JAN | FEB 2018
SOUTHERN GEORGIAN BAY | MIDLAND | PENETANG | WASAGA
Dealing With Winter Blahs Wedding Costs & What to Expect
Lure of the Galapagos Islands Lifestyles Weddings Online Now!
Lifestyles Health Mind & Body Online in February!
Out & About JAN
11 Thu
Word Up Barrie
January 11 – 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm Unity Market & Café, 25 Toronto St., Barrie Cost: Free Event website: WordUpBarrie.com Pro and amateur writers of all genres read their writing in an encouraging environment to perform their original work. Catherine Graham, author of the debut novel, Quarry and five acclaimed poetry collections and John Oughton, mystery novel author of, Death by Triangulation, and five books of poetry, are featured authors for December. Find out more about the authors and the inspiring Open Mic by visiting the website.
JAN
20 Sat
Mudmen In Concert 20th Anniversary January 20 - 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm Orillia Opera House 1 West Street North, Orillia Cost: All Seats $28.00 | Seniors & Youth $26.00 Event website: OrilliaOperaHouse.ca The Mudmen are a blast of Celtic energy who are known to be characters on and off the stage. First discovered in ‘93 as ‘The Campbell Brothers’, the band signed a deal with EMI Records and changed their name to Mudmen in ‘98. Their music has been featured on Xbox and PlayStation, the TV show ‘Black Donnellys’, WWE Wrestling, several of Don Cherry’s hockey videos, the TV show ‘Shameless’, HNIC Coach’s Corner (Dale Hunter tribute), 6 music videos on Much Music, and they’ve reached top 20 on the Edge radio.
FEB
16 Sat
Snowman Mania! Friday, February 16, 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm RecPlex 1724 Mosley Street and throughout Wasaga Beach Cost: FREE Event website: WasagaBeach.com/events The 13th annual Snowman Mania celebrates winter in Wasaga with incredible action packed, affordable family fun for four days! We are planning this now! To participate call 705-429-3844 x 2203
Visit our Events Page online to find more great winter events &
contents JAN | FEB 2018
|
8
VOL 2 NO 1
In this Issue
Dealing With
the Winter Blahs
4 Out & About 6 Bold Colours Add Vitality To House 7 Create More Closet Space 7 Fruits & Veggies May Lower Risk Of PAD 10 New Take On Spaghetti
Wedding Costs,
11 Tips For Successful Kids’ Parties
What
12 Tips For Women Mulling A Career Change 13 Keeping Pets Safe This Winter
to Expect
15 Benefits Of Local Wedding Planners 16 Safety Measures For Winter Drivers
14
20 Dallas–Southfork Today! 21 Making Bedrooms Conducive To Sleep 22 Buying A Home In A Sellers Market LSM-lifestylesmagazine.ca is published six times a year by YouLink Inc. Contact us at info@lifestylesmagazine. ca and visit us at www.lifetylesmagazine.ca. All rights reserved. Letters to the editor are invited. Please send letters to info@lifestylesmagazine.ca. Reproductions of any article, photograph or artwork without specific written permission of the publisher is strictly forbidden. The information contained in lifestylesmagazine.ca may not be published, broadcast or otherwise distributed without prior wrtten permission. The publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material. The options expressed in lifestylesmagazine.ca are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the publisher or advertisers. YouLink Inc., 3-200 Memorial Avenue, Suite 104, Orillia ON. L3V 5X6
Lure of the
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18 Lifestyles Health, Mind & Body. Look for it Online Feb 5th! Check out new Lifestyles Health Mind & Body & Lifestyles Weddings online at www.LifestylesMagazine.ca for timely and informative articles. Available now! Don’t miss our 12 different online Lifestyles publications throughout the year. www.LifestylesMagazine.ca
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Sixteen issues in all! Keep reading and thanks for your support!
Enjoying Winter 2018!
Contacts
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Bold colours add vitality to homes
W
hether it’s Canada Day, St. Patrick’s Day or the holiday season, the bold hues that are synonymous with these events add a splash of colour to rooms that can use a little design lift. While some colours may be synonymous with certain times of year, homeowners can employ bold colours in their homes all year long. By embracing bold painting and decorating styles, homeowners can use fresh colour palettes to make rooms more inviting and colourful. These popular colour combinations can provide inspiration.
Green and pink
Colours on opposite ends of the colour wheel will always complement each other. Green paired with pink (a lighter shade of green’s opposite, red) calls to mind the great outdoors. These hues can add a touch of floral spring sunshine even when that season has long since passed. Opt for a deep green and a carnation pink for maximum impact. And don’t forget a vase full of fresh blooms as the finishing factor.
Lavender and deep blue
Analogous colours are three colours that sit sideby-side on the colour wheel and share a common denominator in terms of shade. Lavender, blue and an orchid pink are examples of such hues.
This cool, regal combination can add femininity to a bedroom or even drama to another space in the house. If painting the walls dark blue or lavender seems scary, opt for a neutral shade on walls and then dress up the space with inky and violet accents.
Turquoise and brick red
Enhance the “wow” factor with these bold colours. Although they are striking, when they work together, they also can impart a soothing feel, particularly since they are often inspired by Asian influences. Feature a light turquoise sofa with red throw pillows. Or dress up meals with a red tablecloth on the dining table and turquoise, white and red, patterned place mats.
Gray and yellow
Yellow is a pick-me-up colour any time of the year, but, when combined with a gray, it’s toned down to be soothing instead of startling. This colour combination is popular in kitchens, nurseries and entryways. Have fun in the kitchen with mottled gray stone countertops, pale yellow walls and canary café curtains. Colour can affect mood and transform spaces with just a small investment of time and money. Homeowners can experiment with colour palettes so rooms remain vibrant all year long
Did You Know? According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, there are no safe levels of lead. Lead is particularly harmful to children’s health. Exposure to lead can stunt children’s growth while also contributing to behavioral and learning problems. Anemia, reduced growth of fetuses in pregnant women, cardiovascular effects, and reproductive problems also are side effects of lead exposure. Many people once came into contact with lead via leadbased paints, which have been banned in the United States for consumer use since 1978. But lead also can be lurking in water supplies. The EPA says that between 10 and 20 per cent of instances of lead exposure can be traced to contaminated water. Homes built before 1986 are the biggest risk factors for lead plumbing. As of January 2014, all newly installed water fixtures, pipes and fittings must meet new leadfree requirements. But within the United States, public water suppliers and existing homes do not need to retrofit. The National Drinking Water Advisory Council found around 7.3 million lead service lines currently deliver water to customers. Homeowners can request testing through their local water supplier or conduct certified home tests.
Check out Lifestyles Fall Home and Garden online for more
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Create more closet space without major renovations C loset space is at a premium in many homes and apartments. Many older homes were not built to accommodate large wardrobes, while rental properties are often designed to maximize living space at the expense of storage. Closets vary depending on the size of the home, but many tend to be a minimum of 24 inches deep so they can store garments without the clothes brushing against the walls. Bedroom and hallway closets can be four feet in length or more. Walk-in closets are the largest options, but such spaces tend to only be available in modern homes or custom-built properties. It is not always practical or possible to undergo renovations to create more closet space. Apart from moving to a new residence, homeowners or renters must evaluate the space they have and make some more efficient choices in how they utilize available areas.
Clear out clutter
The first step to more closet space is to eliminate unused items. Clothing that no longer fits or items that can be stored elsewhere should be removed
from the closet. Donate as much as possible. Some organizations will even pick up donations at your convenience.
Upgrade hangers and rods
Replace existing hangers with slimmer, more uniform alternatives that more easily fit into your closet. In addition, remove empty hangers, which are likely just taking up space. Consider dual closet rods if space will allow them. Hang the second rod below an area reserved for shorter clothing to achieve a two-tiered design. Grouping short items together also can free up valuable floor space.
Stack taller
Many closets are as tall as the ceilings of the rooms where they’re located. However, the upper area may go unused because if it is not easy to reach. Install shelving above the closet rod with small swing-out style cabinet doors to offer access. In such areas, store seasonal items that you won’t need to reach for each day. Keep a step stool close by for easy accessibility.
In small rooms, homeowners may want to find another way to utilize vertical space. A loft bed, which raises the bed up to a level where it might be on the top bunk of a bunk bed, will free up plenty of storage space beneath the bed. This can be turned into a floor closet.
Create storage for small items
Bookends, bins, boxes and drawers can be used to contain items that don’t easily conform to closets. These may be purses, scarves, ties, and more. Don’t overlook the possibilities of hanging items on the wall inside the closet or on the back of closet doors. When finishing closet makeovers, be sure to install lighting inside the closet so items are more visible.
Check out Lifestyles Fall Home and Garden online for more
Fruits and vegetables may lower risk of PAD
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ain in the lower extremities may be indicative of a condition called peripheral artery disease, or PAD. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute says PAD occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries that carry blood to the limbs, head and organs, contributing to atherosclerosis, or a hardening of the arteries. Blocked blood flow and eventual limited oxygen supply to these areas can cause pain and numbness. When severe enough, PAD may lead to tissue death. Discomfort due to PAD usually occurs when a person is walking or exercising, because the muscles are not getting enough blood during
these activities to meet their needs, says the American Heart Association. Those with diabetes may confuse pain with neuropathy, and the elderly may think pain from PAD is a normal sign of aging and stiffness. When undiagnosed, PAD can lead to further complications, including increased risk for heart attack, stroke, and coronary artery disease. Even amputation of a limb may be necessary. However, PAD is preventable when taking a few steps to improve diet. According to new research published by the American Heart Association, eating more fruits and vegetables may reduce the risk of developing PAD, which affects an estimated 8.5 million people in the United States alone. Researchers examined dietary data from roughly 3.7 million men and women, with an average age of 65. Approximately 6.3 per cent of the subjects had PAD, and 29.2 per cent indicated they ate three or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day.
The discovery was those who reported eating three or more daily servings of fruits and vegetables had an 18 per cent lower risk of PAD than those who reported eating less of these foods. The association between fruit and vegetable consumption and lower PAD risk remained even after accounting for age, gender, race, smoking status, and various cardiovascular risk factors. Saturated fats, trans-fats and sodium can contribute to the formation of plaques that lead to PAD. Replacing these foods with more vegetables and fruits that are naturally lower in saturated fats can help, as can increasing dietary fiber consumption. One way to incorporate these types of foods is to adhere to a Mediterranean diet, which offers high proportions of legumes, fruits, vegetables; moderate amounts of fish and dairy; and limited meat and meat products. Peripheral artery disease can be a warning sign of cardiovascular trouble. Altering one’s diet may help naturally prevent or treat this condition.
Check out Lifestyles Health Mind & Body online for more
Dealing with the Winter Blahs
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M
any years ago I started to notice a pattern in my practice - sometime in October a shift would occur in my patients. Many of the same complaints started to come through my door – fatigue, lack of motivation, sluggishness and general sadness. I came to recognize these symptoms as part of a bigger picture of SAD (Seasonal Affective disorder). In fact, most Canadian’s will experience some level of ‘winter blues’ or ‘SAD’ at some point during the winter months! There’s a good explanation for these changes. The days get shorter and darker, and we become less active, spending more time indoors. With the darkness, we produce higher amounts of ‘melatonin’, which is a hormone that makes us feel drowsy and sleepy. With the seasonal changes our diets often shift as well – we reach for the warming comfort foods, which can also contribute to an expanding waistline AND contribute further to our lack of energy and general state of hibernation. As Canadian’s we are all susceptible to these symptoms – just consider the fact that we spend potentially a full 6 months in the cold darkness of winter! The good news is that there are a few effective strategies that you can incorporate to help yourself feel better both physically and mentally.
Know your vitamin D levels
I often advise patients to check their vitamin D levels (a simple blood test) in the Fall to see what they absorbed over the summer, and to determine their appropriate dosing over the Winter months. People are often shocked to see that they are low or deficient despite having been ‘out in the sun’ all summer long. A variety of factors such as sunscreen use, time spent outdoors, activity level and skin exposure can determine how much vitamin D an individual actually absorbs. Vitamin D’s Role As one of the most important vitamins for us in the winter, vitamin D supports a variety of functions – healthy immunity, brain and nervous system; mood regulation; energy and motivation; healthy bones and teeth; lung function and cardiovascular health. Many of the roles of vitamin D plays are not always immediately obvious to us, however I find that supplementing my patients with vitamin D makes a huge difference on their energy levels, mood and motivation in the winter months, and they usually report this difference by the next visit! Food Sources It’s difficult to get all you need from food alone when it comes to vitamin D, however foods such as salmon, sardines, maitake mushrooms, tuna, herring, fortified dairy products and eggs can top you up! Best source? Good ol’ Cod Liver oil at 400 IU per teaspoon!
Brighten things up!
Many of the symptoms of SAD are due to the increase amount we spend in darkness over the winter months. Research supports the use of ‘light therapy’ to help us feel better and happier. Waking up and spending 20-30 minutes in front of a lightbox can become part of your daily routine. Select a light source that provides you with 10,000 LUX of light. Some people eat their breakfast in front of this light, or use it while answering their morning emails. Get Outdoors! On Sunny days try to get outside into natural light for at least 30 min. Natural light is far more intense than the lighting most of us are exposed to indoors. Enjoy an outdoor activity with the family or take a quick morning walk whenever possible.
Get Moving!
Many people seem to be active ‘seasonally’ – they golf, do their gardening, ride their bikes and take walks all summer long. Once the weather gets cold and many of these activities are no longer available, they spend most of their time indoors and find themselves living a sedentary lifestyle. Recommendations We all know the benefits of exercise at this point, but did you know the new Physical Activity Guidelines by Health Canada for people ages 18-64 are 150 minutes per week of moderate to intense exercise? Benefits Exercise is good for any type of depression, with dozens of studies supporting the use of exercise to help manage many of the symptoms. Decide on what works best for you, so that you’re more likely to do it. You don’t have to join a gym if that’s not your cup of tea. You can exercise at home for 20-30 min. by following a workout video on YouTube or your favorite DVD (most of these can be done in your bedroom or living room). A basic set of freeweights or kettlebells can give you a full body workout with the benefit of ‘resistance’, which also strengthens your bones. Some people love to join a class to stay motivated – meet up with a friend if that helps you stay accountable! Take it up a notch! Why not combine exercise with getting outdoors to get the benefits of both! Spend time with the family sledding, go skiing on the weekend, take up skate-skiing (for a high intensity workout) or start your day with a brisk morning walk.
Need a quick Brain-Boost to start your day?
Here’s a tasty Smoothie Bowl recipe that you can enjoy as a breakfast or as a mid-day snack. The MCT oil provides your brain with medium chain fatty acids that can convert into fuel quickly and efficiently. The avocado provides healthy fats
and fiber to give you consistent energy without the crashes that simple carbohydrates create. Blueberries are full of an antioxidant called anthocyanin, which boosts brain function. And it’s no coincidence that walnuts look like minibrains – it’s nature way of providing us with ‘brain-food’. Full of DHA (an omega-3 fatty acid), they help boost our mood and improve cognition!
Brain-Boosting Smoothie Bowl
Ingredients 1 Tbsp MCT Oil (or coconut oil) ½ avocado ½ banana 1 scoop vanilla protein powder ½ cup blueberries (reserve a few for topping) 6 walnuts (reserve a few for topping) 1 cup water OR almond milk Optional: handful of spinach Add all ingredients into your blender (except the reserved toppings) and blend until a smooth texture is reached. Pour into a bowl and top with your choice of smoothie boosters! Smoothie Boosters Hemp Hearts Goji Berries Blueberries Walnuts Chia Seeds Nut Butters Coconut Cacao Nibs
D r. A n n a Falkowski is a Naturopathic Doctor, Wellness Educator & Clinic Director at Vitality for Life Health Center in Barrie, Ontario with a specialty in Women’s Health, Weightloss and Family Medicine. She is a healthy living advocate passionate about teaching classes and creating online programs for ‘Mom on the Glow’, her wellness blueprint for busy Moms. For more information you can visit www.vitalityforlife.ca or www. MomOnTheGlow.com
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A new take on “spaghetti”
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Z’paghetti Marinara with Shrimp
paghetti is a staple of many family dinner tables. But home cooks who want to veer away from
traditional pasta without giving up their love of marinara can try the following, zucchini-inspired alternative to traditional spaghetti, “Z’paghetti
Makes 2 servings 28 ounces (about 4 medium) zucchini 8 ounces (about 16) raw large shrimp, peeled, tails removed and deveined 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Marinara with Shrimp,” courtesy of Lisa Lillien’s
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
“Hungry Girl Clean & Hungry” (St. Martin’s Press).
1 cup Clean & Hungry Marinara Sauce (see below) 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1. Preheat the oven to 375 F. Lay a large piece of heavy-duty foil on a baking sheet and spray with nonstick spray. 2. Using a spiral vegetable slicer, cut zucchini into spaghetti-like noodles. (If you don’t have a spiral veggie slicer, peel zucchini into super-thin strips, rotating the zucchini after each strip.) Roughly chop for shorter noodles. 3. Place zucchini noodles in the center of the foil and top with shrimp. Sprinkle with seasonings. Top with marinara sauce and Parmesan. 4. Cover with another large piece of foil. Fold together and seal all four edges of the foil pieces, forming a well-sealed packet. 5. Bake for 25 minutes, or until zucchini noodles have softened and shrimp are fully cooked. 6. Cut packet to release hot steam before opening entirely. 7. Transfer packet contents to a large bowl, and toss to mix.
Clean & Hungry Marinara Sauce Makes 6 servings 3 cups canned crushed tomatoes 1/4 cup tomato paste 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1. Combine ingredients in a large sealable container. Mix until uniform. 2. Seal, and refrigerate until ready to use.
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Tips for successful kids’ parties
C
Stick to a certain time and time limit
hildren spark many changes in their parents’ lives. In addition to taking responsibility for their youngsters’ health, parents and caregivers are tasked with doing their best to provide for their children’s happiness. Successful kids’ parties can contribute to children’s happiness. Savvy adults can adhere to these strategies to make kids’ parties successful.
Aim for fun, not perfection
Recognizing that the fun kids will have does not directly correlate to how extravagant a party may be can help parents avoid unnecessary party elements that kids may not even notice or appreciate. Though it’s a simple formula, parents may find that food+cake+activity equals success.
Choose a theme
A theme can serve to organize a party by tying all aspects of the festivities together. For example, a luau party means Hawaiian leis, hibiscus flower garlands, grass skirts, and fruit-infused foods. That helps celebrants know what to wear and what to expect come meal time. Many of the elements will fall into place once a theme is chosen, and there’s a good chance party stores may already have pre-packaged or pre-grouped party essentials that fit the chosen theme.
Don’t overbook
Keep guest lists to a minimum, especially if peers from school or other youngsters are invited. Generally speaking, the younger the crowd, the smaller the guest list. A small guest list reduces the likelihood of meltdowns, excitability and the number of well-meaning parental chaperones who will want to stay and watch over their kids. Parties that are too large can be overwhelming for the guest of honour, too. Popular party location vendor iPlayAmerica suggests following the “age plus one” guideline. According to this approach, if the child is turning 5, invite 6 kids.
First, select a time of day when children will be rested and able to enjoy the entire party. Many party planning experts say that a party between 90 minutes and two hours is adequate. Anything longer than that and kids’ attention may start to wane. Especially young children may benefit from even shorter parties. Children can become acclimated, play and eat food and treats within this time. An exception to the rule may be a pool party or one that has another predetermined activity, such as ice skating or bowling. Kids’ parties are an entertaining way for friends and family to come together to celebrate milestones. Keeping them simple and organized are keys to successful parties.
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Tips for women mulling a career change
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omen considering a career change may experience mixed emotions. The excitement elicited by such a decision may be tempered by fear. Such fear is natural when embarking on a new path and leaving behind some security and professional equity, but that fear should not be the deciding factor when women mull whether or not to change careers. The decision to change careers is something that requires careful thought and ample consideration of a host of factors. Women facing such a decision can consider the following tips to ensure they make the best choice for themselves.
Consider your motivation before pursuing a change
The motivation behind a career change can go a long way toward determining if that change is ultimately successful. Money can be a great motivator, but if money is the only thing driving a change, then women might be better off pursuing new opportunities within their existing field rather than changing careers entirely, as staying within the field will allow women to capitalize on the professional equity they have built over their careers while also providing a new challenge. A genuine interest in another profession or a desire to find a better work-life balance might make for better motivators to change careers than simply switching to make more money.
Do your homework
Career changes require hard work and, if extra schooling is necessary, a potentially sizable
financial investment. Women should thoroughly research any fields they might pursue before making a change so they can fully understand the commitment they will need to make. Once they get an idea of what they will need to do make a successful career change, women should speak with their family to discuss the effects that their pursuit may have on family members. Such a discussion can make the transition to a new career easier, and the support a woman’s family provides along the way can serve as something to lean on if or when things start to feel overwhelming.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Many people are dissatisfied with their careers, and those who aren’t might have been at one time. When mulling a career change, don’t be afraid to seek help. Help might come from family or friends, but women shouldn’t limit themselves with regard to whose help they will accept. If a woman wants to become a college professor, she shouldn’t hesitate to contact a professor at a local college, explaining her situation and asking for any advice. Women have nothing to lose by reaching out and such help can prove invaluable. And women might be surprised to learn just how willing even strangers might be to lend a hand.
Give yourself time
Career changes are rarely an overnight process. Successfully switching careers takes time, so don’t give yourself a quick deadline to make a change. Such pressure likely won’t increase your
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chances of making a successful switch, and you won’t enjoy the process nearly as much if you bury yourself in pressure. Changing careers can be exciting and nerve-wracking. Affording such a switch the consideration it deserves and doing your homework can help make the switch as successful as you envision it being.
Did you know? According to the U.S. Census Bureau, only about one-quarter of those working in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, widely referred to as “STEM,” are women. The percentages of women working in STEM are even lower in Canada, where Statistics Canada notes the percentage of women working in STEM has increased from just 20 per cent in 1987 to 22 per cent in 2015. Perhaps in recognition of those statistics, numerous organizations are working to promote women in STEM. One such organization is the National Girls Collaborative Project (ngcproject.org), which works to bring together organizations throughout the United States that are committed to informing and encouraging girls to pursue careers in STEM. Another organization with similar goals is the Women in Engineering Proactive Network (wepan.org), which works to promote the inclusion of women in the field of engineering. Female students in high school or college who are interested in STEM fields should make their interest known to teachers or advisors; they can even contact certain organizations to learn about the opportunities and resources available to them.
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How to keep pets safe in winter weather
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he arrival of cooler temperatures sparks various changes. Chilly air and precipitation can be dangerous, especially to pets that are unaccustomed to extreme changes in temperature. Pet owners may be well aware of the hazards of warm weather, including the threat of leaving pets in hot cars. But cold weather also has its share of risks. Heed these tips to keep pets safe and secure.
Schedule a well visit
Update identification and contact information
Pets should not remain outdoors for long stretches of time in frigid temperatures, even if they are accustomed to roaming during other seasons, advises The Humane Society.
Snow and ice can mask scent cues that help pets find their way home. Update contact information and make sure pets’ collars are on tightly.
Keep coolant and antifreeze locked away
Coolant and antifreeze are lethal to dogs and cats and should be kept out of reach. Clean up any spills from vehicles promptly.
Provide fresh food and water
Pets may burn more calories trying to stay warm. Be sure the animal has a little extra food and plenty of water to stay sated and hydrated.
The Veterinary Medical Association suggests scheduling a visit with a veterinarian to check for any medical issues. Cold weather can aggravate symptoms of certain conditions, such as arthritis. A thorough examination can shed light on potential problems.
Keep pets indoors more often
Keep homes humidified
Going in and out of the house and moving from cold air to dry indoor heat can affect pets’ skin. Itching and flaking may result, causing pets to scratch at such areas. Maintain humidity in the home for comfort. The ASPCA also says to reduce bathing to help preserve essential oils on the skin.
Protect paws outdoors
Pet paws are sensitive to sand, ice, snow, and chemical ice melts. Massage petroleum jelly or another protectant onto paw pads, or consider the use of pet booties.
Provide options for sleeping
Come the winter, cats and dogs may need new sleep spaces to avoid drafts and stay warm. Give them other spots they can call their own.
Consider a sweater or vest
Some pets are more tolerant to the cold than others. However, some dogs and cats may benefit from a sweater, vest or coat designed for pets to offer a little more insulation. Winter weather requires pets owners to make changes so pets can remain happy and safe.
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Wedding Costs What To Expect
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ewly engaged couples may experience an array of emotions when they sit down to plan their weddings. Some couples cannot wait to jump into planning and want to catalog every aspect of the process, while others may proceed with caution because they don’t know what to expect — particularly in regard to cost. Many couples find it difficult to create their wedding budgets because they have no previous experience to draw on. The wedding planning advisor CostofWedding.com indicates the average wedding cost in the United States is $26,720, with most people spending between $20,000 and $34,000. Seventh Heaven Event Catering states that, in Canada, the average wedding costs around $30,000. Such costs can vary greatly depending on couples’ preferences, including where they hope to tie the knot. By breaking down wedding expenses, couples can get a clearer picture of how much they may need to pay for their weddings and where they may need to cut costs.
Reception site
According to The Knot, a premiere wedding planning resource, couples can expect their receptions to eat up the largest chunk of their wedding budgets. Wedding reception venues may cost between $10,000 and $15,000. The average price for catering per person is roughly $70. Bar service may be around $2,000 for a three- to four-hour party. Some reception sites combine the room cost with the food and beverage costs, while others have à la carte fees.
Cake
Wedding cakes tend to be multitiered intricate designs, so they will cost more than birthday cakes. According to Statistics Brain, wedding dessert will come in around $390.
Music
The Knot says wedding bands cost around $3,500, which is more than twice as much as hiring a deejay ($1,200). Soloists or ceremony musicians may cost around $650.
Wedding planner
Many couples employ wedding planners to make planning their weddings easier. Wedding planners cost an average of $1,300, says Thumbtack, a company that matches professionals with people who require their services.
Transportation
Limousines and other transportation prices vary depending on the vehicle(s) couples choose. The Knot notes that budgeting between $400 and $500 for transportation might be wise.
Wedding gown
Brides-to-be should expect their gowns to cost around $1,100 and the veil or headpiece to be roughly $120, according to the Association of Bridal Consultants.
Photography and Video
Preserving wedding day memories costs around $2,800 for video and photography services, based on data from Statistics Brain. The smaller details, such as accessories, gifts, officiant fees, stationery, spa services, and favors can quickly add up as well. Couples should be sure to leave some wiggle room in their budgets for incidental expenses that may pop up.
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How couples can benefit from hiring local wedding vendors
L
ocal vendors are often a go-to choice when couples are planning their wedding ceremonies and receptions. As the “shop local” movement grows in popularity, weddings present a prime opportunity to embrace this movement. Couples may have different ideas regarding where to tie the knot, but local vendors can be hired regardless of geography. Brides magazine says the biggest factor influencing wedding location is the size of the guest list and the number of people who wouldn’t be able to attend if the wedding was in a particular locale. Hometowns might be the traditional choice regarding wedding location, but the XO Group says one in four couples now host destination weddings. Once couples choose a town or city to host their weddings, they can begin exploring the benefits of working with locally-based vendors.
Familiarity
Local vendors will be familiar with the area and possibly even the location where the wedding will be held. That can help couples avoid having to give directions, discuss venue protocols, and handle other
Environment
tasks that must be worked out with non-local vendors. For example, local photographers familiar with a particular venue will know all of the best places to get shots, and some vendors may have preexisting relationships with venue representatives that could ensure wedding day operations go smoothly.
Proximity
Local vendors can meet with brides and grooms more readily throughout the planning process, making things less stressful on the happy couple. This also makes it easier to drop off deposits, attend meetings, make fitting appointments, or attend styling sessions.
Savings
Couples who travel for their weddings and employ local vendors will not have to pack as much. Using local vendors eliminates the need to bring along bulky dresses, decorative items, flowers, and much more. Plus, couples needn’t pay to transport and house vendors brought along from back home.
Individuals who take great strides to conserve resources by reducing their energy consumption and protecting the environment often find that shopping local is beneficial. Local vendors are more likely to source their materials from other local businesses, reducing their carbon footprints along the way. For example, local caterers may rely on local farmers for their foods, affording couples the chance to host eco-friendly or even farm-to-table weddings.
Customization
Working with local vendors often translates into getting more personalized service and attention than mass retailers or merchants can provide. Going local when choosing wedding vendors is an increasingly popular choice among couples about to tie the knot.
Check out Lifestyles Weddings online for more
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LifestylesMagazine.ca
Safety measures for winter drivers
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inter weather causes many people to retreat indoors until the spring thaw. However, for those who embrace the cooler temperatures or find that life must go on despite snow and ice, taking inventory of their vehicles is a must before the first snowflakes start to fall. Tire care is an especially important area of vehicle maintenance. The tire experts at Michelin say that regular tires may be ineffective for winter driving. Summer tires are made from materials that are optimized for warm conditions. When the mercury drops, these same materials can harden, reducing their ability to grip the road. That lack of traction can be compounded by the presence of snow or ice. Even all-season tires, which are designed to be driven year-round, can be insufficient in severe weather conditions. Winter tires can help drivers safely navigate winter roadways. Bridgestone Tires says that having the right snow tires matters when driving in winter weather conditions. It’s important to look for tires that can disperse water sufficiently and also grip the road. Snow tires are designed to remain softer and more flexible to conform to the road better in cold conditions. Some winter tires are even studded to provide better traction. Unfortunately, even the best winter tires cannot
Shift into low gear
On hills, rely on low gears to maximize traction to travel up and down hills. This can minimize skids or sliding.
Get the vehicle a tuneup
In addition to tires, be sure the braking system, battery and other major components of the vehicle are in good working order.
Replace windshield wipers provide perfect traction on slippery roadways. That is why it is essential — in conjunction with the use of winter tires or snow chains — to modify driving techniques to navigate safely.
Drive slowly
Slow down on winter roads. Allow a greater distance for stopping than for dry conditions. Slippery conditions can make it more challenging to stop, and excessive speeds can make the situation worse.
Reduced visibility can compromise the safety of drivers and their passengers. Replace windshield wiper blades before winter arrives. Consider purchasing winter-rated windshield blades.
Know how to recover from a skid
When skids occur on black ice or slush, drivers should take their feet off of the pedals and steer gently in the direction they want to go. As the vehicle regains traction, only then should the brakes or accelerator be applied. Winter weather requires making some vehicle modifications, and drivers may want to alter the way they drive to be more safe on the road.
The lure of the Galapagos Islands
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LifestylesMagazine.ca
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iant Galapagos tortoisesmeander distant highlands, and prehistoric marine iguanas sun themselves on black lava rocks along the shore. Flightless cormorants and tiny penguins dart through the waters while graceful red-billed birds screech across the sky.
Mix With Nature
inhabitants to lay eggs, raise young, and feed on the abundant marine life swept here by cool The Galapagos is a rare destination where you Humboldt Currents. From the world’s only become accustomed to being surprised. Nothing seagoing lizards to flightless cormorants and quite compares to the joy of observing animals in penguins, inflatable frigate birds, clownish the wild here, or the sense of wonder and privilege boobies, patriarchal tortoises and 13 species of Darwin finches, it’s amazing to enjoy thrilling encounters with animals, upclose and in large numbers, who are completely at ease among human visitors.
Nature, Up Close & Personal
Giant tortoise with a new friend on Santa Cruz Island in Galapagos National Park Ecuador. It is the largest living species of tortoise.
Galapagos Flycatcher on Santiago Island Galapagos National Park Ecuador Here, in this unique paradise, it’s possible to explore remarkable island ecosystems while enjoying lounging sea lions, breaching whales offshore and pink flamingos in hidden lagoons. The volcanic Galapagos Islands sit about 650 miles west of Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean. At first, they appear to be desolate.Yet, these rough and rocky isles are home to wonderfully strange and abundant wildlife. As Charles Darwin did some 200 years before us, it’s easy to marvel at the highly-adapted creatures found nowhere else on earth.
felt while spending time with animals who don’t run or fly away when humans approach, and are truly unique treasures of our earth. It was here Darwin found the perfect conditions to formulate his evolutionary theory: that far from the ravages of the continents, life evolved into a strange sub-world of specialized creatures who adapted to their harsh environment in an amazing variety of ways. Here, on barren coasts of fresh black lava frozen in its descent to the shoreline, it’s easy to see why early explorers, whalers, and pirates likened the islands to an inferno on earth. It’s easy to appreciate each island as a little “world unto itself” with its own distinctive character, terrain, climate,and wildlife. It seems a comfortable place for its odd
Cruising between these enchanted islands is the best way to experience these unique islands. A limited number of small ships and yachts take tourists from island to island in the Galapagos. Unlike traditional luxury cruises in other parts of the world, luxury Galapagos cruises lack crowds, assigned seats, lavish entertainment, and sailing for long periods at sea. Instead, cruises are for active individuals interested in the nature and animals of the islands, for those seeking wild places and soft adventure, with time to relax on the beach or swim and snorkel or dive.
Like Nowhere Else
• Evolutionary wonders such as Darwin’s finches, land and marine iguanas, and flightless cormorants. • An incredible mix of polar and tropical species, from penguins and fur seals to flamingos and tropical fish. • Giant tortoises, waved albatrosses and sea turtles in some of their last habitats on earth. • Masses of fearless seals, iguanas, and birds almost pose for photos. • Volcano summits, tortured lava flows, blue sky and the sea. • Snorkel with sea lions over coral reefs and submerged craters teeming with marine life. • Explore remote mangroves, pirate hideouts, cliffs and coasts. • Inland lagoons and highlands with an astounding array of rare bird life. • Watch dolphins, whales, and rays in abundance. • The Galapagos. 19 islands, 3,086 square miles, spread over 20,000 square miles of ocean, population 17,000 residing on the islands, San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, Isabela and Floreana.
20 healthy, happy, balanced life
LifestylesMagazine.ca
TV’s Dallas...Southfork Ranch A Mecca For Dallas Kitsch
Article & photos by Brock Weir Jr.
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f it weren’t for the museum, your visit might seem to get off to an inauspicious start. The first sight of a rusting out metal platform doesn’t exactly inspire confidence. “Several years ago, one of the previous owners went bankrupt,” said our tour guide in a distinct Texan singsong twang as we boarded the trolley to the main event. Evidently, the precarious looking structure caught the eye of another tourist, prompting an explanation that will be forever etched in my mind. “He was able to sell the drilling rig, so they just left it,” he continued. “Well, we don’t use it anymore and it’s really not any good without the drilling rig, so all that thing does now is raise questions – and that’s the brief story’a that!” It might have been a brief story, but it became one of my favourite memories coming out of a recent trip to Dallas. Knowing I would be in one of Texas’ busiest cities in November to visit friends, I had two simple items on my brief to-do list: Dealey Plaza, where John F. Kennedy was assassinated and, being a fan of classic television, the landmark Southfork ranch that provided the backdrop to “Dallas”. If you have any knowledge of the prime time soap, which aired on CBS between 1978 and 1982, and was subject to a three season revival on TNT starting in 2012, you can practically hear the show’s iconic theme as you make your way up a tree-lined driveway. You don’t immediately see the ranch, which is,
upon approach, a sharp neck crack to the right. Instead, you land in a gift shop and, just beyond, thrown head-long into the deep end – not into the Ewing pool, but into a sea of videos , memorabilia, and a Larry Hagman impersonator or two as you await your trolley trip to the ranch itself. There’s plenty to see and do as you wait for your ride, whether it is having your picture taken with the J.R. Ewing lookalike (everything is relative), gawking at the prop gun that Mary Crosby’s character used to shoot the show’s antihero, or sizing up Lucy Ewing’s wedding gown. But that’s just an appetizer. Once your trolley arrives at the oh-so-familiar white ranch house, you literally hear the theme music, pumped out faintly by the back patio, as you walk through the doors. Inside, visitors are treated to an overview of the house by enthusiastic tour guides before they take you through the house itself. Although little more of the ranch other than the kitchen, patio, second floor balcony and pool were used in the TV series itself, the house is replete with props and
rooms decorated in tribute to the show’s leads. There’s Jock’s living room (Jim Davis), Miss Elly’s kitchen (Barbara Bel Geddes), bedrooms dedicated to Lucy and Bobby Ewing (Charlene Tilton and Patrick Duffy) and, upstairs, a glitzy suite dedicated to J.R. and Sue Ellen (Hagman and Linda Gray). What more could a kitsch-loving person want? Well, as a kitsch-loving guy, the answer is, “not much.” But, there’s more. Once the tour is complete, you can explore the grounds to your heart’s content and visit the “graves” of Jock, Miss Elly and (spoiler alert for those who haven’t seen the revival through to its finale) J.R. Ewing. It is well worth the trip to the Southfork Ranch, located in Parker, TX., and no shortage of reasons to visit. In addition to the house itself, the 63,000 square foot facility boasts meeting and banquet facilities, a wedding venue, and more. For more information, visit southforkranch.com.
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LifestylesMagazine.ca
How to make bedrooms more conducive to sleep
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nsufficient sleep causes more problems than many people may know. Fatigue after a poor night’s sleep might seem like an inconvenience that can be easily rectified, but the long-term effects of insufficient sleep are significant. According to the National Sleep Foundation, researchers have found a link between insufficient sleep and an elevated risk for type 2 diabetes. In one such study exploring that potential link, researchers asked healthy adults to sleep just four hours per night for six nights. At the conclusion of that period, participants’ ability to break down glucose had decreased by an average of 40 per cent and reached levels that are consistent with those of older adults at risk for diabetes. Insufficient sleep may be linked to any of a host of factors, including one’s bedroom environment. An environment that promotes restful sleep can help people suffering from insomnia or restlessness improve the quality of their sleep. The NSF offers the following tips to make bedrooms more conducive to sleep.
Set the right temperature
The NSF notes that research indicates a bedroom temperature of roughly 65 F makes for the best sleep. Human beings’ body temperatures rise and
the bedroom, always keep bedroom windows closed during allergy season.
Use a white noise machine fall throughout the day, reaching their lowest level around 5 a.m. each day before slowly climbing as morning begins. A room that is too warm overnight may interfere with this natural dip, leading to restlessness. If necessary, install a programmable thermostat in the bedroom so the temperature in the room remains steady and in line with your body’s natural temperature fluctuations.
Address allergens
Some people may trace their sleeping difficulties to allergies. Dust and pollen in the bedroom can make for a disruptive night’s sleep. Wash bedding once per week in hot water if dust mites are proving problematic. If pillows cannot be washed, dry them using high heat to kill dust mites. In addition, cover the mattress in a mattress protector that guards against allergens and dust mites. If pollen is finding its way into
Noise is another potential contributor to poor sleep. The NSF notes that some people may have their sleep interrupted by noise even if they don’t know it. White noise machines are often used to help infants sleep, but such machines can be just as effective at helping adults. The NSF notes that the constant ambient sound created by white noise machines masks activity both inside and outside the house, helping men and women enjoy more restful sleep.
Draw blinds, shades or curtains
Waking up to sunlight each day might be nice, but that morning sunlight may be interrupting your sleep. Early morning rays from the sun might be triggering your body to wake up before it’s had adequate rest, so make sure blinds, shades and curtains are drawn before going to bed at night so you are not woken up prematurely in the morning. Making bedrooms more conducive to sleep is one way men and women can improve the quality of their nightly sleep.
22 healthy, happy, balanced life
LifestylesMagazine.ca
Tips for buying a home in a seller’s market
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Be ready to compromise
he real estate market can be difficult to navigate for both buyers and sellers. First-time buyers can easily become overwhelmed as they search for homes, while sellers hoping to get the best price for their homes might be frustrated if offers are slow to come in or fall short of their asking prices. If met with an underwhelming market, many sellers can pull their homes off the market and wait until it becomes more advantageous to sell. But buyers, particularly those shopping in a seller’s market, may not have that flexibility. Buying in a seller’s market can be competitive and frustrating, but buyers can employ various strategies to survive such markets and land the homes of their dreams.
Get mortgage pre-approval
Sellers’ markets typically feature low inventory, which can make the buying process very competitive. Prospective buyers who do not have a mortgage pre-approval letter in hand when making offers may find themselves losing out on their dream homes to fellow buyers who have gotten pre-approval from a lending institution. Sellers may be impatient with buyers who have not yet been pre-approved for a mortgage, even accepting a lesser offer from buyers who are ready to begin transactions immediately. The preapproval process is relatively quick and simple,
Unless they have unlimited budgets, buyers often must compromise when purchasing a home. That’s especially true in a seller’s market with limited inventory. Buyers who need to buy a home must identify their needs versus their wants and recognize the likelihood that they will have to compromise.
Work with real estate agents
so buyers should not hesitate to apply.
Stick to your budget
Lenders will indicate to prospective buyers how much they’re willing to lend them, and that figure is typically considerably more than buyers are willing to borrow. In a seller’s market, bidding wars can quickly drive up prices, but buyers should stick to their budgets so they are not house poor after buying. Sticking to a budget can be difficult in a seller’s market, but such patience will likely pay off in the long run.
Some buyers may be tempted to go it alone, searching for and ultimately buying homes without the help of real estate agents. That can be a foolish move in a seller’s market where competition is high and inventory quickly disappears from the market. Veteran real estate agents have worked in buyers’ and sellers’ markets, and buyers can use that experience to their advantage. In addition, real estate agents likely have access to inventory before homes appear on popular real estate websites, giving buyers working with them a leg up in competitive markets. Buying a home in a seller’s market can be fast-moving and very competitive. But various strategies can ensure buyers still find great homes at great prices in such markets.
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LifestylesMagazine.ca
Healthier farming & Healthier families
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uying and consuming all-natural and organic meat products is beneficial for both your health as well as the planetary well-being. Eating organic and all natural products free from harmful chemicals provides an abundance of sustainable nutrition and taste. It is one step closer towards optimal health and hope for future generations.
Why eat organic and all-natural?
Organic and all-natural meat products naturally loaded with nutrients, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and micro nutrients, generally taste more succulent and rich due to the animals food source, activity level and overall health. Organic and all natural meats are prohibited to be genetically modified in any way throughout their growth and processing. Choosing to eat all-natural meats and organic products is the only way to guarantee that your food is raised appropriately and responsibly. Their diet should be free from harmful additives, chemicals, growth proponents, animal by-products and with minimal or no GMO’s (Genetically Modified Organisms).
What is factory farming and why is it harmful?
Factory farming is an intensive, industrial farming practice that has replaced traditional style farming. Animals are mass produced using hormones and antibiotics, treated inhumanely, and slaughtered cruelly. Regulations in these facilities are voluntary and underdeveloped due to the lack of enforcement by Canada’s animal welfare standards. These farming practices are shortcuts to a more cost efficient product; however they come with a terrible cost for both the animals and the consumers. Animals are confined indoors where they are severely crowded or entirely isolated. This unnatural setting leaves the animal with insufficient room to turn around, lie down, groom, or express natural behaviours. These unsatisfactory conditions cause physical and psychological damage to the animals, leading to diseases, ailments, cannibalism, and debilitating stress. Factory farmers treat these preventable health issues by feeding and spraying massive amounts of pesticides and antibiotics into the animal’s feed, which remain in the meat and passed on to the people that consume the
product. An article written by Aidan Hollis, a Professor at the University of Calgary, states that, “the over abundance of antibiotics being used by the agriculture and aquaculture industries is increasingly putting the health of humans at risk”.
Where and how are the animals raised?
Cranston’s Ontario Inc. is a customer centric local company, “Family owned” and “Family oriented”. We believe that “Healthier farming contributes to Healthier families”. We take pride in our commitment to support Local Ontario Farms as well as promoting the importance of healthy food choices in today’s world. Our Farms uphold traditional, wholesome and humane farming practices. Animals are raised without the use of growth proponents (steroids/hormones), or sub therapeutic antibiotic treatments. Our wide selection of products are carefully packaged, inspected and delivered directly to your door. We ensure minimal handling prior to your delivery and keep our premium products affordable. It’s our commitment and our promise.