the breasts are lifted it draws attention to our natural waistline, and you immediately look slimmer. It is an optical illusion! Customers are simply amazed by the difference.”

A swimsuit with ruching (gathered material) is a style that flatters most figure types.

“Ruching helps veil any lumps or bumps or areas we feel uncomfortable with,” explains Tamara. “A style with all-over pattern also helps hide areas and keeps the eye moving, as opposed to focusing on one spot. Paisley, polka dots, and bright tropical prints are on trend this year. My advice is to choose a pattern or a colour that suits your personality and looks good with your skin tone.”

Another universally flattering swimsuit secret is to choose a suit with a dark solid colour on the sides and a strip of pattern down the middle. “The eye is attracted to the middle while the dark sides are so slimming,” says Tamara. “As for bottoms, choose a bottom that is a bit snug when dry.

Swimsuit material gives a bit when it’s wet, and you want to know that the bottom isn’t going to fall off!”

When it comes to choosing between a bikini, tankini, or a one-piece swimsuit, Tamara says choose the style you like.

“There are no rules about who can wear what. Choose a properly fitted swimsuit that you feel confident wearing. We had a

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Our mission is to transform the swimsuit try-on experience into something positive and rewarding.

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mom who came into the shop with her 14-year-old daughter. They were heading to Hawaii, and the family had signed up for surfing lessons. The young girl had larger breasts and had searched and searched for a swimsuit that would keep her breasts from falling out of her suit. After trying on a second swimsuit, she came out of the dressing room in tears—but they were happy tears! She looked amazing, and she no longer had to wear a t-shirt over her swimsuit!

Another customer who is in her 40’s was going to her in-law’s cottage in Muskoka. Normally she avoided going swimming because she could not find a swimsuit that fit. She tried on a few suits and then strutted out of the changeroom and announced, ‘oh my goodness, I am hot!’ She sent us photos of her in the lake wearing her properly fitted tankini. I have dozens of happy stories like this.”

Tamara has owned BLISS BENEATH for two years, and she is keenly aware that for most women, trying on a swimsuit is their least favourite thing to do.

“Women have told us that they would rather have a tooth pulled or cook dinner for their mother-in-law than try on swimsuits!” chuckles Tamara. “Since childhood we have been inundated with images on TV and in magazines of what we should look like, but we are not all 5’9” and 125 pounds with perky breasts, a perfect heart shaped behind, and thighs that don’t touch. The self-esteem of women and girls takes a real beating when exposed to images that are so far from reality. The reality is that 90% of women have cellulite and thighs that touch. Our mission is to transform the swimsuit try-on experience into something positive and rewarding. We select supportive styles, sizes, colours and prints that woman love. We carry top names and stock most bust and dress sizes. It is not about a particular style or colour, it is about fit and feeling confident. There is a perfect swimsuit for you—one that will make you feel blissful inside and out.”

Bliss Beneath is open by appointment or by chance with a maximum capacity of three patrons. “Appointments are highly recommended to avoid disappointment, to ensure our undivided attention and for our 5-star rated, personalized, curated shopping experience.”

241 Essa Road in Barrie, www.blissbeneath.com, 705-503-2547 (BLIS); bliss@blissbeneath.com; IG @blissbeneathbarrie; FB @blissbeneath

We’re your destination for all things summer!

• fine lingerie • swimwear • sleepwear • sports bras • breast prostheses

Feel beautiful in what’s closest to your skin!

We are open at this time by appointment or by chance with a max capacity of 3 patrons.

Appointments are highly recommended to avoid disappointment, to ensure our undivided attention, and for our 5-star rated personalized, curated shopping experience.

241 Essa Road, Barrie

705-503-2547 (Blis)

www.blissbeneath.com Follow us on Facebook and instagram

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taste | goodlife wines

South

America’s la familia

Eduardo Chadwick pictured here, whose Viñedos Familia Chadwick owns the Errázuriz winery in Chile.

The evolution of Chile’s fine wine renaissance

by Carmelo Giardina

High altitude wines are all the rage in Chile.

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Wine collectors and enthusiasts alike don’t need to set foot in Chile to understand that this South American country has entered the ranks of ‘FirstGrowth’ wine nations. For at least two decades, interest has been piqued by both the diversity and exceptional quality on offer.

Home to a varied palate of grapes and wine styles, the further south you go in Chile, the cooler it becomes. Ambitious winemakers have been exploiting this and other terroir matters; high altitude wines are all the rage in Chile, and terroir has increasingly become enshrined in law. Familiar valleys and sub-regions are officially divided into three key zones: Costa, Entre Cordilleras, and the Andes.

No longer is Chile merely the land of fruit-forward, varietal expressions – regional differences and sitespecificity are now king.

Typically, Chilean wines are known by many around the world to be exceptional value-driven wines known to wow consumers with their qualityto-price-ratio. It’s not unheard of to hear one raving about a Chilean wine that they purchased for $20-$25 and have them compare it to likes of a $45-$50 bottle of Bordeaux or a mid-ranged Italian super Tuscan. In fact, the country seems to be quite famous for this, no longer considered to be the wine world’s best kept secret. But as good as those wines may be, there’s an entire ‘next level’ of quality wine being made to tempt the curious imbiber, so long as you’re willing to reach further into your wallet.

Top-level Chilean wine – now priced very ambitiously – has become world-class. Growers across the nation have been refining their red and white offerings, getting better in leaps and bounds. At the turn of the millennium, there was a tendency to provide maximum impact with ripeness, concentration, and levels of oak. However, there has been a dramatic paradigm shift in recent times, with winemakers favouring elegance and restraint, in addition to the charms of perfectly ripe and expressive Chilean fruit.

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SELECTIONS

“COMPARED WITH THE GREATS OF BORDEAUX, VIÑEDO CHADWICK MAY HAVE A BRIEF HISTORY, BUT IT’S BEEN A REMARKABLE ONE.”

The pivotal moment for Chilean wine came during a 2004 tasting in Berlin that was conducted by Steven Spurrier, creator of the globally famed 1976 Judgment of Paris. Two wines from Chile were voted in first and second place ahead of some of the most heralded wines from France and Italy, including Château Latour and Lafite from Bordeaux, and Sassicaia from Tuscany. And just like California after that Judgment of Paris tasting, the word was out, and Chile’s reputation was sealed. And since that day, the quality of Chilean wine has gotten better and better.

This Chilean wine new renaissance can be largely credited to the uniting of two of wine’s royal families. In the early 1990s, Chile was becoming known for its mass-produced, affordable wines, but Éduardo Chadwick, whose Viñedos Familia Chadwick owns the Errázuriz winery – and controls additional portfolios, including Arboleda and Caliterra – knew that the country could produce top quality wines.

In 1991, Chadwick teamed up with California’s Robert Mondavi to make a world-class wine in Chile. The result was Seña, which means “sign,” as it was to be a sign of Chile’s ability to make fine wine. Crafted using grapes grown just 90 kilometres north of Santiago in the Aconcagua Valley, it would become Chile’s first icon wine and its current vintage, from the 2018 growing season, is arguably its best ever. Priced at $200 a bottle in On-

tario, Seña is made from five Bordeaux varieties and delivers beautifully defined fruit, balanced acidity, and fine-grained tannins. It will surely have a long life in the cellar.

Chadwick and Mondavi aspired to produce a fresh, balanced wine unlike the riper, fruitier wines from Chile’s generally warm growing conditions.

(Since 2005 – after the passing of Robert Mondavi in 2004 – Éduardo Chadwick is the sole proprietor of the Seña brand.)

The 2001 vintage of Seña ranked second at that Berlin tasting in 2004. It was beaten only by Chadwick’s other icon wine, Viñedo Chadwick.

Compared with the greats of Bordeaux, Viñedo Chadwick may have a brief history, but it’s been a remarkable one. As the comparative tastings and independent assessments have shown, it is a wine of high and consistent quality that has shone a bright light on the quality potential of Chile, and the wonders of cabernet from Puente Alto in the Maipo Valley.

Any list of Chile’s most lauded and expensive bottles cannot possibly omit Viñedo Chadwick.

At about $450 in Ontario, Viñedo Chadwick is quite different from Seña.

This is almost purely cabernet sauvignon (the 2018 vintage has three percent petit verdot) from the Maipo Valley, the source of Chile’s best cabernet sauvignons – an area that’s warmer than where the grapes for Seña were grown – and 2018 was a perfect year there, too. This vintage of Viñedo Chadwick is textbook cabernet, a wine that presents itself as a benchmark. Technically impeccable, it’s a delight to drink, with elegant and well-structured fruit that has depth and breadth, finely calibrated acidity, and harmony all the way through.

Backed by a long list of highly influential critics’ scores to prove it, the best Chilean icon wines are now world-beaters and quintessential South American collector’s items, now often distinctive and in a league of their own.

Seña and Viñedo Chadwick are a pair of magnificent wines, each distinctly different from the other.

What unites them, apart from their coming from the same stable, is their quality, year after year. And in the 2018 vintage, that quality has been enhanced by perfect growing conditions that have resulted in exquisite wines.

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TIPS FOR ACHIEVING A GREENER, HEALTHIER LAWN DURING THE DRY SUMMER MONTHS 1. Set your mower to cut at 3” or higher to prevent burning.

2. Don’t cut your grass if you don’t have to; if it has only grown 1/2”, wait a week longer and be sure to water often.

3. Can you see your tracks from the lawnmower from last week? You need to water more!

4. If you don’t water often, then don’t use high nitrogen fertilizer or it will burn the lawn and it may not come back!

5. Water after dark, not in the morning. When the sun comes up at 6:30 am, most of the water will evaporate before it has an opportunity to absorb into the lawn.

6. Mulching clippings instead of bagging them is good for your lawn, but don’t leave clumps of grass on the lawn, or it will start to decompose and heat up the lawn causing burning of the grass. Rake or use a blower and disperse the clippings.

This is good advice for the entire season!

~ Wayne Desormeaux

705-796-6798

WD Turf Plus

www.facebook.com/WDTurfPlus/

The best of both worlds for boutique shops and foodie stops.

RURBAN.CA

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roam L

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Eco haven in Mexico

Riding in Oakville

Did you know you can enjoy horse riding in Oakville? The Ranch offers lessons and trail rides including a 90-minute trail riding experience and a twilight trail ride. Ridetheranch.com

Luxury Sea Expeditions

Kontiki’s eight-day luxury sea expeditions aboard a private yacht will take you to remote locations to discover the culture, crafts, traditions and gastronomy of native communities along the American coast. It’s a luxury experience that sustainably and innovatively connects the spiritual and the material while respecting tradition. kontikiexpeditions.com

Photo by CraigMcGee

Dreaming of vacationing down south? Luxury hotel brand, One&Only opened its second resort in Mexico in beautiful Mandarina. Located less than one hour north of Puerto Vallarta, Mandarina is a place of rare natural wonder, an extraordinary destination with mountain peaks, a tropical landscape, sandy shores and green flatlands. Stay in a stylish treehouse or clifftop villa with dramatic views. Oneandonlyresorts.com/mandarina

Indoor Surfing

Montreal has an indoor surf centre where you can learn to surf or improve your technique. The wave, made by Surfstream, is exclusive to Oasis Surf and unique to Canada.

Surfers use real boards with fins to provide a surfing experience so you feel like you’re on the ocean or a river.

Oasissurf.com

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getaway

FIVE camping experiences wrapped in luxury

by Cecelia Feor

Asheville Glamping

C

amping is perhaps one of the most polarizing activities of summer. The mere mention of the word can conjure memories of fireside glows and picturesque hikes, or the unmistakable sound of mosquitoes coupled with a twinge in your back from that time you didn’t bring an air mattress.

Add two letters and drop the C and a new experience is born: glamping. Transcending trend status, glamping offers amenities like bathhouses, elevated sleeping conditions (see: a mattress and bedframe!) while not taking away from the getting back to nature vibe that is as ingrained in the camping experience as the smell of campfires on clothes.

North Carolina – Asheville Glamping The Appalachian Mountain Range is among the oldest in the world, dating back 480 million years. Coupled with the magical forests and ancient trees found North Carolina, Asheville Glamping is the ideal locale to soak it all in.

With 14 lodging options, including a variety of domes that are perfect for stargazing, tents wide enough to fit a mattress and then some, and the Glaminal, a vintage 1952 Spartanette trailer, Asheville Glamping has it all. Some sites also include heating and 50

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AC for the added creature comfort experience. A shared bathhouse is available for some guests, while others have bathrooms built-in.

In an effort to disconnect, Asheville Glamping has no WIFI onsite. They consider this an amenity to add to the list, disconnecting from the stress of outside life and reconnecting to each other.

In the theme of connection, lighting outside domes and tents is kept to a minimum for the optimal stargazing atmosphere, perfectly adding to many of the dome’s clear walls. Make sure to bring your flashlight.

The city of Asheville itself has many charms to bring you out of the forest for an urban exploration. Dubbed “Beer City USA”, it has 26 different craft breweries in the city. Foodtopia is the overarching name for the food scene in Asheville. A hub of culinary collaboration, they insist eating here is a transcendent experience.

Feed your arts and culture needs at The River Arts District, which houses a cluster of art galleries and more than 240 artists with oneof-a-kind works and skills to share, perfect for a gallery crawl.

Maryland – Savage River Lodge Good things come in round packages – that’s the motto at Savage River Lodge (SRL). The atmosphere is upscale, yet woodsy. They offer a variety of accommodations, including yurts – a nomadic structure traditionally used in Mongolia with a round, moveable tent and bent-frame roof.

Each yurt has a private deck, sitting room, king-sized bed complete with luxury linens and comforters from recycled plastic

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Savage River Lodge

bottles. In lieu of a bathhouse, a full-plumbed private bath is part of each yurt including a large shower and double sinks and a kitchenette within.

Located on-site is a fully serviced restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner options including a connection to its sister restaurant in Grantsville, The Cornucopia Café, a 20-minute drive from SRL offering local food and fresh options.

SRL is based in and on nature. Guests are encouraged to engage with their surroundings in a responsible way, and the lodge itself strives to incorporate green practices in every aspect of the stay.

With nine trail options well marked, a walk to a new wonderland is easy. Other activities include geocaching, fly fishing, biking and hiking, or catching up with resident dogs Koko and Karma.

New Hampshire – Huttopia White Mountains Defined by quaint towns and expansive wilderness, New Hampshire is the granite state, known for its extensive formations and quarries.

Situated on Iona Lake on the edge of White Mountain National Forest, Huttopia White Mountains is the ideal place to escape in nature. Doing glamping since before it even had a name, Huttopia started their camping empire in 1999. An authentic experience with creature comforts, guests can expect luxury nestled in nature.

With their Wood & Canvas accommodations, Huttopia offers six separate glamping tent options, ranging in capacity for two to five people. Some Wood & Canvas options come with private bathrooms; and for those that don’t, the bathhouse is a short walk away. Each structure has a deck and outdoor furniture, perfect for lounging among the trees.

Cool down in the lake with swimming, kayaking and canoeing or spend a day at the heated saltwater pool for resort-level experience.

There’s an on-site bistro built in a converted airstream trailer, with full kitchen and flatbread pizza oven perfect for the best slice.

Jump in a tube for a free-flowing excursion down Saco River, or take a spectacular drive through the Kancamagus Scenic Byway, a 34.5-mile (55.5 km) section of Route 112 running directly through White Mountain National Forest.

Locally, you can book a stay with Huttopia in Sutton, Quebec.

HUTTOPIA OFFERS SIX SEPARATE GLAMPING TENT OPTIONS, RANGING IN CAPACITY FOR TWO TO FIVE PEOPLE. Ruby Lake Resort – British Columbia Located in Madeira Park on the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia, Ruby Lake is postcard perfect. The nature resort offers countless activities to keep your mind and time occupied, making screen time nonexistent.

There are five separate Safari Tent options, each with its own deck/balcony area.

With the wilderness at your deckstep, falling asleep to the croaks of frogs and waking to the chirps of birds is a near guarantee. It is a 10-minute walk from the tent area GoodLife | Barrie Summer 20212021

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getaway

Ruby Lake Resort

to the on-site dinner restaurant, La Trattoria Italiana, and access to a communal hut kitchenette. The washrooms are shared and located a short walk from tents.

The nearby Madeira Park community has a handful of restaurants, including The Grasshopper Pub at The Pender Harbour Hotel with expansive and magnificent bay views of the harbour and waterfront.

In addition to the activities at the resort, guests can take day tours to nearby Thormanby Islands, Savary Island and the Princess Louisa Inlet, all accessible by water due to their remoteness, and as a result, offer immaculate beauty. Those with an extra adventurous spirit and tight schedule can hop in the air with a FlightSeeing tour from Sunshine Coast Air.

Ontario – Whispering Springs

Ruby Lake Resort

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Just 90 minutes east of Toronto, in Grafton, Ontario, you can enjoy a glamourous camping experience at Whispering Springs. The Safari tents are available as junior, traditional or deluxe and are

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Whispering Springs

inspired by the great prospector tents of Canada’s past, each with a stunning view of spring-fed ponds and beautiful wilderness while you relax on your private deck lounge on a Muskoka chair.

Amenities in the tent include luxurious linens, towels and robes, solar lanterns and an outdoor fire pit with seating, rustic chic furnishings, a BBQ and mini fridge and tableware. Each tent is equipped with its own washroom.

With many activities to enjoy your surrounding wilderness, guests can relax in the saltwater pool and hot tub, or get active with the new outdoor gym, join a yoga class or hike along the trails. If you’re seeking a more meditative experience, visit the Forest Chapel where you can take a seat on one of the live-edge pews and soak in the energy of the forest.

Whispering Springs offers a range of signature retreats throughout the season including Glamp Yoga and luxury wellness retreats for an extraordinary experience away from the bustle of everyday living.

A s s e a s o n s c h a n g e , Z u Z u i s h e r e t o t a ke y o u f r o m t h e h e i g h t o f s u m m e r t o t h e e m e r g e n c e o f fa l l . F r o m p a t i o t o f i r e s i d e . B e a c h t o b o n f i r e .

Don’t You Just Love It? 25 Dunlop St. East | 705.481.1231 www.zuzufashionboutique.com @zuzubarrie GoodLife | Barrie Summer 20212021

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Mercer Equipment Inc Is BarrIe’s PremIer Lawn and Garden equIPment store 28 Currie St 705-503-3535 | 431 Bayview Drive 705-734-0202 | mercerequipment.ca Jamie Mercer and his wife Tara founded the company 12 years ago to service the golf and landscape industry, but soon saw a need for a retail division. Three years ago they opened their doors to the retail industry. Mercer Equipment was proudly voted as Barrie’s Favourite Lawn and Garden Equipment Company in the recent Readers’ Choice Awards.

“Our customer’s needs always have and always will be our top priority,” says Jamie.

“I am proud of our staff who have made us what we are today. What makes us unique is that we genuinely care about our customers. We are passionate about providing excellent customer service and top-quality workmanship. ” Summer 2021 54 GoodLife | Barrie n

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“We listen to the needs of our customer and find the right solution for their needs,” adds Jamie. “Our top selling brands are Husqvarna, Stilh, Toro and Echo. We carry about 95 per cent of their product lines and if we don’t have what you want, we can order it. Our mission is to be everyone’s first choice when it comes to all of your lawn and garden power equipment needs.”

An innovative solution for easy lawn care is the new line of robotic Husqvarna Auto Mowers. “We come out and install the initial run tracer wires to keep the robotic mower away from your garden and pathways, and you just turn it on and away it goes,” says Jamie. “It automatically cuts the grass day and night! Customers are also enjoying our battery series of mowers, trimmers, blowers

and chainsaws because there’s no gas or power cords required.

Trimmers, blowers, mowers, snowblowers and chain saws--no matter what piece of equipment you need for residential or commercial lawn care, the qualified team at Mercer Equipment will help you find the right equipment for the job.

No matter what size property you have, Mercer Equipment Inc. have the right products, brands and service to help you have a lawn that’s the envy of your neighbourhood!

Mercer Equipment Inc. is your one-stop shop for all your lawn and garden power equipment needs, specializing in sales, service and warranty repair for most major brands.

And there are now two convenient locations in Barrie.

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“Our customer’s needs always have and always will be our top priority,” says Jamie.

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roam | golf destinations

GOLFING in the tropics

By Tracey Luel

Founder, Her Golf Mentor

Golf industry consultant with a focus on women

tracey@tlcx.ca | hergolfmentor.ca

PLAN THE PERFECT GOLF TRIP TO THE CARIBBEAN AND BERMUDA A warm and sunny golf vacation in the Caribbean or Bermuda may seem like a dream right now, but while we have the time why not plan, explore and get organized for fall 2021 and beyond. Fingers crossed! There are more than 20 countries and 700 islands that make what we call The Caribbean. Most of us can easily conjure up the warm breezes, gorgeous beaches and exotic views, along with the warm hospitality. The islands each have a special character, and some offer better beaches, better night life, unique experiences or luxurious privacy and seclusion.

But if quality golf experiences are what you are looking for, you can narrow things down to a handful of islands. The itinerary, length of stay and amenities for an amazing golf-centric vacation really depend on what type of group you are. Here are four examples; which one are you?

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HARD CORE GOLFERS A group with a high level of experience who are motivated to play every day (sometimes twice) on high quality and challenging golf courses.

You need comfortable accommodations close to great golf courses; ideally more than one course for variety. Three to four days is the perfect amount of time away from the family and work. Look for high quality and well maintained practice facilities for warming up, and working out the kinks post round. Ideally the resort offers different restaurants for variety, with drinks ready and waiting on the 19th hole. Consider creating a competition for your group during your stay which will add some meaning to those three-foot putts, and fuel for post round banter. Use the Trip Manager software from Golf Pass/ Golf Genius to make this process easy and professional.

Where to go

Casa de Campo Resort and Villas (#1 rank in the Caribbean) or Punta Cana Resort and Club both in the Dominican Republic

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Golfing with the kids A golf centered getaway for families with children over the age of 10. Family members may be skilled or new to the sport, so you need access to quality instruction and practice facilities so everyone can work on their game, along with an easy to moderate golf course to play on. Ask about booking a series of group lessons or even a half-day family golf camp. A mini putt on the property will put the kids over the top and make for bonus fam fun. An ideal length of stay is seven days or more, committing to golf four out of seven days – but probably best to stick to nine holes. Your destination should also offer other family friendly adventures, tours and experiences to round out your trip.

Where to go

Four Seasons Nevis or Tryall Club in Jamaica Golfing with the girls A group of women (ideally four to eight) who are motivated to have fun, immerse in golf, improve their games and chill out together. The perfect duration is four days and three nights.

Plan for nine to 18 holes every morning followed by a group lunch. Book one to two afternoons of golf camp with two hours of instruction and practice followed by cocktails. Set aside an afternoon for the spa, of course, and one afternoon to hang at the beach and read. Talk about a perfect way to recharge.

Where to go

The Bahamas is great for a four-day getaway. Try the Ocean Club Course (home of an LPGA event) and stay at the Four Seasons Sandals Emerald Bay Couples golf retreat For two to four like-minded couples who want to gather, golf, dine and enjoy quality time together as a group, and also reserve some time as a couple. Five days and four nights is an ideal length of stay. It’s best to travel with those with whom you share compatible skill levels and are ready to play three rounds of 18 holes over five days. When you’re not on the greens, make sure your destination offers fantastic group dining opportunities, great food and wine, spa treatments, sunset beach walks and one or two non-golf excursions.

Where to go

Rosewood Resort in Bermuda or Cabot St. Lucia (opening in 2022)

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TOP 5 TIPS

for planning the ultimate

Golf Getaway 1. Hire an expert Photo: Four Seasons

Photo: Four Seasons

Four Seasons Ocean Club Bahamas Photo: Horan Christian

Consider a golf travel specialist who can guide you to a perfectly curated experience.

A specialist will take all of your wishes into account including: • Hotel, villa or private home rental • Timing: three days or two months?

• Ground transportation options • Flight options: Private, charter or commercial?

• Golf access and tee times • Other unique experiences Consider one of these Canadian experts.

TJ at Golfaway Tours www.golfawaytours.com Wayne at Athlone Golf Golf and Sports www.athlonegolftours.com

2. Equipment essentials

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You can’t golf without clubs, but you don’t have to travel with them! If you are concerned about their safety while travelling (luggage handlers are not typically super careful) consider shipping your clubs ahead of time with a specialty logistics company like Shipsticks (https://www.shipsticks.com).

If you fly with your own clubs, make sure you invest in, or borrow, a good quality golf travel bag that is either hard sided or very well padded.

Pack your golf shoes, rain jacket, a dozen golf balls and a new golf glove in this bag.

Expect higher than average “resort pricing” on everything. You can also opt to travel light and rent clubs, but be sure to call ahead to inquire about what is available (brands, quality, model year, shaft length and stiffness) and reserve what you need in advance if possible.

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3. Play where the pros play Explore where the professional tour tournaments are to find the best quality and most challenging golf courses in the Caribbean. Check schedules for the LPGA, Symetra Tour, PGA Tour, Korn Ferry Tour, Champions Tour and Latin America Tour. If a golf course is hosting one of these events you can expect a higher level of quality.

4. Virtual practice round With indoor simulator golf, you can get ready for the real thing by practicing indoors during the off season. Several top Caribbean golf courses are available to be played virtually at a growing number of golf simulator lounges in Oakville and Burlington. Call and ask for your fave.

5. BYOPro If you are travelling with a group that wants to focus on game improvement, consider hiring and travelling with your favourite local golf professional. Build a group of seven people, and the pro is your eighth. Split the travel costs and have your own hand-picked coach on hand for an amazing week of instruction.

Residential i CommeRCial i industRial

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paradise

St. Kitts and Nevis is a

Golfer’s

Here’s a glimpse into the ultimate golf experience offered at St. Kitts and Nevis.

For most first-time visitors, the water taxi ride across the narrows from St. Kitts to sister island Nevis boasts a wide array of beautiful sightlines to celebrate the start of a well-deserved vacation. The sight of moored sailboats and yachts off the sandy beaches of the newly renovated Four Seasons resort along with the sun’s reflection dancing off the Caribbean Sea sets a scene for ultimate relaxation. For serious golfers, however, the focus is likely on the Robert Trent Jones II designed Four Seasons Resort Golf Course where the fairways climb up Nevis Peak on the front nine, and wind down to the sea on the back nine.

Some golfers beeline straight from the pier to the first tee box where they are greeted by Mackee France, the director of guest experience at the resort.

He will set up a golfer on the first tee in no time,

Photo: Four Seasons

dispensing advice on how to navigate the tight 6800-yard layout and chuckling about the beer loving green vervet monkeys. It would be a perfect time to ask for tips on the daunting 15th hole. Described by a well-known golf writer as a “bobsled run”, the 663-yard hole is the longest par 5 in the Caribbean.

For the brave, the championship tees invite you to hit the drive of your life over a heavily treed, but seriously deep canyon. Success sets you up for an eagle opportunity. The regular tees have you drive around the canyon for a much safer first shot, but has you hoping for par at best.

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To conclude the game, the picturesque 18th hole gives the illusion you are hitting your approach shots out to the sea as the green has nothing but blue skies behind it.

Post round, enjoy one the Four Season’s newly renovated bars and restaurants or take in the island culture with a barefoot walk down the beach to Sunshine’s Beach Bar, arguably the liveliest beach restaurant on Nevis. The fresh seafood and jerk chicken are delicious, the atmosphere is always buzzing and its famous Killer Bee rum cocktail packs a serious punch. Provided by St. Kitts Tourism Authority

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luxury adventures

Tower bridge, photo: Visit Britain

Royal London

Calls!

by Barbara Ramsay Orr While we may never be royal, and frankly most of us would not want the headaches and heartaches of being royal, the truth is we are endlessly fascinated by the pageantry of royalty. The history, the drama, the palaces and crown jewels never lose their allure. So, when the chance comes to travel abroad safely once more, London has a backlog of noble adventures available for visitors with an interest in the pomp and circumstance of British royal life.

Royal London Like me, you may have spent several pandemic hours lost in the intrigue of the television series, The Crown. If so, London has new tours that will broaden your knowledge of the locations, the characters and the

untold secrets of the royal family. There are walking tours or a combination of walking and driving tours. You can lunch in the same restaurant where Diana had that chilly encounter with Camilla, or view Clarence House and Lord Mountbatten’s London home.

If you are more adventuresome, set out on a self-guided royal walking tour, beginning at Buckingham Palace, ground zero for affairs of a noble nature.

The palace is open to visitors for the summer months, but visits must be booked in advance. Just around the corner is Cleave, at No. 1 Buckingham Place, the bespoke jewellery store which specializes in state regalia and which made Meghan Markle’s diamond engagement ring. For real royal style, check out Lock & Co Hatters on St. James Street, the oldest hatmaker’s shop in the world, to find a great chapeau or a unique fascinator to take home, or just to ogle. Their hats have graced royal heads for generations, as well as the heads of commoners like Winston Churchill, Oscar Wilde and Jaqueline Onassis.

Visit Grieves & Hawkes at No. 1 Saville Row to see what the gentlemen are wearing these days or to order a bespoke suit.

How about a romantic picnic in St. James Park, with a wicker hamper filled with lobster rolls, beef wellington shooters, Eton Mess, English cheeses and a bottle of sparkling wine? You can have the al fresco repast delivered to you or pick up your hamper at the Rubens Hotel ahead of time. Then, with the palace and the gardens for scenery, you can while away an afternoon of aristocratic leisure.

After your picnic, you may be in the mood for some royal fashion.

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Kensington Palace will feature Royal Style in the Making, opening June 3. It will showcase the wedding dress of Diana, Princess of Wales, on show for the first time in 25 years, in addition to a rare surviving toile from the 1937 coronation gown of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. The temporary exhibition, housed in the newly redone Orangery will explore the relationship between fashion designer and royal client.

Fans of Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies can immerse themselves in Tudor England at the Hampton Court Palace exhibition running this summer, “Gold and Glory: Henry V111 and The French King.” The exhibition will feature works of art, gold artifacts, weapons, manuscripts and clothing from the Field of Cloth of Gold, Henry VIII’s legendary encounter with his rival, the King of France. The show is displayed in the first floor apartments of Hampton Court, once used by Cardinal Wolsey.

While the large department stores, like Harrods, are a big draw, try shopping at the outdoor markets. Portobello Road Market is packed with curiosities, and Borough Market is a wonderful place for fresh food, and dozens of great little places to eat. Neal’s Yard is here, where you can sample some of the finest artisanal cheeses from across the kingdom.

You might as well sleep like a royal while you are touring London’s imperial places. The Guardsman Buckingham Gate is a new boutique hotel that brags of being neighbours with Buckingham Palace, a six-minute walk away. With an entrance just off Buckingham Gate in St. James, the five star hotel has the feel of a private club. If you want to hang out like an aristocratic neighbour, consider booking one of the private residences where you can settle in with a sitting room, terrace and kitchenette. The Guardsman is within easy walking distance of Green Park, Horse Guards Parade, Clarence House and Whitehall as well as Westminster Abbey. There are two tube stations nearby. (I haven’t stayed at The Guardsman, as it opened during the pandemic. but the guest reviews are excellent.)

Expand your Royal Circle If you want to stay on the careful side, choose a hotel outside the crowded busy centre of London.

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Buckingham Palace, photo: Visit Britain

“PORTOBELLO MARKET IS PACKED WITH CURIOSITIES AND BOROUGH MARKET IS A WONDERFUL PLACE FOR FRESH FOOD.”

From left: London’s Portobello Road Market; Paddington’s London. Photos: Barbara Ramsay Orr

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The Kew Gardens Hotel, one of my London favourites, is charming, with small but immaculate rooms, an excellent breakfast and a welcoming pub that features live music on some evenings. It has an engaging English comfort, with the added benefit of being a short walk from the famous Royal Botanic Gardens Kew. You can enjoy a tour of the gardens or visit Kew Palace, home of George II and Queen Charlotte and admire the views from the Great Pagoda. Visitors can tour the Royal Kitchens to learn about Georgian cuisine or visit the kitchen gardens that supplied most of the fresh ingredients for the royal feasts.

Kew feels like a village, even though it is so close to the city. It is home to the National Archives, where you can arrange to research your family tree by trawling through their 1000 years of records. It also holds a copy of the Doomsday Book, Guy Fawkes’ confession and Henry VIII’s letter of abdication.

There’s a Michelin starred restaurant, The Glasshouse, just down the street from the Kew Gardens Hotel, and you can walk to the train station. A 30-minute ride takes you into the heart of London. And Richmond, so upscale and beautiful, is in easy reach. Sunday roast in one of the pubs along the Thames in Richmond or an elegant lunch at The Ivy is a noble way to spend a summer afternoon.

The Lodge Hotel on Upper Richmond in Putney is another good choice, and is also close to good dining, with a train station close by for quick access to the city. At Putney Bridge, you can catch the Thames Clipper, a commuter ferry boat that will take you right down the Thames to the Tower of London. You can enjoy a glass of wine while you sail and along the way, you’ll see many of the important buildings of the city.

If now seems too soon to venture to England, most of these royal indulgences will still be there when you are ready to travel, and next summer will be very special; it’s the Platinum anniversary of Queen Elizabeth’s 70 years on the throne. Special events and celebrations have been planned all across the country to celebrate her reign.

Whether it is now or next summer, dust off your bowler hat and shine up the tiara – London’s regal best is waiting for you!

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