Family & Child Special Edition

Photo by Christina Palmer CS Photos www.csphotos.mypixieset.com

One of my favorite things about being a dad is getting to experience so many “firsts” with our girls.

A few weekends ago, a buddy of mine brought his kids up to our cottage and we all went fishing. Our oldest, Ella, was so excited for this adventure as one of the kids along for the visit was her classmate.

The fishing trip was a success! Everyone had fun, kids and dads alike, and we even caught three fish in the process. My buddy later cleaned and dressed them and Mandy cooked them over a camp fire on a cast iron pan. Talk about delicious!

Someone once told me that parenting is made up of long days and short years and I am seeing this more clearly every day.

This special issue of Canadian Home Trends Magazine is full of inspiration for you and your family, from trendy family room design to family-friendly recipes. Take a few minutes with a cup of coffee (hopefully a hot one!) to be inspired with this issue and remember how much fun having kids can be!

MARC ATIYOLIL Editor-in-Chief marc@canadianhometrends.com

Ella’s First Fishing Trip

CONTENT

Design & Décor

Expert advice for your dream home.

TOUR: Whimsical Nursery

A beautiful nursery by Designer Lori Steeves.

TOUR: Basement Oasis

A basement becomes a family oasis with space for everyone.

TOUR: Second Suite

An unused basement is converted into a two bedroom rental suite.

Crafter’s Corner

Creative ways to decorate your home for Fall.

Expert Advice

Experts share their advice for your home and your family.

In The Kitchen

Delicious recipes to enjoy at home!

Trendsetters

A look inside the lives and minds of some of the industries leading trendsetters.

Fall Fashion

The hottest trends in clothing and jewelry for Fall!

Health and Beauty

Improve your health with expert advice!

We Love…

Editor's picks for what's trending this year!

DoubleTake:

Multi-Purpose Family Space

thinking can lead to a space that goes above and beyond. When designing this basement for a family of four, Designer Gabriele Pizzale turned a small nook into a highly functional space that offers storage, a quiet place to curl up with a good book and an extra bed for overnight guests. We love the use of a dark color to highlight the space, adding a bit of drama to the room while at the same time, creating the feeling of a separation between the bed and the activity in the rest of the room. This, combined with soft, welcoming textures in the linens, create a space that welcomes you in to relax and unwind.

Gabriele

whimsical NURSERY

TEXT | Rayelle Unrau-Exner

A professional couple with a young son and a baby on the way, the homeowners lived in a small two bedroom condo in East Vancouver. They approached Designer Lori Steeves with the desire to furnish the main living space of the condo, upgrade the bedroom and "find room for the baby"!

The couple had considered accommodating the baby in their own bedroom or into their son’s room however both seemed impractical at the time. Repurposing this small space into a nursery was the answer but the space had no windows so it was important to design in such a way that it would feel light and airy with references to the outdoors.

The couple enjoy whimsical touches, thus the wallpaper and “cloud” light fixture. A favorite feature in this room is the wallpaper that stretchs up on to the ceiling above the crib! Because of the small space, this extra splurge fit nicely into the budget. Using low VOC recycled carpet tiles on the floor and toys and clothes they already owned as accessories also help to keep the budget reasonable.

Lori's advice to parents designing a nursery is not to overspend. The baby will never remember the nursery and while it is nice to provide a pleasant and fun sensory experience, it is not necessary. Keep it simple and don’t overuse bold patterns or an abundance of bright colors.

Design by Lori Steeves www.simplyhomedecorating.com Photography by Tracey Ayton www.traceyaytonhome.com

Behind The Scenes

Whole Care Childcare is a daycare facility that will be opening in January 2023. The center is unique in that it is all-inclusive and dedicated to empowering Indigenous, marginalized and underserved communities, individuals and families. Children with Autism, sensory processing disorder (SPD) and behavioral challenges will feel at home here with the state of the art sensory room, daily meditation and yoga. They will be inviting Indigenous elders and artists from the community to host educational activities and arts and crafts.

Designer Stephanie Hilton has been working with UGTS (Unique Get Together Society) for the past two years on this project. Finding a suitable property was not an easy task. It needed to meet a long wish list including a large open outdoor play space, enough room for an infant care space and a 3-5 space, plus a sensory room and offices. An older home on a lot zoned for commercial proved to be the perfect solution and so renovations have begun!

Unlike most daycares, Stephanie avoided the use of bold colors for this project. "This project was very interesting to work on." says Stephanie. "I had to go back to my schooling days and learn about color theory for people with autism and SPD."

As a result, a more neutral scheme of soft pastel colors and light wood tones will create a calm environment for all children.

The center embraces the 21st century learning style which refers to developing learning, literacy and life skills as part of the classroom experience. Learning skills encompass critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and communication, which have been identified as essential for successfully adapting to modern work environments. In a day care setting, this means having mobile, adaptable furniture that will facilitate any type of learning and a variety of activities. It also allows the children the freedom and autonomy of choosing what feels right for them, on that day. Stephanie and her team custom designed the millwork and most of it provides multiple functions.

The facility will offer a variety of learning & activity spaces for the children to learn and explore their individual interests, such as reading nooks, soft and hard seating, floor seating, traditional chair seating, standing activity tables, and a variety of individual or group activities they can choose from.

lifehacks

LAUNDRY ROOM IDEAS

UPDATE YOUR LAUNDRY ROOM WITH THESE GREAT FINDS!

HAMPER CABINET A hamper built into a cabinet with a countertop is a great choice for a smaller space. The countertop allows the hamper to also double as a work surface. There are a variety of single, double and triple options available to suit any space. - www.etsy.com

BETTER CLEAN It doesn’t matter how great your laundry room is if the laundry itself isn’t getting clean! Swash is an ultra-concentrated formula that washes up to 83 regular loads in one compact bottle and is specially designed to help boost your washer's ability to fight stains! The Precision Pour Cap takes the guesswork out of measuring and dispensing the right amount of detergent for you with no waste! Swash® laundry detergent was announced as the winner in the Household Products category for the 29th Canadian Grand Prix New Product Awards. Retail Council of Canada’s Canadian Grand Prix New Product Awards is a prestigious annual competition of the best new food and non-food grocery products. www.swashcanada.ca

MAKING SPACE Flexible options are great for making a small space work. This folding laundry hanger is a great example. It offers space to hang clothing items and folds against the wall when not in use to limit clutter! www.amazon.ca

CLEAN UP Having a space to deposit lint when changing loads is important. In a small space, a full size garbage can may not be an option but these magnetic bins are perfect. They attach right to the side of the machine for easy access with very little space required! - www.etsy.com

FRESHEN UP From time to time, even your washer needs a wash. Affresh® washing machine tablets are the perfect solution. They clean and freshen up your machine, helping remove odors and with monthly use ensure your machine is consistently clean. - www.affresh.ca

STYLE REVIEW

ULTIMATE WINDOWS The Ultimate product line unites beautiful design with exceptional craftsmanship. Add character to almost any space with an extensive selection of shapes, styles, sizes, and options, including wood interiors protected by tough aluminum exteriors. With nearly limitless opportunities for customization, Ultimate can match your vision and give it room to grow. - Marvin Windows, www.marvincanada.com

MODERN MEETS NATURE Mixing clean, sleek modern lines with warm, natural materials like wood creates the perfect blend of modern style with traditional comfort. The natural colors and textures in this space also help to blend the interior with the exterior visible through the large windows.

KEEP IT SIMPLE When you have a space with stunning views, let them do the talking! Keeping the décor and furnishings simple and complementary allows the view to act as artwork for the room!

Get The

basementoasis

When starting a basement renovation, there are two key things that Alex at Reno Duck feels are important to consider. the first is WHY. Why are you renovating? What is the desired outcome of the project? This 800 sq. ft. basement was designed for homeowners who desired a gym, a bar, a bathroom, and place to relax so those wishes were top of mind through -out. The second key is resale value. If you decide to sell the house in the future, will this renovation make it worth more or less than the original? Even if you aren't planning to sell right now, it is important to understand how your renovation may affect the value of your home down the line! You also don't want to spend money on trendy items only to have it look outdated when you do decide to sell later.

In this small basement, creating an open concept design maximized the space without the waste of walls. To

make room for a bigger TV, the fireplace was located on a different wall. This allows the homeowners to enjoy both features without compromising on either or cluttering up a single wall. The owner likes to workout so naturally a gym space was part of the design and a steam room is the perfect complement to the gym. To make this work, the bathroom houses a shower that doubles as a steam room as well. A black feature wall starts in the shower and continues into the bathroom to blend the shower into the space instead of having it look separate. The bathroom is finished in a mix of white tones, gold accents and a wood vanity that makes the space both trendy and functional. It's the perfect spot to unwind after a great workout!

Budget is an important factor in renovation and Alex cautions homeowners not to think of their budget only in terms of upfront cost but also in terms of functionality and long term value! Working with an experienced team ensures that every square foot of your space is used to its best potential. This may cost a little more but gives you more functional space opposed to having someone who doesn’t use the whole space, leaving parts undone or useless. Quality work that lasts longer is also a better investment when it comes to cost of ownership in the long run. You don’t want to be renovating again in 5 or 10 years or repainting once a year. Splurging on high quality, professional materials does save money in the long run.

Project by RenoDuck, www.renoduck.com

FAMILY ROOM FOCUS

THERE’S NOTHING QUITE LIKE CURLING UP IN FRONT OF A CRACKLING FIRE FOR A FAMILY MOVIE OR GAME NIGHT! A FIREPLACE MAKES THE PERFECT ADDITION FOR THESE GATHERING SPACES.

MODERN DRAMA

A large, well chosen slab can become a work of art all on its own! This luxurious, modern fireplace is the perfect example. The stone selected is a work of art with its beautiful, dramatic pattern, instantly drawing the eye when you enter the room. The end result is a sleek, modern look with tons of personality!

INTEGRATED BEAUTY

Building a fireplace into your entertainment unit cabinetry is a great way to bring in the warmth of a fireplace while still allowing the TV to be the focal point of the family room. This beautiful, linear fireplace is perfectly designed to allow both the TV and the fireplace to occupy the same wall!

TRADITIONAL LUXE

A traditional fireplace with a beautiful marble surround adds a feeling of luxury to the home. We love the way the wainscoting details along the walls work perfectly with the traditional glamor of this fireplace surround!

Projects by Take Us For Granite, www.takeusforgranite.ca

ROOM WITH A VIEW

In a large, open concept space, a fireplace at one end can easily get lost in the space. Here, the space is divided into zones with a short wall piece. A double sided fireplace allows both rooms to enjoy it while also helping to maintain the feel of a more open concept space.

#familyfunFAB FAMILY ROOM IDEAS

The key to a successful family room design is FLEXIBILITY! This space needs accommodate many different activities and interests. From play space for little ones to hang out space for teens and a welcoming spot for adult get togethers, this space must do it all!

CREATIVE DESIGN

The family room is a great place to play with fun design styles. We love these light fixtures for a family room because they offer the perfect blend of fun and elegance for a space that will work for all ages! www.robinsonlightingcentre.com

ADULT SPACES

A family room should offer space for everyone in the family, including the adults! Keep your own interests in mind when designing this space as well! We love the idea of a bar space with Monogram wine columns that offer superior wine storage. This allows the basement to go from children’s playroom to adult lounge space as needed! www.euro-line-appliances.com

ENTERTAIN ON THE GO

A large TV is on the wish list for most family rooms, but space may not always be on your side! We love the idea of a portable LED projector that will allow you to create a large screen TV experience wherever you put it, and then simply put it away when not in use! - www.samsung.ca

in a dream loca on! Dream Home

Bathrooms

Bedrooms

Park-like Setting Quiet Neighborhood

Elegant and spacious, enjoy the luxuries that come with a gorgeous home built on a premium lot backing onto a beautiful park setting. Watch your children play in the park from your kitchen or backyard. Embrace the warm afternoon sun in your private backyard, or relax in your soaker tub in the spa-like master ensuite. Host all your family and friends with room to spare! The ultimate kitchen with upgraded appliances is open to a grand family room with a gas fireplace, enjoy quiet evenings or gourmet dinners by the custom gas fireplace and stone surround in the dining room/sitting room. 10ft ceilings on the main floor and 9ft on the second floor. New custom countertops in all bathrooms and on the kitchen island, custom glass in the bathrooms and an abundance of pot lights throughout. The basement's potential is unlimited with roughed-in plumbing and is ready for your dream home theater, rec room, gym, in-law suite or all of the above! This is a dream home, in a dream location. Paul Mann, www.mannestates.com

Elevate

YOUR FAMILY KITCHEN

KEEP IT SIMPLE

Well planned cabinetry with storage options customized to your needs is a must! It allows countertops and shelves to remain uncluttered and keeps the kitchen feeling cleaner!

ISLAND KING

A kitchen island is by far one of the most family friendly features you can include in your kitchen. It provides extra work surface for preparing family dinners, extra seating, homework space and just a great place for the family to gather and hang out! This stunning kitchen island will see many years of conversations, shared experiences, delicious dinners, memorable entertaining and much more!

COME ON IN

Creating a bright, well lit open concept space will encourage family to gather and will also make it easier for parents to keep an eye on the whole family while working in the kitchen as well!

THE KITCHEN IS THE HUB OF EVERY FAMILY HOME! IMPROVE THE FUNCTIONALITY OF YOUR KITCHEN WITH THESE TIPS INSPIRED BY A BEAUTIFUL KITCHEN DESIGNED BY GLOBAL INTERIORS!

Design

sweet

Over the years, we have seen an increase in open concept requests with the core reason being family. Opening up the main floor provides families the opportunity to spend more time together as a unit with the ability to do other individual activities too.

Many of our designs incorporate togetherness. A great example of this is creating islands that offer seating. This way there is family engagement and conversation while making a family meal.

There are many benefits to families from creating an open concept layout in their home. It provides safety for children as parents can keep a better eye on them. It gives a great feeling of togetherness, flow and functionality. In addition, it gives the home that natural light and openness that many people love. It truly gives the "Home Sweet Home" vibe.

in beau ful OakvilleLuxury Living

Bathrooms

5 Bedrooms

Beautifully Landscaped Yard Heated Underground Parking

This gorgeous Oakville home offers luxurious living space that includes heated floors on the main and lower levels, a personal elevator to all levels, and heated underground parking. This house features tons of natural sunlight, with a big patio and landscaped yard. The two-toned gourmet kitchen features a stunning eat-in center island, high-end appliances, and access to a butler servery. Off of the servery is a large dining room with built-in speakers. Floating stairs lead you to a sky-lit second floor. Primary suite features his/ hers walk–in closets and a full spa-like ensuite retreat. The second floor also includes an additional three bedrooms with secured closets and heated ensuites. In the lower level you can enjoy a poker game and watch the game in the recreation room with a large walk up to the backyard allowing for lots of natural light. Finish your entertainer’s sanctuary with a personal gym or your own home theatre. - Michael Phinney, www.phinneyrealestate.com

Creating a second suite in an unused basement is a great way to bring in extra income or provide affordable housing for other family members. For these homeowners, the appeal of a second income stream was the motivation for the renovation. The space now offers two bedrooms, a full bathroom, in-suite laundry and an open concept living space that is bright and airy!

Light is an important factor when planning a basement space. For this project, installing larger windows and working with a light color palette maximizes the natural light and allows the space to feel larger and brighter.

An open kitchen with a peninsula breakfast bar makes use of every inch of space to create a unique and highly functional space. The quartz countertops were definitely a splurge but well worth it for the stunning, durable finish they provide. To keep the budget in place, the existing fireplace was worked into the design and the entire suite was outfitted with a quality Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring solution. This option is not only affordable, but also softer and warmer than tile and more moisture resistant than hardwood.

SECOND SUITE

Project by Black Jack Contracting, www.blackjackcontractinginc.com

Renovated Family Home

in picturesque Li le Mountain

PROPERTY FEATURES

own piece of paradise on Little Mountain! Recent renovations include laminate flooring, modern light fixtures, windows, designer paint and country inspired bathrooms. The updated kitchen features a tiled backsplash, steel appliances and granite countertops. The fully finished basement has its own separate entry. A new fence surrounds the private backyard with access to the lane behind. - The Property Finders

CRAFTER’Scorner

ONE OF THE REASONS WE LOVE THE CRICUT LINE IS BECAUSE THEY ARE CONSTANTLY COMING OUT WITH NEW AND EXCITING WAYS YOU CAN USE YOUR CRICUT TO CREATE AMAZING PIECES FOR YOUR HOME! UP YOUR CRICUT GAME WITH THESE THREE NEW MATERIALS WE’RE LOVING RIGHT NOW!

GLOW-IN-THE-DARK

Available in Removable Vinyl and Iron-On Heat Transfer Vinyl, new Glow-in-the-Dark materials let you add a fun new level to your projects. Perfect for seasonal decor, party accents, children's room, costumes, clothing and so much more!

This

Looking for inspiration for your Fall Cricut projects? Check out these ideas and more at www.cricut.com

MATTE METALLIC

Matte metallic details are a great way to add a trendy touch of sophistication to your home. This new Matte Metallic Smart Vinyl lets you add matte gold or matte silver accents to walls, doors, furniture and more! Plus, it is removable for up to 2 years, so if your tastes change, your decor can to!

WATERCOLOR ART

Now you can make watercolor masterpieces using your Cricut! The new Watercolor Cards are made with cold-pressed watercolor paper. Use the new Watercolor Marker & Brush Sets to draw your design using your Cricut and then use the Water Brush to create stunning, freehand watercolor effects!

Tips from the Pros

OUR EXPERTS SHARE SOME OF THEIR BEST ADVICE FOR YOUR DREAM HOME & COTTAGE!

Proper ventilation is key to providing your family with a healthier, more energy efficient home! With proper ventilation, your home will experience 3 full air changes per hour. This means the air is constantly moving and remains fresh. This makes it easier to breathe in the house and reduces the risks of moisture and mildew issues.

Renee Ibrahim Royal LePage

THERE IS NO REQUIREMENT TO HAVE A REALTOR SO WHY WOULD I GET ONE?

Statistically, the average home does sell quicker and at a higher price when using a real estate agent, but I do know this may not be enough to convince some people to use an agent.

A few years ago, an old college friend negotiated on her own to buy her dream house. It was absolutely gorgeous with brand new appliances and even a hot tub out back. The sale was finalized and everything seemed in order. Upon moving in, she discovered that the appliances had been swapped out with older, cheaper models and the hot tub was gone! Not having a realtor to protect her, she had failed to ensure these things were included in the contract and had no legal recourse.

While a situation like this is unfortunate, it happens all too often to the untrained buyer or seller. It is important to have someone in your corner to support and protect you but also to ensure everything is done correctly and there are no unpleasant surprises!

In addition to providing a healthier home for your loved ones, proper ventilation also Affects your budget. Proper ventilation is crucial to the life of your roof itself, reducing the need for costly repairs over time. It also translates into energy efficiency, which means lower heating bills and more extra spending money to take the family out!

Custom safety/baby gates are becoming more and more popular. They not only keep small children and pets contained but custom gates allow homeowners to create styles that will match existing railings without obstructing the view.

Gone are those bulky plastic gates that do not fit the opening, take away too much space, and damage the floor and walls! Art Metal offers a wide range of steel and glass gates to create a completed look of your fence or railing. Steel gates are extremely durable, safe and easy to operate for interior application and can be matched to any railing design which allows to create a truly tailored look on your staircase.

Glass gates also come in a variety of options, including framed gates for a more conventional look as well as frame-less glass to allow for maximizing the space and opening the view. The latter is becoming extremely popular for terraces and pool areas that allow the homeowner to truly enjoy landscaping around them.

Let It Rain Roofing

Angela Calla Mortgage Broker

Most Canadians dream of owning a beautiful home where they can raise their family and watch them grow. With the cost of everything rising and additional costs we accumulate as our families grow, Canadians may become unaware of how debt outside of their mortgage is holding them back.

For example, it’s common to have a car loan payment for $500 a month, a credit card bill that's maybe $200 a month, and a line of credit that stays at around $300 a month. That’s $1,000.00 in payments outside of a mortgage. DID YOU KNOW, that can take AWAY 200K in mortgage qualifications? That's the difference between buying a home for 600k or 800K! Debt consolidation allows you to free up your monthly cash flow to re-invest in your family’s future.

This is not something generally forthcoming if you deal with any lender on your own, as higher interest products are the largest profit-making item for all institutions.

If your debt is growing and you foresee a large purchase, we recommend being proactive. Refinancing with the lowest available interest rate including any penalties or costs will give you the chance to provide for your family’s needs.

If you're ready to live the life you've always dreamed about and stop stressing about monthly payments, get in touch with us so our team can evaluate your financial situation and provide you with unbiased advice!

How often should I have my drains cleaned?

If you are sensible as to what you put down your drains, you can virtually eliminate the need for drain cleaning. However, issues can sometimes occur because of the way your drains were installed. For example, lack of grade to the pipe can sometimes lead to clogs. It is important to ensure plumbing installations and repairs are done correctly by an experienced professional and to be aware of what can and can’t be put down your drains.

CONSIDERING A METAL ROOF? HERE ARE A FEW KEY THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW!

NOISE: Contrary to popular beliefs, metal roofing is very often quieter than an asphalt shingle roof. This is due to the fact that metal roofs float over the roofing deck, creating an air space between the metal roof and the roofing deck. This extra space creates a sound barrier, so to speak. The underlay coating used by London Eco-Metal Manufacturing Inc. provides additional noise reduction properties.

LIFESPAN: A properly installed metal roof will last you a lifetime. Superior technology finishes provide long-term protection against peeling, blistering, cracking, splitting and delaminating. There is an option of restoring and recoating the finish in 40 or 50 years’ time in order to extend the longevity of your metal roof.

For many homeowners, building a dream home is a forever project. They are creating the space where their family will build memories and create a legacy for years to come. For that reason, it is very important to consider long-term use when designing your dream home. Here are a few questions you should ask as you design your dream home.

Will you be having more children? If so, does this home offer the space necessary to accommodate your family as it grows?

If you have children already, will this home suit them through-out the coming years as their needs change?

When your children are adults, will this home offer space for multiple generations to gather together?

As you mature, will this home offer you the ability to age in place easily?

Michael Cerny, Ambassador Fine

Custom Homes

Jeff Wright

The Great Plumbing Co

Insurance 101

CHANGING NEEDS FOR GROWING FAMILIES!

Our car and home insurance policies change as different life events happen. It could be a marriage, a new baby, home renovations, kids growing up and learning to drive or going off to college. There are many scenarios where you will have to change or update your policies. It’s important to keep your insurance providers up-to-date on any changes that occur; especially ones that will affect your living or driving situation. Doing so will keep you, your family and your home/car protected and can even save you money.

GETTING MARRIED

Congratulations! This new stage of your life may see you changing your living arrangements or purchasing a first home together which means home insurance will be necessary. This is also a good time to look at bundling your existing policies together for possible savings!

Purchasing a Home

Home insurance is not mandatory in Canada, but it is almost always required to secure a mortgage. You can also unnecessarily delay the closing of the sale without having home insurance. Home insurance may include personal property coverage and liability coverage as well. There are a variety of policy types that vary in cost based on the specific risks covered. It is important to work with an experienced agent to find the policy that offers the best coverage for both your needs and your budget.

HAVING A BABY

Growing your family can change the way you commute, what you drive, and your living arrangements in terms of size or location.

Larger Vehicle or Second Car

This new addition to your family will most likely change your driving situation and could see you trading in your sedan for a minivan or SUV. You will need more seats and storage space, and this change will affect your insurance.

Home Renovations

Renovations may be necessary to make better use of the space, finish the basement or to add on to the home to provide an extra bedroom or larger living space. All renovations, big or small, need to be communicated to your insurance provider. Aside from affecting the risk level of your home, implementing changes to your policy can also help you maintain an accurate replacement value for your home. If you don’t update your home insurance policy after making a significant modification to your home, your home insurance provider won’t have an up-to-date replacement value for your home. So, if something were to happen, the modified aspects of the property won’t be covered by your home insurance policy.

TEENAGERS

Your kids are growing up and becoming teenagers and that means more changes for your family! With the teenage years comes new drivers in your home! Adding more drivers to your car insurance policy is important. You can add occasional driver insurance or secondary driver insurance to your current policy, depending on how often they will be using the vehicle.

COLLEGE

Another exciting time for both parents and their children is when they go off to college or university. If they are moving off-campus, either on their own, or with roommates, it’s important to get renters insurance. Investing in quality renters insurance is invaluable for financial security and peace of mind. It protects the personal contents within the rental unit, such as clothing, appliances and furniture, as well as items in a storage locker in the building. Renters insurance can cover a number of expenses that students (or their parents) would otherwise have to pay for out of their own pocket.

No matter what stage of family you are at right now it’s important to make sure you and your family have full insurance coverage by keeping your insurance providers up-to–date with any changes. You can always inquire as to what amount of coverage you need for your particular situation.

ENTERTAINING 101

Thanksgiving and Christmas are just around the corner, and The Millionaire’s daughter is very prepared. From fabulous dining tables to gorgeous headboards.

Are you scrambling to get ready for the in-laws coming over during the holidays? There is no better way to prepare than to reuse, recycle, and refresh. By shopping at your local gently used furniture store you save money and get to put these stunning pieces to use again. Why waste money on a brand new furniture piece that you can get for less in the exact same condition, especially when it’ll only be used a few times a year. This stunning brown headboard will definitely have your guests saying WOW!

When it comes to dining sets and table settings around the holidays we all know you want it to be perfect. This set is perfect on a budget. From the accent glasses to the silver charger plates, you will be ready for thanksgiving. Buying everything in one place is like a dream come true, you don’t have to run around to 10 different stores to get everything you need. Or maybe you just need a bigger dining table

and chair set to fit the ever growing family. We have waited 2 years to get together and so go over the top and ENJOY! - The Millionaire's Daughter www.themillionairesdaughter.com

The Best Investment

It is said that real estate is the safest investment option and for good reason! Let's say you purchase a rental property. You rent out the property for 10 years. Over those 10 years, the value of the home stays the same (which is unlikely, it will almost always increase) and the rent you collect just allows you to break even after mortgage payments and expenses. After 10 years, with the rental income covering the mortgage payments, you have still realized a 9-11% annual rate of return on your 20% down payment just from the principal pay down of the mortgage! Alternatively, let's say the property appreciates in value at 5% annually over the long term. That equates to a 25% annual rate of return on your 20% down payment!

The easiest way to start to build your own real estate investment portfolio is to use the equity available in your principle residence. Did you know that every $100,000 in accessible equity in your home can fund the required down payment to invest in $500,000 worth of rental property? $150,000 = $750,00, $200,000 = $1,000,000, etc! This is a great way to put your existing equity to work to build a strong and secure investment portfolio.

The key to success when it comes to real estate investing is to work with a team of experienced professionals who can provide you with the best possible financial advice and help you build a mortgage plan that is tailored to your needs. Ranked in Canadian Mortgage Professionals' Top 75 Brokers in Canada for each of the last 3 years, at Synergy Mortgage Group we feel that educating homeowners on the power of using the equity in their home to accelerate reaching their financial goals is an important part of what we do. We do this by showing them the benefits of investing in rental property and earning a long term rate of return of 25-40% annually on their investment. - Josh Perez, www.synergymortgagegroup.com

DID YOU KNOW: Studies show that families who listen to music together experience more laughter, more togetherness and more fun!

AND TECHNOLOGYFamilies

been blamed for creating a whole host of issues for the modern family unit, however, leveraging this same technology thoughtfully can also have the opposite experience and bring modern families together.

The internet is an amazing place filled with information and human connections. Unfortunately, there is also a lot of stuff that we, as parents, would rather shelter our kids from.

Circle by Disney is a very easy and cost -effective way for parents to take back control of content and even time online. This innovative little box connects to your Wi-Fi and the app lets parents control a bunch of things. We can control when access to internet begins and ends each day, what type of sites the kids can visits (works well on some dads too) and even lets you reward kids with more Wi-Fi time. It has really helped our family focus and manage our tech time!

There are numerous studies which prove (time after time) that families who listen to music together experience a very different family dynamic than those who don’t. Not only is it quality time spent together, it’s also been shown that homes filled with music experience more laughter, more togetherness and more fun! A smart speaker from Sonos, Google or Amazon lets you add music to your home as easily as plugging in a lamp! With a few simple steps you can have music in some of the key areas of your home. Most people add music to their kitchen but the family room and backyard are also prime candidates for music and a good pair of speakers in a rarely used living room will turn it into a functional space filled with energy and life!

Safe to say that most homes already have multiple smart TVs

but have you ever considered adding lighting control to your TV room to create a truly immersive experience? We love Hue by Philips because you can easily swap out your existing bulbs for smart bulbs which can change color. There is actually a device called the PLAY HDMI Sync box. You plug into your TV and it will change the Hue lights in the room in sequence with what is being displayed. Trust us when we say that this solution, with a great sound system, is going to make family movie nights way more fun and Star Wars even more interactive!

As with everything in life, there is a fine balance between enough and too much with technology. A well-planned experience can greatly enhance family time and ensure that the limited time we all have together is meaningful and fun!

Michael Freedman AI Technology and Design www.aitechdesign.com

Accessible Bathroom Planning

When designing a space, long-term use should always be a consideration. The end result should be a space that is highly functional now but also meets potential future needs as well. In the bathroom, this is even more essential. It is important to ensure the bathroom will meet both current and potential future needs of all family members! While we don't like to think about the negative, the reality is that aging, accidents and unforseen illnesses can cause temporary or even permanent changes to accessibility needs and these can require expensive renovations if they are not considered in advance! Here are a few important questions to as k yourself:

IS THE ENTRY into the bathroom wide enough to accommodate a walker, wheelchair or equipment like a lift if needed?

DOES THE DOOR swing outward? This is important for enabling access in case someone falls.

IS THERE A COUNTER that someone can sit at to do hair or brush teeth, either in a chair or wheelchair?

ARE CONTROLS for lighting, fan, and shower located at accessible heights?

IS THE FLOORING non-slip and easy to walk on in both dry and wet conditions?

IS THERE ENOUGH ROOM in the bathroom for a caregiver to assist if needed?

These considerations will have little to no impact on the look and feel of the bathroom but can have a massive impact on the functionality of the bathroom over the coming years.

Bathroom Renovation by Shift Accessibility, www.accessiblerenovation.ca

COMING HOME

For homeowners looking to improve the value of their homes – and cope with the needs of multiple generations living under one roof, garage or basement renovations make sense. Both enhance home value and add much-needed living space for less than one might spend on building an addition. That being said, adding a bathroom, kitchenette and laundry room in spaces with concrete floors can have drawbacks. The expense of cutting concrete may quickly deter you, not to mention the extraordinary amount of noise and dust breaking through concrete generates. Here are three ways to convert your garage or basement into an additional living space for your grown-up child affordably and easily.

BATHROOM

Opt for macerating, or above-floor, plumbing systems that do not require

installers to cut through concrete or dig. The system can be installed right on top of the existing floor. Wastewater from a toilet, tub, shower or sink is pumped up or horizontally through smalldiameter piping, rather than flowing down conventional plumbing. The up-flush system doesn’t store waste like a sewage ejector system. Wastewater immediately moves to the septic tank or sewer system with every flush.

Saniflo’s Saniaccess 3 is one example of a macerating pump unit used for a full bathroom. It has a ½ horsepower pump system and macerator whose stainlesssteel blades rotate at 3,600 RPM to reduce incoming water and organic waste matter into a fine slurry. Homeowners can install the pump system 15 feet below the sewer line or 150 feet away from a soil stack.

KITCHENETTE

Above-floor plumbing solutions, such as the Sanivite drain pump, can be used to create a small kitchen, complete with a sink and dishwasher. Designed to sustain

the toughest applications and capable of handling very hot water and even grease, the Sanivite will pump gray water from up to three fixtures in residential applications. Waste water from these fixtures enters the unit via two, 2-inch inlets on either side of its housing or through an additional 1-1/2" inlet on top. Featuring built-in check valves to prevent backflow, the system then discharges this waste up to 16 feet vertically and/or 150 feet horizontally. The Sanivite can also be installed in small spaces, such as inside a kitchen cabinet.

LAUNDRY ROOM

Saniflo's Saniswift drain pump is an easy and affordable solution to adding a small laundry room, equipped with a sink and washing machine, virtually anywhere. Powerful, yet economical, the unit is compact enough to fit neatly beneath a laundry tub, while its attractive design makes a stylish addition to any space. The Saniswift can even handle gray water from a washing machine through an indirect connection, such as a laundry sink.

AS HOME PRICES SKYROCKET AND BECOME LESS AFFORDABLE, IT'S TIME TO THINK ABOUT ALTERNATIVES FOR YOUNG ADULTS OR RECENT GRADUATES.

Recent interest rate hikes for the average homebuyer equates to them needing a higher annual income to qualify for the same mortgage amount they did a mere six months ago. A typical home buyer with a $100,000 household income at the beginning of the year would qualify for around a $525,000 purchase with a 20% down-payment. Right now that amount has dropped down to a purchase of $450,000 with increased interest rates and qualification rates.

So what can a new homebuyer do? We spoke with veteran Calgary real estate experts May Davidson of The Group at Re/Max First and Diana Dorais of Mortgage Alliance.

DIANA ADVISES TO:

Put more money down. Cut down on discretionary spending or ask your folks for help with a gifted down-payment. Take money from your savings, investments or RRSP’s.

Put less money down. Insured high ratio mortgages typically carry a lower interest rate vs a higher rate conventional mortgage. This can mean that you qualify for a mortgaged amount with the lower monthly payments.

Look at government subsidies, and incentives for homebuyers. You can find details at www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca.

Improve your credit score. A higher credit score is easier to qualify with, and can sometimes get you a better rate.

Apply for a variable rate vs the higher fixed rate (higher qualification rate for fixed rates).

Take a longer amortization period. Amortizing your mortgage over a longer period will reduce your monthly payments and allow you to qualify for a higher mortgage amount.

Buying as InterestBuying as Interest Interest Interest Rates Rise.

Ask your parents to be a Co-Applicant on your mortgage.

Minimize your overall debt. If you want to go out and buy a fancy new car then do it after your home purchase. It’s much smarter to invest in appreciating assets than depreciating assets.

MAY ADVISES HER CLIENTS TO:

Buy more affordably. You should have the intent of working your way up in housing, not starting with your dream home.

Put a little sweat equity into it. Buy something with “good bones” and a smart layout. You can always paint yourself, replace cabinet doors, add a garage or develop the basement later.

Buy with someone else. Pick carefully and make sure it’s a good fit, but buying your first home with someone else can put you into homeownership much earlier than if you wait to do it on your own.

Look for the deals. A good real estate agent can advise you on where and how to find good value.

With any of these, talk to your accountant, financial advisor, mortgage broker and real estate agent first to make sure these things are done properly and fall under the rules of the CRA and your chosen lender.

Christopher Audette, Award Winning REALTOR®, www.thegroup.ca

Do your children need insurance?

unforeseen costs related to a child’s illness. Depending on your budget and concerns, you can choose coverage ranging from basic to advanced to help ensure that you can afford everything your child needs to get better.

Some common reasons and scenarios that lead parents to use insurance for their babies and children are:

There are many different types of insurance policies available for children. By reducing financial stressors and freeing up mental space, insurance policies benefit children, parents, and families alike. Here’s how children’s insurance helps:

It Guarantees Insurability

Health can change at any time. Insuring your child while they’re young and healthy means guaranteeing their coverage well into their adult years-no matter what. And, having early life insurance coverage lets you purchase additional insurance in the future, without requiring medical evidence (which is a big deal!).

Its Value Grows Over Time

Purchasing a permanent life insurance policy for your newborn, baby, or child means setting them up for life. Life insurance policies provide death benefits that grow over time to offer a bigger and bigger payout. They also offer “cash surrender values” which means they can be accessed whenever your child needs financing in the future (for example, when they want to put a down payment on a home).

It Lets You Focus on What Matters Most

A child’s critical illness policy provides the financial freedom you need to access pricey medications and additional treatments that might not be within reach without it. It also pays for you, as your child’s parent or guardian, to take time away from work to be with and care for them, without facing a loss of income.

It Reduces Out-of-Pocket Expenses

Child health insurance policies protect your family from many unexpected or

Realizing not everything is covered through your provincial plan. (Think additional treatments and therapies outside of standard treatment protocols.)

Having a child who requires medication that isn’t covered by the provincial health care plan. (This can become very expensive very quickly.)

Requiring additional dental services for your child. This doesn’t have to be illness-related, it could be for something as commonplace as braces or a retainer.

Reasons To Insure Your Little One

First, as we mentioned above, it guarantees their insurability as adults. Second, while we never, ever want to think about our children leaving this world before we do, it can and does happen. And the financial burden associated with the loss of a child isn’t something any parent should have to worry about during a very challenging time.

Having life and living benefits insurance for your child not only takes on the financial burden off your family for things like medical costs and funerals, but it can also provide the beneficiaries (typically you, the parents) the time they need to grieve without worrying about their financial situation. A portion of that insurance policy payout could even let you quit your job for a period of time, without any significant financial impact.

If you have questions about what the right insurance policy may be for your children and/or family, be sure to speak to a licensed insurance professional and learn about your options!

www.winnipeginsurancebrokers.com

YOUR RENEWAL CONSIDERATIONS

While most Canadians spend a lot of time and expend a lot of effort in shopping for an initial mortgage, the same is generally not the case when looking at mortgage term renewals.

By omitting proper consideration at the time of renewal, this practice costs Canadian citizens thousands of extra dollars every year. Nearly 60% of borrowers simply sign and send back the renewal that is first offered to them by their lender without ever shopping around for a more favorable interest rate.

Generally it is a good idea to start shopping for a new term between four and six months before your current mortgage term expires. Many lenders send out your renewal letter very close to the time that your term expires and this does not give you ample time to arrange for a mortgage term through a different lender. This means that you need to be tracking your own mortgage term timeframe and know when it is time to start shopping for a good mortgage renewal rate.

Before you ever hear from your lender about renewing your mortgage term, have a licensed mortgage professional shop around for you. You will be amazed at what they can accomplish on your behalf!

Jevad Danesh & Lina Addeo www.easymortgagepro.ca

home safety

FIRE SAFTEY FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

When it comes to fire safety, being prepared for the unexpected is your first line of defense. But it’s not enough for just the adults to know what to do in the case of a fire emergency. When it comes to protecting your home and family, every member of the household needs to be involved.

Establish a ‘kid-free zone’ in the kitchen. Unattended cooking is a leading cause of home fires. Remain in the kitchen while the stove or oven is in use and practice safe cooking. Create a kid-free zone of at least one metre around the stove and any areas where hot food or drinks are being prepared to help prevent burns and fires.

Test your smoke alarms. The smoke alarms throughout your home help play a crucial role in keeping your family safe by alerting you to potential dangers.

However, it’s not enough to just have alarms installed – you also need to test them regularly. Test your smoke alarms at least once a month to ensure they’re in working condition and replace the batteries at least every six months if you have battery-powered alarms. If there are young children in your household, show them the sound your smoke alarms make when you press the “test” button so they know what it sounds like – and know what to do in case the alarm goes off.

Create and practice an escape plan.

According to a study conducted by First Alert, only 56 per cent of Canadians have a fire escape plan, and among those that do, just one in five said they practiced it twice a year. In the event your family needs to evacuate your home, every second counts. To develop your emergency escape plan, identify two exits out of each room, including windows and doors, and set a dedicated meeting spot outside. Once outside, stay outside and call 911. Be sure to practice your escape plan with the entire family at least twice a year.

Try This

Keep a fire extinguishing device on hand. In the event of a small fire, it’s important to have a fire extinguishing device readily available—and to know how to use it.

All adults in the household should learn how to properly operate a fire extinguisher using the acronym P.A.S.S. –pull the pin, aim the nozzle at the base of the fire, squeeze the trigger and sweep from side to side.

For an easy-to-use alternative to a traditional fire extinguisher, consider the First Alert EZ Fire Spray. Its lightweight, spray-can design has no pins or levers, making it easy to hold, carry and use. Just point and spray to stop fires fast. EZ Fire Spray is small and compact making it easy to keep within reach, especially in the kitchen, to help be prepared. To learn more about how to keep your home and family safe, visit firstalert.ca.

PREPARE POOLISH

Put flour in a bowl and sprinkle yeast over it. With a hand whisk, mix to incorporate. Add water and whisk until velvety smooth. Use a spatula to scrape down any mixture on the walls of the bowl.

Cover bowl with plastic wrap and let sit out at room temperature for 8 or 9 hours. Starter will visibly expand and become bubbly. The surface should be covered in bubbles and jiggle when you tap the bowl.

MAKE DOUGH

Add 220g/200ml/7 ½ oz. water to poolish and give it a good stir.

Attach Sifter + Scale and Whip to your Stand Mixer. Direct swivel chute into the mixer bowl. Use scale to measure 500g flour and 2g salt. Release ingredient valve and set Stand Mixer to Speed 1 to sift dry ingredients into bowl while whisking them together.

Remove Sifter + Scale and replace Whip with Dough Hook. Pour the poolish and water mix into dry ingredients. Knead for 2 to 3 minutes on Speed 2, until dry flour is fully incorporated and dough looks sticky. At this stage, the dough is unfinished and will not be smooth. Remove the dough and put in a separate bowl.

PROOF DOUGH

Cover bowl with plastic wrap. Let dough rise 45 minutes for the first proof.

Wet your hands and work surface by dipping your hands in lukewarm water and sliding them along your countertop or “bench”. This will help keep the dough from sticking.

Scrape dough out of the bowl and “knock back” by lifting the dough with both hands and letting gravity stretch the dough to the surface. Now, fold it in half to make one elongated piece. Rotate dough one turn to the left and repeat folding and rotating, about 6 times total, wetting your hands as needed to prevent sticking. You will notice the dough getting smoother as you work. Make sure you scrape up any dough sticking to the countertop.

Return dough to bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let dough rise 45 minutes for the second proof.

While dough rises, spread out a large kitchen towel on your work surface and place a sheet of parchment on top. Dust parchment with a little flour and set aside.

DIVIDE DOUGH

Lightly flour your work surface. Scrape dough onto the floured surface. Sprinkle additional flour on top of the dough. Divide it into 4 equal portions.

Pre-shape each baguette. Gently tap the dough portions with your fingertips into a rough 5 or 6 inch rectangle. Tap just enough to spread it out — you don’t want to push out the air. Slightly fold the top two corners of the rectangle toward the center. Then lift the top half and tightly roll it halfway down the rectangle. At this halfway point, pull both sides of the dough towards the middle again, press it in and now continue your original roll all the way down this time. You should have a tightly rolled up 6 inch tube with rounded ends ideally with only 1 visible seam that should lay on the bottom. Line up baguettes without them touching, keeping the seams on the bottom. Cover with a sheet of oiled plastic wrap and let rest 15 minutes

Place baking stone in oven on middle rack and preheat to 475°F (246°C) for at least 45 minutes. Place a cast iron skillet on the bottom rack. You will fill this with water when you put your epis in.

ROLL INTO BAGUETTES

Clean work surface and lightly sift flour across the top. Uncover the first baguette and lightly sift some flour on top of it. Place it top side down on the countertop so the top is now the bottom. Gently tap the dough without pressing out the air into a nice oval shape about 6 to 8 inches wide. Fold the bottom third of the oval up . Then fold the top third down over that and press gently with the heel of your thumb to seal. Flip dough 180 degrees. Starting from right to left, pinch the top of the dough and pull it down over the seam all along the baguette. Press the seam with the heel of your thumb and flip the dough 180 degrees again. Repeat, pinching the top of the dough and pulling it down and over the seam all along the baguette. Roll so the final seam is facing toward you on the side of the baguette. With the heel of your thumb, firmly smack down along the seam only (not the top of the baguette) against the surface. This is your final sealing, and you are essentially using the

surface to pinch it shut. Roll the baguette so the seam is on bottom. You should now have a raw baguette shape with rounded ends and no visible seams.

Roll the dough gently back and forth to elongate baguettes until they reach 15 inches in length. If shorter, continue working from the middle and rolling outwards to elongate. You cannot shorten the baguettes once they are rolled out, so work carefully. Taper the ends a bit by pinching them out so they become pointy.

Once each baguette is formed, gently lift and lay seam side up on the floured parchment. Curl up the kitchen towel 2 inches high along each length of the dough sides to create support walls. The dough should now be nestled in like a hot dog in a bun. Repeat with all four baguettes. Cover with a tea towel or kitchen towel and let them proof for 30 minutes.

CUT WHEAT SPIKES

Lay two baguettes seam side down on an oiled half-sheet pan.

Use scissors to cut wheat spikes. Hold scissors at a very low angle, 45 degrees or less and cut through the width of the baguette every 1 to 1.5 inches from the tip of the last cut mark. Only cut 90% of the way through the baguette. The last 10% will hold the loaf together. Once you make each cut, push the wheat spikes to alternating sides.

BAKE EPIS

Set sheet pan with epi loaves directly onto the preheated baking stone. Protect your face from rising steam by

leaning away from oven opening and fill the empty hot cast iron pan with 1 cup of water. Lightly mist the whole oven with water using a clean squirt bottle. Baguettes love steam! Bake 10 minutes, then rotate pan for even cooking. Bake for another 6 minutes or until epis are golden in color to your liking.

If you would like more browning on your loaves, set the oven to broil to finish off your bread for 2 more minutes. Make sure you turn the oven back to bake before starting the next batch.

Repeat with remaining loaves. Let bread cool at least 15 minutes before serving and eating.

TIPS & TRICKS

Always use freshly bought or opened yeast for best results or you run the risk of your bread not rising. Dry yeast is inexpensive, so this is an easy way to eliminate one of the many variables that make baking bread tricky.

If you need to let the poolish sit for more than 9 hours, place it on the top shelf in your refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Remove from the refrigerator and let come to room temperature 2 to 3 hours before you begin preparing dough.

Poolish can get too cold in your refrigerator causing it to stall. It doesn’t mean it’s not working. If you don’t see activity, let it sit out longer at room temperature and warm up to show bubbling.

When transferring raw baguettes from the parchment to the oiled baking sheet you can use a thin cutting board or long piece of cardboard wrapped in foil as a baker's peel for more support.

For each 45 minute proof, ambient temperatures in your kitchen should ideally be around 74°F (23°C). If your space is cold, you may put the dough bowl in the top rack position of an unpowered oven with a pan of steamy hot water on the bottom rack.

We Love…

The newest special edition stand mixer from KitchenAid, Blossom, is a gorgeous addition to any kitchen!

Inspired by aromatic herbs and a love for nature, the mixer features a soft Thyme Green color with botanical accents. A unique hammered copper bowl that will develop a unique patina over time, finishes the look perfect!

Honey Champagne

Fondue

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 pounds Gruyere cheese, shredded

1 1/2 cups champagne

1 Tbsp cornstarch

1 tsp mustard powder

1/2 tsp pepper

1/4 tsp salt

1 Tbsp lemon juice

1 small white onion, finely chopped

3 Tbsp Western Sage Glacier Honey

DIRECTIONS

In a large fondue pot, combine cornstarch, ground mustard, salt and pepper. Whisk in champagne and lemon

juice until smooth. Add in white onion and garlic. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and gradually stir in cheese until melted. Stir in honey.

Serve with baguette pieces, asparagus, pears, apple slices, chicken breast slices, cooked shrimp, etc.

As Seen on the Marc & Mandy Show

Looking for fresh, easy recipes you can try at home? Check out the Recipe section at www.MarcandMandy.com for great recipes, cooking demonstrations and so much more!

Pro tip: Make sure to drizzle the birch syrup over the cardamom cream or it will sink to the bottom of the bowl. Don't worry if it does, as it will result in a delicious surprise at the bottom. Either way it will be delicious!

Roasted Yam Soup

1/2 lb Carrots

4 unpeeled Garlic Cloves

1 Tbsp Olive Oil

1 Cup Chopped Leeks

1 tsp grated Ginger Root

1 tsp Olive Oil

5 Cups Chicken or Vegetable Stock

1/4 tsp Salt

1/8 tsp Pepper

1/2 Cup Half and Half Cream

CARDAMOM CREAM

1/2 Cup Sour Cream

1/2 tsp Ground Cardamom

2 Tbsp Amber Birch Syrup

DIRECTIONS

Cut yams and carrots into 1/2 inch slices. Place into a medium bowl and drizzle with 1 Tbsp of Olive Oil. Toss until veggies are coated with oil. Spread onto the cookie sheet or roasting pan. Bake at 425 F for 20 min. Veggies will not yet be soft but tender-crisp. Cool. Slide the yams and garlic out of their

set aside.

Heat 1 tsp of Olive Oil in a large sauce pan on medium heat. Add leek and ginger root, saute 5 min until leek is softened. Add the stock, salt and pepper, as well as the yams, carrots and roasted garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer partially covered for 10 min. Stir occasionally until vegetables are tender.

Remove from stove, cool slightly and mix in a blender or food processor until smooth. Transfer back to the large saucepan, add half and half cream and heat for 2 - 5 minutes but don't bring to a boil. When heated through well enough to serve, ladle into bowls. With a small spoon, carefully place and slightly swirl 1 Tbsp of Cardamom Cream on each serving. Drizzle with 1 tsp of Amber Birch Syrup over the cream. Serve immediately.

with Birch Creamwith Birch Creamwith Birchwith Birch

TASTE THE POSSIBILITIES with award-winning, Canadian-made birch syrups! The Canadian Birch Company offers a delicious selection of culinary syrups and Ready to Eat sauces that give extraordinary flavor to your favorite dishes. These high-quality syrups and sauces are the perfect way to add a new flair to your recipes this fall!

TRY this

The Little Kitchen Academy is the first of its kind, Montessori-inspired cooking academy. The academy offers courses for children from ages 3 through teen with a focus on empowering children with practical life skills and knowledge. The team aims to provide a positive and joyful environment where children are inspired and educated to make healthier eating choices and refine their senses!

In Canada, you can find Little Kitchen Academy locations in BC, Alberta and Ontario with new locations planned for the future. There are a wide variety of programs available including LKA Late Nights, a fun and interactive program for teens. Late Nights runs on Friday and Saturday evenings and gives teenagers a fun, safe way to spend their evenings while learning valuable information about nutrition, proper recycling and composting practices, eating locally, organically, and how our choices affect the environment and our planet.

For more information on The Little Kitchen Academy locations, programs and mission, visit www.littlekitchenacademy.com

Marina

Locio TRENDSETTER

Born and raised in Brazil, Marina made the decision to move to Canada in 2014 in order to follow her dream into the health field. She has always been passionate about medicine and going into the aesthetic medical field seemed like the right path. She gets to fulfill her professional dream at the same time as helping fill a need in the market. Marina is inspired by her patients and the community she has had the pleasure of meeting within the industry. Every smile she sees after treatment and every message she gets motivates her to keep giving her best.

She launched ML Aesthetics Clinic after carefully researching and analyzing what the public around her needed. She spent a lot of time on education, planning, and organization before opening her own clinic. Marina is constantly researching the most up to date procedures she can offer her patients. She finds passion in helping her patients boost self-confidence with the most natural results. The ML Aesthetic Clinic was built on honesty, trust, and respect to ensure everyone gets the ultimate best experience.

CANADIAN HOME TRENDS If you could have lunch with any one person in the world, who would you pick and why?

MARINA LOCIO One of my main inspirations in the entrepreneur world is a businesswoman from Brazil, Bianca Andrade. She has built an empire from nothing. She is the founder of Boca Rosa Company, one of the biggest makeup companies in Brazil that also has a lot of sub-brands.

CHT Name one thing on your bucket list.

ML Going on a tour around Europe.

CHT What is your favorite room in your house?

ML My bedroom. It brings me peace after my busy days of running a business.

www.mlaestheticsclinic.com

Dalia Barsoum

EXPERT

Question: Does the lowest rate really matter?

Answer: Choosing the lowest mortgage rate often means agreeing to a host of unfavorable terms. Here are six components to watch out for that can sink even the best laid-out investment plans. This can include a fully closed mortgage, add on insurance premiums, equity traps, payment limitations, teaser offers or simply the wrong lender for your portfolio!

The objective is to obtain the best financing terms on as many properties as possible through proper planning and structuring of financing. A lender who is offering the lowest rate for a current deal might not be the right lender for your portfolio from a strategy standpoint. The wrong lender could limit the number of properties you can finance down the road at favorable terms or have an implication on the type of financing you can get from your next deal.

Marion Fudge TRENDSETTER

Originally from London, England, Marion started her fashion career in 2001 at the renowned British fashion house, Ghost. There she worked her way up from apprentice to manager, buyer and merchandiser. After moving to Vancouver, Marion turned her love for fashion into a unique, low pressure, customer-led shopping experience with the opening of Tenth & Proper in March of 2007.

Tenth & Proper offers a unique selection of European and Canadian womenswear with a focus on times, ageless and well cut styles. Comfort is paramount when choosing styles for the boutique as Marion believes that comfort should be the most important consideration when you are adding to your wardrobe. "It's hard to look good if you don't feel great in what you're wearing." says Marion "So, be realistic about choosing things you know you'll wear because you feel good in them and they complement your existing wardrobe."

CANADIAN HOME TRENDS What are you most excited about right now?

MARION FUDGE Fall collections are rolling in!! Fall pieces offer the perfect transitional styles for life in Vancouver all year round. This year, I am seeing some fantastic styles and colors, and there are some very special yarns being used in knits. Vests are all the rage this year as well, and I will be offering several versions and colors!

CHT If you could go back 20 years, what advice would you give your younger self?

MF To believe in myself and my skills, and to have faith that my tenacity in the fashion business will pay off!

CHT Name one thing on your bucket list.

MF Seeing the East Coast of Canada

CHT What is your favorite room in your house?

MF My living room, it's a quiet space full of light and where I regularly prefer to meditate. www.tenthandproper.shop

Jennifer Kaiman

EXPERT ADVICE

4 Tips to Keep Your Dog's Mouth Healthy

Dogs are part of the family and we want them to live their best lives. Proper oral hygiene is a key piece of your dog’s overall health and happiness. Periodontal disease affects a significant amount of adult dogs, which puts them at risk for all kinds of health issues.

Here are 4 tips to help keep your dog’s teeth and gums in top shape.

1. Schedule regular cleanings by the age of 2

2. Brush teeth daily.

3. Choose quality foods, avoid sugars and fillers.

4. Give toys and treats that promote oral health.

Nichole

Nzegwu TRENDSETTER

Nichole has always had a love for cooking and playing with recipes but was unsure how to turn that passion into a business. Her eureka moment came when she awoke to the delicious aroma of her sister’s homemade granola at 3 am and felt an immediate sense of warmth and comfort. When the pandemic hit, Nichole wanted to share that same sense of warmth and put a smile on people's faces through food. And so, in July of 2021, Kare granola was born.

Kare Granola is more then just a granola company. They are passionate about community health, well-being and involvement. A two-time nominee for the RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards, Nichole feels it is important to support, empower, and help women and young girls in vulnerable situations receive the support they deserve and build better lives for themselves through Kare Granola as well.

They offer unique flavors that are handmade in small batches with organic, gluten-free, plant-based, and 100% natural ingredients sourced locally. They even offer the unique opportunity for customers to create custom orders by choosing their own ingredients, an option that is especially wonderful for those with dietary preferences and health concerns!

CANADIAN HOME TRENDS: If you could give one piece of advice, what advice would you give?

NICHOLE NZEGWU Sometimes what you're looking for is right under your nose. Don't do what everyone else is doing. Always find ways to make yourself or your business stand out.

CHT If you could have lunch with any one person in the world, who would you pick?

NN Tory Burch. She launched her fashion business while trying to build a foundation for women. She was ridiculed for her idea of running a business and social responsibility simultaneously. Ultimately, she created a foundation that empowers women and women entrepreneurs. I would love to sit with her and learn from her.

As the new school year begins, families may check their current living space and see the need for more square footage. Whether your family has 1 or 2 kids, or 3 kids and a dog, more living space is always better. You may be considering your options to look for a bigger family home or simply reorganize your current living space.

How can you tell which one is right for you and your family? Start by reorganizing and purging what is old and what the kids no longer play with. You may find that your child has space in their room for a corner desk now that all the toys are gone.

Decluttering may not be the answer. In that case, the preparation has already begun to get your home ready to sell.

The next step is to chat with a professional team. We can optimize the best home selling solution that allows you to thrive in any real estate market.

Kevin

Shown Available From:

Chart

Toppers

IN 2023, TRENDS IN GEMSTONES AND SEMI-PRECIOUS JEWELRY WILL BE INFLUENCED BY OUR DESIRE FOR UNIQUE STYLES, ROMANTIC DETAILS AND BOLD, EARTH INSPIRED COLOR.

EMERALD: Jewelry designer Le Vian predicts that the emerald will be the gemstone of choice for Spring 2023. This bold green stone carries a feeling of new life and fresh beginnings.

OPAL: The milky look for opal gives it a unique look that is both earthy and romantic at the same time.

TANZANITE: Reminiscent of Pantone's 2022 Color of the Year, Periwinkle, tanzanite has grown in popularity this year and will continue to be a popular choice in 2023 with it's soft, romantic bluish purple color.

CHOCOLATE: Earthy, chocolate colored stones are a great choice for fall and are predicted to be a must-have for 2023. This unique, unexpected color is perfect for those who want jewelry that will grab attention and spark conversation.

MORGANITE: The soft, romantic pink color of morganite has made it a popular choice both for fashion jewelry and engagement rings alike.

FALL FASHION REPORT

TREND WATCH

Cozy Sweaters

Cooler weather welcomes back cozy sweaters. This year, update your wardrobe with fun patterns, soft textures and trendy colors!

Donegal Half-zip Sweater, www.scottishcompany.com; The Earth Love Sweater, www.omomobi.com; Sage Aztec Cardigan, www.sunlaced.com

Earthy Texture

Top a pair of your favorite jeans with a cozy top in an earthy color! Adding a mix of textures including denim, leather, lace and more, creates a cozy and stylish look that is perfect for fall.

Brushed Bomber Jacket in Tobacco, www.rw-co.com; Kenzie Lace Flutter Sleeve Leotard from the Bailey's Blossom Collection, www.countrykidsco.com; Floral Balloon Sleeve Top, www.sunlaced.com

Shades of Green

Green has been a popular color all year long. For fall, the focus changes from bright, bold colors to muted earthy greens and rich, deep emeralds.

Justin Sage Jacket, www.simons.ca; Gentleman’s Outfit with Suspenders, www.patpat.com; V-Neck Ruffle Detailed Open Back Dress, www.sunlaced.com

PEARLS

Bold bangles, worn alone or in stacks, are all over the runways this year. Mix and match your favorites to change up your look over and over again.

BANGLES

With nature at the top of our minds in recent years, earthy and floral motifs are a great way to add a unique touch to any outfit.

Inspired by 90s throwbacks, pearls are making a comeback for everyday wear!

All That Bling

Update your Fall wardrobe with these favorites inspired by Fall 2022 runway trends! www.benmoss.com

LOCK & KEY

Show your romantic side with lock and key motifs in the form of necklaces, bracelets, earrings and more!

Add personality to your wardrobe with charm bracelets and necklaces inspired by the things you love!

CHARMS

Arthritis:

A Family StruggleA Family StruggleFamily StruggleFamily Struggle

Dr. Mark Hawass, Arthritis VIP, www.arthritisvip.com

Diseases affect an individual but they can also affect the family just as much, if not more. This is especially true for arthritis.

Let me explained. If you get diagnosed with hypertension, you will be taking pills to manage the high blood pressure. Life goes on. You still can work, continue your responsibilities with your partner and take care of the kids or the grand kids. Your family and friends might not even know that you have hypertension.

It is a completely different story when it comes to arthritis. You start taking medications, painkillers or injections. Generally, arthritis gets worse over time and you get more side effects from the medications. This leads to gaining weight, less activity, anxiety, depression, insomnia, social isolation, sexual dysfunction and financial struggle. As an individual, you feel all of the above and it messes up your mental and physical well-being.

For the family, they might not understand your pain and what you go through. They need to take care of you which creates tension and frustration. It will affect the family finances and relationships. Often, the damage to the family dynamics is worse than patients anticipate.

Please don’t ignore early signs of arthritis. Get the family involved early on. It is like financial planning. Anticipate and plan the next 5-10 years.

Mental: Your biggest asset is your mental capacity. Do not give up because you are physically limited. Consider your arthritis as a changelog and find a way to excel.

Partnership: Your partner needs to educate themselves about arthritis and its long-term impact. Understanding pain cycles, weather changes and flare

up patterns will help better understanding, communication and a happier relationship.

Intimacy: Painkillers will affect sexual desire, cause erectile dysfunction in men and reduce sexual desire in women. Moreover, arthritis pain will limit sexual activities. Plan for sexual activity in the afternoon as the joints are less stiff. Take your painkillers 1 hour before, take a warm bath to ease the joint pain and improve joint function and finally pick a position that will not aggravate your joint pain.

Financial: If your job is physical, I would suggest to do a career shift in the next 5-10 years. Re-train in a skill

that is non-physical. Look for something you can do from home or an office. This can make the transition easier when arthritis gets worse and allows you to continue earning an income.

Social: Engaging in family and friends’ events will become harder. Pacing and mutual understanding will generally help all parties.

The best plan is getting your arthritis managed early before it impacts the one you love. At ArthritisVIP.com we manage arthritis to get you and your family the life you deserve.

Naturally

Dental Implant Options

There are many things that can cause tooth loss over time and while we can not always control all of these factors, there are options available to help restore your smile!

Conventional dentures are removable, acrylic based appliances made to fit on top of your gums. These have been used for many decades and while technologies have enhanced greatly over time, even the best conventional dentures can be difficult to handle. They can move during function which can cause sore spots and they often reduce the ability to taste and enjoy food. Conventional dentures have also been shown to accelerate the rate of jaw bone loss which affects the facial structure.

Implant-supported dentures have grown in popularity over recent years because they offer a solution without many of the common problems found with conventional dentures. Dental implants are inserted into the jaw bone beneath the gum tissue and once in place, they are safe, comfortable and as easy to maintain as natural teeth. They offer superior support and help maintain the integrity of your jaw bone without compromising what you can and cannot eat! While dental implants may be more costly, with proper care, they can last the rest of your life! - www.clearcareperio.com

Aldo Mormile

EXPERT ADVICE

CAN I STILL GET A MORTGAGE WITH BAD OR NO CREDIT? HOW?

Securing a mortgage with bad credit or no credit can seem daunting but the good news is that there are options available to you!

If you have absolutely no credit but have the qualifying down payment, you may use the help of a co-signer to add strength.

If you have credit but it is not good, Alternative B financing is a viable option. To make this work, the down payment needs to be a minimum of 20% of the purchase price. Alternative B lenders are allowed to lend to 80% of the purchase price and tend to focus on higher risk clients that other lenders will not accept.

HORIZONS expand your

NEVER CLIMBED BEFORE?

Bouldering is one of the best and easiest ways to start climbing: no ropes, no harnesses, no partner? no problem. All the fun of climbing but easy to access with a supportive community and comprehensive range of training and development programs. Kori Cuthbert at The Hive Climbing and Fitness suggests that new climbers take the Introduction to Bouldering lesson, a two-hour class that covers all the basics of climbing, how to fall in order to reduce risk of injury as much as possible, essential tips and tricks to get you started and primed for success!

THE BENEFITS OF CLIMBING FOR ALL AGES

1. Everyone is a climber! We all started climbing as kids either to get up a tree or sneak a cookie off the counter. Some of us have just forgotten how, but if you can climb stairs or a ladder, you already are a climber!

2. Climbing challenges you physically and mentally. Climbing involves problem solving, how you personally will climb a boulder problem may likely be different from someone else. One person may climb a boulder problem delicately moving precisely and using their flexibility. While the next person may use physical power to skip holds and get to the top.

We also find climbing works great for people of different abilities to climb together. Parents can climb with their kids at the same time (as long as they meet our supervision criteria). With everyone climbing together, they can push themselves as hard as they want. The Hive Climbing and Fitness has upwards of 100 boulder problems in the gym with route setting happening twice a week to change routes through the entire gym over five weeks.

3. Afraid of heights? No problem whatsoever. Climbing helps build skills to become more comfortable and achieve a healthy relationship with a fear of heights. “I personally have a fear of heights and find climbing has worked to build my confidence by knowing what I am capable of. This has allowed me to climb very high exposure routes around the world and have experiences that many people only see in movies and photos” - Kori Cuthbert, The Hive Climbing and Fitness, www.hiveclimbing.com

Andy Rooney

Your Child

AND THE DENTIST

shoulders to teach your child healthy oral care habits including regular dental visits. Of course, for many children, the dentist can be an intimidating experience. Here are some tips to help make oral health care easier for your child!

COMMUNICATE: Communicating with your child in a calm, reassuring manner is important. The more they understand why dentistry is beneficial for their oral and overall health, the less intimated they will be by the experience. The same goes for at home oral care. When teaching your child proper brushing and flossing techniques, explain why it is important to make this a regular routine so they understand the benefits of what they are doing.

PREPARE: Your attitude can convey the message that dental visits are pleasant adventures. Try to schedule the appointment for the time of day when your child is most rested and cooperative.

that prevention is the best way to ensure less dental care is required down the line. Children's teeth rarely grow in perfectly straight. Invisalign clear aligners offer a fantastic, easy to use option for children that can help prevent pre-existing bite issues from getting worse, fix existing teeth straightening conditions, improve the appearance of a growing child's smile and even help correct oral habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting. www.nosehilldental.com

Inflation Benefits

Inflation and increased mortgage rates have put many families across Canada in a financial crisis, especially new homeowners! With that said, there are still a few ways to use the current inflation and the increased mortgage rates to your advantage. You can:

INVEST: Refinance your current mortgage or get a Home Equity Line of Credit and purchase an investment/ rental property. Due to increased rates, property values are depreciating. You may pay higher interest for the first year or two, however, the housing market and the mortgage interest rates will return back to normal and you will reap the rewards when they do. In the mean time, the rental income on the property will offset your mortgage payments.

UPSIZING: If you're been considering upsizing, this is the perfect time to list your property and have your realtor find you a larger home. Have your mortgage broker set it up so that as you sell the current property, you move into the new one and have a bridge loan prepared if necessary. Your current property may sell for a lower amount but the larger property will also have a lower value, allowing you to upsize while prices are low! Larger properties are taking a long time to sell, therefore they see a higher dip in their value.

CONSOLIDATE DEBT: If you have a property, depending on the market value of the property, existing mortgage, and a few other variables, you may be able to refinance, apply for a home equity line of credit or a second mortgage. These solutions use the equity you have built into your property to pay off some or all of your high-interest debts such as credit cards, lines of credit and loans. Debt consolidation will not only increase your monthly cash flow but will also increase your credit score which directly affects your qualifying rates for future credit inquiries. - Arash Abdollahi, www.bankerstobrokers.ca

WElove

EDITOR'S PICKS FOR WHAT'S TRENDING FOR YOUR FAMILY THIS YEAR!

PARTY READY

Add more fun and life into your gatherings with the Grand Videoke karaoke system! It has a unique Perfect Pitch™ scoring system that gives you real-time feedback when singing. It’s like having your own singing coach!

The Grand Videoke karaoke system has over 8,000 built-in karaoke songs. Sing all you want from a wide repertoire of pop to classic songs and all-time favorites! Song update is a breeze and you can have full control of your Grand Videoke system with the GV Smart App for your iPhone/iPad or Android device.

The Grand Videoke karaoke system is very portable so you can bring it anywhere you want and set it up in no time. It has two GrandVoice™ professional wireless microphones for high-definition and effortless singing.

With the Grand Videoke karaoke system, you can turn your home into a party-ready venue to stage your celebrations, anytime. www.grandvideoke.ca

WINTER BIRDING

Wild Birding can be a great way to spend time together as a family and it's a fun hobby for all ages! Of course, in colder areas, bird watching in winter might not be as pleasant but that doesn't mean there aren't fun things you can do together to nurture your hobby through-out the season! www.urbannaturestore.ca

PLAY A GAME - Games are a great way to pass the time on cold winter evenings. Bird themed games are a great way to have fun while also learning names of different species at the same time. There are options available for every age, from memory games to bingo and more!

BUILD A HOUSE - A bird house or bat house are a great way to bring wildlife into your yard for easier viewing! Building a house together is a great family activity and you can enjoy watching bats and birds using your creations for many seasons to come! Starting with a kit makes the process simple and easy, even for the least experienced DIYer.

MAKE A WISH LIST - Use the slower winter months to plan and prepare for the coming year! Encourage younger family members to make a wish list of birds they would like to see and learn more about each bird on their list. Young Birders Guide to Birds of North America is a great resource that can be used for this!

FASHION GIVES BACK

Mental health is a topic near and dear to many families and 10% of all sales from Cottage Country Lifestyle Apparel Co. go to support mental health! We all want to feel like we belong and feel a sense of connection where we live. In a post-covid world, this collection of apparel reminds us to Be Kind, a message we can all get behind! saltspringislandapparel.company.site

Family game night is a great way to keep family connections alive and bring everyone together in a fun, educational and fulfilling way. Get your family excited about family game night once again with these great game ideas that are sure to become classic family favorites in no time! www.boardgamebliss.com

VITICULTURE: ESSENTIAL EDITION

In Viticulture, the players find themselves in the roles of people in rustic, pre-modern Tuscany who have inherited meager vineyards. They have a few plots of land, an old crushpad, a tiny cellar, and three workers. They each have a dream of being the first to call their winery a true success.

The players are in the position of determining how they want to allocate their workers throughout the year. Every season is different on a vineyard, so the workers have different tasks they can take care of in the summer and winter. There's competition over those tasks, and often the first worker to get to the job has an advantage over subsequent workers.

Fortunately for the players, people love to visit wineries, and it just so happens that many of those visitors are willing to help out around the vineyard when they visit as long as you assign a worker to take care of them. Their visits (in the form of cards) are brief but can be very helpful.

Using those workers and visitors, players can expand their vineyards by building structures, planting vines (vine cards), and filling wine orders (wine order cards). Players work towards the goal of running the most successful winery in Tuscany.

DIXIT

One player is the storyteller for the turn and looks at the images on the 6 cards in her hand. From one of these, she makes up a sentence and says it out loud (without showing the card to the other players). Each other player selects the card in their hands which best matches the sentence and gives the selected card to the storyteller, without showing it to the others. The storyteller shuffles her card with all the received cards. All pictures are shown face up and every player has to bet upon which picture was the storyteller's.

THE CASTLES OF BURGUNDY

The Castles of Burgundy is set in the Burgundy region of High Medieval France. Each player takes on the role of an aristocrat, originally controlling a small princedom. While playing, they aim to build settlements and powerful castles, practice trade along the river, exploit silver mines, and use the knowledge of travelers.

XIA: LEGENDS OF A DRIFT SYSTEM

A 3-5 player sandbox style competitive space adventure. Each player starts as a lowly but hopeful captain of a small starship.

Players fly their ships about the system, completing a variety of missions, exploring new sectors and battling other ships. Navigating hazardous environments, players choose to mine, salvage, or trade valuable cargo. Captains vie with each other for Titles, riches, and most importantly Fame.

The most adaptive, risk taking, and creative players will excel. One captain will rise above the others, surpassing mortality by becoming Legend!

Did You Know?

76% of families say they are not satisfied with the amount of quality time their family spends together!

Wet/Dry Vac

24V 3 Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum: The Greenworks 3-Gallon wet/dry shop vacuum is compact and portable while still providing plenty of power and airflow. It has intense suction for both wet and dry surfaces. This vacuum quickly converts to a blower for light debris removal, and the washable filter traps 99.7% of dust. The lithium -ion platform powers over 25 products including lawn mowers, hedge trimmers, and more! The best part is that it also comes with a 3 year tool/ battery warranty to ensure you get the most out of your purchase.

Cordless Cleaning

The Greenworks 24V brushless cordless stick vacuum lets you keep the powerful suction you need to successfully complete any job without the constant frustration of moving around a cord. This vacuum is compact, lightweight, and easy to store. An efficient brushless motor gives you more power, quiet operation, and a longer motor life. Featuring a LED touch display screen, basic wall charger, 24V lithium-ion battery, and even a 3 year limited tool & battery warranty to ensure you get the best out of your purchase. The lithium-ion platform powers over 100 indoor and outdoor products including lawn mowers, blowers, chainsaws, and more!