GRAND Magazine Vol 7, Ed 4

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Authentic

Stacie Gaetz Editor editor@islandparent.ca

RaeLeigh Buchanan Account Manager raeleigh@islandparent.ca

Kristine Wickheim Account Manager kristine@islandparent.ca

There are many transition points throughout our lives that lead us to ask ourselves this question—during puberty, when graduating from high school, while choosing and building a career, when our children leave the house, during retirement.

It can be nerve wracking, frustrating and overwhelming to search for the answer to this ageold question.

There is no doubt that change is scary, but we all know it is also inevitable. When we have time to reflect and realign, it can be incredibly valuable to do so in a

meaningful way. It opens the door for self-discovery and progress in directions we may not have ever imagined.

While these stages can bring challenges, they also allow space for growth, exploration and the chance to focus on what matters most to you. If you are going through a transition, it may be time to take inventory and figure out what brings you joy.

Ask yourself: What does success mean to me right now? Who do I want in my life? How do I want to spend my time? What makes me feel good? What gives me purpose?

And maybe most importantly: What can I let go?

Whether it’s following your dream of writing a book, discovering a new hobby, exploring an award-winning restaurant, learning how to use AI or reigniting your passion for music, reconnecting with who you are doesn’t have to be a chore.

It can be an exciting journey that ignites your passion for what is important to you and leads you to become your most authentic self.

The Truth About Fiction

Wise words from an author who has been writing for children, teens and adults for 25 years.

When she was growing up, Victoria resident Karen Rivers’ mom wanted her to have a “real job.” Although she always had her nose in a book, her parents didn’t see writing as a viable career option.

“In the pages of a book, we can be braver than we really are, we can go further than we’d normally dare, we can understand more than we know.”

As a result, she got a degree in International Relations and planned to go to law school. The driven young woman was disappointed when she was waitlisted during a year when no one dropped out. But she was tenacious, and she switched her focus to pre-med. Unfortunately, a failing grade in calculus changed her plans again.

Then, in 1993, at the age of 23, she suffered a cardiac arrest as a result of an eating disorder.

“My life of constantly running forward to seemingly earn these ‘badges’ and do the things I was supposed to do came to a screeching halt,” says Rivers.

“A lifetime of undiagnosed and unmedicated anxiety all came rushing to the forefront in a time when those things weren’t talked about.”

An Unexpected Start

She moved back in with her parents and turned to writing as a stress release when she had trouble finding a job.

“I wrote an adult book called The Tree Tattoo because I needed an outlet,” she says.

“And it gave me the confidence boost I needed. I thought ‘Wow! I just wrote a whole book!’”

She adds that the book felt private to her, and she wasn’t ready to share it with the world, but she realized she could make a living if she wrote another.

“My next book was called Dream Water, and it is based on the tragic incident that happened at Sealand of the Pacific,” she says.

On February 20, 1991, Keltie Byrne, a 20-year-old marine biology student and part-time orca trainer, was dragged into the whale pool after a show and killed.

“I thought, ‘What if kids saw that happen? What would the results be?’”

She sent the book to Orca Book Publishers and received a call from founder Bob

Tyrrell almost immediately saying they wanted to buy the book.

“I thought one of my friends was playing a joke on me and I hung up on him when he called,” she says with a laugh.

“He called back and said, ‘No, really! We want to buy your book.’ It changed my life!”

The next week, she sold The Tree Tattoo, a novel that delves into the heart of an incendiary, illicit love between a young woman and an older man.

“It seemed so incredibly easy. I thought that I would just write a book a week and be wealthy and successful. Like most things you try to plan in life, it didn’t work out the way I thought it would.”

She adds that the 26 other books she has written have posed challenges and taken much longer to publish than she thought. In fact, her next book Birdfish, which is set to come out in 2026, was sold in 2021.

Wonderfully Weird

Rivers says the theme that runs through all her books is “weird.”

“That is definitely the most common word that comes up in my reviews,” she adds.

“My brain wants to go to these weird places because that is the kind of book that I want to read. The books I live for are the ones that are beautifully written and surprise me. They aren’t necessarily commercially successful, but they are meaningful.”

She lists her strangest premise of a book as her middle-grade story Naked Mole Rat Saves the World. The book is about a middle school student who turns into a naked mole rat when she is anxious.

It seems “weird” is working for her. Her book Love, Ish was in the running for a Governor General’s Award in 2017.

She adds that although she recently shifted her focus to caring for her parents, she has started seven books in two years— three adult and four young adult.

“Writing is less what I do and more of a place I go to when real life gets stressful, I

can go into the other half of my brain for a magical escape,” she says.

“I get to go to a world that I created with these characters that I control, and I get paid to do it.”

Her latest book An Implausible Premise came out in 2023 and is a touching young adult novel. In it, Hattie and Presley’s instant connection seemed implausible— almost impossible—but falling in love is exactly what they needed to escape the ghosts of their pasts. Both are grieving, living in worlds haunted by ghosts; both have a parent who’s out of sight, not out of mind; and both were forced to give up their Olympic dreams.

One Word at a Time

Rivers’ advice for anyone who has the desire to write a book but feels they don’t know how is simple:

“Nobody knows how to write a book,” she says.

“No matter how many books an author has written, every time they sit down to write another, they are reminded that they don’t know how. You just need to do it. One page or one word at a time.”

She adds that her process includes writing the first page and saving it and then reading, rewriting and adding to it.

“I start at the very beginning and catch up to myself and then keep going. I go back to the beginning every time,” she says.

“It is a longer process, but it means I don’t have a rough first draft like many writers do. I am redrafting every day.”

Rivers adds that one of the things that inspires her to keep writing is the fact that the stories she tells are emotionally honest.

“The world is often egregiously unfair. Things can seem impossible,” she says.

“Kids and teens get scared and sad in real life and when they are allowed to do so in the context of a book, it is a safe way to experience and talk about those feelings. It’s okay to have big feelings.

“Fiction makes us better, period. That’s what I believe; it’s why I read and why I write.”

Learn more about Rivers and her books at karenrivers.com

Victoria Author Karen Rivers’ Top 5 Reads

• Still Life with Tornado by A.S. King

• Luster by Raven Leilani

• We Were Liars by E. Lockhart

• Our Wives Under the Sea by Julia Armfield

• The Rabbit Hutch by Tess Gunty

Stacie Gaetz

is the managing editor of GRAND. She runs on exploring new and exciting places and getting to the heart of people’s stories (...and reading intriguing fiction books).

Top 100 in Canada Vancouver Island Restaurants Named

OpenTable recently unveiled its Top 100 Restaurants in Canada for 2024 and two Vancouver Island restaurants made the cut.

The Dining Room at Butchart Gardens and Ugly Duckling in Victoria join 10 Vancouver establishments on the iconic list. Other locations in BC with restaurants on the list include Kelowna and Whistler.

“This year’s Top 100 list celebrates the incredible culinary diversity throughout the country. Our goal is to provide the perfect restaurant for any occasion,” says Matt Davis, Canada country director at OpenTable.

“From local treasures like Dovetail in Vancouver, to buzzworthy spots like Matty Matheson’s Prime Seafood Palace in Toronto, the list for diners, by diners, has everyone covered, from coast to coast.”

The list is compiled from analysing more than one million diner reviews, along with diner ratings, reservation demand and percentage of five-star reviews among other factors.

Trends on the Dining Scene

According to OpenTable, dining out is up 11 percent year-over year, and new consumer research shows over half (51

percent) of Canadians plan to dine out more in 2025 than in 2024.

“The Canadian dining scene is continuing to evolve,” says Davis.

“Canadians are breaking away from traditional patterns by embracing mid-week dining, which is good news for restaurants as these times can be typically quieter, as well as craving unique culinary experiences and group dining. The even better news—these trends are set to continue in 2025, according to new research.”

Non-traditional dining times are on the rise, with OpenTable data showing an increase in late lunches at 3pm and early dinners from 4 to 6pm.

When it comes to choosing a day of the week to dine, Wednesdays saw the largest increase in seated diners year-over-year compared to any other day. Diners are also planning to continue this trend into 2025, with 49 percent of Canadians

Ugly Duckling
The Dining Room at Butchart Gardens

planning to dine out on Wednesdays if they were to dine out mid-week.

Diners Are Saying

‘In with the New’

OpenTable reported a 64 percent increase year-over-year in “experience dining.” The OpenTable website defines “experience dining” as “restaurants showing you the best they have to offer … from tasting menus to wine pairings and more.”

Consumer research showed that 39 percent of Canadians said they would be more interested in experiential dining in 2025 than they were in 2024. The most popular kinds of experiences they were interested in trying were tasting menus (36 percent), special deals/promotional offers (35 percent) and dinner and a show (34 percent).

Desire to Share Moments & Meals

This year saw an 18 percent increase in group dining (six or more people) yearover-year—the largest increase out of any party size, with the most popular days for group dining being Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.

This trend is set to continue in 2025, with nearly half (45 percent) saying they expect to dine out with big groups more than they did in 2024, and 72 percent of Canadians tend to choose a restaurant as the venue for celebrating special occasions.

The list spotlights a range of restaurants, from neighbourhood gems to award-winning venues, including 53 in Ontario, 16 in Alberta, 15 in British Columbia, 13 in Quebec, two in Saskatchewan and one in Newfoundland. View the full list at opentable.ca.

Explore the Joy of Giving Back with Habitat Victoria

With more free time comes a wealth of opportunities to do things you always wanted or always meant to get around to doing. Pursuing special interests, learning new skills or volunteering, for example. At Habitat for Humanity Victoria, you will find a community of like-minded folks who have chosen to do all that and make a lasting impact on their community at the same time.

Building Hope

Maybe you’re not ready to lay down the tools of your trade for good. Habitat Victoria offers you a chance to help build homes for local families who would not otherwise be able to afford to purchase them. You may even want to bond with your children and older grandchildren over the experience.

Perhaps you have keen DIY skills you would love to share with others who will really appreciate your knowledge of tinkering, repairing and repurposing. As a ReStore volunteer, you can help connect thrift shoppers with the right surplus building materials, gently used furniture and appliances for their needs.

Your passion for life, fun, helping people and building relationships might make you a great ambassador at Habitat Victoria’s seasonal fundraising events. But beware—making

friends and influencing people are common beneficial sideeffects of becoming invested in our mission.

Leaving a Legacy

Strong communities can find a way through every challenge, even the current housing affordability crisis. When a problem touches so many families to such devastating effect, there’s tremendous satisfaction to be found in being a part of the solution. Owning affordable homes of their own allows Habitat families to grow strong, grasp their dreams and make wonderful memories.

You can help keep the transformational power of home ownership within their reach by lending the charity your strength, at your own pace. And help uplift future generations by donating land or funds. Contributions to Habitat Victoria, no matter how small, do add up quickly.

It Feels Good!

Eating more vegetables and getting regular exercise are healthy, rewarding retirement goals. So is discovering purpose, connection, accomplishment and reward in what you do next. Start today. For more information or to donate, visit habitatvictoria.com and join us in building hope and homes for families in our community.

Prune & Protect How to Care for Your Trees & Plants This Winter

Winter can be a challenging season for trees and plants, with heavy storms, flash freezes and overwintering pests threatening their health and stability. However, with a little preparation, you can protect your garden and ensure its success in the year ahead. Pruning and protection during the dormant season not only shield plants from damage, but also set the stage for robust growth and productivity in the spring. If you have fruit-bearing trees or shrubs, this is of particular importance. In this article, we’ll explore why winter care is essential and how you can effectively prune and protect your garden.

Understanding the Threats

Winter is a time of rest for your plants,

but it also brings several challenges that can impact their health:

1. Heavy Storms: High winds and snow loads can break weak branches and destabilize young trees.

2. Structural Issues: Branches that cross, rub, or grow at poor angles are more likely to snap during storms.

3. Insects & Fungus: Pests and fungal spores overwinter on bark, leaves and soil, ready to emerge in spring.

4. Flash Freezing: Sudden drops in temperature can stress or kill plants that aren’t properly insulated.

5. Disease & Invasives: Dormant-season diseases and invasive plants can quietly take hold if left unchecked.

These threats can cause lasting damage to your garden, but they can be mitigated with thoughtful care and attention.

The Benefits

Pruning and protecting your garden during winter offer multiple benefits:

• Prevent Damage: Removing weak branches reduces the risk of breakage and damage during storms.

• Improve Plant Health: Pruning encourages better airflow, reduces disease pressure and strengthens plant structures.

• Support Resilience: Proper staking and winterizing helps plants withstand harsh conditions.

• Control Pests & Diseases: Dormant sprays and debris cleanup eliminate overwintering threats.

• Prepare for Growth: A well-maintained garden in winter leads to a healthier, more productive landscape in spring.

Winter Pruning: How & Why

Pruning is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your garden during winter. When trees and shrubs are dormant, pruning causes less stress and minimizes the spread of diseases. What to Prune

• Dead, Diseased or Damaged Branches: Remove these to prevent pests and infections.

• Crossing or Rubbing Branches: Thin these out to improve airflow and reduce damage.

• Weak Forks or Overgrown Limbs: Shape plants to enhance their structural integrity. Pruning Tips

• Use sharp, clean tools to make smooth cuts and prevent disease spread. Clean shears with rubbing alcohol between each plant to prevent transmission of pathogens.

• Prune on dry days when temperatures are above freezing if possible.

Protecting Your Plants from Stress

In addition to pruning, these protective measures will help your plants survive and thrive through the cold months:

1. Plant Staking: Secure young or unstable trees with stakes to prevent tipping during high winds. Use soft, flexible ties to avoid damaging the bark.

2. Dormant Sprays: Apply horticultural oils or lime sulfur sprays to trees and shrubs to smother overwintering pests and fungal spores. These sprays are highly effective and environmentally friendly.

3. Winterizing Plants: Mulch around the base of plants to insulate roots and regulate soil temperature. For tender plants, use burlap wraps or frost cloths to protect against cold snaps and harsh winds.

4. Cleanup and Disposal: Remove fallen leaves, fruit, and debris that can harbour pests and diseases. Dispose of pruned material properly, especially if it shows signs of infection.

Why Timing Is Critical

Winter care is all about timing. Prune and protect your plants during their dormant phase, ideally between late fall and early spring. Acting too early or late can stress plants or leave them vulnerable to further damage. Regular monitoring and maintenance ensure your garden stays protected throughout the season.

A Fruitful Year Starts Now

Winter doesn’t have to mean downtime for your garden. By taking proactive steps to prune and protect your trees and plants, you’ll ensure their health and productivity for the year ahead.

Whether you do it yourself or enlist professional help, now is the time plan and act. Don’t let winter storms, pests or diseases take a toll on your landscape—prepare your garden in winter for a fruitful growing season.

• For most fruit trees, prune in late winter, just before buds begin to swell. On the West Coast, prune stone fruit (like plums, peaches, and apricot) in late summer after fruit harvest to minimize fungal infections. and Edible Landscapes Design are a team of passionate professionals serving homeowners, businesses, farms and DIYers to design, install and maintain landscapes that nourish, feed and regenerate. Learn more at ediblelandscapesdesign.com

Sandwich Generation Caregivers:

Parenting, Elder Care & Everything In Between

Does your typical day involve dropping kids at school, rushing to check on your aging parents and somehow squeezing in a full workday? If this sounds familiar, you’re part of what’s called the “sandwich generation”—and you’re one of 1.8 million Canadians juggling this balancing act every day.

It’s Like Having Two Full-Time Jobs

(Actually,

Make That Three)

Being a sandwich generation caregiver means wearing multiple hats. One minute you’re helping your kids with homework, the next you’re coordinating your parent’s medical appointments, all while trying to keep up with your own job. It’s a lot to handle, and if you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone.

What Does This Juggling Act Really Look Like?

Your day might include:

• Racing from work to drive Mom to her doctor’s appointment

• Helping Dad sort through his medications while your kids finish their homework

• Making sure everyone (including your parents) has healthy meals ready

• Being there emotionally for both your children and parents when they need someone to talk to

• Managing not just your own finances, but helping your parents with their bills too

• Juggling your work responsibilities while trying to balance supporting your family

The Real Talk: What Makes This So Hard

Let’s be honest—being caught between caring for your kids and your parents isn’t easy. Time becomes your most precious resource, and there never seems to be enough of it. Your wallet might be feeling the squeeze too, especially if you’ve had to cut back on work hours. And then there’s that guilt—feeling like you’re never doing quite enough for anyone, including yourself.

Taking Care of You Isn’t Selfish—It’s Necessary

• Connect with other caregivers who get it (yes, support groups really do help!)

• Take breaks when you can—even the smallest ones count

• Look into community programs that can give you a breather and offer support

• Don’t be afraid to ask family members, friends or neighbours to pitch in

• Talk to your employer about your situation—some organizations offer support programs or flexible work arrangements Remember that taking care of yourself isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Finding Support In Your Community

You don’t have to figure everything out alone on your caregiving journey. Many communities offer caregiver support programs and groups where you can connect with others who understand. Reaching out for help isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a smart way to ensure you can care for both your loved ones and yourself.

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Harnessing AI for Everyday Life

Iwas recently having a conversation with Allen, 76, who shared a story about one of his trips around the world.

During this trip, he was injured after stumbling and grabbing a tree full of thorns. He showed me a picture of the tree and tried to recall its name but couldn’t.

“Don’t worry, Allen. I have ChatGPT on my phone. Let me ask what it’s called.”

In less than 10 seconds, I took a picture of Allen’s phone and asked ChatGPT about the tree’s name. The response was:

“This is a photo of a Ceiba tree, specifically a Silk Floss Tree (Ceiba speciosa). The distinctive feature is its green trunk covered in sharp spines, characteristic of this species.”

While Allen was happy to be reminded of the name, he wasn’t surprised by the process I used to find the answer—he’s been using Artificial Intelligence (AI) for some time, too.

AI has become a versatile tool that enhances daily life with practical solutions, offering convenience, efficiency and personalized experiences. From smart homes to personalized health and learning, AI is making significant strides in becoming a fundamental part of our routines.

AI can seem daunting at first, but there are so many ways we can use it in our day-to-day to streamline mundane tasks and help us stay organized. Here are some other practical applications of AI in everyday life.

Streamlining Daily Tasks

AI-powered virtual assistants like Alexa, Siri and Google Assistant have become household staples, assisting with a variety of everyday tasks. They can manage calendars, set reminders, control smart home devices, provide real-time traffic updates and even help with cooking by suggesting recipes and setting timers.

According to a report by Juniper Research, voice assistant devices are projected to reach eight billion by 2023, underscoring their growing role in daily life.

Personalizing Health & Wellness

AI’s impact on personal health is profound, with applications ranging from fitness trackers to sleep monitors and nutritional planners. Devices like Fitbit and Garmin, along with apps like Sleep Cycle, use AI to analyze

physical activity and sleep patterns, providing tailored insights and recommendations.

A study by the National Institutes of Health highlights that AI-driven health tracking leads to improved health outcomes through continuous monitoring and personalized advice.

Enhancing Learning Experiences

I’ve been taking French lessons with ChatGPT, which teaches me how to say phrases and helps me improve my pronunciation until I get it right before proceeding to the next lesson. AI is revolutionizing learning by offering customized educational experiences.

Platforms like Duolingo and Khan Academy use sophisticated algorithms to adapt difficulty levels and topics based on a learner’s progress. This personalization keeps learners engaged and accelerates their efficiency. Research from Stanford University suggests that AIenhanced learning platforms can improve outcomes by adapting resources to the learner’s pace and style.

Improving Home Efficiency

Smart home technology infused with AI is reshaping how we manage our living spaces. Thermostats like Nest learn your preferences and automatically adjust the temperature to optimize comfort and energy efficiency.

Similarly, smart lighting systems adjust based on the time of day or ambient light, reducing energy consumption and utility costs. Studies show that AI-driven devices can reduce home energy usage by up to 25 percent.

Navigating Your Commute

I must confess—Google Maps saved my marriage. I used to argue with my wife while driving because she always knew the fastest routes. Google Maps changed that. Now, as soon as I get into the car, I type the destination into the app and let it guide me. Thank you, Google Maps.

AI is transforming how we navigate the world. Apps like Google Maps and Waze use real-time data and AI algorithms to offer the fastest routes and avoid traffic jams.

Evolving Enhancements

The integration of AI into personal life is transforming mundane tasks, health management, learning experiences, home efficiency and commuting. As AI technology continues to evolve, its potential to enhance daily life grows, offering more sophisticated and personalized aids.

Embracing AI in daily routines not only saves time and money but also opens new avenues for living a more connected, informed and efficient life.

Alexis Santacruz

is a seasoned entrepreneur and business development expert with a strong background in sales, technology, strategy and AI-driven solutions. He has a proven track record in recruitment, digital strategy and fostering innovation. Alexis is passionate about empowering people to grow, companies to scale efficiently and make impactful community connections.

The Sounds of Vancouver Island

A Guide to Symphonies, Operas & Music Festivals

Vancouver Island is home to a lively music and opera scene. Whether you're a musician, a dedicated fan of symphonies and opera, or just looking to enjoy something new, the island has plenty of majestic melodies to entertain and delight you. Let’s explore the symphonies, opera companies, and festivals that bring worldclass music to the island.

The Victoria Symphony Society

Known as the island’s leading professional orchestra, the Victoria Symphony Society was founded in 1941 and has been going strong ever since. Performances are most often held at the Royal Theatre in Victoria with occasional shows in other venues around the South Island.

The Victoria Symphony Society delivers a diverse range of music, from classical masters like Beethoven to modern works, and regularly collaborates with internationally acclaimed soloists and conductors.

Don’t Miss the Symphony Splash, a free outdoor concert in the Inner Harbour every summer put on by the Victoria Symphony Society. Thousands gather along the waterfront to hear the orchestra perform on a floating stage and watch the fireworks finale.

Pacific Opera Victoria

Pacific Opera Victoria (POV) is Vancouver Island’s leading opera company. Known for bold, imaginative productions,

their main stage is the Royal Theatre in Victoria.

POV is proud of its high-quality opera productions that range from well-loved classics like The Magic Flute to innovative Canadian operas. Their Opera in Schools and Opera Etc. programs introduce this form of musical theatre to new audiences and make it accessible to all.

Cowichan Symphony Society

The Cowichan Symphony Society brings classical music to the Cowichan Valley through partnerships with other organizations.

The Cowichan Performing Arts Centre in Duncan hosts the Cowichan Symphony Society’s concerts, which often feature guest ensembles and the Victoria Symphony. This is a wonderful way to enjoy high-quality orchestral performances without the need to travel over the Malahat to Victoria.

Nanaimo Chamber Orchestra

The Nanaimo Chamber Orchestra (NCO) is a community-based chamber orchestra founded in 1994 that puts on regular performances at the Port Theatre in Nanaimo.

The NCO specializes in intimate chamber performances, offering a cozy and immersive experience of baroque, classical, and modern music. The orchestra is committed to nurturing young musicians, providing workshops and masterclasses to help develop local talent.

Opera Nanaimo

Opera Nanaimo was founded in 2016 and plays primarily at the Port Theatre. This is a great starting place for those new to opera, offering a mix of full

productions and more relaxed concerts featuring arias and operatic scenes.

The company is working to grow the local opera scene and provide more opportunities for opera lovers and performers alike.

Hornby Festival

The Hornby Festival is a music festival on Hornby Island featuring a variety of genres, with a strong classical presence.

Performances at the Hornby Festival take place in unique venues around the island, blending live music with the island’s natural beauty. Visit their website for next summer’s festival performance dates.

Gabriola Island Chamber Ensemble

Gabriola Island Chamber Ensemble performs choral and instrumental works. The ensemble delivers beautiful perfor-

Tidemark Theatre

Located in Campbell River, the Tidemark Theatre is a venue that regularly

The Tidemark Theatre offers a great opportunity for northern Vancouver Island residents to experience live classical music

Aging, Identity & Purpose

Navigating Life’s Second Act

Aging is a time of transition and possibility. As familiar roles shift—whether through retirement, children leaving home or other life changes—it’s natural to reflect on questions of identity and purpose. While this stage can bring challenges, it also opens the door to growth, discovery and a renewed focus on what truly matters.

Rather than viewing aging as an ending, it helps to see it as a new chapter, one where you have the freedom and wisdom to shape your life in ways that align with your values.

The Emotional Side of Aging

As we age, changes in work, relationships and health can shake the foundations of our identity. Questions like “Who am I without my career?” or “What’s my purpose now that my children are grown?” often arise. While these feelings can be unsettling, they’re also opportunities for growth and self-discovery.

It’s common to grieve changes, whether it’s a job, relationships or physical abilities. At the same time, aging offers the chance to shed societal expectations and focus on what brings joy and fulfillment. Embracing this duality, acknowledging both loss

and possibility, can help you approach this chapter with curiosity and optimism.

The Power of Purpose

Having a sense of purpose gives life meaning, direction and structure. In later years, purpose often shifts from external achievements to more personal and relational pursuits. This might mean mentoring others, volunteering or exploring creative passions that were set aside earlier in life.

Purpose doesn’t have to involve grand accomplishments. It can be as simple as tending a garden, supporting a cause or creating memories with loved ones. What matters is that your purpose resonates with you and aligns with your values.

Practical Ways to Thrive

Navigating the emotional and practical changes of aging takes intention and effort, but it’s a journey worth embracing.

Here are some strategies to help you find fulfillment and purpose during this stage:

1. Reflect and Realign. Use this phase to explore who you are beyond traditional roles. Journaling, meditation or even quiet walks can create space to ask yourself:

• What brings me the most joy?

• What values do I want to focus on now?

• How do I want to spend my time moving forward?

Reflection helps you align your daily actions with what truly matters.

2. Redefine Success. For much of life, success is often tied to external markers like career achievements or family milestones. In later years, success can mean something entirely different: fostering relationships, contributing to your community or pursuing personal growth.

3. Explore New Interests and Passions. Rediscover hobbies or try something new. Whether it’s learning a musical instrument, painting or taking a class, pursuing interests keeps your mind sharp and your spirit engaged. Lifelong learning creates a sense of purpose and connects you with likeminded people.

4. Build and Strengthen Connections. Loneliness is a common challenge, but it’s also one of the easiest to address with intention. Reach out to friends and family, join community groups or find volunteer opportunities. Even small efforts to engage

socially can significantly boost your wellbeing.

5. Volunteer Your Time and Talents. Many people find fulfillment in helping others. Whether through mentoring, teaching or working with nonprofits, giving back connects you with others while making a positive impact.

6. Prioritize Your Health. Physical and emotional wellness are deeply interconnected. Incorporate regular exercise, such as walking or yoga, into your routine. Focus on eating nutritious foods and getting enough rest. Practices like mindfulness or tai chi can help reduce stress and enhance mental clarity.

7. Embrace the Everyday. Not every purpose has to involve major goals. Meaning can be found in small, daily joys: spending time with grandchildren, sharing stories with friends or savouring a quiet moment. Gratitude for these moments can create a fulfilling life.

Aging as an Opportunity

Rather than seeing aging as a time of loss, it can be reframed as a time of opportunity. With fewer societal expectations and responsibilities, you have the freedom to focus on what matters most.

Yes, there are challenges—grief, health concerns and shifting roles—but these don’t have to define the journey. By staying curious, connected, and purpose-driven, you can create a life that feels authentic and deeply fulfilling.

George Bielay

is the Clinical Director of Waypoint Counselling Network and has been a clinical counsellor since 1991. George developed Waypoint Counselling Network with the goal of providing the public with professional and tailored support in being matched to the most appropriate counsellor based on their needs and experience. Learn more at waypointcounselling.ca

Imagine a future where every child realizes their full potential – where each young person can grow into whoever they dream of being.

The key to an empowered future? Mentorship.

When you give to our mentoring programs, you are directly investing in an empowered future for youth in our community. Local demand for our programs is on the rise – we need your support now more than ever.

Call me today and let’s discuss how you can be a part of something bigger.

Emma Kirkland

Director of Development, BBBS Victoria 250-475-1117 ext. #102

The Superfoods You May Be Missing Out On Nuts & Seeds

Do you avoid nuts and seeds because you’ve heard they’re “too fattening” or “unhealthy?” It’s time to put those fears to rest. Nuts and seeds are nutritional powerhouses that deserve a spot in your daily routine.

Why do they have such a bad reputation? Let’s rewind to the low-fat craze of the 1980s and 1990s. Back then, fat was villainized, and anything containing it—like nuts and seeds—was put on the “do not eat” list. But here’s the good news: modern nutrition science has evolved in our understanding of eating fat. In a nutshell (sorry, I couldn’t resist), the right kind of fat is healthy.

Why Nuts & Seeds Deserve a Place on Your Plate

The latest research shows that nuts and seeds offer a variety of health benefits that can’t be ignored.

• Heart Health: Studies from the University of Toronto reveal that eating nuts and seeds daily can lower LDL cholesterol (the "bad" kind) by five to 10 percent. That’s a small change that makes a big difference.

• Gut Health: Packed with fibre, nuts and seeds help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, a crucial part of overall wellbeing. Some scientists even consider the gut an additional organ in our bodies.

• Essential Nutrients: Selenium, zinc, magnesium, iron—the list goes on. These tiny superfoods are loaded with the minerals your body and brain need to thrive.

• Healthy Fats: Yes, they’re high in fat, but it’s the good kind. The polyunsaturated fats in nuts and seeds, including omega-3 and omega-6, can help reduce inflammation—a factor linked to heart disease, arthritis and even cognitive decline.

Nuts and seeds also feature prominently in the Mediterranean diet, widely regarded as one of the healthiest eating patterns in the world.

Portion Size: A Little Goes a Long Way

One thing the old research got right: nuts and seeds are calorie dense. But that’s not a reason to avoid them; it’s a reason to savour them! In other words, they aren’t a good choice to munch on mindlessly.

Here’s what a serving looks like:

• Nuts and seeds: ¼ cup (a small handful).

• Nut or seed butter: 2 tablespoons.

Think of nuts and seeds as action-packed snacks. A small portion delivers big benefits.

How to Add Nuts & Seeds to Your Day

Incorporating nuts and seeds is easy— and delicious! Here are some ideas:

• Sprinkle hemp hearts on your oatmeal for breakfast.

• Add a seed-based topper to your lunchtime salad.

• Dip apple slices in natural almond butter for a mid-afternoon snack.

• Try walnut-crusted chicken or a walnut-tofu burger for dinner.

• Treat yourself to a decadent yet healthy dessert, like my Chocolate Chia Pudding (recipe on page 21).

Chocolate Chia Pudding

This super simple recipe from my cookbook The Easy Sugar Detox Cookbook: 125 recipes for a sugar-free lifestyle is a delicious

Discover Your Next Hobby

Engaging in activities you enjoy is one of the best ways to enhance physical health, mental sharpness and emotional well-being. Exploring new hobbies opens doors to social connections, as well as personal growth. Here’s how you can discover your perfect new hobby, along with some unique and exciting ideas to try.

• If you prefer to be active, urban foraging walks combine exercise with connection. You could also try stand-up paddleboarding or archery.

• For those who are into community and sharing, there is an abundance of local groups where members teach and exchange skills like cooking or gem identification.

1. Reflect on Your Interests

Start by identifying what you like to do as well as any interests you may want to pursue. Perhaps you’ve always wanted to learn a specific skill or tackle a new adventure—now is your chance!

• For the nature lovers, you can take up gardening, join a hiking group or find out more about birdwatching.

• Creative types can consider trying floral design, jewelry making, digital art or even upcycling furniture.

• If you have an active or curious mind, delve into genealogy, robotics or join a debate club.

• Sports and movement-minded folks can look into adult soccer or softball leagues or try Bollywood dance.

2. Explore Local Opportunities

Local community centres, municipalities and libraries often host classes, workshops and clubs. Look at their websites or give them a call to see what they offer. Often, you’ll find unique activities at low to no cost.

• Woodworking or stained-glass classes are fun places to create something beautiful and are great for people who like to be hands-on.

3. Use Technology

The internet offers endless opportunities to explore and learn new hobbies!

• Learn calligraphy, coding or even a new instrument through YouTube or specialized websites.

• Programs like virtual dance classes, walking challenges, yoga or pilates offer accessible, homebased workouts.

• Games like chess can be played online, and virtual reality experiences can keep your brain sharp while offering unique challenges.

• Explore websites like Coursera or Skillshare to learn something entirely new, such as a foreign language or filmmaking.

4. Think About What You Used to Enjoy

Sometimes, the best way to find your next hobby is to think about activities you loved earlier in life.

• Enjoyed playing music? Pick up your old instrument or learn a new one.

• Avid cyclists in the past? Pick up a new bike— or try an electric bicycle.

• Do you miss singing? Join a local choir or musical theatre.

• Were you always crafting? Try some new-toyou crafts such as paper art or soap making, or try a computer drawing or drafting program.

5. Get Out of Your Comfort Zone

Be open to trying something brand new to you! You will likely surprise yourself by discovering a talent or passion you never knew you had.

• Geocaching is a modern-day treasure hunt that involves using GPS to find hidden caches in your area.

• A group or team sport like dragon boating or pickleball combines physical activity and social interaction.

• Joining a local improv group or theatre club will certainly boost your confidence and creativity.

• Learn juggling, hula hooping or other fun skills at a local circus school. These skills challenge your coordination and focus.

• If you have a love for nature and a bit of space, try beekeeping!

6. Find Joy in Social Engagement

A hobby can also act as a way to connect with others. Look for activities that involve teamwork, group participation or shared interests.

• Join a community theatre group and get involved onstage or behind the scenes.

• Bookbinding or paper crafting groups help you share creative projects with others while making a beautiful keepsake for you or a loved one.

• Community gardening is becoming popular in many neighbourhoods. Bond with neighbours while growing fresh produce or flowers.

• Join a wine or tea tasting club to find new favourites while you enjoy good company.

Finding a new hobby or sport (or revisiting an old one) is a fantastic way to enrich your life. Whether you’re geocaching, gardening or diving into genealogy, remember to stay curious, adventurous and open to trying new things—you never know what might become your next passion!

is a writer living in Victoria with her husband and daughter. She believes most problems can be solved with a good cup of tea and a huge piece of chocolate.

Watch Your Grandkids Light Up at Code Ninjas!

Say the words "video game," and your grandkids will surely perk up!

But at Code Ninjas in Westshore, video games are more than just fun—they’re an exciting gateway to education. Code Ninjas helps children aged 5 to 14 develop crucial coding and problem-solving skills through the power of game-building.

Owned by local parents Sonia and Jesse Bowness, Code Ninjas is a hub for engaging learning. Sonia, a teacher, and Jesse, a tech executive, wanted to create a place where children could learn valuable STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) skills in a way that feels more like play than work.

Sonia explains, “At Code Ninjas, kids have fun, and parents see results.” Since opening, the center has hosted over 45,000 coding sessions! Grandkids love the fun, safe environment where they can thrive and grow. From mastering coding to learning the skills needed for future jobs, Code Ninjas is all about turning fun into meaningful learning.

What makes Code Ninjas special is its ability to engage kids of all skill levels, boosting both their abilities and

their confidence. Students follow a game-based curriculum, earning belts like in martial arts, and by the time they reach black belt, they’ll have created their very own app!

The center also offers a variety of programs beyond coding classes, such as tech camps, fun social events like “Parents Night Out” and clubs centred around popular games like Roblox and Minecraft.

For grandparents who want to support their grandchild’s education while knowing they’re having a great time, Code Ninjas is the perfect choice.

Want to see the magic for yourself? Book a free coding session for your grandkids today—they will get to build their own video game!

Just visit CodeNinjas.com or give Sonia a call—it’s easy, and your grandkids will thank you!”

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