Lifestyles
JANUARY FEBRUARY 2015
healthy & vibrant ANNA OLSON
what’s your style? DESIGN winter SUPERFOODS valentine’s day LOVE STORIES side effects of OBESITY mind & body WORKOUT Scan
weekly for more
online!
y, h t al fe e H Li A o ced T e lan d i u Ba G ur ppy, o Y Ha
Did you know?
Shelley’s Trendy Finds!
Valentine’s How We Met to read “How We Met”, three cute, amusing couple meeting stories. It is the season of Romance!
Bubbly Time! Paint for Ken paints for those after holiday fix-ups!
.Be sure
Check out the “Bubbly” review for your special Valentine!
See Ken at Orillia Trim and Door for his 25% discount on Dulux
Chocolate & Wine
... mmmm mmmm what could be better for Valentine’s. I know, lots of it! Orillia Wine Experience now carries BRIX chocolates for wine in LARGER size packages. A deal at $10 for 24 pieces of sinfully delicious! Sweet!
Grace Chiropractic
offers Weight Loss Clinics ... just sayin ... it’s winter holiday /swimsuit time!
Anytime Fitness Jessica today!
offers super trainers and super state of the art facilities. Call
Muskoka Travel
is offering trips to the NASCAR Toyota Owners 400, Richmond, Virginia, April 23-27 and CMA (Country Music Association) Fanfest, July 9-16 in Nashville. See ad this issue. Yee Haw!
Marcel’s Sirkka’s Did Just a reminder.
has half price appetizers and $5.00 wine every Thursday after 6 pm. Live Entertainment!
has all ladies formal wear $150.00. Final Days!
I mention our Anna Olson One on One interview. A great read!
articles weekly.
Guaranteed Service & Satisfaction
Mice Fleas Spiders
Earwigs Bees Cluster Flies
Carpenter Ants Cockroaches Live Trap Skunks & Raccoons
R. Brock Weir Publisher/Editor brock@lifestylesmagazine.ca 705 330 2262
Lifestyles is online 24/7, 365 days a year. Watch for new
Shelley Weir Associate Publisher shelley@lifestylesmagazine.ca 705 330 1026
Linda Laforge Production | Creative | Design linda@lifestylesmagazine.ca 705 728 6218
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contents JANUARY FEBRUARY 2015
| VOL 4 NO 1
CoverStory 7 ANNA OLSON
Anna Olson is host of Food Network Canada’s Bake with Anna Olson, following on the heels of the successful series, Sugar and Fresh with Anna Olson all of which have aired in 40 countries worldwide. She has authored seven bestselling cookbooks including her most recent, Back to Baking. Two of these books were written with her husband Michael, a well-noted chef and culinary instructor.
What Makes Celebrity chef
In this Issue 4
Anna Olson
Shelley’s Trendy Finds
“Cook”?
11 Can beer boost brain power? 13 Fixing leaking fixtures 14 Icelandic chocolate date cake 19 Side effects of obesity 20 Challenging those wine snobs 21 Cutting the costs of home ownership 22 Easily grow your savings
Features design
WHAT’S YOUR STYLE?
winter
8
SUPERFOODS
mind & body
10
WORKOUT
16
6
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Best “Bubblys” for Valentine’s Baby!
And They Are All 750 ml Bottles...Bonus! 1. Proseco, Bottega Vino Dei Poeti, Italian. Pale straw in colour with a green apple taste. Clean finish. $13.95 2. Cordon Negro Freixinet “Cava”, Spanish. Citrus nose, crisp grapefruit finish. $13.95 3. Grange of Prince Edward County Sparkling Riesling, Ontario. Honeysuckle with peach, lemony notes and light bodied. $25.00 4. Trius Brut VQA Niagara, Ontario. Green apple and honey hints, some toasty notes, long, refreshing finish. $27.95 5. Moet and Chandon Brut, France. Pale straw in colour, defined fruity aromas and the hint of fresh baked bread. Clean finish. $62.85 Enjoy with a piece of decadent” BRIX” chocolate, paired especially for wines, available at Orillia’s Wine Experience. Cheers!
Decadent Never Say Never!
a commitment phobic’s undoing
W
e have often heard friends and family say “that’s it, never again”. Well... In 1999 at a Las Vegas trade show, a handsome, polite photographer asked me to dismantle my film display table to compare his camera film and equipment to the company’s product I was representing. He asked me out for a coffee or glass of wine in the conversation that ensued. This gentleman was from Toronto and I lived close by so... of course I said, “no!” In 2007 our paths crossed again. By now I have kind of had it with difficult relationships, career demands, blind date dinners orchestrated by well meaning friends, so again, when the offer of a coffee or glass of wine arose I said, wait for it, “no!” Thinking by now I am “so off the proverbial dating hook” doesn’t tall, handsome and nice guy walk into my office, the summer of 2013 to sell me an ad. That lasted all of two minutes, then Brock’s life story began flowing like beer at a college frat party for the next hour! Engaged before Christmas, married three months later and I have never been more over joyed or blessed! Note to self, never say never! Shelley
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Anna Olson, Celebrity Chef Recently I had the joy of sitting down with Anna for a fun, frank chat about what makes her “Cook” My passion for baking started here
While working in banking in Toronto, on my lunch break I would browse through the St. Lawrence Market for dinner ingredients almost daily. During these strolls, I realized I needed to be in a kitchen, not an office. That being said, after a Political Studies and a Sociology degree from Queen’s I attended the College of Culinary Arts in Denver.
New Job, New Life
Many family visits brought me to the Niagara area, particularly the Inn on the Twenty where I was pastry chef for eight years AND met my husband Michael! This was after a stint in New Orleans working as a pastry chef, where I realized that this was not the safest place for a single gal. I had fired off a resume to the Inn several weeks before. After a really bad day, where I had all but given up on New Orleans, I came home to the phone ringing and it was a job offer from Michael. Hurray! I showed up at the door of my new job determined to give it one year. I stayed for eight. There is a cute meeting story there that I will share with you. It goes, muffins equals soul mates! (See “Love Story” this issue)
One Thing You Cannot Live Without?
Things Yet to Do?
My offset spatula. It has been with me fifteen years and is an extension of my hand. In fact, I am so afraid of losing it I rarely take it to my food demonstrations. It is a part of me!
Travel, eat & cook. Travel to exotic and interesting countries to experience the great foods and wines of the regions, particularly France, Spain and Italy. Asia, South America and Eastern Canada are in the running for next year.
Current Baking Trends?
What are you Reading?
The home baking world has exploded. There are just so many resources out there accessible today that home bakers can easily control their ingredients when it comes to food sensitivities and allergies as well as portion size. So its a win win for them.
Who Cooks at Home?
That depends who has had the longest work day! However, when entertaining it is a well orchestrated dance in the kitchen. We each know who will be doing what with very little discussion. We have been doing this a “loooong” time.
Passions?
All food based for the most part. I am involved in the Niagara Nutrition Partners Program which is terrific. It feeds kids breakfast. All kids, not just the little ones, so no one is centered out as “the poor kid” or has to eat in a separate room of the school and that is a great equalizer I think.
Ken Follett’s latest novel.
Unwind?
I am an avid reader. Reading historical novels. Yup, I’m a history buff. Cannot get enough of BBC. Downton Abbey should never go off the air! Netflix too! Oh and I did I mention hockey? LOL Michael and I walk daily for fitness, mental destressing and to stay connected with each other. Occasionally yoga at home, I am not a studio/ fitness centre person, the drive is brutal!
Where Do You See Yourself In The Next Year?
I never do that, as I will miss the moment I am in.
Anna Olson is host of Food Network Canada’s Bake with Anna Olson Shelley Weir, Associate Publisher
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What’s your Style?
A
combination of styles makes a space more interesting. Traditional verses modern. Which way to turn? So many styles, so many ideas, only so much space! We often see a blend of styles termed “transitional”, where aspects of modern and contemporary mix. This look can be achieved through the use of specified interior finishes as well as through the choice of furnishings. I love a polished modern space with the juxtaposition of a charming, traditional piece of furniture ... maybe it’s a prized antique or grandmother’s dining room table. Eclectic makes us think outside the box and break the supposed barriers in design.
Open concept living/ dining area Family room
When I design for a traditional client my thinking changes in an ever so slight way. Things are more formal. Furniture lines are more structured, upright and intricate, leaving ornate mouldings on cabinetry, baseboards and trim. There is always a sense of order and symmetry. Switching gears for a contemporary client, there may be cleaner lines, offsets, less fluff and fussiness of details in furnishings, millwork, and architecture. Regardless of the predominant style, it’s always fun to add a contrasting element for interest, whether it’s a contemporary light fixture or a noteworthy conversation piece for a traditional space. Master en suite
Lately I’ve been exploring the concept of “rustic modern”. The home may have many modern contemporary aspects and yet, with the right combination of finishes and textures, can take on a more “rustic” attitude. It could be as simple as introducing weathered wood to a headboard wall in a clean, crisp white, contemporary environment to help “warm” things up. Whether it is in the form of wood plank, or wood laminate, wall treatments such as these can instantly evoke a sense of warmth. This very contemporary en suite, is instantly enlivened by the intersecting false wood beams added to the space.
Master bedroom headboard wall
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Interior Designer
www.NancyLemDesign.com
I love the opportunity to bring exterior finishes indoors. This limestone brick wall installed on the exterior of the home was extended into the front foyer. With immediate appeal of varying tones of grey, it enhances the space with visual texture. Wood treatment on the underside of the exterior front canopy was repeated on the interior wood ceiling panel in the living room. The open grain work of the Douglas fir front door also adds visual rustic texture. Foyer limestone brick wall Wood ceiling panel
The word “cottage” implies a sense of relaxed comfort. In many cases, the cottage takes on an entirely different look and feel to a client’s city home. In this great room, we combined the warmth of the rustic, indigenous granite on the fireplace wall, Douglas fir wood ceiling beams and arches, with a rustic deer antler chandelier with contemporary furnishings to create a “transitional” space.
We should never hold back designing fearing of a piece will not fit or go with another. It’s totally alright to mix it up and have faith in combining styles. There is no right or wrong, only what feels right and works with each individual client. Ultimately, as designers, we create an impression of the people who live and occupy their space. Details such as personal tastes in colour, finishes, furnishings, artwork, and collections unfold when properly presented. This is what truly makes a space interesting. Cottage master bedroom
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llnesses seem to peak during the winter months. A tapped-out immune system as well as d r y , cold air may encourage the spread of common viruses and bacterial infections more easily. As a result, it’s important that men, women and children take every step possible to ward off
Winter superfoods for optimal health sickness when the temperatures drop. Dietary changes can make a world of difference, and more and more people are including these proven superfoods in their winter diets. Avocado: Avocado has high levels of essential fatty acids and vitamin B6, which is important in the biosynthesis of important neurotransmitters. Foods high in B vitamins may be able to counteract some of the symptoms of winterrelated depression. Pomegranate: This quirky fruit has vitamins C and K, folate and potassium and is a good source of fibre. Pomegranate has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help in reducing joint pain and preventing strokes. Pomegranate may also help the body fight viruses. Cinnamon: Cinnamon has high levels of antioxidants, and some studies point to cinnamon as a natural antibacterial agent. Cinnamon also can help regulate blood-glucose levels, which
LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE
is beneficial for those with diabetes. Prunes: Now widely referred to as “dried plums,” prunes are an important source of boron, which could prevent osteoporosis. High in antioxidants, prunes help the body fight a variety of illnesses. Cabbage: Cabbage may be a key element in the fight against cancer. Cabbage has phytochemicals that can protect the body against cancer-causing free radicals. It’s also a good source of dietary fibre, which can stimulate a sluggish digestive system. Butternut squash: This food is packed with carotenoids, which are stellar antioxidants. The starches in this squash also have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties. Chestnuts: Chestnuts are worthy of inclusion in anyone’s diet. Unlike many nuts, chestnuts are relatively low in fat but have high levels of protein. They’re also packed with vitamin C and B vitamins.
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Can beer boost brain power?
A chemical
component in beer
hops has been
shown to improve
brain function in lab
mice. It may one
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day help with age-
relative cognitive decline.
T
here is newfound reason to indulge in a pint or two of your favourite beer, and it’s not just to catch up and share a few laughs with friends. New research has shown that a chemical compound in beer may be able to improve cognitive function. The beverage once thought to obliterate brain cells when consumed in abundance may actually have the opposite effect and boost brain power. No one should run out an start imbibing just yet, however. The study that ran in Behavioral Brain Research in October 2014 was preliminary and only conducted on lab mice. During the study, scientists discovered that xanthohumol, a type of flavonoid found in beer, seemed to improve brain function in the young mice given xanthohumol doses. The cognitive flexibility of the mice was tested with a specially designed maze, and younger mice showed signs of intellectual improvement. Older mice showed no improvements. Researchers believe xanthohumol
and other flavonoids, such as those found in red wine, blueberries and dark chocolate, may play a role in helping a person form memories. The mice were given very high doses of the flavonoid. A person would have to drink roughly 2,000 liters of beer a day to equal what the mice consumed to show improvement. However, should a supplement hit the market down the road, it may just be possible for men and women to consume a potentially beneficial amount of xanthohumol without bellying up at the bar. One of the goals of the xanthohumol study was to examine its potential efficacy at treating age-related deficits in memory. Xanthohumol also may benefit those with metabolic
J Our eyes met across a crowded room. An unemployment office!
im’s brother had just laid him off and I recently lost a job as a graphic designer in Concord. We were taking a course to learn how to take courses, because that’s how our government does things. Jim knew he had a two-day window, as this course on taking courses was only two days, so he asked me out on day one. I said no, of course. Why would I want to date some guy taking a course to take a course, after all?
syndrome, a condition associated with obesity and high blood pressure, as it can speed metabolism and reduce fatty acids in the liver. Flavonoids are plant compounds that often provide plants with their colour. Scientists have attributed many health benefits to flavonoids in foods and plants and have even suggested flavonoids can help in the fight against cancer and heart disease. Xanthohumol is rare and is most often found in the hops commonly used to make beer. While doctors and researchers do not suggest running out and consuming a few six packs right now in the goal of improving brain function and cramming for that next test, xanthohumol may one day be harvested from beer hops to slow down age-related memory deficits.
On the second day, when the course was over we had a few drinks with our fellow students to celebrate Graduation Day. Jim won out over the unibrow guy who commanded, “You, come home with me.” I laughed and laughed. Jim and I continued to take some courses that taught us how to run our own businesses and have continued to enjoy life’s many exciting adventures. Married 15 years and counting! Linda
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Characterized by bold, clean lines, the Studio Bath Collection’s style is simple, geometric, and highlights a mixture of materials that brings depth and beauty to your home.
Experience American Standard quality products like the Studio Collection at any one of The Water Closet luxury Bath and Kitchen Showrooms. ETOBICOKE 65 WORCESTER ROAD ON M9W 5N7
KITCHENER 241 SHOEMAKER ST ON N2E 3B3
ORILLIA 85 COMMERCE RD ON L3V 6H3
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Fixing leaky fixtures around the house food coloring to the holding tank of your toilet, then wait roughly 15 minutes to see if the color of the water starts to change. If it has, your toilet is leaking.
P
eople who have slept within steps of a leaky faucet know full well the nuisance that such water fixtures present. A leaky faucet can make it difficult to sleep at night, but leaks around the house also cost homeowners lots of money. Many leaks around a house are not nearly as noticeable as a dripping faucet. Worn toilet flappers or leaky valves can wreak just as much havoc on a monthly budget as a leaky en suite bathroom faucet. Identifying those leaks, many of which are easy to fix, is a great way to conserve water and save money at the same time.
Start with your water meter
The hours after everyone in the household has taken their morning showers, brushed their teeth and had their coffee is a great time to determine if you have a leak. Water is not typically used during these hours, so check the water meter once the last coffee mug has been washed and then revisit the meter two hours later. If the meter has changed, then chances are you have a leak.
Test the toilet with food colouring
Toilets are a common source of water leaks, as deteriorating toilet flappers slowly waste water via leaks that are not always noticeable. Because toilet leaks can be difficult to notice, homeowners might have to get a little creative. Add a drop of
Inspect faucet gaskets and pipe fittings
Faucet gaskets and pipe fittings should not be wet, but wet gaskets and pipe fittings is typically evidence of surface leaks. When washing dishes in the sink, turn the faucet on high. If you notice water coming from anywhere other than the head of the faucet, then you have leaky gaskets. Once you have determined the source of the leak, you can begin to address the situation. Toilets, faucets and showerheads are the most common culprits with regard to water leaks. Toilets: Flappers are the rubber parts in the toilet’s holding tank. These flappers are susceptible to mineral buildup and decay, and over time that can create leaks. Flappers are inexpensive and easy to replace. When replacing your toilet flapper, take the worn out flapper with you to the hardware store to make sure you buy a new one that is compatible with your toilet. Faucets: When a leaky faucet is your biggest foe, be sure to turn the water supply in the house off before you get to work. If your faucet has any decorative knobs, gently remove these so they do not break and you can replace them when the leak has been addressed. From there you must remove the packing nut and the stem. Some stems come off easily, while others must be twisted off from the valve. Inspect these parts for damage before moving on. The O-ring and washer inside the valve seat may be responsible for your leak, so
inspect these parts and replace them if necessary. Be sure they are an exact fit so you don’t end up with a fresh leak. Once these items have been replaced, you can reassemble the parts, turn the water back on and check to see if the leak has vanished. If the leak remains, then your valve seat may be corroded or your plumbing might need a professional inspection. Showerheads: If the showerhead is your source of leaks, you may just need to tighten the connection between the showerhead and the pipe stem. This can be done using pipe tape. If the problem with your showerhead can be traced to the shower handle and cartridge, you might want to hire a professional to fix your leak, as addressing this problem can be tricky. If you want to do it yourself, first turn the water supply off before removing the shower handle. Some handles are especially difficult to remove, in which case you might need to visit the hardware store to purchase a handle puller. Once the handle has been removed, you can then pull the cartridge, which is likely to prove more difficult than removing the handle. The cartridge may need to be twisted loose with pliers before you pull it out, or you may need to buy a cartridge puller that is compatible with the brand of showerhead you have. Once you get the cartridge out, you can install your replacement and reassemble the parts that were removed. Water leaks around the house can be costly and wasteful. Addressing such leaks can be done in a matter of minutes, but more complex problems may be best left to a professional.
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Anna Olson’s ICELANDIC CHOCOLATE CAKE
Date
Low-fat & dairy-free
M
y very first visit to Reykjavik, Iceland was short (just three days) but it was certainly memorable and delicious. The bakeries are very much of the Scandinavian style, and while most cafes and casual restaurants had carrot cake on the menu, Chocolate Date Cake was also a staple dessert. Serve this simple, one-layer cake with a coffee or tea. You can also add a little whipped cream or berry compote to dress it up. Makes 1 one-layer 9-inch cake. Serves 8 to 10 Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients 1 cup ½ cup ½ cup ¼ cup 1 large 1 cup ¼ cup 1 tsp ½ tsp ½ tsp ¼ tsp ½ cup
loosely packed chopped, pitted dates boiling water packed dark brown sugar vegetable oil egg all-purpose flour cocoa powder baking powder baking soda ground cardamom salt chocolate chips (dairy-free if required) icing sugar for dusting
Instructions
®
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and dust it with flour, tapping out any excess flour. 2. Place the chopped dates in a large bowl and pour the boiling water over, letting them sit for 5 minutes. 3. Stir in the brown sugar, oil and egg, using a spatula to blend well and mash up the dates a bit as you blend. 4. In a separate bowl, sift the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, cardamom and salt. Add this to the date mixture and stir until blended. Stir in the chocolate chips and then scrape the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it to level. Bake the cake for 25 to 30 minutes, until a tester inserted in the centre of the cake comes out clean. Cool the cake for 30 minutes in the pan, then tap it out onto a cooling rack to cool completely. 5. To serve, dust the cake with icing sugar and slice to serve.
The cake will keep, well wrapped for up to four days, or can be frozen for up to four months.
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Ask the Trainer Expert answers to your health & wellness questions
Let’s Get Busy! taking care of ourselves It’s Fun O
ften we find ourselves taking care of others before taking care of ourselves. It’s time to think about what we can do for ourselves as well. Establishing a goal and creating a plan for yourself is the most important step in seeing results and creating a positive atmosphere for you and those around you. Now, this all seems easy as pie, but we all know working out can be dry and boring if we don’t take the time to do it right. Here are some ideas to make your workout routine a bit more FUN!
Work out with a friend
This is a great piece of advice when it comes to reaching goals and having fun. Having a friendship with someone is a cherished thing. We spend our free time with our friends, so why not make that time even more beneficial and workout together. Working out with someone else has a lot of benefits since each can motivate the other. For instance, I love working out with my best friend not only because we can chat and laugh but she is a person that I choose to have in my life because she is positive and motivating. She also has a love for running, where I would rather be in the weight room. This encourages us to help each other through the things we don’t always enjoy doing. Motivating each other makes it fun.
Sports
We all enjoy taking time to watch sports. What’s even better, playing them yourself. Being a part of a team, having a goal to reach, developing relationships and challenging yourself can make working out seem like a breeze. Organized team sports such as hockey, football, curling and volleyball can fulfill each of those aspects. Other sports such as, swimming, squash, tennis and basketball are sometimes offered at your fitness facility which makes partaking in these activities very accessible and gives you the opportunity to try them out based on your own schedule.
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Maybe it’s All in Our Head W
Setting Goals
In order to be proud of what we do and make things fun we must create attainable goals that give us a sense of fulfillment and joy. Working hard and seeing results makes us happy, which essentially makes us want to work harder to meet the next goal we have in mind. When these workouts seem hard, we know they are working but will become easier as time goes one. Soon working out becomes a hobby, which will eventually become your lifestyle.
Last but not least
One of the most important aspects of having fun while working out is believing in yourself. Believe that you can be the person you want to be. Believe that you can help others do the same and believe that there are no moments in life where you shouldn’t be smiling and having fun. You control what happens in your own life, be happy while you live it. About the author: Jessica Brown, CSEP-CPT, is the Member Experience Manager at Anytime Fitness in Orillia, Wasaga Beach and Alliston. She has a coaching background in competitive figure skating. She earned her CSEP-CPT certificate through Durham College’s Fitness and Health Promotion Program and is also a certified TRX instructor.
www.anytimefitness.com
S
ell, here we are once again, at the helm of a new, exciting year. Let’s make it a healthy one. We all know the mass rush to the gyms and workout clubs comes January and the mass exodus within the following weeks, once those few extra Christmas pounds are gone. But why not keep it going for the rest of the year? For your own well being, each and every one, no matter the age, should try to exercise at least a minimum of 30 minutes a day. Sounds simple, but do you? Everyday activities such as a brisk walk, bike ride, playing ball with the kids, are all easy ways to get out and exercise. Have you ever thought about your mental health and the benefits of exercise? We seldom think of our brain in any aspect of our fitness forecast. Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting and chatting with Janet Shaw, a regular at Anytime Fitness. Janet had some sound advice we can all follow on how to start an exercise program and, as a result, have a much healthier lifestyle, positive outlook and a more peaceful state of mind. Perhaps we think more of yoga type exercise to enlighten and relax us. Not so much as Janet would say. While yoga works for many of us, a higher cardio/heart rate increased form of exercise, with proper weight training and muscle/core strengthening, can benefit our state of mind. It stimulates our endorphins and the levels of the “feel good hormone” serotonin in our brain, resulting in a happier, more positive disposition. Janet went on to say, a regular diet of fresh fruits, raw vegetables, low fats, more fish than animal proteins, unsalted nuts and whole grains and minimal raw sugars all contribute to weight control and even our moods throughout the day. As well, keeping your body’s insulin level even aids tremendously in our “hunger pangs” at 3pm. Sleeping well is also a major contributing factor to our mental and physical well-being. No doubt, in today’s hectic day-to-day world it can be difficult to exercise daily. But, you can do it. Yes you! Take a deep breath and get out there, have fun and exercise. It’s 2015. A new year, a new you. Gotta run! Shelley Weir
everal years ago my family made regular visits to Niagara-on-the Lake for various celebrations. Often at Jordan’s Inn on the Twenty restaurant. After a stint in New Orleans working as a pastry chef I realized this is not the safest place for a single gal. I had fired off a resume to the Inn several weeks before and after a really bad day I had all but given up on New Orleans. I came home to the ringing of the telephone! It
was Michael Olson with a job offer. Hurray! I showed up at the door of my new place of work determined to give it one year. I stayed for eight. I guess you could say I married Michael based on being “muffin soulmates”. As Michael likes to say I was his dream come true. I only eat the muffin bottoms and he only the tops! Match made in pastry chef heaven. And, we still share muffins this way today! Anna
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Some side effects of obesity may surprise you High blood pressure
Overweight or obese people have a greater chance of developing high blood pressure. Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries while the heart pumps blood. It can weaken the heart over time causing it to work less efficiently, and may lead to aneurysm, heart failure or stroke.
Infertility
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Premature birth
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that overweight women are at a greater risk of having a preterm delivery. Too much fat can weaken uterine and cervical membranes.
Trouble sleeping
ccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 40 percent of the United States population is now considered obese, while an additional 34 per cent are considered overweight. In Canada, 25 per cent of the population is classified as obese and 41 per cent are overweight. These figures illustrate a potentially grave future for Canadians and Americans alike, as the consequences of being overweight or obese include diabetes, heart disease and even death. Obesity can have a very real and lasting impact on individuals and future generations. Here are some health effects that can be the result of carrying around too much weight.
Obese and overweight people can have problems sleeping, says the American Sleep As with cancer, the potential correlation Foundation. Obesity can be linked to sleep between obesity and infertility requires further apnea, a condition in which a person gasps study. But there is some evidence that points for air or momentarily stops breathing while to obesity as a contributing factor to infertility. asleep. This condition can result in frequent Overweight women tend to have a harder interruptions in sleep and an overall poor time getting pregnant, and some researchers quality of sleep. feel that is because fatty tissue may cause hormonal changes that impact conception. Obesity and overweight can contribute to many health problems, some of which may come as a surprise to men and women who Type 2 diabetes When a person has type 2 diabetes, his or are carrying extra weight. her body cannot use insulin properly. Over time, the body cannot make enough insulin to regulate blood sugar level. About 80 to 90 per cent of people who are obese also have type 2 diabetes, and it’s believed that being overweight places extra stress on the body’s ability to maintain proper glucose levels in the blood, creating a greater need for insulin. This can create a vicious cycle, as insulin use itself can lead to weight gain.
Cancer
Osteoarthritis
A
The National Cancer Institute says each year thousands of new cases of cancer in men and women can be linked to obesity. Some researchers feel that excess fat cells increase hormonal activity, which can lead to tumor growth.
Overweight individuals frequently develop pain in the joints of their knees, hips and lower backs. The condition occurs as tissue that protects the joints wears away. Extra weight also can wreak havoc on the feet that are forced to bear those extra pounds.
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Challenging those
WINE SNOBS Put them to the taste test!
O
f course you can make wines as good as what you would buy for $10 to $20 at your local LCBO. Who’s kidding who here? Of course you can and I have for many many years. I get quite a kick out of decanting a bottle of red before company arrives and listening to their raves over the dinner table. It is actually quite fun when you tell them what they are drinking. It is particularly interesting to have them try your “brand” first and then offer a comparable from a commercial wine maker. This makes for wonderful conversation and more often than not kills the rumour that amateur wines cannot meet the test especially after disclosing that your bottle cost $5 to $6! Oh, and by the way, it’s a great idea to pick your vintages carefully before beginning your batch of wine. Go for the quality kits and don’t try to save money. Buy the best because you want to enjoy your wines to the fullest when they are ready and ready doesn’t mean just when bottled. But, hey, who can’t resist sampling those first couple of newly bottled batches? But think how much better certain batches will taste after proper aging. Do some research and experimenting and enjoy the fruits of your labour. A quick chat with Don Corrick, winemaker and owner of Orillia’s Wine-Experience sets the record straight regarding making your own wine. He welcomes anyone who is curious about experimenting with making wine to drop by, ask questions and learn specifics about how easy the process is. Here’s what he had to say on successfully making your own wines. The prices for quality wine kits range from $125 to $225 for 30 bottles, or approximately $5 a bottle. The process of making wine on premise starts with choosing the type and quality of wine. The LCBO requires the customer own the ingredients and begins by sprinkling the yeast on the juice to start fermentation. The customer has no further obligations until the wine is ready to be bottled. At your bottling appointment you need to sanitize your bottles, fill & cork them and finish by applying labels and shrink caps. All the necessary equipment and assistance is provided. It’s fun and easy. Usually you have a choice of a five, seven or eight week wine kit. Five week kits are made from the finest blend of grape juice and concentrate and are ready to drink a few weeks after bottling. Seven week wines are made from premium quality grape juice blends. They are fuller bodied and require a two to three month aging time. At Orillia’s Wine-Experience eight week kits, with 100 per cent varietal grape juice from country-specific vineyards, read “Selection Estate Series”, has redefined the quality expectations of the advanced winemaker and the wine kit industry alike. You won’t go wrong. Give winemaking a try! Brock Weir, Publisher
LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE
healthy, happy, balanced life
21
Cutting
the costs
of home ownership Upgrading home appliances with more eco-friendly alternatives can save homeowners a substantial amount of money over the life of the products.
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wning a home is a dream for many people. Even the most affordable homes can be a considerable expense, which is why many homeowners are on constant lookout for ways to cut costs. Home owners may already know of various ways they can save money each month. But firsttime homeowners may not be so savvy, which can leave them scrambling for ways to save each month. Fortunately, homeowners can reduce the cost of owning their homes in a variety of ways. Refinance your mortgage. The average homeowner would point to his or her mortgage payment as the biggest monthly expense. There is hope in lowering that payment. Interest rates fluctuate every day, and homeowners might be able to take advantage of that fluctuation by refinancing their mortgages for lower interest rates. Depending on the amount of the loan, a homeowner might be able to save hundreds per
month and tens of thousands of dollars over the life of the loan after refinancing. Research current interest rates to determine if refinancing is in your best interest. Re-examine your insurance policy. When borrowing money to buy a home, borrowers need to have homeowner’s insurance. It’s easy to forget these policies and simply pay the premium each month. Homeowners looking to save money should periodically re-examine their policies and compare existing policies to those they might be able to get from other providers. Comparison shopping can save homeowners substantial amounts of money. Homeowners willing to purchase their homeowners and auto insurance policies from the same provider also can save a considerable amount of money, sometimes as much as 15 per cent. Make safety upgrades. Another way to cut the cost of home ownership is to upgrade your home’s safety features. Many insurance
companies offer discounts to homeowners who install alarm systems, sprinklers or storm shutters in their homes. But homeowners should confirm their eligibility for such discounts before making any upgrades, as policies may differ depending on the provider. Purchase eco-friendly appliances for your home. The appliances in your home at the time of purchase will inevitably wear down, and replacing such items can be expensive. But replacing older appliances with more eco-friendly alternatives can save you money on your monthly utility bills, as more and more appliances are now made with energy savings in mind. Cutting your energy consumption leads to lower utility bills, and you may even be eligible for government rebates when buying products that meet certain energysaving standards. The cost of home ownership is on the rise, but homeowners can take several steps to alleviate those costs.
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healthy, happy, balanced life
LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE
How to easily
grow your
savings
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ne of the keys to successfully m a n a g i n g money is to save money. Conventional financial wisdom recommends men and women have between three and four month’s worth of earnings in their savings accounts to cover themselves in case of an emergency. But many people live paycheck to paycheck, while others are mired in debt. Many working professionals find it hard to save any money once they have paid their monthly bills, including home expenses, child care and other common expenses. Although many Canadians are not saving enough, there seems to be a silver lining with regard to money management. The percentage of people who claimed they could not save dropped from 28 per cent in 2012 to 17 per cent in 2013, according to a BMO Financial Group report on household savings. Statistics Canada reported that the household saving rate rose to 5.4 per cent in the third quarter of 2013, which is up from 5 per cent in 2012. Financial analysts point to consumer trends among younger generations as one possible cause of the dwindling emphasis on saving money. Previous generations were taught the benefits of saving and being frugal, but nowadays many people struggle to distinguish between necessities and luxuries. More readily available access to credit and a more materialistic culture may also be contributing to fewer dollars being saved. While saving may seem like an uphill battle, a little saving can go a long way. Explore these relatively painless ways to cut back and save more money. Do it yourself. Make a list of all the service providers used, from manicurists to hair stylists to lawncare professionals, and figure out where cuts can be made. Doing all or a portion of
the work yourself can save a considerable amount of money. Do your own weeding and edging, only paying a landscaper to perform the more time consuming task of mowing the lawn. Skip an in-salon coloring treatment for an at-home application. Spend a day preparing meals for the week and eliminate much of your dining out expenses or fast food excursions. Review your shopping cart. Impulse buys can bust budgets. When grocery shopping, take some time before getting in line to review your potential purchases. Compare items against your list and figure out if any items can go back on the shelf. Do the same when shopping online. Before you proceed to checkout, review items in your cart. Chances are you can delete one or two from the list. Consider new stores. If you find yourself spending more than you feel is necessary when shopping, look for new stores. Smaller markets may offer produce and other items at a fraction of the cost of large chain stores. Instead of doing all of your shopping in one place, shop around and buy items where they are the least expensive. For example, you may find paper products are more affordable at a pharmacy than at the supermarket. Learn to coupon effectively. Although you need not go to extremes, use coupons when shopping and learn how to pair sales with coupons to earn even greater discounts. Many blogs and websites help make the process easier, telling you when and where to clip coupons. Sometimes you can print coupons directly online or load discounts to a shopper loyalty card. Scale back on certain services. Assess your lifestyle to determine which services you can live without. If you rarely watch television, you may be able to reduce your cable or satellite package. Figure out if bundling services really does save you money. Add up how many minutes you use on mobile phone plans as well as the amount of data. You might find that you do not need the biggest phone plan after all. Saving does not have to be challenging. Opportunities to save money present themselves at every turn. Master the little ways to shave off expenses and grow your savings.